Trails in the Methow Valley

The Methow Valley is a beautiful area with almost limitless opportunities for different recreational activities. We hope the information below will help you be a responsible and informed trail user.

The Methow Conservancy is, in general, not a trails manager, although we do own some land with trails (Sunny M Ranch, Mill Hill) and we steward several properties with trails that are open to the public (Meadowlark Natural Area, Homestream Park). The purpose of this page is to provide links to organizations and agencies that are expert trail managers.

Challenges

Land managers have had staffing reductions and budget cuts, which will affect their ability to maintain recreation sites, provide an educational presence, and maintain trails. They have also experienced reductions to their summer workforce and/or funding interruptions.

How can volunteers help?

Volunteers can help to maintain sites to a higher standard for visitors (trash pickups, duff removal from RV/tent pads, cleaning and re-stocking toilet paper between outhouse servicing, etc.). Volunteers can also provide an important “eyes on the ground” to help report resource issues or developing problems before they cause sustained damage.

Volunteer opportunities

• Serve as “eyes on the ground” to report conditions that need attention at trailheads, campgrounds and on trails. Please use the forms found HERE to report conditions, work needs, or work performed. Encourage others to report conditions via this method – phone calls to the district are unlikely to be returned and are harder to track, this method is intended to provide a streamlined communication process. For dispersed sites, be as specific as possible about location.
• Help provide basic education and information to visitors at high use sites. Sign up to serve as a trailhead ambassador at popular trailheads during the summer and fall. Duties include greeting visitors and providing 'recreate responsibly' information. Training dates: to be scheduled in early June Contact person: Amber Deming (amber.deming@usda.gov)/Allen Jircik (allenj@trailscollaborative.org)
• Sign up to adopt a trailhead or campground. Check conditions, restock toilet paper, pick up trash, report significant maintenance needs.
• Hunter and hiker education during WA State High Hunt – Help to staff the historic cabin at Billygoat Trailhead, assist with cabin maintenance and hunter outreach. Dates September 15th-25th (high hunt); Contact person: Amber Deming (amber.deming@usda.gov)