New trail construction at Top of the Pines nature preserve near Ridgway
Restore and extend a historic trail through ponderosa pine forest near Ridgway with sweeping San Juan Mountain views. Overnight project — meals and camping included.
Why we picked this
A full overnight trail project in one of Colorado's most beautiful corners — restoring a historic trail through ponderosa pines above Ridgway with San Juan Mountain views. Connects to an existing biking trail and opens real public access. Meals and camping included.
The Top of the Pines nature preserve near Ridgway sits on 175 acres of ponderosa pine forest with panoramic San Juan Mountain views. A historic trail through the property has become overgrown, cutting off public access to this land. This project — building on 2024 progress — restores and extends the trail to connect with an existing biking trail, expanding access to public open space in the Ridgway area.
Volunteers work two days (Saturday September 12, 8 AM–4 PM; Sunday September 13, 8 AM–12 PM). Tasks include clearing overgrown sections, rebuilding trail tread, and general trail construction work — bending, lifting, digging, and shoveling. This is an overnight camping project, with free campsites plus breakfast, lunch, and Saturday dinner included for all participants.
Ages 16 and older; youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21+. Moderate difficulty. Indoor bathrooms with showers available on site. The dirt road to the preserve is accessible by standard 2WD vehicles.