Giving Back to the Trails We Run On

Best Practices for Trail Work & Stewardship

At Kåduka, we believe trail running is about more than miles, it’s about connection. The trails we run on shape our community, our health, and our sense of place. But here’s the truth: our trail systems are under-staffed and under-funded. Without volunteers, many of the trails we love simply wouldn’t exist in the shape we know them.

So let’s flip the script: instead of just using trails, let’s care for them.

Why Trail Work Matters

Across the country, land agencies are stretched thin. Budgets are tight, staff is short, and yet we have thousands of miles of trails that need attention. Fallen trees don’t move themselves. Erosion doesn’t repair itself. Bridges don’t build themselves.

But volunteers can, and do.

Trail work is what keeps trails open, safe, and runnable. Every switchback you’ve cruised down, every log crossing you’ve balanced on, every mile that wasn’t choked out by genuine organic blackberry brambles, those exist because someone gave their Saturday (or several) to make it happen.

Deadfall can be tricky to navigate

Trail Stewardship While You Run

As trail runners, we often cover more ground than hikers and venture onto less-traveled routes. That means we’re in a unique position to notice problems, and sometimes even fix them, while we’re out training and adventuring. With just a little intention (and sometimes a little gear), you can make a difference mid-run.

Here are some low-effort, high-impact ways to help:

Clear small obstacles
Move sticks, rocks, or light debris off the trail so the next runner, biker, or hiker has a smoother pass.
Pack it out
Bring a small baggie to collect trash, energy gel wrappers, cans, or anything else that doesn’t belong.
Trim light brush
Carry lightweight clippers to cut back encroaching branches or thorny vines from the tread.
Report big issues
If you encounter serious erosion, washouts, or heavy deadfall, log the location on an app (like Gaia or Strava) and report it to your local trail org when you’re back.

Carry a compact saw
Jason, Kåduka’s co-founder, often carries a compact folding handsaw on his runs.
"I can strap it to my running pack or just stuff it in my quiver when I don't take my poles. It lets me cut through deadfall blocking trails on the spot, clearing the path for everyone, and has the added bonus that I don't have to jump these trees on my way back down!"

This is a practice that can keep an otherwise remote path open. Here’s the saw he uses if you want to add one to your kit: Silky Professional Bigboy 2000 Folding Saw 360mm XL Teeth (affiliate link)

Kåduka's recommended trail saw: the Silky Bigboy 2000

These micro-moments of stewardship add up. Even small actions help trails stay safe, sustainable, and welcoming.

5-10 minutes of work can turn this …

… into a lovely clear trail!

Best Practices for Trail Work Volunteering

If you’re new to trail work, don’t stress. Most organizations provide the tools, training, and crew leaders you’ll need. The key is showing up prepared and with the right mindset.

Come ready to learn
No experience? Perfect. Leaders will train you on the spot. Just listen, ask questions, and jump in.

Gear up smart
Sturdy boots, long pants, gloves, water, snacks, and layers for surprise weather. Bonus points for sunscreen and bug spray.

Respect safety rules
PPE (hard hats, goggles, gloves) is non-negotiable. Keep pets at home and keep your focus sharp.

Use your strengths
Not everyone loves swinging a Pulaski all day. That’s fine. Trail crews need brush cutters, tread workers, sawyers, log movers, trash haulers, and good vibes. Find your role and lean into it.

Be a good ambassador
Trails often stay open while work is happening. Smile, step aside, and share what you’re doing with passersby—it’s trail work and trail advocacy.

Have fun!
Trail work is tough, dirty, sweaty, and somehow always rewarding. You’ll leave tired, yes, but also more connected to the places you run and the people you run with.

Going Further

No matter your skills, there’s a way to contribute:

Join a work party
From quick day projects to backcountry multi-day trips, there are options for every level.

Get certified.
Programs like the PCTA Trail Skills College, WTA Crew Leader Training, or USFS Sawyer Certification let you step into leadership and more technical roles.

Advocate
Contact your elected officials, sign petitions, or simply talk about trail funding with your running buddies. Elected officials won’t know trails matter unless they hear from you.

Donate
Not everyone can give time, but you can still support the work. Contribute to Rainshadow Running’s For the Trails Fund—100% goes to trail organizations doing the work on the ground.

Donate to For the Trails Fund

Learn more

If you love the trails, now’s the time to give back. Whether you sign up for a work party, get trained, write your rep, or chip in to the For the Trails Fund—you’re helping ensure these places stay wild and runnable for the future.

Check out the resources and organizations listed below to find your next opportunity. The trails won’t fix themselves, but together, we can.

Here are just a few of the incredible organizations leading trail work in our region and beyond: