Trail Training: Learn What It Takes to Make Trails Happen
Welcome to our overview of upcoming trail training workshops! Below is our catalogue of classes designed to help WV's outdoor advocates hone their skills around the design, funding, building, activation and maintenance of their local trail systems. Click here to see the class schedule.
The Classes
Intro to Trail Building
Whether you are a professional, avid volunteer, or those looking to become more involved with your local trail system, Intro to Trail Building has something for you. This free single-day training combines both classroom and experiential sessions to leave participants with a working understanding of the basics of trail development including trail building, maintenance, and more.
Who Should Attend? Anyone who appreciates access to trail-based recreation.
Interested in hosting an Intro to Trail Training Class in your community?
Trail Assessment & Maintenance
A hands-on walking seminar covering trail assessment, tread repair, drainage solutions, and erosion control. This brief workshop will take folks to their local trail network to assess immediate needs, troubleshoot, and discuss maintenance options as a group before practicing maintenance under the .
Who Should Attend?Land managers and individuals currently volunteering or interested in volunteering at their local trails.
Advancing Community Trails (ACT) Workshop
A customized educational, in-depth workshop designed to support the development of the next generation of great trails in West Virginia. The curriculum is developed to provide the knowledge, support, and spark needed to help communities facilitate moving their local projects forward regardless of where they are in the process.
Who Should Attend?This event is specifically designed for West Virginia land managers, community officials, recreation professionals, tourism/economic development staff, and local advocates. Attendees are highly encouraged to attend as part of a cohort of other local stakeholders and partners in their community to ensure their ability to return with a collective understanding of how to move their project forward at home.
Intro to Rock Armor
If you spend any amount of time on trail in West Virginia, you are aware of two things: rocks and water. Rock armoring is a fundamental skill for those who spend any amount of time building trail in the mountain state. Intro to Rock Armor covers why, where and how to set stones to protect the trail from weather and visitor-caused erosion.
Who Should Attend?This is an advanced level training for those with an understanding of the trail building process will gain the most from this workshop. It is highly recommended attendees have participated in Intro to Trail Building.
Interested in attending Intro to Rock Armor?Intro to Rigging
Sometimes there are really big obstacles that need moved without the help of heavy machinery. This workshop covers the fundamentals of rigging including
- Safety
- Knots and hitches
- Anchor building
- Grip hoist operation
This is an advanced level training for the experienced builder who can lead a crew of volunteers, understands building and maintenance and is ready to level-up their skills to do some serious work on the trails.
Interested in attending Intro to Rigging?The Schedule
Why Attend These Workshops?
Whether you’re a volunteer hoping to help with local trail upkeep or a land manager looking to refine your crew’s skills, these workshops cover everything from basic hand tools to large-scale design concepts. Each session is led by experienced trail builders and educators who have worked on projects across diverse landscapes.
Registration and Fees
To register for an event, click the “Register Now” link under each listing (link to your registration page here). Many of our workshops are free! Some workshops may have a nominal fee to cover associated costs — details will be provided during registration. Spaces are limited, so sign up early!