Every great trail system is built and maintained by volunteers, and Beacon Hill is no exception. The trails you love to ride exist because someone picked up a tool and put in the work. Volunteering for trail building is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to the cycling community — and it's also a great way to meet people, learn trail craft, and see your favorite trails from a whole new perspective.
Who Builds Spokane's Trails
The Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance Spokane Chapter is the primary trail-building organization in the Spokane area. Evergreen is Washington State's mountain bike advocacy organization, and the Spokane Chapter focuses on building and maintaining trails at Beacon Hill, Riverside State Park, and across the region. They work with land managers, organize volunteer days, and advocate for mountain bike access.
What to Expect at a Trail Building Day
Trail building days are work parties — you'll show up in the morning, get assigned a task and tools, and work with a crew to build or maintain trail. Tasks range from clearing brush and moving dirt to building features and improving drainage. No experience is needed; experienced trail builders teach you everything. It's physical work, but incredibly satisfying — at the end of the day, you can see what you built.
Why Trail Building Matters
Trails don't build themselves. Every berm, every drainage feature, every cleared section of singletrack is the result of volunteer labor. When you ride a flowy trail on Beacon Hill, you're enjoying the work of riders who came before you. By volunteering, you're paying it forward — building trails for the riders who will come after. It's the cycling community at its best.
How to Get Involved
Join the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance Spokane Chapter — membership supports trail building and gives you a voice in trail advocacy. Check their website and social media for upcoming trail-building days. Show up with work clothes, gloves, and water — tools are provided. Trail building days are usually on weekends and run for a few hours. No commitment is required; come when you can.
Beyond building, you can support trails by reporting damage, donating to trail funds, and being a trail steward on your rides — fixing minor issues, picking up trash, and educating other riders. Every little bit helps.
The next time you ride a perfect berm on Beacon Hill, remember the volunteers who built it — and consider joining them. The trails need you.
Comments (0)
Log in to join the discussion
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!