The Trailhead Steward Volunteers will be a reestablished program for the GMC in 2020, enhancing our outreach and education for hikers on Camel’s Hump. As a new volunteer program in a Field Season with many transitions and unknowns, some bumps in the road should be expected. Trailhead Stewards should possess abundant enthusiasm for engaging with hikers, excitement about welcoming new hikers into the GMC community, and patience and flexibility while developing this program as a resource for the hiking community.
Please review the position description and complete the Trailhead Steward Application found below.
For further questions or inquiries related to becoming a Trailhead Steward Volunteer contact Lorne Currier, Volunteer & Education Coordinator.
Position Description
Trailhead Stewards will be stationed at busy trailheads on the Long Trail System during times of peak hiking traffic, primarily weekends. Trailhead stewards will encourage COVID-19 Hiking Etiquette, safe hiking practices, Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics, and general trail and hiking advice. Trailhead stewards are the first line of education, conservation and stewardship for the many hikers we expect to see this summer on the Long Trail System.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
- Use the online calendar to sign-up for your daily shifts, with at least three shifts preferred per volunteer throughout the season.
- Collect and report accurate trail use data and provide this data in a written report to the GMC’s Field Programs.
- At the trailhead, provide safe hiking practices, weather information, Leave No Trace information, alpine zone etiquette and COVID-19 Guidance to visitors before they begin their trip.
- Tactfully approach and educate visitors on pertinent topics while representing the GMC.
- Provide information to hikers about the Long Trail System and the role of the GMC and our agency partners in managing the area’s natural resources.
- Act as a resource for fellow hikers and an advocate for the trail, not as a “ranger”.
Desired Qualifications:
- Availability on weekends and holidays.
- Good communication skills!
- Friendly, self motivated, mature and able to adapt to a wide variety of social situations.
- Patient and effective communicator able to connect to diverse groups of trail users
- Teaching and/or interpretive skills
- Knowledge of Long Trail System in the immediate area
- Knowledge of Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics
