Adirondack Mountain Club

Health insurance is required to participate in this program.

The Iron Mountain Trail Building project is a 5-day-long cooperative trail work opportunity for anyone ages 14 and up. No prior experience is necessary! During the program the group will be working on a section of the new trail up Iron Mountain. The crew will be camping near the worksite during the project. This program is great for anyone who loves the trails in the Adirondacks and wants to give back to them. The project will be led by ADK’s professional crew leaders who will instruct all participants on the use of the tools and the process to build sustainable trail infrastructure in backcountry settings. Come prepared to work hard, get your hands dirty, and have fun!

Our tentative itinerary is as follows: We will meet on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 11:00:00 AM, at the Iron Mountain trailhead. After group introductions and a brief orientation, the crew will hike in to their campsite. They will set up camp, have some lunch, and begin working on the project. Saturday through Monday, the crew will spend about 8 hours each day working. On Tuesday, the crew will finish any remaining work if time allows, pack up camp and hike out. We will aim to be out of the woods and back at the parking lot by 11:00:00 AM.

While highly rewarding, trail work is also physically and mentally demanding. Participants should be prepared to carry heavy packs, and work in the rain, bugs, and mud! We will work in virtually all weather conditions, as long as it is safe to do so. Non-motorized hand tools will be used to complete the trail projects. Instructions on how to use the tools properly and safely will be discussed before beginning work by ADK crew leaders. While no prior experience is necessary, good physical condition, proper clothing, and proper equipment are a must!

ADK provides all the tools, personal protective equipment, food, and group camp gear (cookware, stove, fuel, and food storage) needed for the week. Upon registration, please indicate if you have any dietary restrictions so we can incorporate those into the group meals.

*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

**ADK reserves the right to deny participation if group safety will be compromised through an individual’s participation.