Blazing the Way with 15 Years of Trail Stewardship in Idaho
Cover photo courtesy of the Idaho Trails Association
In 2010, a small group of people came together to address a big problem in Idaho’s backcountry. Many trails had become impassable due to lack of maintenance; trails built throughout Idaho’s history were being lost to overgrowth and erosion and access to public lands was diminishing as trails disappeared.
Recognizing these overwhelming needs, this group planned a volunteer trail maintenance project. After a day of working hard and making new friends, they decided this was a fun way to make an impact. What began as a tiny seed grew into a movement of people passionate about protecting trails for future generations—Idaho Trails Association (ITA).
Photo Courtesy of the Idaho Trails Association
Fifteen years later and with over 500 trail projects completed across the state to date, ITA continues to work toward the same mission: keeping Idaho’s hiking trails open for all.
This year, trail work has included some unexpected challenges. Forest Service budget and personnel cuts and uncertainty about the future made the beginning of the trail season grim. However, the dedication of volunteers coming out in force to take care of the beautiful places that surround us has been truly inspiring.
While the many skilled Forest Service trail workers affected by the layoffs cannot be replaced, this season has been a reminder of how far a community can go when working together. Join ITA’s in mission to keep Idaho’s hiking trails open for all by becoming a member or volunteering on a trail project! Our public lands need your support now more than ever.
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