Opportunities From: Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado

Where You'll Be:

Black Canyon Open Space is the newest open space in the City of Manitou Springs, located on the north side of town just west of Garden of the Gods Park. This roughly 35-acre property includes historic trail features such as a wagon turnaround and sensitive archaeological areas. It also offers phenomenal views that include Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Park.

What You'll Do: 

The open space master plan was finalized in February 2025, and work is needed before the area can safely open to the public. This project will use volunteer power to finish the development of about 2 miles of existing trails within the open space.

Work will include:

Constructing small sections of trail to replace poorly aligned existing routesClearing vegetation from the pathReconstructing drainages (small ditches that divert water) along sections of trail

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why it Matters:

This work moves Black Canyon Open Space closer to opening to the public and expands safe, sustainable recreation opportunities for the Manitou Springs community and visitors.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Physical Difficulty:

This project is considered easy to moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical activities may include moderate lifting and tool use, digging and shoveling, moving soil and rocks, repetitive bending and walking, and hiking short distances while carrying tools.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Volunteers will hike approximately 0.25 miles from the parking area to the worksite. Porta-potties will be on site.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail construction, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Section 13 is a 5-mile single-track trail system located on BLM-managed lands approximately 2.5 miles southwest of Cañon City at the base of the Wet Mountains. Trails in this system are open to both hikers and mountain bikers. Of the 100 miles of trails now established in the Cañon City region, this was the first single-track network constructed 15 years ago entirely by hand with volunteers and agency staff.

Nearest Town: Cañon City

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will help maintain about 5 miles of trail on the Hotshots and Lamba Chops trails. Tasks may include:

Cutting back overgrown plants, including cactus Clearing and rebuilding drainage features so water can flow off the trail Widening narrow sections of trail on steep slopes Making small adjustments to the trail to reduce erosion

Recent assessments show that many drainage features are clogged and no longer working, and some sections of trail have been badly damaged by heavy summer rains. A few areas are deeply eroded and need focused repair. Improving these sections will help keep water off the trail and prevent further damage. This trail system is heavily used by nearby residents and the broader community, but trail conditions have started to limit how often people can safely enjoy it.

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Why It Matters: 

This project will improve recreational experiences by providing a higher-quality trail while also reducing erosion and soil loss. Brushing back cactus will also improve safety for trail users.

This project also aligns with the recent efforts of local organizations and government agencies to develop a cross-jurisdictional trail maintenance program. Born out of the Bighorn Roundtable, a Fremont County-focused regional partnership, the need for maintaining recreation facilities was identified as a high priority. This project will be an early win for this emerging program and boost support for trail maintenance. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+ 

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.    

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: 2WD access to both trailhead and campsite. Volunteers may need to carpool from campsite to worksite due to limited parking at worksite. 

Other Notes: There is cell service on site.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail maintenance projects, you can view similar projects here.

Bringing a child, youth group, or signing up as a family?

Please follow this step-by-step guide to register as a team. It’s quick and helps us get all the info we need.

Where You'll Be: 

This project takes place at the Plains Conservation Center managed by City of Aurora’s Open Space and Natural Resources Department. The Plains Conservation Center provides the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Denver Metro’s eastern plains. It features stretches of native prairie and offers a sense of vast grasslands far removed from the city. The Plains Conservation Center also serves as nature preserve and education center that model what Native American camps and pioneer homesteads looked like in the late 1800s.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help plant about 200 cottonwood trees along the creek and in nearby wet areas at the Plains Conservation Center.

These trees will be either bare root plants or 5-gallon container plants. After planting, volunteers will install wire cages around each tree to protect them from being eaten by pronghorn and other wildlife.

This work supports a recently installed beaver dam analog (BDA), which aim to slow the flow of water replicating the effect of natural beaver dams. While beavers once lived in this area, they are no longer present. Without beaver dams to slow the creek, water levels dropped over time, making it difficult for cottonwood trees to survive. The BDA helps slow the flow of water, raising the water table and keeping moisture in the soil longer. This creates better conditions for cottonwoods to grow and establishes a healthier riparian area along the creek.

Why It Matters: 

This project builds on the planting that VOC volunteers started in the spring of 2025.

Adding more trees will expand habitat for breeding birds and support existing nesting eagles in the area. Cottonwoods also help stabilize the East Toll Gate Creek's banks, reduce erosion, and provide shade that keeps water cooler and supports long-term water availability. Together, these improvements strengthen the overall health of the creek and the surrounding prairie ecosystem.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 12+

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Bringing a child, youth group, or signing up as a family?

Please follow this step-by-step guide to register as a team. It’s quick and helps us get all the info we need!

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy to moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): Volunteers will work in sun-exposed areas and on uneven terrain, performing tasks such as bending down, de-potting saplings, and digging. Other tasks may include: moderate lifting, moving soil, walking and tool use.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Bathrooms are available at the Plains Conservation Center Visitor Center, about a half-mile from the work site.

If you enjoy planting projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most popular and scenic parks in the Denver metro area, known for its expansive reservoir, diverse wildlife, and beautiful open spaces. With a mix of prairie, wetlands, and cottonwood-lined trails, the park offers a peaceful natural escape just minutes from the city. It’s also a hub for outdoor recreation, environmental education, and habitat restoration. 

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will work in an area where informal foot traffic from hikers and birders has begun to impact sensitive wetlands and create conflicts with active beaver habitat.

The primary goal of this project is to construct a new crushed gravel trail that reroutes use onto a designated, sustainable path. Volunteers will also help close the existing informal trail to allow the area to recover.

The second priority is to construct fencing to delineate a wetland viewing area. Over time, this space will be enhanced with benches, viewing areas, and interpretive signage, creating a new park amenity while protecting surrounding habitat.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters: 

Cherry Creek State Park receives around two million visits each year. Creating a designated trail and formal viewing area in this part of the park helps spread visitor use more evenly and reduces pressure on heavily used trails elsewhere. This project also provides a sustainable way for visitors to experience wetlands and wildlife, including birds and beavers, while protecting the habitat that supports them.

Eligibility Requirements:  Ages 14+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: extensive digging and excavating to make way for new crusher fines trail; tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch; hauling heavy wheelbarrows.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: The park is 2WD accessible. Depending on where we park, volunteers may be parking in one area and carpooling to the project site 

Other Notes:  The project area is fairly exposed. There are bathrooms throughout the park. The nearest bathroom to the project site may be a short drive away.

If you enjoy trail construction, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

The Dolores River stretches 241 miles from its headwaters in the San Juan National Forest through Colorado and into Utah, where it joins the Colorado River. The project will take place in either Mesa or Montrose County along the Dolores River. All sites will be easily accessible from Highway 141 and will be located between the towns of Gateway and Naturita, Colorado. The specific project site(s) will be determined at a later date based on permissions and the priorities of local land managers and landowners. 

Nearest town: Naturita, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will support riverbank restoration efforts along the Dolores River through the Dolores River Restoration Partnership (DRRP). Activities will include removing invasive woody plants and herbaceous weeds, as well as assisting with a range of seeding and planting techniques to optimize site-specific re-vegetation best practices. 

During the project, sawyers will cut larger tamarisk stands, while other volunteers will use loppers to remove resprouts or drag and pile woody debris for burn or habitat piles. Once the area is cleared, trained and certified staff will apply herbicide to stumps to prevent regrowth. Volunteers will also help prepare sites for re-vegetation by removing weeds, raking debris, and prepping soil. If time allows, they may also participate in the seeding and planting of native plants.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters: 

The Dolores River is a 241-mile-long tributary of the Colorado River that passes through several special designation areas, including Wilderness Study Areas and Special Recreation Management Areas. The river supports agriculture, wildlife, and recreation, including whitewater rafting, fishing, and hiking, and is home to native fish species such as the roundtail chub, bluehead sucker, and flannelmouth sucker. 

Despite its ecological and recreational value, the Dolores River faces significant challenges. Drought, overuse, and flow regulation from McPhee Dam have led to chronically low and highly variable flows. Invasive plants, particularly tamarisk, have further degraded the river corridor by displacing native vegetation, reducing biodiversity, increasing wildfire risk, and altering natural river dynamics. Dense tamarisk stands have impaired fish and wildlife habitat, impacted wetlands, obstructed recreational access, and disrupted natural processes by armoring riverbanks, narrowing the channel, and disconnecting the floodplain. 

Efforts to remove tamarisk and restore native vegetation are critical to improving the health of this ecosystem. This work enhances both aquatic and terrestrial habitats, supporting biodiversity and benefiting the many communities and ecosystems that rely on the Dolores River.  This project will be completed in partnership with RiversEdge West.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

On this project, we need a mix of A and B certified Chainsaw Sawyers as well as volunteers that are not chainsaw certified. If you are certified, please include this in the Comments of your registration and send your certificate to the project manager. ALL SAWYERS MUST HOLD A CURRENT FIRST AID AND CPR CERTIFICATION IN ORDER TO OPERATE A SAW. Want to get certified? Visit our Training Calendar for upcoming training opportunities.  

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project (some or all may apply): pulling or cutting vegetation; working on uneven, sloped, or rough terrain; bending and stooping for long periods; carrying and hauling vegetation; possible increased exposure to allergens; working near pesticides (managed by licensed people); potential for long hike; repetitive hand motions; and working around noise and vibration (chainsaws).

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: Parking may be limited, so carpooling will be encouraged. The worksite is located within a short walk from the parking area. 

Other Notes: Cell service is nonexistent or very limited.

If you enjoy chainsaw projects, either as a certified sawyer or a support volunteer, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

You’ll be volunteering at the Village Farm at Stanley, an urban farm located next to Stanley Marketplace in northwest Aurora. This 1.5-acre farm is run by Village Exchange Center, a community-based nonprofit that supports and trains people from many cultural backgrounds.

The farm is both a working food production space and a learning environment. It is designed to grow culturally significant foods that reflect the traditions and needs of the families the Village Exchange Center serves.

What You’ll Do: 

Support the farm get off to a successful growing season! Volunteers will help with some of the following projects:

Establishing new in-ground beds, Building raised beds and planting a hedge row (a row of trees or shrubs that will form a living border/fence),Establishing bed infrastructure such as irrigation and trellises, Cutting down cover crop (a crop used to hold down and add nutrients to the soil between growing seasons), Planting seeds and seedlings.

This work helps lay the foundation for everything the farm will produce and teach in the months ahead.

Why It Matters: 

About half of the food grown at the Village Farm is shared through the Village Exchange Center’s weekly food pantry, located just a few minutes away. This fresh produce supports community members experiencing food insecurity who may not otherwise have access to culturally familiar foods.

The farm also plays a key role in the Village Exchange Center’s vocational training program. Each growing season, participants learn hands-on horticulture skills that can support future job opportunities and long-term food access.

The seedlings planted during this project have been intentionally selected to reflect the cultural backgrounds of the families who will receive the harvest.

Eligibility Requirements:  

Ages 15+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): kneeling, bending, working close to the ground for extended periods, lifting or carrying soil, mulch, or plants, and exposure to insects (bees, wasps).

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Street and lot parking is available. Volunteers will need to walk approximately 1/4 mile from their parking to the farm entrance. Volunteers can also bike along the regional trail to get there!

Other Notes: The worksite is exposed and most days gets very sunny.

Where You'll Be:

This project takes place at Aurora Reservoir, a popular destination in southeast Aurora that sees about 700,000 visits each year. Volunteers will be working along the Aurora Reservoir 5K Trail, a well-used crushed gravel trail that loops through prairie, wetlands, and along the lake shoreline.

The trail is used by runners, walking groups, anglers accessing the shoreline, and participants in trail running events. It is also a certified 5K course through USA Track and Field and is regularly used for races and community events. Portions follow the paved trail surface at the park, and other areas meander through the prairie, wetlands and along the lake shore.

What You'll Do:

The 5K Trail is due for some maintenance to bring it back to good condition.

Volunteers will help resurface worn sections of trail by spreading crushed gravel to improve drainage and repair areas that have broken down over time.

As part of the work, volunteers may also:

Build simple drainage features to move water off the trail Help reduce erosion in problem areas Construct rock turnpikes to carry the trail safely through wetland sections (a turnpike is a raised section of trail that's built to cross wet or muddy areas)

This hands-on work will help restore the trail’s surface and protect the surrounding landscape.

Why It Matters:

Over time, worn spots, potholes, and undercut sections can create safety risks for trail users, especially bikers and runners who may not see these hazards in advance. The work completed by volunteers will help make the trail safer and more reliable for everyone who uses it.

Improving drainage and resurfacing the trail also helps prevent future erosion and reduces long-term maintenance needs. The rock turnpikes protect sensitive wetland habitat by keeping trail use contained and preventing damage to surrounding areas.

Together, these improvements support a safer, more sustainable trail that more people can enjoy year-round.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Physical Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Work will start within 300 feet of the parking lot. Volunteers may walk up to 1.5 miles to the furthest point.

If you enjoy trail maintenance projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Located southwest of Golden in the foothills, Lookout Mountain rises to 7,377 feet, making it the tallest peak in the area. Its name comes from the Ute Indian Tribe, who once used it as a lookout point. Whether you're into biking, hiking, or a scenic drive near Denver, Lookout Mountain offers something for everyone. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

Nearest town: Golden, CO 

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project. Open to volunteers ages 16+, there will be something for everyone. Tasks may include clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant habitat in this popular natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: This project will include hiking, bending over to pick up heavy objects, stretching to reach objects, and strenuous activities such as swinging tools.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions - 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be: 

DEN Open Space is a 585 acre park in Northeast Denver, situated in between the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge and DEN Airport. The park offers nature access and recreation opportunities for folks in the Montbello and Green Valley Ranch neighborhoods. The property is home to a lively prairie dog population, incredible cottonwood gallery, First Creek waterway and trail, and a beautiful but disturbed prairie ecosystem.

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You'll Do:

This project will take place on roughly the first 50 acres of the park north of the parking lot and 56th Avenue, along Buckley Road. This area has a high number of invasive plants, also called noxious weeds (Common Mullein, Scotch and Musk Thistle and has been a primary focus of the Denver Parks and Recreation Open Space team the past 2 seasons).

These plants are not native to Colorado and spread quickly, crowding out native plants. Volunteers will help remove young weed plants by hand pulling or digging them out. These young plants grow close to the ground in a circular shape, called a rosette, and are easiest to remove in the spring. Staff will show you how to identify the plants and demonstrate safe removal techniques. No experience is needed.

Why It Matters:

Removing these young plants prevents them from growing larger and producing seeds, which helps stop them from spreading. This gives native plants more space, water, and sunlight to grow. Healthier native plant communities support wildlife and improve the look and long-term health of the park for everyone who visits.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 10+

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical activity may include some or all of the following: pulling or cutting vegetation, working on uneven or sloped terrain, bending and stooping for extended periods, carrying and hauling vegetation, possible exposure to allergens, potential for a long off-trail walk, and repetitive hand motions.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions - 2WD accessible

Other Notes: The walk to the furthest point of the work area will be a 10-15 minute walk on a trail.

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Nestled near the University of Denver campus, Observatory Park is a charming green space that blends history with recreation. Home to DU's historic Chamberlin Observatory, the park features century-old trees, an expansive playground, and open fields perfect for picnics or a friendly game of frisbee. 

What You’ll Do: 

Join us for a fun and meaningful way to give back to your community! Volunteers ages 8 and up will help plant a vibrant vegetable garden in Observatory Park.    

Guided by Grow Local Colorado staff, you’ll learn what vegetables are being planted and why, as well as how to strategically place each plant to ensure optimal growth and productivity. Whether you're a gardening pro or a complete beginner, this is a great opportunity to gain new skills, ask questions about your own garden, or get inspired to start one for the first time. 

As a bonus, participants may be able to take home extra seeds and seedlings, while supplies last! 

Why It Matters: 

The vegetables planted will be harvested in the fall and donated to local food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need, addressing food insecurity in our community. Through this partnership with Grow Local Colorado, you'll help foster a more connected community, showcase the beauty and benefits of edible gardens, inspire others to grow their own food, and support a more sustainable food system by reducing the carbon footprint of food production and distribution. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

A Denver Parks & Rec waiver is also required. 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Street parking is within a 5–10-minute walk to the project site. This project may be accessible via public transit for you or accessible via bike!

If you enjoy urban gardening/farm projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

The Colorado Governor's Mansion, located in the heart of Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood, is a member of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Originally built as a private residence in 1908, it was given to the State of Colorado as an executive residence in 1959. In 2011, Governor Hickenlooper donated the plants that would become the First Family's Giving Garden, planted by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado with Grow Local Colorado.  

What You'll Do:

This is an easy and rewarding way to get outside and give back to your community. Volunteers ages 8+ will have the opportunity to help plant the veggie gardens at the Governor's Mansion.

Grow Local Colorado staff will lead the day's activities and share with volunteers what vegetables will be planted and why, as well as help volunteers understand where each plant will go in the garden to ensure optimal growth and productivity. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their questions about their own home gardens, or you can use this opportunity to learn how to start one for the first time!

Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds and seedlings, while supplies last!

Why It's Important:

The produce that will be planted will mature in the fall and be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. This partnership with Grow Local Colorado creates a more connected community; demonstrates the beauty and efficacy of edible gardens; inspires residents to plant their own vegetable gardens; and contributes to a more sustainable food chain by reducing our carbon footprint.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 8+

All youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

Background checks will be required for all volunteers and staff in attendance. The checks will need to be completed about two weeks in advance of the event date, and they must be hand-signed with black pen and then emailed to the VOC Project Manager. No electronic signatures will be accepted.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: Street parking is within a 5–10-minute walk to the project site. This project may be accessible via public transit for you or accessible via bike!

Where You’ll Be: 

Christ the King Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has a proud history in the Harvey Park neighborhood of Southwest Denver dating back to its founding in 1956. The congregation was originally rooted in the rapid growth of the neighborhood in the late 1950s. They have partnered with Grow Local Colorado since 2018 and their plot is a wonderful example of how productive sheet mulch gardening can be. 

What You’ll Do: 

This is an easy and rewarding way to get outside and give back to your community. Volunteers ages 8+ will have the opportunity to help plant the vegetable gardens at Christ the King Church. 

Grow Local Colorado staff will lead the day's activities and share with volunteers what vegetables will be planted and why, as well as help volunteers understand where each plant will go in the garden to ensure optimal growth and productivity. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their questions about their own home gardens, or you can use this opportunity to learn how to start one for the first time! 

Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds and seedlings, while supplies last! 

Why It Matters: 

The produce that will be planted will mature in the fall and be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. This partnership with Grow Local Colorado creates a more connected community; demonstrates the beauty and efficacy of edible gardens; inspires residents to plant their own vegetable gardens; and contributes to a more sustainable food chain by reducing our carbon footprint. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Parking is right next to the garden. This project may be accessible via public transit for you or accessible via bike!

If you enjoy urban gardening/farm projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where you'll be:

Community Ministry is a social service organization, food/clothing pantry, and community resource that has been meeting the basic needs of individuals experiencing economic hardships and related problems in the Ruby Hill neighborhood since the 1960s. Grow Local Colorado and Community Ministry have been partnering since 2012 to ensure low-income residents in southwest Denver have access to healthy food choices.

What you'll do:

This is a rewarding way to get outside and give back to your community. Volunteers ages 8+ will have the opportunity to help plant the vegetable gardens at Community Ministry. 

Grow Local Colorado staff will lead the day's activities, share with volunteers which vegetables will be planted and why, and help them understand where each plant will go in the garden to ensure optimal growth and productivity. Volunteers are encouraged to bring questions about their own home gardens, or use this opportunity to learn how to start one for the first time!  Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds and seedlings, while supplies last!

Why it's important:

The produce that will be planted will mature in the fall and be donated to local organizations, including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. This partnership with Grow Local Colorado creates a more connected community, demonstrates the beauty and efficacy of edible gardens, inspires residents to plant their own vegetable gardens, and contributes to a more sustainable food chain by reducing our carbon footprint.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 8+

All youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods.

Accessibility Factors:

Vehicle Access: Public street parking available within a 5-10 minute walk to the project site. This project is accessible via RTD public transit or bike.

Where You’ll Be: 

Located in Denver’s charming Platt Park neighborhood, Harvard Gulch Park is a community favorite, offering something for everyone. Spanning several blocks, the park features running paths, volleyball courts, an outdoor pool, a 9-hole golf course, and the Harvard Gulch Recreation Center. 

What You’ll Do: 

Enjoy a fun and fulfilling way to connect with your community and the outdoors! Volunteers ages 8 and up will help plant the vegetable gardens at Harvard Gulch Park, contributing to a beautiful and productive space that benefits both the park and the local community. 

Led by Grow Local Colorado staff, you’ll learn which vegetables are being planted and why, along with how to place each plant for optimal growth and productivity. Whether you're an experienced gardener or a first-timer, this is a great chance to gain new skills, ask questions about your own garden, or find inspiration to start one. 

As a bonus, participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds and seedlings—while supplies last! 

Why It Matters: 

The vegetables planted will be harvested in the fall and donated to local food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need, addressing food insecurity in our community. Through this partnership with Grow Local Colorado, you'll help foster a more connected community, showcase the beauty and benefits of edible gardens, inspire others to grow their own food, and support a more sustainable food system by reducing the carbon footprint of food production and distribution. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Denver Parks & Rec waiver is also required. 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Street parking is within a 5–10-minute walk to the project site. This project may be accessible via public transit for you or accessible via bike!

If you enjoy urban gardening/farm projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Known as the "Switzerland of America" and the "Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado," Ouray is a breathtaking destination nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. This unique volunteer opportunity offers a chance to explore one of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes.

The Uncompahgre River Walk is a 2-mile loop trail that follows the Uncompahgre River at the north end of town. Users enjoy the peacefulness of the nearby flowing river and views of the waterfalls. This trail is open to hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers in the winter.

What You'll Do:

The Uncompahgre River Walk trail is a crushed-gravel trail in need of maintenance. Volunteers will spread crushed gravel with rakes along about 300 feet of trail and tamp it down to ensure proper compaction. This work will revitalize the trail and make it more enjoyable to walk on. In addition, volunteers will restore 2,600 feet of old fencing that delineates public from private property.

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.   Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.

Why It Matters:

Resurfacing the trail with fresh crushed gravel improves the trail's quality by smoothing areas that have worn down and are now prone to drainage issues. It will ultimately provide a cleaner, smoother surface that will offer all foot traffic a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. The restored fencing will improve the demarcation between public and private land, keeping users in the proper area.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Physical Considerations: 

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; shoveling and raking material; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, carry tools, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: The project site will be a 1/4-to 1/2-mile walk or a quick drive from the campsite. Restrooms will be nearby.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! 

Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail maintenance projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be: 

Fillius Park is situated just north of Evergreen near Highway I-70 and offers great hiking and picnicking opportunities near Denver. The park is also home to one of the most important structures in the entire Denver Mountain Parks system. The stone shelter was constructed in 1918 by Denver architect J.J. Benedict. The park also boasts two roads that loop the park, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930s. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do: 

Help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project!

Open to volunteers ages 16+, tasks may include:

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why it Matters: 

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant habitats in this natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details

Physical Considerations: You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Bringing a child, youth group, or signing up as a family?

Please follow this step-by-step guide to register as a team. It’s quick and helps us get all the info we need.

Where You’ll Be: 

Sprout City Farms is an urban agriculture nonprofit organization based in Denver, CO, founded in 2010 by farmers, educators, researchers, business leaders, and community members. The organization works to increase food access and community resilience by farming underutilized urban land. Its farms serve as spaces for education, health, food justice advocacy, ecological stewardship, and neighborhood connection.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will support work at the Denver Green School Community Farm (DGS), a one-acre organic vegetable farm established in 2011 in partnership with Denver Public Schools. This spring volunteer day will focus on garden bed preparation and planting.

Tasks may include: 

weeding garden beds, setting up trellises and T-posts for vining crops, transplanting seedlings, and possibly wood chipping or dismantling old compost piles.

Tasks will vary and are suitable for a range of ages and experience levels.

Why It Matters: 

The Denver Green School Community Farm supports a Title I public pre-K through 8 school that focuses on sustainability and serves surrounding neighborhoods. The farm produces an average of 10,000 to 12,000 pounds of food each year, with about half going toward food access efforts. Produce supports the school cafeteria, families, and community members, a donation-based Youth Farm Stand run by 6th-grade interns, cooking classes, the school food pantry, and special school events.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 8+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered Easy. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations: Tasks may include kneeling, bending, working close to the ground for extended periods, lifting or carrying soil, mulch, or plants, and being outdoors in the sun and weather.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Public street parking available within a 5-10 minute walk to the project site. This project is accessible via RTD public transit or by bike!

Other Notes: Restrooms, handwashing station, picnic tables, and shade structure available at or near the worksite.

If you enjoy urban gardening/farm projects, you can view similar projects here.

The goal of this project is to create an intentional outdoor experience that brings all people together. Curious about what we’re celebrating? Click here for more information on Pride Month.

Where You’ll Be: 

You’ll be volunteering at First Creek at the wildlife refuge. Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado first worked at this site in 2017 while helping build the First Creek Trail, marking VOC’s 1,000th stewardship project. VOC returned in 2024 for a native planting project. This project brings volunteers back to restore an underused area of the refuge and support improved access for nearby Montbello and Green Valley Ranch neighborhoods. The work area is also within view of the historic bald eagle nest that helped inspire the creation of the Refuge.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will remove invasive plant species along First Creek, a tributary of the South Platte River. The goal is to support healthy riparian, wetland, and shrub habitat across about 1.5 acres. Target species for removal include curly dock, mullein, musk thistle, Canada thistle, and tumble mustard.

Why It Matters: 

This work improves wildlife habitat and enhances the overall visitor experience at the Refuge. It also supports nearby communities by improving access to outdoor space and contributing to local health and well-being.

Previous restoration efforts in this area have already helped reduce flooding during storms and allowed native cottonwood saplings to naturally establish, which would not have happened otherwise.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 10+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical activity may include some or all of the following: pulling or cutting vegetation, working on uneven or sloped terrain, bending and stooping for extended periods, carrying and hauling vegetation, possible exposure to allergens, potential for a long off-trail walk, and repetitive hand motions.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: 2WD vehicles can access the work site  

Other Notes: Cell service is spotty but usually available. Volunteers will park at the Visitor Center, and park staff will shuttle people to the project site (about a 15-minute drive) since it is off the usual Wildlife Scenic Drive; multiple van trips may be necessary for all volunteers.  There will be a port-a-potty on site.

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Castlewood Canyon State Park, located southeast of the Denver Metro area, is known for its dramatic canyon landscape, layered rock formations, and connections to Colorado history. Trails crisscross the canyon’s rim and floor, offering hiking opportunities with views of the canyon, nearby mountains, and the rolling hills of Parker and Franktown. Volunteers will work along the Creek Bottom Trail, a two-mile trail that follows Cherry Creek from the north end of the canyon to the historic ruins of Castlewood Dam.

What You'll Do:

This trail provides access to Cherry Creek Falls, one of the park’s most visited destinations. In 2023, a major flood event caused significant erosion through the canyon. Portions of the trail were washed away, including a cliffside section that is no longer safe for public use.

To address this, the park is building a new reroute of approximately one-quarter mile to restore safe access through the area. Volunteers will help construct 700 to 800 feet of the new trail reroute. Work will include new trail construction and substantial rock work, with a focus on building rock steps.

This project offers a chance to practice trail construction skills while contributing to a high-priority repair in a heavily used state park.

Why It Matters:

This reroute will vastly improve visitor safety and experience by ensuring a long-term safe and sustainable route along the Creek Bottom Trail. This reroute will also move the trail away from an area prone to erosion. This project is a good opportunity to have a variety of trail construction skill levels and help build a high-priority reroute in a highly visited park.

Eligibility Requirements:Ages 14+

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible.

Other Notes: Volunteers will hike about a quarter of a mile from the parking lot to the project's site. Restrooms are available in the parking lot.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail construction projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Located just west of Denver and Morrison, Corwina Park spans 298 acres of protected open space within Bear Creek Canyon. The popular Panorama Point Trail is a 1.2-mile hike leading to a stunning overlook with panoramic views stretching west toward Mount Blue Sky, overlooking Kittredge and Evergreen. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days before the project.

What You'll Do:

Help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project! Open to volunteers ages 16+, there will be something for everyone, from maintaining drainage structures to constructing new steps, providing a great opportunity to explore a natural area close to Denver and give back to your public lands.

Please note this project requires hiking about 45 minutes to the project site.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant habitat in this beloved natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details

Physical Considerations:   You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Red Rocks Park, known for its remarkable landscape of red sandstone outcroppings, is a true Colorado landmark. It's a world-famous concert venue and home to awe-inspiring hiking and biking trails perfect for exploring the geology, forests, wildflowers, and wildlife, with views of Denver and beyond. The park's trail system provides access to some of the most spectacular views of Denver and the Front Range.

What You'll Do:

Help construct a new trail reroute on the Geologic Overlook Trail at the famous Red Rocks Park! Due to its proximity to Denver, trails at Red Rocks see unprecedented foot traffic. The section of new trail that volunteers will help construct will help keep users on the correct trail and off of surrounding delicate plant species, as well as make it more sustainable and mitigating future erosion issues.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse flora and fauna in this natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: You can expect to bend down, pick up objects, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and/or stretch.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Button Rock Preserve is a 3,000-acre nature preserve outside of Lyons that protects the primary drinking water source for more than 110,000 Boulder County residents. The area supports passive recreation like hiking, rock climbing, and fishing along North St. Vrain Creek, Longmont Reservoir, and Ralph Price Reservoir. Volunteers will work in a scenic, high-use recreation area while helping care for an important community resource.

Nearest town: Lyons

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will support trail restoration work along the South Cove Trail at Button Rock Preserve.

The focus is on approximately 720 feet of trail that is severely undercut and collapsing into the reservoir, creating safety, access, and water quality concerns. Tasks may include defining trail tread, improving drainage for water to flow off the trail, building small reroutes, and assisting with retaining wall construction to stabilize eroding sections. This is a technical trail project in steep terrain and requires focused, hands-on work.

Why It Matters: 

South Cove Trail’s condition directly affects visitor safety, water quality, and access within a high-use recreation area. Restoring this trail segment will reduce erosion into the reservoir, improve safety for hikers, and support long-term stewardship and infrastructure resilience at Button Rock Preserve. 

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday.

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper!

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen!

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.

Eligibility Requirements: 

- Ages: 16+  

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered Difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations:  

This work may include kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods; exposure to sun and outdoor elements; exposure to insects such as bees and wasps; carrying and placing heavy materials like rocks and logs; digging and shoveling; and working near water with potentially muddy or slippery footing. Volunteers should be prepared for a 6.5 to 7-hour workday that requires physical stamina, with breaks encouraged as needed.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible  

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

On this project, you'll join us just outside of Granby to work on a rare trail system reserved for hikers and equestrians. Unlike many nearby trails, this landscape does not allow off-highway vehicles or mountain bikes, because the BLM has designated it as part of the Headwaters Extensive Recreation Management Area (ERMA), which aims to prioritize resource protection and low-impact recreation. 

Although impacted by the East Troublesome Wildfire in 2020, the area remains a meaningful destination for outdoor recreation. The hike to the worksite is moderately challenging and offers scenic views without wearing you out before the workday begins. This project is close to the town of Granby, Grand Lake, and the town of Hot Sulfur Springs.

What You’ll Do: 

In 2025, VOC and BLM partnered on a successful weekend project to install tread-stability structures along the first mile of the trail up to the hogback summit. On the west side of the Hogback, trail users have created a steep shortcut that abandons the original alignment and is unsafe and unsuitable for equestrian use. One of the primary goals of the Headwaters ERMA is to provide safe hiking and equestrian access for the general public.

VOC volunteers will help expand, define, and finish the reroute. This project offers a hands-on opportunity to learn introductory trail construction skills while contributing to a long-term solution.

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.   Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters: 

The Headwaters ERMA area has very few official access points and the Hogback Trail in its current condition is not sustainable or safe for users. Improvement of this trail will allow greater access by the public and other user groups to access this spectacular recreational opportunity in a more safe manner.  

The Hogback Trail and surrounding ERMA are located within the East Troublesome wildfire burn scar, where soil degradation and erosion remain ongoing concerns. The BLM's Kremmling Field Office is working to stabilize damaged trail segments and restore this area to a higher standard than before the fire. Your work directly supports those efforts.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+ 

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.    

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: Parking is available and accessible to all vehicle types. The worksite will be a 5 minute drive from the campsite. 

Other Notes: The worksite will be a 1 mile hike from the trailhead. There is cell service at the site. While the project takes place below tree line, it is located within the East Troublesome burn scar so the area is very exposed.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

Want to learn more about the trail maintenance techniques you will use on this project? Join us for a Trail Skills training in Granby on the Friday before the project. Learn more and register here.

Where You'll Be:

Not far from Denver off I-70, Genesee Park feels a world away with over 2,000 acres to explore. It is one of the oldest parks in the Denver Mountain Parks system and is home to the historic Beaver Brook Trail, coveted hiker-only trails, and a herd of bison! Its proximity to Denver and diverse recreation opportunities make this park a popular pick for families and groups. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with much-needed trail maintenance at the park, just a short trip from the Denver metro area. T

Tasks may include: 

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris, improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant habitat in this natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details

Physical Considerations:   You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

Where you'll be: 

This project takes place in the Mount Evans Wilderness, located within Arapaho and Pike National Forests about 30 miles west of Denver. The wilderness spans more than 74,000 acres and is known for its high-elevation meadows, wide-open views, and wildlife such as bighorn sheep.

What you'll do:  

This weekday project is a great opportunity for volunteers ages 12 and up to spend time outdoors while supporting meadow restoration. Volunteers will hike approximately three quarters of a mile on the Captain Mountain Trail to reach the work site. Working in a group of about 20 people, volunteers will remove mature thistle blossoms, while staff follow up with a targeted chemical treatment that will be applied to the plants. If time allows, the group will also help identify musk thistle rosettes and Canada thistle to support ongoing management efforts.

Why it's important:  

Maintaining healthy native flora is essential for the local ecosystem, and, left unchecked, the invasive thistles will take over the area and out-compete native plants to create a monoculture. 

Eligibility Requirements:   Ages 12+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older.  

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate to easy in nature. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: Pulling or cutting vegetation; walking and working on uneven, sloped, or rough terrain; bending and stooping for long periods; carrying and hauling vegetation.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Accessibility: The last ~4 miles of the road (on Upper Bear Creek Rd) are not paved but accessible to all vehicles. All volunteers will meet at the lower parking lot and carpool (~2 mi) to the project site.

Other Notes: Restrooms available only at the main parking lot.

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

A quick drive from Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park spans 12,000 acres, and features trails that pass through varied landscapes, including forests, rocky peaks, and aspen-lined meadows. The park attracts nearly 1 million visitors annually, offering opportunities for activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Expect beautiful scenery, rock formations, and the possibility of wildlife sightings, such as deer, elk, and various birds.

Nearest town: Golden, CO 80403

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

This trail project is all about building a more sustainable route in a popular part of the park. The focus is on enhancing sustainability, with tasks ranging from moderate to challenging, including: 

trail construction, rock wall building, and creating switchbacks for those seeking a technical challenge.

No trail building experience is required, just the desire to learn and give back to a well-loved State Park. 

Please bring your own lunch for the day! 

Why It Matters: 

High visitation at Golden Gate Canyon State Park means heavy wear on trails, especially along the Raccoon Trail near Reverend’s Ridge Campground and Panorama Point. This section is steep and has ongoing sustainability and safety challenges for visitors.

In 2020, volunteers began a long-term effort to close the unsustainable trail segment and build a safer, more sustainable reroute. By joining this project, you will be contributing to a six-year effort that improves trail safety and protects the park experience for years to come.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+  

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project may include moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, and moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; hiking to the work site while carrying tools; bending, picking up objects, carrying tools, swinging heavier tools, digging, and stretching.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Accessibility: 2WD Accessible  

Other Notes: There is limited cell service.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling!  Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project)

If you enjoy trail construction projects, you can view similar projects here.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

This project takes place along the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, a well-known mountain route connecting Highway 285 and I-70. The area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and access to nearby four-wheel drive roads.

Shelf Lake is reached by a 3.2-mile trail that begins around 10,000 feet in a spruce-fir forest and climbs to roughly 12,000 feet into alpine tundra. Along the way, you can expect wide views of the surrounding landscape, with summer wildflowers appearing for those willing to explore.

Nearest town: Grant, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will continue trail work started in previous years on the Shelf Lake Trail. Tasks may include stabilizing stream crossings, installing drainage features, and placing rock check steps to reduce erosion on the trail surface.

The exact work plan will be finalized after a spring assessment of winter damage. No prior trail experience is required.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

This project will be led by Steve West, one of VOC’s most experienced volunteers, who has participated in more than 300 VOC projects since 1991.

Why It Matters: 

Increased use of the Shelf Lake Trail has led to significant wear and erosion in recent years. This project helps address trail degradation, improves sustainability, and ensures visitors can safely enjoy this popular destination.

The South Platte Ranger District lacks the staff capacity to complete this work, making volunteer support essential to maintaining the trail.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is rated moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical considerations: Volunteers can expect hiking, and tasks that may include bending to lift heavy objects, stretching to reach materials, and strenuous tasks such as swinging tools.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: The drive to the worksite is on a rough mountain road. While a cautious 2WD driver can make it, a 4WD vehicle is preferable. 

Other Notes: Nearby camping is available for volunteers who want to spend more time in the mountains. The trail is accessible via the Guanella Pass Byway, a well-known route connecting Highway 285 and I-70.

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

With forested foothills, picnic areas, and the popular Evergreen Lake House, Dedisse Park provides a variety of recreational opportunities right in the heart of Evergreen. The nearly 100-year-old park is managed by Denver Mountain Parks and connects visitors with Jefferson County's Alderfer - Three Sisters Park through a series of trails to the North. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do:

Help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project! Tasks may include clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface, making the path safer and more durable. This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will create a safer, more sustainable experience for hikers, which, in turn, will protect the surrounding flora and fauna habitat in this deservedly popular natural space.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details

Physical Considerations: You can expect to bend down, pick up objects, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Accessibility Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be:  

State Forest State Park spans 71,000 acres of rugged Colorado wilderness, featuring dense forests, jagged peaks, and pristine alpine lakes. The American Lakes Trail, where you’ll be working, has grown in popularity due to its high-alpine scenery and access to three stunning lakes. It’s a sought-after destination for backpackers and serves as a gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park via Thunder Pass. In winter, part of the trail is groomed for snowmobiling.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will help complete a long-term trail reroute on the American Lakes Trail by constructing new trail to replace an eroded section located on an old logging road. This hands-on work will improve trail sustainability and protect the surrounding landscape. VOC originally built much of this reroute trail in the early 2000s, and volunteers have recently returned over the past four seasons to address ongoing erosion issues. Since 2023, crews have completed maintenance and nearly 600 feet of new reroute, with 260 feet left before this section can open to the public. Join us to help finish this important reroute.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with dinner on Friday and Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Thursday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.

As part of this three-day project, you will backpack 3.5 miles to base camp, where volunteers are encouraged to arrive before 8 pm on Thursday. Free campsites are available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters:  

Because the State Forest State Park is a popular destination in the summer and winter months, attracting hundreds of visitors each week during peak periods, many of these visitors use the trail system and camp or stay in nearby campgrounds or privately owned cabins. Many of these visitors will use the American Lakes Trail and will appreciate a much safer, more sustainable trail.

The trail reroute will improve the recreational experience for equestrians and mountain bikers by providing a safer, more comfortable route, free of a steep section with deep erosion channels and loose rock.

Eligibility Requirements:   

Ages 18+   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered difficult. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Volunteers will hike 3.5 miles to base camp on the first day and must commit to all three days of the project.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Accessibility:  2WD Accessible

Other notes:   Volunteers will be required to attend all three days of the project. There is no cell service at the site.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

The Gilsonite Trail is located in Grand County within the burn scar of the 2020 East Troublesome Fire. The project site is remote, about 50 minutes from downtown Granby. After the fire, many trail structures were damaged or destroyed, and flooding left sections of the trail swampy, muddy, and difficult to access.

Nearest Town: Granby, CO 80446

Exact location information will be shared with registered volunteers two weeks out from the project. 

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will be able to experience and help revitalize a trail post-fire. The Gilsonite Trail is a heavily used multi-use trail that provides an enjoyable experience for hikers, mountain bikers, and motorized users, keeping them off Stillwater Pass Road.  

In partnership with Headwaters Trails Alliance, volunteers will assist with a range of trail restoration tasks, including bridge and boardwalk replacement, turnpike construction, drainage work, and short reroutes. This work will help reopen sections of the trail that have been frequently closed since the 2020 fire. Some volunteers may also help move materials such as timber and rebar into the work area.

Adjacent to a fragile wetland and meadow, the work completed on this project will also keep users on the trail to prevent further trail widening, braiding, and wetland damage.  

Volunteers may need to assist with getting materials into the site (timber, rebar). 

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday.

Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters: 

This section of the trail runs alongside a fragile wetland and meadow. In its current condition, users often travel around muddy sections, which has led to trail widening and damage to the surrounding wetland. Replacing bridges, boardwalks, and turnpikes will help keep users on the designated trail and protect the nearby environment.

The Gilsonite Trail is also an important connector within the Stillwater Pass trail system. At nearly five miles long, it links the northern and southern portions of the system and provides a safer, more enjoyable single-track option than the nearby road. Volunteer work on this project will help restore a key connection in the trail system. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Volunteers should expect some or all of the following physical activities: moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, and moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; hiking to access the worksite while carrying tools or materials; and swinging hand tools.

The hike from the campsite to the worksite is 1.3 miles. A shuttle option will also be available. From the shuttle drop-off, the hike to the worksite is approximately 0.25 miles.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: 2WD vehicles can easily access the campsite. Volunteers will carpool/shuttle to the project site from the campsite. High clearance vehicles can access the road from the campsite to the project site. 

Other Notes: Restroom facilities are available at the campsite. The project site is a 20-minute drive from the campsite.

Want to learn more about the trail maintenance techniques you will use on this project? Join us for a Trail Skills training in Granby on the Friday before the project. Learn more and register here.

Where You’ll Be: 

This project takes place along the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, a well-known mountain route connecting Highway 285 and I-70. The area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and access to nearby four-wheel drive roads.

Shelf Lake is reached by a 3.2-mile trail that begins around 10,000 feet in a spruce-fir forest and climbs to roughly 12,000 feet into alpine tundra. Along the way, you can expect wide views of the surrounding landscape, with summer wildflowers appearing for those willing to explore.

Nearest town: Grant, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will continue trail work started in previous years on the Shelf Lake Trail. Tasks may include stabilizing stream crossings, installing drainage features, and placing rock check steps to reduce erosion on the trail surface.

The exact work plan will be finalized after a spring assessment of winter damage. No prior trail experience is required.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

This project will be led by Steve West, one of VOC’s most experienced volunteers, who has participated in more than 300 VOC projects since 1991.

Why It Matters: 

Increased traffic on the Shelf Lake Trail in recent years has caused significant wear and tear. This project helps address trail degradation, supports its sustainability, and ensures visitors can safely enjoy this popular area.

The South Platte Ranger District does not have the staff capacity to complete this work, making volunteer efforts critical to maintaining this trail.  

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is rated moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical considerations: Volunteers can expect hiking and tasks that may include bending to lift heavy objects, stretching to reach materials, and strenuous tasks such as swinging tools.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: The drive to the worksite is on a rough mountain road. While a cautious 2WD driver can make it, a 4WD vehicle is preferable. 

Other Notes: Nearby camping is available for volunteers who want to spend more time in the mountains. The trail is accessible via the Guanella Pass Byway, a well-known route connecting Highway 285 and I-70.

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:  

Valued for its remote feel and beauty, the James Peak Wilderness encompasses 14,000 acres to the southwest of Nederland, not far from the community of Rollinsville. It is home to high alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and its namesake, James Peak, which sits at 13,294 feet. 

What You'll Do: 

Join us for a half-day project dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the James Peak Wilderness. Volunteers ages 8 and up will spend the morning digging up invasive Oxeye daisies from the trailhead and surrounding areas. Led by experienced leaders Anna Zawisza (former VOC Staff) and Jim Jacobson (long-time volunteer), this project welcomes families and volunteers of all abilities to contribute to a multi-year effort spanning two decades. Your participation will make an immediate impact by enhancing the health of one of Colorado's popular Wilderness Areas. 

Why It Matters: 

Despite how cute they look, Oxeye daisies pose a significant threat as invasive weeds. For over two decades, VOC volunteers have removed thousands of flowers and seeds from the East Portal access point to the James Peak Wilderness. By joining this crucial effort, volunteers will help protect native plants and prevent the invasive weed from encroaching deeper into the Wilderness Area. 

Eligibility Requirements:  

Ages 8+  

Please note the name and age of the youth you're bringing in the registration comments.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): pulling or cutting vegetation; working on uneven, sloped, or rough terrain; bending and stooping for long periods of time; carrying and hauling vegetation; possible increased exposure to allergens; potential for long, off-trail hike; and repetitive hand motions.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD vehicles can access the work site 

Other notes: There are bathrooms at the parking lot, which is also close to the project site. Lunch and snacks will be provided, but we recommend bringing your own food if you have specific needs or dietary restrictions. 

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

This project is along the scenic Guanella Pass Byway, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and access to 4-wheel drive roads. The Abyss Trail trailhead is about 5 miles north of Grant from Hwy 285. This trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the Mt Evans Wilderness. With 10,000+ annual visitors, it leads hikers through famous fall colors and scenic landscapes. 

The trail's endpoint is Abyss Lake, which is nestled in a glacial cirque surrounded by Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky. The surrounding rocky slopes are home to lots of wildlife familiar to those who enjoy exploring the mountains, such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

Nearest Town: Grant, CO 80421

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

This project focuses on the lower three miles of the Abyss Trail, which follows an old logging road. The trail here is mostly flat, but the tread is very wide, often 10 to 25 feet across, and continues to spread into the surrounding forest. Because the soil is mostly loose, sandy material left by glaciers, rain and snowmelt easily wash it downhill toward nearby streams.

Volunteers will help slow this erosion by building a series of rock check dams across the trail. These low stone structures are designed to hold sand in place, reduce water flow, and stabilize the trail surface.

Tasks may include:

gathering and moving rock, shaping the trail surface, and placing stones by hand to form sturdy check dams.

No prior trail work experience is required, and tools and instruction will be provided on-site. On this project, you will be led by Steve West, one of our most experienced volunteers.

Steve has participated in more than 300 VOC projects since 1991 and brings decades of hands-on trail knowledge to the crew.

Please remember to bring your own lunch for the day. 

Why It Matters: 

The structures that volunteers construct will help control erosion, which will prevent widening of the already very exposed trail surface. Additionally, the structures will prevent large quantities of sand from migrating towards the Lake Fork Geneva Creek, which can cause issues for the flora and fauna of the creek. The South Platte Ranger District does not have the staff capacity to complete this work, making volunteer efforts critical to maintaining this trail.  

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is rated moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations: This project will involve hiking, bending to pick up heavy objects, stretching to reach items, and strenuous activities such as swinging tools.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: The drive to the worksite is on a rough mountain road. While a cautious 2WD driver can make it, a 4WD vehicle is preferable. 

Other Notes: Nearby camping is available for volunteers who want to spend more time in the mountains. The trail is accessible via the Guanella Pass Byway, a well-known route connecting Highway 285 and I-70.

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

Where you'll be:

Echo Lake is one of the crowned jewels of Denver Mountain Parks. Located just 33 miles outside of Denver, at the base of Goliath Peak, this beautiful site is a very popular destination for hiking and other forms of outdoor recreation.

What you'll do:

Volunteers will help with much-needed trail maintenance at the park, just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Tasks may include:

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the trail's surface to smooth and reinforce it for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why it's important:

Trail maintenance matters from an ecological and environmental standpoint because it ensures a safe and sustainable route for people to use, which keeps the surrounding habitat safe and minimizes the human impacts on flora and fauna, especially in high-use areas like Echo Lake.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate, please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details.

Physical Considerations:   You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Cal-Wood Education Center is nestled in the foothills above Boulder, near Jamestown. Cal-Wood's vision is to inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world; to offer environmental education to those who would not otherwise experience it; and to provide unique educational opportunities in a special mountain setting.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will be working to help improve Cal-Wood Education Center's trail system, which has been degraded by dramatic increases in use, a flood in 2013, and the 2021 Calwood fire.

Tasks may include: 

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Please bring your own lunch for the day! 

Why It Matters: 

Cal-Wood relies on its trail system as an extension of the classroom. These trails give students and visitors safe access to forests, watersheds, and fire-affected landscapes where hands-on learning happens. Improving the trails makes it possible for Cal-Wood to expand outdoor education programs, reach more participants, and create positive first experiences for people who may be new to mountain environments.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 12+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: hiking to access work site while carrying tools, digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks, removing downed trees. You’ll be working around a 6.5-7-hour day which requires some physical stamina, but you’ll always be encouraged to take breaks as needed

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Please note that the final stretch (approx. 2.8 mi) to Cal-Wood is a steep dirt road. No high clearance is needed but it is suggested to drive slowly and safely. 

Other Notes: Cell phone service is extremely limited in the area.

Where You’ll Be: 

Mount Democrat, at 14,148 feet and Colorado's 29th-highest peak, is part of the Mosquito Range, along with Mount Bross, Mount Cameron, and Mount Lincoln. The U.S. Forest Service recently acquired nearly 300 acres on Mt. Democrat, making the DeCaLiBron loop completely open to the public, for all to enjoy! Many underestimate this trail as an “easy” hike because of its high-elevation start, but it is rated a Class 2 climb. 

Nearest Town: Alma, CO 80424

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do:  

Volunteers will assist with reconstructing portions of the trail above Kite Lake that have been widening and braiding at an excessive rate. Installing timber check steps will reduce soil loss and keep hikers on the trail. You'll work with our partners at Colorado Fourteeners Initiative (CFI) to install timber checks, delineate trails, and perform other maintenance tasks. The trailhead is at 12,000 ft of elevation (above tree line). Volunteers can expect to hike ~1.5 mi from the trailhead to the project site. 

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday.

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper!
We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen.

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up!

Why It Matters:  

Your hard work will help protect and preserve Colorado's high peaks and the sensitive alpine ecosystems found there. Alpine soil takes approximately 1,000 years to develop just one inch, making sustainable trails essential to minimizing erosion and preserving these fragile environments for future generations. 

Eligibility Requirements:   

Ages 18+   

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.   

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): long hike to worksite with significant elevation gain; carrying project tools and materials to worksite; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting heavy objects, and walking; working at elevation; working and hiking on steep or uneven terrain.

This project is not for the faint of heart.

The hike from the campsite to the worksite is up to 1.5 miles. Volunteers may be hauling project materials up the trail to the worksite (logs for structures) at high altitude.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Accessibility:   Moderate to high clearance vehicles are required to access the campsite. Volunteers will shuttle 4 miles from the campsite to the trailhead.

Other Notes: This is a remote project. Cell service is limited to nonexistent.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

Where You’ll Be: 

Tucked in the mountains west of Colorado Springs near Divide, Mueller State Park features beautiful views of forested ridges, historical cabins, and abundant wildlife including moose, bear, elk, and mule deer. While many of the park's trails trace back to the days of farming and cattle drives, they need restoration to enhance the overall hiking experience. As a volunteer, you'll be treated to free campsites, delicious meals prepared by our volunteer Crew Chefs, and the chance to explore this beautiful state park!   

Nearest Town: Divide, CO 80814

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Before the VOC project weekend, park staff will use machinery to establish the initial alignment of the new Preachers Hollow Trail. Volunteers will then step in to do the hands-on finishing work.

Tasks may include:

cutting back slope, shaping and finishing the trail tread, placing natural materials to improve durability, and restoring sections of the old trail that will be closed.

This work will help bring the trail up to standards for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The existing trail has steep grades, poor drainage, and more than 60 steps, which makes it difficult to maintain and inaccessible for some users. Volunteers will help improve drainage and trail layout so the new alignment sheds water properly and requires less maintenance over time. The result will be a safer, more sustainable loop near the Visitor Center that better supports a wide range of users.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.   

Why It Matters: 

Realigning the trail will create a safer, more accessible route for all users. Horses will be able to travel the trail without risk from stairs, mountain bikers will be able to ride the full loop instead of dismounting, and hikers will benefit from a smoother, more intuitive trail experience. Improved drainage and a more sustainable layout will also reduce erosion, protect native vegetation, and lower long-term maintenance needs, helping the park provide a safer and more durable trail system for years to come.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 14+ 

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project. Some or all may apply: moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: The park and campsite are 2WD accessible. 

Other Notes: the worksite will be about a 1 mile to 1.5 mile hike from the Visitor’s Center or the campsite. There are bathrooms located at both the campsite and the Visitor’s Center.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail construction, you can view similar projects here. 

Where You’ll Be: 

This project is along the scenic Guanella Pass Byway, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and access to 4-wheel drive roads. The Abyss Trail trailhead is about 5 miles north of Grant from Hwy 285. This trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the Mt Evans Wilderness. With 10,000+ annual visitors, it leads hikers through famous fall colors and scenic landscapes. 

The trail's endpoint is Abyss Lake, which is nestled in a glacial cirque surrounded by Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky. The surrounding rocky slopes are home to lots of wildlife familiar to those who enjoy exploring the mountains, such as bighorn sheep and mountain goats.

Nearest Town: Grant, CO 80421

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

This project focuses on the lower three miles of the Abyss Trail, which follows an old logging road. The trail here is mostly flat, but the tread is very wide, often 10 to 25 feet across, and continues to spread into the surrounding forest. Because the soil is mostly loose, sandy material left by glaciers, rain, and snowmelt easily wash downhill to nearby streams.

Volunteers will help slow this erosion by building a series of rock check dams across the trail. These low stone structures are designed to hold sand in place, reduce water flow, and stabilize the trail surface.

Tasks may include:

gathering and moving rock, shaping the trail surface, and placing stones by hand to form sturdy check dams.

No prior trail work experience is required, and tools and instruction will be provided on-site. On this project, you will be led by Steve West, one of our most experienced volunteers.

Steve has participated in more than 300 VOC projects since 1991 and brings decades of hands-on trail knowledge to the crew.

Please remember to bring your own lunch for the day. 

Why It Matters: 

The structures volunteers construct will help control erosion, preventing the widening of the already very exposed trail surface. Additionally, the structures will prevent large quantities of sand from migrating toward Lake Fork Geneva Creek, which can harm the creek's flora and fauna. The South Platte Ranger District does not have the staff capacity to complete this work, making volunteer efforts critical to maintaining this trail.  

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is rated moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations: This project will involve hiking, bending to pick up heavy objects, stretching to reach items, and strenuous activities such as swinging tools.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: The drive to the worksite is on a rough mountain road. While a cautious 2WD driver can make it, a 4WD vehicle is preferable. 

Other Notes: Nearby camping is available for volunteers who want to spend more time in the mountains. The trail is accessible via the Guanella Pass Byway, a well-known route connecting Highway 285 and I-70.

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

Where You’ll Be: 

The Mount Zirkel Wilderness was designated in 1964 as one of the original Wilderness areas protected under the Wilderness Act. Located in northwestern Colorado and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the wilderness spans nearly 160,000 acres. It includes the headwaters of the Elk, Encampment, and North Platte Rivers, around 70 alpine lakes, and high mountain terrain, including Mount Zirkel at 12,180 feet. The area straddles the Continental Divide and includes parts of the Sawtooth, Park, and Sierra Madre ranges, along with a section of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

Nearest Town: Walden, CO 80480

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will help repair an aging boardwalk, approximately 140 feet long, to keep the structure in working condition until the trail can be rerouted. Volunteers will also assist in critical trail maintenance tasks in the surrounding area.

Camping will be available starting on Thursday, August 6th. Bring your own dinner on Thursday night, and enough snacks for the project.

Free campsites are available from Thursday, 8/6 - Saturday, 8/8, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Thursday.

For this three-day project, VOC provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Friday and Saturday, and breakfast and lunch on Sunday.

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters: 

The trail maintenance tasks and structure replacement completed on this project will increase the trail's recreational and intrinsic value by addressing overgrowth of vegetation, removing potential hazards, and reducing damage to the existing riparian area. Additionally, it will restore and protect the adjacent natural resources, enhance the trail's sustainability, and provide suitable trail conditions for users. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): working in or near water; muddy or slippery footing; digging, shoveling, and moving soil and rocks; hiking on steep or uneven terrain; and carrying, hauling, and placing heavy materials such as timber or rocks.

There is a one-mile hike from the trailhead to the project site, and volunteers may carry structural materials (timber) during the hike.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: 2WD vehicles can access the trailhead/camping area 

Other Notes: Camping will be a 8 minute drive to the trailhead. Volunteers will carpool from the campsite to the trailhead to access the project site. There are no bathroom facilities on site. We will use either port-o-lets or a backcountry portable toilet set-up.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

Where you'll be: 

This project takes place in the Mount Evans Wilderness, located within Arapaho and Pike National Forests about 30 miles west of Denver. The wilderness spans more than 74,000 acres and is known for its high-elevation meadows, wide-open views, and wildlife such as bighorn sheep.

What you'll do:  

This weekday project is a great opportunity for volunteers ages 12 and up to spend time outdoors while supporting meadow restoration. Volunteers will hike approximately 1.4 miles on the Captain Mountain Trail to reach the work site. Working in a group of about 20 people, volunteers will remove mature thistle blossoms, while staff follow up with a targeted chemical treatment that will be applied to the plants. If time allows, the group will also help identify musk thistle rosettes and Canada thistle to support ongoing management efforts.

Why it's important:  

Maintaining healthy native flora is essential for the local ecosystem, and, left unchecked, the invasive thistles will take over the area and out-compete native plants to create a monoculture. 

Eligibility Requirements:  

Ages 12+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older.    

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy to moderate in nature. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: Pulling or cutting vegetation; working on uneven, sloped, or rough terrain; bending and stooping for long periods; carrying and hauling vegetation.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Accessibility: The last ~4 miles of the road (on Upper Bear Creek Rd) are not paved but accessible to all vehicles. All volunteers will meet at the lower parking lot and carpool (~2 mi) to the project site.

Other Notes: Restrooms available only at the main parking lot.

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

A quick drive from Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park spans 12,000 acres, and features trails that pass through varied landscapes, including forests, rocky peaks, and aspen-lined meadows. The park attracts nearly 1 million visitors annually, offering opportunities for activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Expect beautiful scenery, rock formations, and the possibility of wildlife sightings, such as deer, elk, and various birds.

What You’ll Do:

This trail project is all about building a more sustainable route in a popular part of the park. The focus is on enhancing sustainability, with tasks ranging from moderate to challenging, including: 

trail construction, rock wall building, and creating switchbacks for those seeking a technical challenge.

No trail building experience is required, just the desire to learn and give back to a well-loved State Park. 

Please bring your own lunch for the day! 

Why It Matters: 

High visitation at Golden Gate Canyon State Park means heavy wear on trails, especially along the Raccoon Trail near Reverend’s Ridge Campground and Panorama Point. This section is steep and has ongoing sustainability and safety challenges for visitors.

In 2020, volunteers began a long-term effort to close the unsustainable trail segment and build a safer, more sustainable reroute. By joining this project, you will be contributing to a six-year effort that improves trail safety and protects the park experience for years to come.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+  

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project may include moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, and moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; hiking to the work site while carrying tools; bending, picking up objects, carrying tools, swinging heavier tools, digging, and stretching.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Accessibility: 2WD Accessible  

Other Notes: There is limited cell service.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project)

If you enjoy trail construction projects, you can view similar projects here.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Nestled in the Upper Yampa River Basin, about 1.5 hours northwest of Steamboat Springs, California Park is a high-elevation meadow known for its stunning views, vibrant wildflowers, and critical role in supporting the Upper Yampa River Basin and Colorado River Basin. This area is vital for water quality and watershed health, making it a key site for restoration efforts.   

The campsite is surrounded by beautiful, rolling, forested hills. While the site is remote, it offers a quiet setting that many people would not otherwise have a reason to visit.

You'll also likely travel through Steamboat Springs, so you have the chance to tack on a trip to nearby hot springs on the front or back end of the project!

What You’ll Do: 

In year two of this project, help restore this fragile meadow ecosystem by building erosion prevention structures, like Zeedyks and Zuni Bowls, primarily using rocks. These structures are proven, cost-effective methods to slow erosion and restore streams. Tasks will include hiking, moving large rocks, and digging to place them into position.

It’s challenging but rewarding work, you’ll leave with the satisfaction knowing that you've slowed erosion and helped revive a critical part of this watershed! This project will be completed in partnership with National Forest Foundation, Yampa Valley Sustainability Council, and the US Forest Service

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper!
We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen!

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up!

Why it Matters:

Restoring this meadow helps prevent erosion and improves water quality, which benefits the surrounding forest, the Upper Yampa River Basin, and the Colorado River Basin. These efforts also create "emerald refuges" in arid areas, making the surrounding forests more resilient to wildfires. 

For centuries, this meadow has been shaped by grazing, homesteading, mining, and recreation, which has led to significant degradation. Your work will help reverse generations of damage and help the forest resist wildfire. 

Eligibility Requirements:   

Ages 16+   

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. 

Project Difficulty:  

This project is considered moderate to difficult. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.  

General physical considerations for participating in this project. Some or all may apply: 
Working in or near water; potentially muddy or slippery footing; carrying plants, rocks, or tools; insect exposure (mosquitoes), potential for wet conditions; carrying and hauling vegetation; digging, shoveling, moving soil and heavy rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; and hiking over steep or uneven terrain.

Volunteers will need to hike in to reach the project site at approx. 8500 feet of elevation. 

Access Factors:   

Vehicle Access:  A higher clearance vehicle is needed to access base camp (a Subaru Forester is okay, but a Honda Accord is likely too low).  

Other notes: Cell service is spotty, almost none in the immediate project area but there is cell service outside California Park. No running water. The elevation is 8500 feet. Port-o-let restrooms will be available.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be:

Join us at Majestic View Nature Center (MVNC), a nonprofit that serves the Arvada community by offering a diverse array of public programming designed to foster connections with the natural world. From creative nature art sessions to engaging conservation presentations, MVNC ensures that individuals of all ages in the community can explore their connection with nature. You may be interested in visiting the nature center's exhibitions yourself!

Nearest Town: Arvada, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers will get hands-on experience with stream and habitat restoration by helping build simple rock-and-wood structures (such as one-rock dams, Zuni bowls, and wicker weirs) that slow water flow, capture sediment, and support native plant recovery. Volunteers will move and place rocks, weave woody materials, and help stabilize the stream channel. No experience needed.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

When streams erode, water moves through the landscape too quickly, washing soil away and leaving streambanks dry and unstable. The structures volunteers will build will slow water down, allowing sediment to settle and moisture to soak into the ground instead of rushing downstream.

Holding water in the landscape supports native plants, which stabilize streambanks and create habitat for birds, insects, amphibians, and other wildlife. Over time, this leads to healthier ecosystems, improved water quality, and greater resilience to drought and flooding.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+ 

Physical Difficulty:

This project includes tasks ranging from moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): lifting and moving large rocks, digging holes, and placing rocks.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: There will be about a 1/4 mile hike from the parking lot to the work site.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Sand Creek Park is located in Aurora and co-managed by the City of Aurora and the Sand Creek Greenway Regional Partnership. Bicyclists, walkers, runners, picnickers, school groups, and community groups enjoy this 85-acre park and the Sand Creek that runs through it. The Greenway itself serves as one of the few green spaces that neighboring communities in Aurora, Commerce City, and NE Denver can easily access.

What You’ll Do: 

City of Aurora and Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership staff will teach you how to identify invasive Phragmites. After learning how to identify this plant, you'll spread out to clip and bag seed heads of the invasive grasses.

Phragmites grow along the water’s edge and into the water. If you have your own rubber boots or waders, you are encouraged to bring them to access the harder-to-reach plants. If not, you can stay on the shoreline and clip from there. 

Please bring your own lunch for the day! 

Why It Matters: 

Invasive plants out-compete native species for resources, thereby harming wildlife and the entire ecosystem. By carefully collecting the plants' seed heads, you will help control the further spread of this invasive species. Removing these grasses will allow for native plants to clean our water, prevent severe erosion, and provide enhanced wildlife habitat, all while maintaining access for local communities to enjoy this well-used green space.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 12+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): Using loppers, walking along the water’s edge, and carrying bags or buckets full of plant material. There is significant sun exposure in this location.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: This site is in an urban area with paved roads and fully accessible by car or public transit through the Fitzsimons light rail station. 

Other Notes: The closest possible worksite is 300 feet from the parking lot; the farthest is 1/2 mile. The path around the worksites is level; however, volunteers may need to step onto uneven ground.

If you enjoy noxious weed removal projects, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be:

Join us at Majestic View Nature Center (MVNC), a nonprofit that serves the Arvada community by offering a diverse array of public programming designed to foster connections with the natural world. From creative nature art sessions to engaging conservation presentations, MVNC ensures that individuals of all ages in the community can explore their connection with nature. You may be interested in visiting the nature center's exhibitions yourself!

Nearest Town: Arvada, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers will get hands-on experience with stream and habitat restoration by helping build simple rock-and-wood structures (such as one-rock dams, Zuni bowls, and wicker weirs) that slow water flow, capture sediment, and support native plant recovery. Volunteers will move and place rocks, weave woody materials, and help stabilize the stream channel. No experience needed.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

When streams erode, water moves through the landscape too quickly, washing soil away and leaving streambanks dry and unstable. The structures volunteers will build will slow water down, allowing sediment to settle and moisture to soak into the ground instead of rushing downstream.

Holding water in the landscape supports native plants, which stabilize streambanks and create habitat for birds, insects, amphibians, and other wildlife. Over time, this leads to healthier ecosystems, improved water quality, and greater resilience to drought and flooding.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+ 

Physical Difficulty:

This project includes tasks ranging from moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): lifting and moving large rocks, digging holes, and placing rocks.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: There will be about a 1/4 mile hike from the parking lot to the work site.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be:

You will be monitoring butterflies near Deckers, Colorado. This will take place in Pike National Forest along the South Platte River watershed. This is a critical ecosystem for the butterfly sub-species Hesperia leonardus montana.

Camping may be available for those who are interested in attending more than one day of the project. We will reach out 1 month before the project with more instructions on how to reserve a camping spot.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers are needed to assist in monitoring the threatened butterfly subspecies, the Pawnee montane skipper. Monitoring will involve using binoculars to identify and record the number and gender of skipper butterflies, along with information on nearby host plants and trees. Please bring your own lunch for the day!

This butterfly species is only out and about when conditions are warm and dry. The project schedule is highly weather-dependent, but volunteers should plan to be on site for the full day.

Why It Matters:

The Pawnee montane skipper is a species with a narrow distribution that is endemic (native) to Colorado. Fire suppression, dam and reservoir development, and climate change are all threats to the persistence and recovery of this federally threatened species.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult and a great opportunity for volunteers looking for a challenge. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

If a volunteer cannot commit to the full surveying time for the day, this could affect the integrity of the data, the safety of the group, and the project as a whole.

Physical Considerations: Volunteers can expect to hike off-trail through steep terrain for up to 5 miles round-trip. Elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to 8,000 ft. At this time of year, the weather is usually cool in the mornings but quickly warms to the high 80s or low 90s (though please check the weather in advance). This project is not for the faint of heart!

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No 4WD is required to reach the project area or sample sites; good tires are recommended to avoid flats on gravel roads. Beyond the initial meeting spot, we will aim to use agency vehicles whenever possible to minimize personal vehicle use.

Other Notes: Cell coverage in the area is minimal and varies by cell service provider.

Where You’ll Be:

You will be monitoring butterflies near Deckers, Colorado. This will take place in Pike National Forest along the South Platte River watershed. This is a critical ecosystem for the butterfly sub-species Hesperia leonardus montana.

Camping may be available for those who are interested in attending more than one day of the project. We will reach out 1 month before the project with more instructions on how to reserve a camping spot.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers are needed to assist in monitoring the threatened butterfly subspecies, the Pawnee montane skipper. Monitoring will involve using binoculars to identify and record the number and gender of skipper butterflies, along with information on nearby host plants and trees. Please bring your own lunch for the day!

This butterfly species is only out and about when conditions are warm and dry. The project schedule is highly weather-dependent, but volunteers should plan to be on site for the full day.

Why It Matters:

The Pawnee montane skipper is a species with a narrow distribution that is endemic (native) to Colorado. Fire suppression, dam and reservoir development, and climate change are all threats to the persistence and recovery of this federally threatened species.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult and a great opportunity for volunteers looking for a challenge. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

If a volunteer cannot commit to the full surveying time for the day, this could affect the integrity of the data, the safety of the group, and the project as a whole.

Physical Considerations: Volunteers can expect to hike off-trail through steep terrain for up to 5 miles round-trip. Elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to 8,000 ft. At this time of year, the weather is usually cool in the mornings but quickly warms to the high 80s or low 90s (though please check the weather in advance). This project is not for the faint of heart!

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No 4WD is required to reach the project area or sample sites; good tires are recommended to avoid flats on gravel roads. Beyond the initial meeting spot, we will aim to use agency vehicles whenever possible to minimize personal vehicle use.

Other Notes: Cell coverage in the area is minimal and varies by cell service provider.

Where You’ll Be:

You will be monitoring butterflies near Deckers, Colorado. This will take place in Pike National Forest along the South Platte River watershed. This is a critical ecosystem for the butterfly sub-species Hesperia leonardus montana.

Camping may be available for those who are interested in attending more than one day of the project. We will reach out 1 month before the project with more instructions on how to reserve a camping spot.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers are needed to assist in monitoring the threatened butterfly subspecies, the Pawnee montane skipper. Monitoring will involve using binoculars to identify and record the number and gender of skipper butterflies, along with information on nearby host plants and trees. Please bring your own lunch for the day!

This butterfly species is only out and about when conditions are warm and dry. The project schedule is highly weather-dependent, but volunteers should plan to be on site for the full day.

Why It Matters:

The Pawnee montane skipper is a species with a narrow distribution that is endemic (native) to Colorado. Fire suppression, dam and reservoir development, and climate change are all threats to the persistence and recovery of this federally threatened species.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult and a great opportunity for volunteers looking for a challenge. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

If a volunteer cannot commit to the full surveying time for the day, this could affect the integrity of the data, the safety of the group, and the project as a whole.

Physical Considerations: Volunteers can expect to hike off-trail through steep terrain for up to 5 miles round-trip. Elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to 8,000 ft. At this time of year, the weather is usually cool in the mornings but quickly warms to the high 80s or low 90s (though please check the weather in advance). This project is not for the faint of heart!

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No 4WD is required to reach the project area or sample sites; good tires are recommended to avoid flats on gravel roads. Beyond the initial meeting spot, we will aim to use agency vehicles whenever possible to minimize personal vehicle use.

Other Notes: Cell coverage in the area is minimal and varies by cell service provider.

Where You’ll Be: 

Summit Lake Park is the highest city park in the United States and the only Denver Mountain Park in the alpine zone. The lake nestles at the bottom of a high alpine cirque about 1,500 feet below the summit of Mount Blue Sky. The surrounding land is part of the Mt. Evans Wilderness. Notably, Summit Lake Park is one of the most reliable places in Colorado to see mountain goats, and it is the headwaters of the Bear Creek drainage. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project. 

What You’ll Do:

Help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project

Tasks may include:

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the trail's surface to smooth and reinforce it for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters: 

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant and animal habitats in this natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area. 

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations:   You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible   

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be:

You will be monitoring butterflies near Deckers, Colorado. This will take place in Pike National Forest along the South Platte River watershed. This is a critical ecosystem for the butterfly sub-species Hesperia leonardus montana.

Camping may be available for those who are interested in attending more than one day of the project. We will reach out 1 month before the project with more instructions on how to reserve a camping spot.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers are needed to assist in monitoring the threatened butterfly subspecies, the Pawnee montane skipper. Monitoring will involve using binoculars to identify and record the number and gender of skipper butterflies, along with information on nearby host plants and trees. Please bring your own lunch for the day!

This butterfly species is only out and about when conditions are warm and dry. The project schedule is highly weather-dependent, but volunteers should plan to be on site for the full day.

Why It Matters:

The Pawnee montane skipper is a species with a narrow distribution that is endemic (native) to Colorado. Fire suppression, dam and reservoir development, and climate change are all threats to the persistence and recovery of this federally threatened species.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult and a great opportunity for volunteers looking for a challenge. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

If a volunteer cannot commit to the full surveying time for the day, this could affect the integrity of the data, the safety of the group, and the project as a whole.

Physical Considerations: Volunteers can expect to hike off-trail through steep terrain for up to 5 miles round-trip. Elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to 8,000 ft. At this time of year, the weather is usually cool in the mornings but quickly warms to the high 80s or low 90s (though please check the weather in advance). This project is not for the faint of heart!

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No 4WD is required to reach the project area or sample sites; good tires are recommended to avoid flats on gravel roads. Beyond the initial meeting spot, we will aim to use agency vehicles whenever possible to minimize personal vehicle use.

Other Notes: Cell coverage in the area is minimal and varies by cell service provider.

Where You’ll Be:

You will be monitoring butterflies near Deckers, Colorado. This will take place in Pike National Forest along the South Platte River watershed. This is a critical ecosystem for the butterfly sub-species Hesperia leonardus montana.

Camping may be available for those who are interested in attending more than one day of the project. We will reach out 1 month before the project with more instructions on how to reserve a camping spot.

What You’ll Do:

Volunteers are needed to assist in monitoring the threatened butterfly subspecies, the Pawnee montane skipper. Monitoring will involve using binoculars to identify and record the number and gender of skipper butterflies, along with information on nearby host plants and trees. Please bring your own lunch for the day!

This butterfly species is only out and about when conditions are warm and dry. The project schedule is highly weather-dependent, but volunteers should plan to be on site for the full day.

Why It Matters:

The Pawnee montane skipper is a species with a narrow distribution that is endemic (native) to Colorado. Fire suppression, dam and reservoir development, and climate change are all threats to the persistence and recovery of this federally threatened species.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered difficult and a great opportunity for volunteers looking for a challenge. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

If a volunteer cannot commit to the full surveying time for the day, this could affect the integrity of the data, the safety of the group, and the project as a whole.

Physical Considerations: Volunteers can expect to hike off-trail through steep terrain for up to 5 miles round-trip. Elevation ranges from 6,000 ft to 8,000 ft. At this time of year, the weather is usually cool in the mornings but quickly warms to the high 80s or low 90s (though please check the weather in advance). This project is not for the faint of heart!

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: No 4WD is required to reach the project area or sample sites; good tires are recommended to avoid flats on gravel roads. Beyond the initial meeting spot, we will aim to use agency vehicles whenever possible to minimize personal vehicle use.

Other Notes: Cell coverage in the area is minimal and varies by cell service provider.

Where You’ll Be: 

This project will take place within the Denver Mountain Parks system, with the exact location confirmed closer to the project date. For more than 100 years, Denver’s Mountain Parks have offered access to some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes just outside Denver.

Our project partners are currently scouting forest conditions across the system to identify the highest-priority treatment sites. No matter which park is selected, volunteers can expect a beautiful mountain setting and important forest health work. Registered volunteers will receive updated location details and logistics once the site is finalized.

What You’ll Do: 

The project area will most likely be steep and rocky, which makes chainsaws and hand saw work the most viable solutions for fuels management. For this project, we are looking for saywer and swamper volunteers. Sawyers must be certified. Swampers will build burn piles that the city will burn later in the season when the conditions are safe for this activity.

Please bring your own lunch for the day! 

Why It Matters: 

The fuels management work will, first and foremost, assist with the local fire mitigation plan and implementation recommendations by the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. By removing fuels in the park, VOC volunteers will make the communities surrounding the park safer and more resilient to wildfire. VOC’s work will also help protect nearby homes, businesses, schools, infrastructure, and evacuation routes. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+  

On this project, we need a mix of A and B certified Chainsaw Sawyers. If you are certified, please include this in the Comments of your registration and send your certificate to the project manager. ALL SAWYERS MUST HOLD A CURRENT FIRST AID AND CPR CERTIFICATION IN ORDER TO OPERATE A SAW. Want to get certified? Visit our Training Calendar for upcoming training opportunities.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations:  

Expect physically demanding work, including moving heavy materials (such as logs and branches) and working on uneven terrain. Volunteers will hike on uneven terrain to find a good working area that is a sufficient distance from other active sawyers.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access:  Volunteers will be able to drive and park close to the worksite

If you enjoy chainsaw projects, either as a certified sawyer or a support volunteer, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

The Southern Plains Land Trust was founded in 1998 to protect and restore shortgrass prairie across the Southern Great Plains. Today, SPLT stewards more than 60,000 acres of protected land in southeast Colorado, where they focus on ecological restoration, reintroducing keystone species like black-tailed prairie dogs and American bison, and connecting local communities to the land through education and outreach.

This project takes place at the Purgatoire River Preserve, a newly protected 493-acre property in Bent County. Acquired by SPLT in January 2025, the Preserve is intended to protect the Boggsville National Historic Site, provide public access to the Purgatoire River, and create a new outdoor recreation resource for Las Animas and surrounding communities.

Nearest town: Las Animas

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You'll Do: 

Volunteers will help build a new soft-surface trail on the Purgatoire River Preserve, just south of Las Animas. This trail segment will provide river access and connect to an existing trail at Boggsville.

Trail work will include:

digging and shaping tread, spreading crushed gravel, and moving trail materials along the corridor.

The goal of this project is to complete a segment of trail that provides access to the Purgatoire River and connects to an existing trail in Boggsville. This is foundational work on a brand-new preserve, and volunteers will play a key role in creating the first public trail access at this site.

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday.

Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.

Why it Matters:

Trail development at the Purgatoire River Preserve was guided by a community planning process in Las Animas that identified local recreation needs and priorities. This project represents the first step in creating a new recreational and educational opportunity in southeast Colorado. The trail design considers a wide range of users and mobility needs, helping ensure the Preserve is welcoming and accessible to the broader community from the start.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving trail material; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Limited to no cell service.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

Where You'll Be:

O'Fallon Mountain Park is part of the Denver Mountain Park network and provides Front Range residents and visitors with superb hiking opportunities just 25 minutes from downtown. The area's rolling hills, flower-filled meadows, ponderosa pines, and great views reward users with a gorgeous mountain escape from city life. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with much-needed trail maintenance at the park, just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Tasks may include:

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the trail's surface to smooth and reinforce it for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse plant habitat in this well-loved natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

If you like to volunteer on weekdays, you can view similar projects here.

Join us for this intentional outdoor experience to celebrate women in trail work. If you are unsure if this project is for you, please call us at (303) 715-1010 ext. 111.

Where You’ll Be: 

Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks form a buffer around the city, helping to establish its own identity from neighboring communities. This project will take place in the Boulder Valley Ranch area, which offers access to many popular trails, including Sage, Eagle, Cobalt, and Left Hand.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with the construction of the Hidden Valley Trail reroute. Work will include clearing vegetation to make way for the trail, digging and removing dirt to reach the proper trail level, and fine-tuning to create a smooth trail tread and a surface that drains properly.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

This trail reroute is part of a larger trail improvement plan for the western Boulder Valley Ranch area north of the city. These projects aim to improve outdoor experiences, increase trail sustainability, and increase bicycling trail access while protecting wildlife and plant habitats in the area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Physical Difficulty:

This project includes tasks at varying levels of difficulty, from easy to moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: There will be about a half-mile hike from the parking lot to the work site. The worksite is sun-exposed.

Want to learn the basics of trail work or brush up on your trail skills ahead of the project? Join us at our Celebrating Women in Trails: Trail Skills Training @ Jamestown on May 30!

Where you'll be: 

Join your fellow volunteers at Top of the Pines, a 175-acre nature preserve conveniently situated near Ouray, Ridgway, and Telluride. Set in a beautiful ponderosa pine forest, the property offers sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains and nearby peaks. Volunteers will camp in a developed campground next to a meadow with a seasonal pond.

Nearest town: Ridgway, CO 81432

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What you'll do: 

Help restore a historic trail that has become overgrown and difficult to follow due to increased use and time. Building on work started by VOC volunteers in 2024, you’ll continue clearing and improving the trail to make it safer, more visible, and accessible for visitors.

VOC provides breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, and dinner on Saturday.

Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.

Why it's important: 

This trail will connect to a biking trail constructed by Top of the Pines three years ago, expanding recreational opportunities on this public open space. Along the way, visitors will enjoy stunning views of the Sneffels Range, and future environmental education signs will highlight local ecology, forest health, landforms, and geology—helping visitors better understand and care for this special place.

Eligibility Requirements:   Ages 16+ 

Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older on overnight projects. 

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): hiking to access work site while carrying tools, repetitive bending, lifting, digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks. You’ll be working around a 6.5-7-hour day which requires some physical stamina, but you’ll always be encouraged to take breaks as needed.

Accessibility Factors:

Vehicle Accessibility: The final ~5 miles to the campground are on a maintained dirt road. High clearance is not required, and the road is accessible for 2WD vehicles. Please note that the road is very dark at night; we strongly encourage arriving before dark to make navigation easier.

Other Notes: The worksite begins about ¼ mile away from the camping area, an easy walk on a lightly used 2-track road. Indoor bathrooms with showers and flush toilets are available.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

Where You’ll Be: 

Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks form a buffer around the city, helping to establish its own identity from neighboring communities. This project will take place in the Boulder Valley Ranch area, which offers access to many popular trails, including Sage, Eagle, Cobalt, and Left Hand.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with the construction of the Hidden Valley Trail reroute. Work will include clearing vegetation to make way for the trail, digging and removing dirt to reach the proper trail level, and fine-tuning to create a smooth trail tread and a surface that drains properly.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

This trail reroute is part of a larger trail improvement plan for the western Boulder Valley Ranch area north of the city. These projects aim to improve outdoor experiences, increase trail sustainability, and increase bicycling trail access while protecting wildlife and plant habitats in the area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Physical Difficulty:

This project includes tasks at varying levels of difficulty, from easy to moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: There will be about a half-mile hike from the parking lot to the work site. The worksite is sun-exposed.

Where You'll Be:

William Frederick Hayden Park sits atop Green Mountain, a prominent open space in the heart of Lakewood and one of the most well-loved urban parks on the west side of the Denver metro area. Originally donated by the Hayden family in 1972, the park now spans more than 2,400 acres, making it Lakewood’s second largest park.

Its extensive network of multi-use trails draws more than 250,000 visitors each year, offering an easy escape from the city for hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, and families. From the 6,800-foot summit, visitors enjoy wide views of both downtown Denver to the east and the Front Range to the west, while the park also provides important habitat for wildlife including mule deer, elk, and great horned owls.

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project. 

What You'll Do:

After a major trail reroute in 2018, some hikers have been cutting switchbacks along the middle section of the Rooney Valley Trail to avoid bike traffic and take a more direct route. We will be responding to these hikers recreating patters helping build rock steps that create a designated pedestrian bypass.

This allows hikers a more direct route while keeping the longer, gently graded switchbacks intact for wheeled trail users. Volunteers will assist with the construction of rock steps.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why it Matters: 

The existing social trail follows a steep slope and is not sustainable. Continued use degrades wildlife habitat and spreads noxious weeds that threaten the native shortgrass prairie. Building this bypass helps protect sensitive habitat, reduces erosion, and supports the long-term goal of making every trail in William Frederick Hayden Park both sustainable and enjoyable.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: The hike from the parking lot to the project site is about 2 miles uphill. The work area is heavily sun-exposed.

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Mt. Sneffels, located in Ouray, CO, is accessible through Yankee Boy Basin. This basin is home to fields of wildflowers and wildlife and leads up to one of the most beautiful fourteeners in the state. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Mt. Sneffels receives about 5,000-7,000 visitors annually, which is relatively low but has some of the worst conditions of the five major ranges, according to a recent report card procured by Colorado Fourteeners Initiative. 

Nearest town: Ouray, CO 81432

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

At Mt. Sneffels, several large tundra beds are being undercut due to foot traffic. As soil erodes from beneath plant life, this delicate vegetation dies.

In partnership with Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, volunteers will help construct retaining structures and delineate the trail to ensure the continued health of this important alpine environment. Improvements such as installing tundra support walls and rock check steps will stabilize the footpath, allowing hikers to stay on the route and preventing widening of the existing trail. 

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters: 

Colorado’s 54 fourteeners (peaks over 14,000 feet in elevation) see over 300,000 hikers and climbers each year – all of whom are traveling through the alpine tundra ecosystem. This ecosystem thrives in an environment of high winds, short growing seasons, and cold winters, but is very easily damaged by foot traffic and erosion. Construction and maintenance of hiking trails on fourteeners prevent impacts to the sensitive plants and wildlife, and restoration projects repair areas that have already been damaged. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating in this project (Some or all may apply): long hike to worksite with significant elevation gain; carrying project tools and materials to worksite; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; working at elevation; working and hiking on steep or uneven terrain.  

You can expect to bend, squat, lift heavy objects, dig, reach, stretch, lean, rotate, and engage many muscle groups, all at a high elevation. This project is not for the faint of heart!    

The hike from the campsite to the worksite is up to 2 miles. Volunteers may be hauling project materials up the trail to the worksite (logs for structures). 

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: Moderate vehicle clearance and AWD is require to get to the camping location. 

Other Notes: This is a remote project. There is no cell service at the campsite or worksite.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Button Rock Preserve is a 3,000-acre nature preserve outside of Lyons that protects the primary drinking water source for more than 110,000 Boulder County residents. The area supports passive recreation like hiking, rock climbing, and fishing along North St. Vrain Creek, Longmont Reservoir, and Ralph Price Reservoir. Volunteers will work in a scenic, high-use recreation area while helping care for an important community resource.

Nearest town: Lyons

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will support trail restoration work along the South Cove Trail at Button Rock Preserve.

The focus is on approximately 720 feet of trail that is severely undercut and collapsing into the reservoir, creating safety, access, and water quality concerns. Tasks may include defining trail tread, improving drainage for water to flow off the trail, building small reroutes, and assisting with retaining wall construction to stabilize eroding sections. This is a technical trail project in steep terrain and requires focused, hands-on work.

Why It Matters: 

South Cove Trail’s condition directly affects visitor safety, water quality, and access within a high-use recreation area. Restoring this trail segment will reduce erosion into the reservoir, improve safety for hikers, and support long-term stewardship and infrastructure resilience at Button Rock Preserve. 

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday.

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper!

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering, and we could use your help to make it happen!

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up.

Eligibility Requirements: 

- Ages: 16+  

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered Difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Physical Considerations:  

This work may include kneeling, bending, and working close to the ground for extended periods; exposure to sun and outdoor elements; exposure to insects such as bees and wasps; carrying and placing heavy materials like rocks and logs; digging and shoveling; and working near water with potentially muddy or slippery footing. Volunteers should be prepared for a 6.5 to 7-hour workday that requires physical stamina, with breaks encouraged as needed.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible  

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

Join us in reducing our carbon footprint by carpooling! Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).

If you enjoy projects that include components of rock work, you can view similar projects here.

Where You'll Be:

Pence Park is a beautiful, quiet respite just thirty minutes from Denver. Pence Park's wide variety of trails has become a popular destination for hikers and bikers along the Front Range. Mountain bikers flock from miles around to ride from Lair O' the Bear to Pence Park, a scenic 13 miles. Pence Park's unique array of wildlife includes bald eagles, Mexican spotted owls, the Preble's jumping mouse, and the Townsend's big eared bat. Exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with much-needed trail maintenance at the park, just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Tasks may include:

clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path.

This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Trail maintenance matters from an ecological and environmental standpoint because it ensures a safe and sustainable route for people to use, which keeps the surrounding habitat safe and minimizes the human impacts on flora and fauna, especially in high-use areas like Pence Park.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate, please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details.

Physical Considerations:   You can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch. 

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

Where You'll Be:

Parkfield Lake Park is a mixed-use park in the Montbello neighborhood of Denver. It is home to the Montbello Recreation Center, athletic fields, trails, a lake, and open space, and is surrounded by dense housing. The park is highly valued by the Montbello Community, and the trails are heavily used around the lake and in the open space areas.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will be constructing timber steps on a trail at Parkfield Lake Park. This project will be critical to restore a degraded and eroded trail, making it safer for park users, increasing access, improving aesthetics, and reducing maintenance strain on Parks staff.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why it Matters:

The timber steps will improve safety, mitigate erosion, and reduce the expansion of social trails into the natural landscape.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 18+

Physical Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate to difficult; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: The project tasks can include digging into the hillside, lifting and placing lumber, and lifting and placing gravel on a steep slope. If you would like to participate in this event but the primary tasks do not suit you, we can accommodate volunteers removing weeds.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: Restrooms will be available on site. It is a 5-minute walk on a paved trail from the parking lot to the project site.

Where You’ll Be:  

This project takes place within the Parks Ranger District of the U.S. Forest Service in northern Colorado. The exact work location will be finalized 2 to 3 weeks before the project date and will be within a 30 to 60 minute drive from Walden in Jackson County. The final location depends on pine cone maturity and density in the area.

Nearest town: Walden, CO

The specific location will be shared with all registered volunteers 2 weeks before the project.

What You’ll Do:  

Volunteers will help collect and clean pine cones for future reforestation efforts. Certified chainsaw sawyers will cut a limited number of trees. Volunteers will then collect pine cones from the downed trees, sort and clean them, and send them to a nursery for seed extraction and germination.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner on Saturday. Bring your own dinner on Friday night, and enough snacks for the weekend.  

Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and volunteers are encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday. 

Support This Project as a Crew Chef Helper! 

We provide full meals on our overnight projects to ensure volunteers are well-fed and ready for a day of volunteering — and we could use your help to make it happen! 

View this document to learn more about how to support and sign up. 

Why It Matters:  

The Parks Ranger District has recently been affected by two large wildfires and has since realized that most of the seeds from their seed stock are from the 70s or 80s. The seeds they do have are not the right species for the appropriate seed zones to meet the district's diversity objectives. Volunteer efforts to collect pine cones for this project will result in updated, relevant seed stock and seedlings ready to plant in the forest by 2029. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 16+ 

For overnight projects, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

For this project, we need a mix of A- and B-certified Chainsaw Sawyers. If you are certified, please include this in the Comments of your registration and send your certificate to the project manager. ALL SAWYERS MUST HOLD A CURRENT FIRST AID AND CPR CERTIFICATION IN ORDER TO OPERATE A SAW. Want to get certified? Visit our Training Calendar for upcoming training opportunities.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered moderate, with more physically demanding work for chainsaw operations. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

Volunteers may experience some or all of the following physical activities: moderate to heavy lifting; working around loud noise and vibration; kneeling and bending; carrying and moving heavy debris; hiking on steep or uneven terrain; and handling sharp pine cones.

Access Factors:  

Vehicle Access: Depending on project location, SUVs with high clearance or 4-wheel drive may be required to access the work-site. 

Other Notes: The selected project location will be close to a road, so volunteers should not expect long hikes to the worksite.

If you enjoy chainsaw projects, either as a certified sawyer or a support volunteer, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

Observatory Park is a small yet spacious park near the University of Denver (DU) campus. Home to DU's historic Chamberlin Observatory, the park also boasts century-old trees, an extensive playground area, and vast open fields perfect for picnicking or a pickup game of frisbee. 

What You’ll Do: 

Through our long-standing partnership with Grow Local Colorado, volunteers ages 8+ will spend the evening harvesting a vegetable garden and preparing it for winter at Observatory Park. Tasks will include gathering ripe produce, weeding, and clearing plant debris to help maintain the garden for the next growing season.

Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds (while supplies last) and even hand-deliver fresh produce to local food banks and community aid organizations, ensuring these nutritious harvests reach those in need.

Why It Matters: 

The produce that VOC volunteers planted in the spring is now mature and ready to be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. By growing food locally, we reduce our carbon footprint by reducing the distance food must travel, minimizing water use, decreasing soil erosion, and helping develop a sustainable community. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Specific tasks include bending down/kneeling to harvest and using loppers or pruning shears to cut plant debris.  

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Public street parking is available within a 5-10 minute walk to the project site. This project is accessible via RTD public transit or bike! 

Other Notes: Please park on the west side of the park, along S Fillmore St. The garden plot (and where we will meet for the project) will be in the northwestern corner of Observatory Park.

Where You'll Be: 

Roxborough State Park, south of Littleton, is a 4,000-acre park designated as both a Colorado Natural Area and a National Natural Landmark. Known for its red rock formations, diverse plant communities, and abundant wildlife, the park welcomes around 100,000 visitors each year. A network of trails allows people to experience the foothills while protecting sensitive natural resources.

What You'll Do:

Heavy rainstorms and high trail use have worn down the drainage features on one of the park’s trails.

A trail's worst enemy is water. When it is not redirected properly, it can wash away soil, create ruts, and make trails unsafe or hard to use.

Volunteers will help restore and build simple water-diversion features, such as low trail crossings, shallow channels, and drains, that guide rainwater off the trail and into the surrounding drainage areas.

This work helps keep water from flowing straight down the trail, reducing erosion and making the trail more durable during future storms. Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

With new residential developments in the area, the number of visitors to the park will only increase. Improving the trails now would allow us to mitigate the impact of a future large increase in trail users. In addition, fixing the drainage along this trail will prevent damage from future rainstorms. This will allow staff to focus on improving other trails rather than just repairing damage. The work from this project will improve the visitor experience, enable more family use with strollers and mobility devices for those with mobility impairments, and allow park staff to offer tours to those who cannot hike the trail.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details. 

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend over, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: This trail starts near the Visitor's Center and is a 2.2-mile loop. Volunteers should be prepared to hike the whole trail. There are restrooms at the Visitor's Center.

If you enjoy trail maintenance, you can view similar projects here. 

Where you'll be:

Community Ministry is a social service organization, food/clothing pantry, and community resource that has been meeting the basic needs of individuals experiencing economic hardships and related problems in the Ruby Hill neighborhood since the 1960s. Grow Local Colorado and Community Ministry have been partnering since 2012 to ensure low-income residents in southwest Denver have access to healthy food choices.

What you'll do:

Through our long-standing partnership with Grow Local Colorado, volunteers ages 6+ will spend the morning harvesting a vegetable garden and prepping it for winter at Community Ministry. Tasks will involve harvesting vegetables, weeding, and raking the soil.

Why it's important:

The produce that VOC volunteers planted in the spring are now mature and ready to be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. By growing food locally, we reduce our carbon footprint by reducing the distance food has to travel, minimize water use, decrease soil erosion, and help develop a sustainable community. 

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 8+

All youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details.

Specific tasks include bending down/kneeling to harvest and using loppers or pruning shears to cut plant debris.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: Public street parking available within a 5-10 minute walk to project site. This project is accessible via RTD public transit or bike!

Where You’ll Be: 

Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks form a buffer around the city, helping to establish its own identity from neighboring communities. This project will take place in the Boulder Valley Ranch area, which offers access to many popular trails, including Sage, Eagle, Cobalt, and Left Hand.

What You'll Do:

Volunteers will help with the construction of the Hidden Valley Trail reroute. Work will include clearing vegetation to make way for the trail, digging and removing dirt to reach the proper trail level, and fine-tuning to create a smooth trail tread and a surface that drains properly.

Please bring your own lunch for the day.

Why It Matters:

This trail reroute is part of a larger trail improvement plan for the western Boulder Valley Ranch area north of the city. These projects aim to improve outdoor experiences, increase trail sustainability, and increase bicycling trail access while protecting wildlife and plant habitats in the area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 14+ 

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.

Physical Difficulty:

This project includes tasks at varying levels of difficulty, from easy to moderate to difficult. Please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

General physical considerations for participating on this project (Some or all may apply): moderate lifting and tool use; digging, shoveling, moving soil and rocks; repetitive bending, lifting, and walking; may require hiking to access work site while carrying tools; you can expect to bend, pick objects up, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and stretch.

Access Factors:

Vehicle Access: 2WD accessible

Other Notes: There will be about a half-mile hike from the parking lot to the work site. The worksite is sun-exposed.

Where You’ll Be: 

Christ the King Lutheran Church, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has a proud history in the Harvey Park neighborhood of Southwest Denver dating back to its founding in 1956. The congregation was originally rooted in the rapid growth of the neighborhood in the late 1950's. They have partnered with Grow Local Colorado since 2018 and their plot is a wonderful example of how productive sheet mulch gardening can be. 

What You’ll Do: 

Through our long-standing partnership with Grow Local Colorado, volunteers ages 8+ will spend the morning harvesting a vegetable garden and prepping it for winter. Tasks will involve harvesting vegetables, weeding, and removing harvested plants to winterize the beds.  

Volunteers may also have the opportunity to hand deliver some of the fresh produce to local area food banks and community aid organizations. 

Why It Matters: 

The produce that VOC volunteers planted in the spring is now mature and ready to be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. By growing food locally, we reduce our carbon footprint by reducing the distance food must travel, minimizing water use, decreasing soil erosion, and helping develop a sustainable community. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.   

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: Specific tasks include bending down/kneeling to harvest and using loppers or pruning shears to cut plant debris.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Public street parking available within a 5-10 minute walk to project site. This project is accessible via RTD public transit or bike!

Where You'll Be:

Red Rocks Park, known for its remarkable landscape of red sandstone outcroppings, is a true Colorado landmark. It's a world-famous concert venue and home to awe-inspiring hiking and biking trails perfect for exploring the geology, forests, wildflowers, and wildlife, with views of Denver and beyond. The exact meeting location will be shared via email at least 7 days prior to the project.

What You'll Do:

Help perform critical trail maintenance tasks on this weekday project! Tasks may include clearing the trail corridor by trimming overgrown vegetation to keep paths open and safe, maintaining drainage by removing debris and improving water flow to prevent erosion, and repairing the tread to smooth and reinforce the trail surface for a safer and more durable path. This is a great opportunity for new volunteers and anyone interested in learning more about trail restoration while enjoying a beautiful outdoor setting.

Why It Matters:

Volunteers will enhance trail safety and sustainability, helping to protect the diverse flora and fauna in this natural getaway just a short trip from the Denver metro area.

Eligibility Requirements:

Ages 16+

Project Difficulty:

This project is considered moderate; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: You can expect to bend down, pick up objects, move rocks, carry tools, swing heavy tools, dig, and/or stretch.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: No vehicle restrictions – 2WD accessible 

Other Notes: Cell service may be spotty in this area.

Where You’ll Be: 

This project will take place within the South Platte Ranger District, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. Forest Service staff are currently surveying lands throughout the district to identify the highest-priority forest health treatment area for this work. The final project location will be selected based on current conditions, ecosystem needs, and wildfire risk.

Nearest Town: Pine, CO 

Volunteers will receive updated information about the project location as the project date approaches, once the site has been confirmed. Please be sure to register so you receive all project details and logistics as they become available.

What You’ll Do: 

Volunteers will support forest health management by felling and piling overgrown trees in areas where dense vegetation creates unsafe conditions for the ecosystem and increases wildfire risk. Work will most likely take place on steep and rocky terrain, making chainsaws and hand saws the most effective tools for this project.

We are seeking both volunteer sawyers and swampers. Certified sawyers will fell trees, while swampers will assist with clearing, stacking material, and building burn piles. These piles will be burned later in the season by land managers when conditions are safe. This hands-on work helps restore a healthier forest structure and improves overall wildfire resilience.

Why It Matters: 

Many forests have grown dense after decades of fire suppression, making them more vulnerable to severe wildfires and ecological stress. By removing excess trees and reducing hazardous fuels, this project helps restore healthier forest conditions, lowers wildfire risk, and supports safer, more effective land management. Your work directly contributes to long-term forest resilience while protecting nearby communities, wildlife habitat, and recreational landscapes.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 18+ 

For this project, we need a mix of A- and B-certified Chainsaw Sawyers. If you are certified, please include this in the Comments of your registration and send your certificate to the project manager. ALL SAWYERS MUST HOLD A CURRENT FIRST AID AND CPR CERTIFICATION IN ORDER TO OPERATE A SAW. Want to get certified? Visit our Training Calendar for upcoming training opportunities.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is rated difficult. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations:  Expect physically demanding work, including moving heavy materials (such as logs and branches) and working on uneven terrain. Volunteers will hike over uneven terrain to find a suitable work area that is far enough from other active sawyers.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access:  Volunteers will be able to drive and park close to the worksite.

If you enjoy chainsaw projects, either as a certified sawyer or a support volunteer, you can view similar projects here.

Where You’ll Be: 

The Colorado Governor's Mansion, located in the heart of Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood, is a member of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Originally built as a private residence in 1908, it was given to the State of Colorado as an executive residence in 1959. In 2011, Governor Hickenlooper donated the plants that would become the First Family's Giving Garden, planted by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado with Grow Local Colorado. 

What You’ll Do: 

Through our long-standing partnership with Grow Local Colorado, volunteers ages 8+ will spend the evening harvesting a vegetable garden and prepping it for winter at the Governor's Mansion. Tasks will include gathering ripe produce, weeding, and clearing plant debris to help maintain the garden for the next growing season.

Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds (while supplies last) and even hand-deliver fresh produce to local food banks and community aid organizations, ensuring these nutritious harvests reach those in need.

Why It Matters: 

The produce that VOC volunteers planted in the spring is now mature and ready to be donated to local organizations, including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. By growing food locally, we reduce our carbon footprint by reducing the distance food must travel, minimizing water use, decreasing soil erosion, and helping develop a sustainable community. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

Ages 8+   

Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.  

Background checks will be required for all volunteers and staff in attendance. The checks will need to be completed about two weeks in advance of the event date, and they must be hand-signed with black pen and then emailed to the VOC Project Manager. No electronic signatures will be accepted.

Project Difficulty: 

This project is considered easy; please check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.

Physical Considerations: Specific tasks include bending down/kneeling to harvest and using loppers or pruning shears to cut plant debris.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: Public street parking is available within a 5-10 minute walk to the project site (we will remind people of the 2 hour parking limits in the area at the project ). This project is accessible via RTD public transit or bike!

Where you'll be:

VOC's 5,000-square-foot Operations "Ops" Center in central Lakewood is home to a plethora of project equipment from tools to kitchen supplies. If you haven't been to the Ops Center before, this is a great opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how VOC projects operate.

What you'll do:

Our annual OcTOOLberfest celebrates the successes of the season and prepares for the next one with volunteers and VOC staff alike. Each year, we enlist volunteers to clean, sharpen, paint, and repair tools, as well as to organize the VOC Operations Center. Spending a bit of time winterizing tools after months of hard use ensures they're in great shape for the start of next season!

Why it matters:

A well-cared-for tool is a safe tool! Dozens of projects each year take a toll on tools and equipment, and by the end of the season, they need some TLC. By helping us care for these tools and put them to bed for winter, you'll help VOC prepare for a safe and successful 2026 project season.

Eligibility Criteria:  Ages 14+

Project Difficulty:

The tasks available in this project vary from easy to moderate to difficult.

Access Factors: 

Vehicle Access: 2-minute walk from the parking lot to the Operations Center. Other Notes:  Restrooms on site.