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!
What You’ll Do:
Help restore the Elk Meadow Trail, a 2-mile loop in Mueller State Park. Volunteers will work on tasks like improving the backslope, refining the surface of the trail, and addressing water drainage issues. These efforts will enhance the trail’s long-term sustainability and reduce its impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Breakfast and lunch are provided on Saturday and Sunday, along with dinner on Saturday.
Bring your own dinner for Friday night and enough snacks for the weekend.
Free campsites are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and we recommend arriving 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:
Due to the historical layout of the park, all trailheads start at a high elevation and drop down as the trail continues, which leads to drainage issues and constant maintenance. The Elk Meadow Trail has a steep and rocky downhill section that needs rerouting to improve safety for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The loose rocks and erosion make the trail unpleasant and hazardous. By restoring this trail, volunteers will create a safer, more sustainable trail system that reduces maintenance needs and improves the overall visitor experience.
Eligibility Requirements:
Ages 14+
Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older.
Project Difficulty:
This project is considered moderate. Check our difficulty rating criteria here for more details.
Physical Considerations:
Trail maintenance and trail construction. This will include bending down, moving heavy objects, carrying tools, swinging tools, and stretching.
Access Factors:
Vehicle Accessibility: Accessible by 2WD vehicles on paved park roads.
Other notes: Restrooms are available at the campsite and at the trailhead. The work site is .5 mile from the trailhead/parking area. Camping (tent and RV) is available at the park with additional amenities; flush toilets, showers, trash bins, drinking water, electrical hookups, etc.
