Indian Peaks Wilderness Alliance
Preserving and Protecting the Indian Peaks and James Peak Wilderness Areas
Trailhead Host Days
Each summer, the IPWA holds Trailhead Host Days where volunteers host a booth or table at popular trailheads into the Indian Peaks or James Peak Wilderness areas. Volunteers host at the Brainard Lake Recreation Area's Long Lake Trailhead and Mitchell Lake Trailhead on most weekends from July to September.
Volunteers also host several days during the summer season at the East Portal Trailhead and at Hessie (near the Forest Service cabin on the junction of the Hessie Road and 4th of July Road). Some events also include Forest Service staff and partners.
IPWA volunteer Danny Smith
Trailhead Host at East Portal Trailhead
This program provides an opportunity for volunteers to greet visitors at the start of a hike and provide information on wilderness information, hiking routes, wildlife in the area, wilderness regulations, Leave No Trace principles & best practices, and to answer any questions.
During a single day at the trailhead, we've seen over 800 people hitting the trails!
To see upcoming dates, check out our Events page!
IPWA volunteers Bette Erickson and Carol Marsh
Trailhead Host Day at the East Portal Trailhead
Volunteer Requirements:
Trailhead hosts must be active wilderness volunteers who have completed all training requirements and mentored hikes, and preferably have patrol and/or hiking experience at the trailhead they will be hosting. Volunteers who are interested can sign-up through the volunteer portal.
IPWA Volunteer Cynthia Girand hosting
at Long Lake Trailhead
"The Trailhead Host program allows all visitors, hikers, to see us as they set off. We try to greet everyone and offer help or advice. It is also a chance to spend time with fellow volunteers."
IPWA Volunteer Zdenka Smith