Helping Hand Hike (VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY)

Join us for an exclusive look at the still-in-progress primitive trail system at Mill Ridge Park throughout winter. Volunteers will hike up to 3-miles, serving as trail crew for the afternoon while learning about sustainable trail building techniques and performing tasks such as:

  • Developing "Trail Eyes" to better understand how to identify problem areas of trail and possible solutions. 

  • Measuring, mapping, and documenting problem areas for future trail day events using GPS-enabled phone applications. 

  • Picking up litter and debris along the route, then packing it out according to Leave No Trace principles.

  • Performing brushing activities with loppers, pruners, and weed wrenches for invasive species. 

  • Moving downed trees and branches from trail to maintain proper corridor and prevent shortcutting. 

Volunteers for this event should prepare for cold weather conditions, preferably wearing layers. Due to this trail system still being actively developed, there are segments which may be muddy and/or wet. We therefore recommend pants and shoes with adequate tread suitable for outdoor activity on rough, uneven terrain. A portable toilet is available near the trailhead. 

Mill Ridge Park is a 622+ acre regional park, centrally located in the fast-growing and diverse community of Southeast Davidson County. Friends of Mill Ridge Park enhances and advocates for Mill Ridge Park to strengthen the community in Southeast Davidson County. Friends of Mill Ridge Park hosts and facilitates community driven education, recreation, and conservation focused volunteer opportunities, as well as programmed activities that include seasonal guided hikes, kite festival, pumpkin patch parties, and night sky viewing parties. 

Snacks, beverages, and portable toilets are available onsite. And finally, feel free to bring your own water bottle to cut down on plastic waste!

For more details and to sign up to volunteer, click on this link: https://handson.unitedwaygreaternashville.org/opportunity/a0CVN00001fJffQ2AS/helping-hand-hike

Katherine Dennis