Alpine Trail Stewards
Keeping White Mountain trails open, one volunteer at a time.
Every mile we clear is another mile someone gets to experience.
More than Trail Maintenance.
The White Mountains were forever changed by the Wallow Fire.
When the flames finally died, they left behind more than blackened forests. Hundreds of miles of trails disappeared beneath fallen trees, damaged tread, and years of deferred maintenance. Places that had connected generations of hikers, hunters, anglers, and families became increasingly difficult, or impossible, to reach.
Nature slowly began to heal, but many trails remained closed off, inaccessible. With limited resources available to address the immense recovery effort, it became clear that restoring these trails would require more than time alone.
That realization led to the creation of Alpine Trail Stewards.
What began with a handful of volunteers and a shared belief that these trails were worth saving has grown into a community dedicated to restoring access, caring for public lands, and helping others reconnect with the places that make the White Mountains so special.
Every mile reopened, every tree removed, and every trail restored is made possible by people who believe these places are worth protecting - not just for today, but for everyone who follows.
What We Do
🌲 Clear & Maintain Trails
Develop Stewardship Projects 🪓
🤝 Create a Volunteer Community
🎓 Skills & Safety Training
January - June 2026
Alpine Trail Stewards is dedicated to keeping trails open, safe, and accessible throughout Arizona's White Mountains. As a volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we work alongside the U.S. Forest Service and our community to care for the trails we all enjoy.
From removing fallen trees after winter storms to restoring forgotten paths, our work helps hikers, horseback riders, hunters, anglers, mountain bikers, and families continue enjoying public lands for generations to come.
Every hour volunteered becomes another opportunity for someone else to experience the outdoors.
Why it Matters
"Trails are paths connecting us to other people and places through space and time in ways that nothing else can."
— Debbie Fogle
Every tree removed...
Every drainage repaired...
Every volunteer hour...
helps preserve these places for the next family, the next child, and the next generation of trail users.
There's a Place for You Here
Help Keep Our Trails Open
Whether you've never picked up a handsaw or have years of trail experience, there's a place for you on the crew. Volunteers of all backgrounds and skill levels are welcome, and no previous trail work experience is required.
We'll provide the tools, training, and guidance. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and a desire to make a lasting difference on the trails we all enjoy.
You'll Find
- Welcoming volunteers and a supportive community
- Hands-on training and outdoor skills
- Meaningful work that leaves a lasting impact
- A chance to give back while exploring beautiful places
Whether you're brand new or have years of trail experience, we'd love to welcome you to the crew. Complete our volunteer interest form and we'll help you find the right opportunity.
Every Open Trail Has a Story
Behind every cleared trail is a volunteer who gave their time, energy, and care so someone else could experience the journey.
Thank you to everyone who has walked beside us, supported our mission, and helped keep Arizona's White Mountain trails open for future generations.
Whether you volunteer, share our work, or make a donation, you're helping preserve these special places for everyone who follows.
Because the trails we care for today become the memories of tomorrow.