Where will I be working?
Trailheads will differ from year to year and month to month, dependent on funding, land manager partnerships, and areas of greatest need. Please refer to the Trailhead Ambassador Program landing page to see which locations we may be currently recruiting for, and fill out the interest form to stay in the know as new locations are announced.
What is the time commitment?
To help the program run smoothly, we ask each volunteer to commit to a minimum of two shifts per season.
Is transportation available?
Volunteers are required to provide their own transportation to and from trailheads.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately, no. But we do love dogs!
Can I bring my child?
You can bring your child, though they cannot count service hours and will not technically be an Ambassador. Children must be supervised by a guardian at all times.
Can I bring a friend?
Your friends are welcome to visit you at the trailhead, but only trained Trailhead Ambassador Volunteers may give information to the public. If you’d like to volunteer with a friend, please encourage them to become a trained Trailhead Ambassador!
Are there age restrictions?
Volunteers are required to be 18 years or older.
Will I be supervised?
We expect our volunteers to be able to work at trailheads without direct supervision. Volunteers will be working in pairs, so you will never be alone at a trailhead. Additionally, Trailhead Ambassador program staff will be available via phone and able to come to the trailhead to assist you should the need arise.
Do I need to have visited these specific trails or Sno-Parks to be an Ambassador?
A general familiarity with the hiking trails and Sno-Parks will be a helpful tool for you to have. However, it is not a requirement to become a volunteer. We will provide resources about all of the trails where we will be working so that you can become familiar with them before your shift.
Will training be provided?
Each volunteer will need to complete the online training course to become a Trailhead Ambassador. This is designed to be a self-paced training, with check in quizzes and discussion topics throughout. Topics we cover will include general program logistics, as well as education about the principles of Leave No Trace, information about our target trailheads, and other helpful tools.
Will I be exposed to the elements while I volunteer?
We will provide a canopy for you to set up so that you can have cover from rain and sun. If the weather forecast calls for extreme weather (snow, lightning, high winds, etc.), we will make the call to cancel your shift. Should this occur, we will notify you by noon the day before your scheduled shift.
What if I need to cancel a shift?
We understand that life happens and that you may not be able to make it to your scheduled shift. If you need to cancel, please contact one of our Trailhead Ambassador facilitators via phone or email as soon as you are able. Contact information will be provided in your Volunteer Handbook, which you will receive through your online training.
Do I have to report unsafe behavior or give tickets?
Trailhead Ambassadors are NOT law enforcement! Volunteer will not be giving tickets or reprimanding users for inappropriate trail etiquette. You are a friendly, welcoming source of information for trail users. If you witness inappropriate or illegal behavior, we will provide the appropriate process of contacting the land manager who oversees the area. In an emergency, always call 911 first!
What qualifications do I need to become an ambassador?
Qualities we are looking for in our Trailhead Ambassador Volunteers:
- Friendly, professional, outgoing individual
- Enjoys informing and helping others
- Access to a vehicle to carry program equipment