Trail volunteering isn’t just about pruning, planting, or packing out trash—it’s a way to deepen your connection with the outdoors, foster community, and leave a tangible legacy on the landscape you love. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a weekend stroller, or just someone wanting to help, it’s a great way to feel fulfilled while also spending time outside on trails you LOVE. Here’s why jumping in feels so good—and two fantastic local Madison groups you can join.
Why Trail Volunteering Matters
Environmental stewardship
You play a hands-on role in removing invasive species, planting native trees, and managing erosion. Therefore, your effort helps preserve habitats and keep trails accessible for everyone.
Well‑being & community
Fresh air, physical activity, and shared purpose—it’s a win for both body and soul. Plus, you’ll meet people who love trails just like you do. Maybe some that you’ll end up doing outdoorsy activities with!
Hands‑on learning
Gain practical skills—trail maintenance, plant ID, invasive control—and learn from people in the field. Remember the blog post about learning a new hobby as an adult – this is a great application for that!
Legacy impact
Your volunteer hours today translate into better trails and healthier green spaces for years to come. Volunteering for 4 hours once a month will make a serious impact on how the trails look as well as leave you feeling a greater appreciation for the trail system.
My Experience on Green Mountain Trails
I just recently started volunteering once a month with my Trail running group to help with trail maintenance. My first outing was on Green Mountain in Colorado. A local peak with a massive network of hiking, biking, and running trails. One that we spend a ton of time stomping on during our weekly meetups. Our group focused on erosion mitigation: reshaping sections of the trail, digging drainage ditches, and reinforcing switchbacks. It was hot, dusty, and way harder than I expected – we not only did the work that was assigned to us, but you had to hike out to it with tools and all.
Regardless of the challenge, it was also deeply rewarding. Seeing firsthand how much sweat and strategy go into preserving these trails made me appreciate every mile I’ve ever run or ridden. It was a powerful reminder that a trail doesn’t just appear or stay perfect on its own. They are cared for by passionate volunteers who give back to the land they love.
Two Great Ways to Get Started in Madison
CORP Trails (Capital Off‑Road Pathfinders)
A Madison-area nonprofit chapter of the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), CORP Trails builds and maintains over 60 miles of off‑road biking trails in Dane County. They host frequent volunteer trail‑building and maintenance days across park systems like CamRock and Badger Prairie.
What you can do:
- Join group work days—build, repair, and improve MTB trails
- Attend signature events like “Love Your Trails Day”
- Connect socially via rides and clinics while giving back
How to sign up: Visit CORP Trails’ website, sign up for volunteer alerts or local events, and show up with gloves and good vibes! (corptrails.org)
Ice Age Trail Alliance (Dane County Chapter)
Part of the statewide Ice Age Trail Alliance, this chapter collaborates with Dane County Parks on trail maintenance and restoration projects along the picturesque Ice Age National Scenic Trail segments (parks-lwrd.danecounty.gov).
What you can do:
- Participate in conservation workdays clearing brush, fixing erosion, and maintaining hiking trails
- Adopt-a-trail initiatives to take ownership of care
- Engage in group events and connect with fellow trail champions
How to sign up: Visit the Dane County Parks “Find a Friends Group or Partner Organization” page and look for Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteer events.
Trail Sisters Madison
If you’re looking for a welcoming way to get more involved with local trail clubs, Trail Sisters Madison is an amazing place to start. This women-focused community hosts group trail runs, hikes, and occasional volunteer trail work—all aimed at building confidence, connection, and access to the outdoors. It’s a marriage of all the things we’ve been talking about – getting connected to a community that you jive with while also giving back!
How to join: https://trailsisters.net/communities/
Why Should I Spend My Precious Time Doing THIS?
By volunteering with organizations like CORP Trails and the Ice Age Trail Alliance, you’re doing more than maintenance—you’re nurturing community, building stewardship, and making Madison greener and more accessible for everyone. Plus, added steps and physical activity to log on Strava.
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