Back to All Events

Blues Crew Work Party: Grouse Mountain/Lick Creek Trails


  • Walla Walla Rangers District Office 1415 West Rose Street Walla Walla, WA, 99362 United States (map)

Overview

Grouse Mountain and Lick Creek Trails are two linked trails within the North Fork Umatilla Wilderness.  The share a common trailhead at Zig Zag Springs.  The trailhead is approximately 45 minutes from Walla Walla.  The trails are generally accessible from May to November.  The Grouse Mountain trail follows the ridge line for about 2.0 miles.  The trail needs moderate brush removal and considerable trail slope recovery effort.  The Lick Creek trail after about 0.5 miles descends 2,000’ over 3.0 miles to the Umatilla River at Corporation.  The upper section of this trail will require a significant effort of brush removal and tread restoration.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

NOTE:  This is a multi-day work party.  Volunteers have the option of joining the Blues Crew on any one of the three days or to join those of us who plan to camp overnight at the trailhead.

Participants in the entire three days will camp at Kyle McFarley’s Mountain Home located approximately 5 miles from the trailhead.  All meals from dinner Friday to lunch Sunday will be catered and provided to the multi-day volunteers for $25.

Saturday night we are planning a celebration of the Blues Crew.  The dinner will be catered and music will enlighten the evening.  Those who have signed up for the multi-day camping event the cost is covered.  If you wish to join us for this evening, the fee is $10.  Be sure to sign-up separately from day activities.

Hiking Information

Light to moderate. 

Schedule

Friday, May 24

8:00 am – Meet at USFS parking lot on Rose Street in Walla Walla

8:15 am – Depart for Zig Zag Springs Trailhead

9:00 am – Arrive Trailhead.  Orientation and safety briefing

Noon – Lunch

4 pm – Work complete. Day volunteers return to Walla Walla. Overnight camp at McFarley Mountain Home.

Saturday, May 25

9:00 am - Day volunteers arrive at Zig Zag Springs Trailhead. Orientation and safety briefing

Noon – Lunch

4 pm – Work complete.  Day volunteers return to Walla Walla. Overnight camp at McFarley Mountain Home.  An evening of music and fun is planned.

Sunday, May 26

9:00 am - Day volunteers arrive at Zig Zag Springs Trailhead. Orientation and safety briefing

Noon – Lunch

4 pm – Work complete.  Celebrate the work effort.  Return to Walla Walla.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

Blues Crew Leads                  Greg Brown, Nathan Viavant, and Eileen Settle

Forest Service   Kiyo Fujishin

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

  • No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! USFS provides the training and tools you need

  • Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain

  • Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18

What to Wear

  • Boots - no sneakers or sandals

  • Long pants

  • Leather gloves

  • Long-sleeved shirt

  • Eye protection recommended (glasses, sunglasses or safety glasses)

  •  Ticks can be present:  DEET for self, permethrin for clothes

A hard hat will be provided by BMLT. For safety reasons, shorts and sneakers are not allowed.

What to Bring

  • Lunch and plenty of water

  • Rain jacket and pants

  • Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather

  • A pack to carry your personal gear

  • Multi-day volunteers should bring tent, sleeping gear, clothing, personal snacks and water for the weekend.  Bathroom and water is available at the McFarleys.

  • A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

USFS Supplied Gear             

  • Hard hat

  • Tools

  • Safety gear

  • First aid kit

More Information

Earlier Event: May 23
River Delta Exploration - SOLD OUT
Later Event: May 25
Journey to the Zumwalt