Overview

Join us in celebrating National Public Lands Day with the Bureau of Land Management! Fishtrap Lake is a beautiful area of impressive lakeshore cliffs, giant whirlpool holes carved in rock (kolks!) and upland shrub steppe. Over the past several years we have helped to construct a new trail system to give hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers access to these wonders. We will help with some annual trail maintenance needs during this work party.

About the Area

Fishtrap Lake is a BLM recreation area west of Spokane that has a beautiful lake along with interesting geography and geology shaped by the Missoula floods. The trail system follows the west shore of Fishtrap Lake with awesome views down to the lake and occasional access to the shoreline. It also traverses upland areas that include forest, shrubland, grasslands, marshes, a few small lakes and an occasional abandoned homestead. This is a great area to hike in the fall, winter and spring.

What to Expect

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

Project Description

The Fishtrap Loop trail is a trail system that we are helping to build and maintain that encompasses an 8 mile loop that includes 6 miles of new trail and 2 miles of upgraded existing trail. The day's work includes routine trail maintenance and brushing in areas that need it. Come join us to help maintain a great trail system that has expanded recreational opportunities for hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers in the Spokane area!

Hiking Information

Our hike to the project site is expected to be 4-6 miles round trip over flat or gently rolling terrain.

Schedule

• 8:30 AM: Arrival & onsite registration (South Loop Trailhead)
• 8:35 AM: Sign-in, group safety briefing, prepare tools and materials, and begin hiking to the work sites.
• 8:45 AM to 12:00PM: Following our morning orientation, we will begin working on the project.
• 12:00-12:30PM: Lunch break. Please bring a sack lunch to enjoy on the trail.
• 12:30PM-3:00 PM: Continue working on project
• 3:00 PM: Transition back at South Loop Trailhead for light refreshments.
• 3:30PM: Say goodbye to the crew and wrap up for the day.

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

• No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA 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 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18

What to Wear

Required:

• Sturdy closed-toe shoes
• Work gloves
• Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
• Long pants

Recommended:

• Sturdy work or hiking boots
• Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

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

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.