For National Public Lands Day, we will be constructing three small log foot bridges on the Continental Divide Trail to span the distances over Bowen Creek. There is currently no crossing for the creek. This poses a hazard to hikers who use this section of trail when the creek is at high water. Volunteers will help move the timber, peel the bark from the logs, dig the footing for the sills, and finally move and secure each section into place to allow for easier passage for visitors. 

The minimum age for this project is 18 years old.

What to Expect: From the trailhead, we will walk half a mile on a relatively flat trail. Bathrooms may be inaccessible for most of the event period. Be prepared to answer nature’s call in nature. The nearest pit toilets are at nearby trailheads.

Manual labor will include digging, peeling logs, carrying heavy materials, and repetitive motions. This will be highly strenuous for some, with the entire workday spent on-foot, and potentially walking distances that can add up to several miles in forests and other front country locations. Bridge construction will utilize hand tools such as shovels, pulaskis, mattocks, rock bars, log tongs, and draw knives. Participants should expect to be out for the entire time in variable weather conditions, from hot temperatures in direct sunlight to cold and windy conditions. Events may be cancelled or shortened if weather conditions become a risk to human health and safety. Please be prepared with a daypack containing everything you will need for the day.

What to Bring: Layers for rapidly changing weather, rain gear, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), long sleeve shirt and long pants, sturdy closed-toed shoes/boots, lunch and snacks, at least 2 liters of water per person, gloves (if you prefer your own), safety glasses (or sunglasses), and a day pack to hold everything.