Volunteers restore access to popular trails in the Umatilla Wilderness
In the heart of the Umatilla Wilderness, a team of volunteers and stewards gathered on the North Fork Umatilla River Trail. Their mission: restore access to this trail network, which was heavily affected by the 2020 floods.
The BMLT Blues Crew, Greater Hells Canyon Council, Umatilla National Forest, and the Northwest Youth Corps (NYC) collaborated this spring to repair and improve sections of the trail, restoring access to a popular outdoor area for the community. Over four intensive work weeks in the backcountry, crews carefully tackled various trail improvement and construction efforts. Tasks included rerouting sections of the trail and constructing essential infrastructure like a 60-foot turnpike and a log bridge to reconnect trail access across the river. Volunteers extracted and transported tons of rocks, categorizing them by size for specific trail improvements. A custom rock-soil sifter optimized their efforts, producing fine gravel for critical top-dressing needs.
Photos by Matt Franklin
Key leaders such as Barbara Hetrick, Phil Merrell, Holly Howard, Linda Herbert, Craig Piefer, Larry Wachtel, Pip Redding, and Teresa Roy, were instrumental in guiding these efforts. Their work aimed not only to repair but also to mitigate erosion, improve drainage, and restore ecological balance to the trail's fragile ecosystem post-flood damage.
Despite challenges like unexpected weather and logistical hurdles, the team persevered with dedication. They cleared the trail, ensuring this pathway remained accessible and safe for community members to enjoy.
Trails like these are vital for connecting communities with wilderness areas, offering recreation, solace, and a deeper connection to nature. By restoring these trails, the crew ensured access and demonstrated the importance of collaboration with partners for a bigger impact.
We thank the BMLT Blues Crew volunteers, Greater Hells Canyon Council, Umatilla National Forest, and NW Youth Corp, whose hard work made this trail restoration possible. Their efforts remind us that, through persistence and a shared vision, we can improve the region’s trails for everyone to enjoy.
This project was made possible with the support of the Oregon Trail Fund.
