How WTA Volunteers are Making Time for Trails

Here at WTA, we know that time is a valuable resource — and one that is often in short supply. So we’re especially grateful that each year our volunteers collectively give thousands of hours to helping shape a lasting trail system for the future. We asked some of our devoted volunteers how they make the time to give back to trails — and why it’s worth it to them. Here’s what they had to say.

Photo courtesy Ambrose Zhi

Ambrose Zhi spends as much time as possible in the woods, which means WTA work parties are always appealing. 

Photo courtesy Todd Dunfield

For Todd Dunfield, trail work is a physical outlet and he tries to make time for it one or two days each month. 

Photo courtesy Stephanie Mattson

Stephanie Mattson finds that, without time off to be outdoors, it's easy to become unbalanced and stressed. 

Photo by WTA staff. 

Haylee Darby says volunteering is a way to give back to trails she enjoys, and also create a deeper connection with the places she loves.

Photo courtesy Karen Bean.

Karen Bean uses trail work to get motivated to get outside in the winter. 

Photo courtesy Kei Maruyama. 

Kei Maruyama recently completed five work parties — and earned a shiny new WTA hard hat. 

Photo courtesy Aaron Peabody. 

While Aaron Peabody tends toward introversion and loves time with a good book, he thinks WTA is worth giving up a bit of reading time for the betterment of trails.