As our Wilderness trails become ever more popular, Wilderness education becomes increasingly important to protect our wild places. Trailhead Hosts staff informational tables at trailheads. We meet and greet hikers and backpackers on their way into and out of the Wilderness. Hosts take the same training as our other Volunteer Wilderness Rangers who patrol Wilderness trails - the only difference is that Hosts remain at the trailhead. Trailhead Hosting is a great way to engage the public. It's also a nice option for those days when you want to be outdoors helping Wilderness but don't feel like hiking.   

 

Hosts select the days, hours, and trailheads at which they want to host. Hosts are provided a kit comprising a table, informational items like maps and wildflower guides, swag for free distribution, and helpful items such as dog leashes and band aids. Those who agree to host at least 4 times over the summer are provided their own personal kit; other Hosts can pick up a kit at the ESWA storage sheds at Forest Service locations in Summit and Eagle Counties.

 

Trailhead Hosts must have taken our Volunteer Wilderness Ranger training. We urge hosts to work in pairs, but only one member of the pair needs to have completed ranger training. Not yet a VWR?  Sign up for VWR training HERE.

 

Like other Volunteer Wilderness Rangers who patrol trails, Trailhead Hosts sign up online before hosting, and submit a report afterwards. Every three hours of hosting counts against one of the minimum four patrols required of ESWA Volunteer Wilderness Rangers.