Iconic High Country Peaks and Rivers in the Yellowstone Gateway, MT
June 21, 2026 - June 27, 2026
Trip Navigation
Take in the iconic peaks that tower over the headwaters of the spectacular Clark’s Fork River in Cooke City, MT. Known as the “Lake District” of the Beartooths, with some of the largest lakes in the range scattered across the landscape. Basecamp will be at the historic U.S. Forest Service Ranger Station Cabin, near the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park which provides comfortable amenities at a heart-pumping elevation of 7,900 feet.
Volunteers will hike (aka “cut and run”) up to 10 miles a day on various area trails with crosscut, hand saws, shovels, pulaskis and loppers with the goal of clearing as many trees and water bars as possible. Volunteers will learn how to identify and protect the threatened species white bark pine (Pinus albicaulis). Trails can include the famous “Beaten Path” —one of the most scenic routes in the Northern Rockies—and the Lady of the Lake Trail, gateway to Granite Peak, Montana’s highest summit. Depending on conditions and work encountered, we will clear popular trails that link high alpine lakes and major drainages.
There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.
Avg. Temperature:
Typical weather for this area during this season has highs of roughly 65–70°F and lows of 35–40°F. Early September in the Absaroka–Beartooth region is cool at elevation with brisk nights and a chance of showers or early high-country snow.
Sample Schedule:
Day 1: Arrival
Typically meet in the afternoon for check in, introductions, orientation, and camp setup. (Time/place TBD)
Day 2: Work Day
Enjoy a hearty breakfast, pack lunches, and be on the trail between 8 AM and 9 AM
Lunch and plenty of other breaks will be included.
Wrap up the work day in the late afternoon and head back to camp and enjoy a few hours of daylight for free time.
Reconvene at a chosen time for dinner.
After dinner has been cleaned up, evenings offer plenty of time to relax, sit around the campfire and get to know your fellow crew members, or enjoy more free time.
Day 3: Work Day
Day 4: Rest Day (Specific Day on Trip Will Be Confirmed By Host)
Your choice! Explore the area, take a recreational hike, tour local attractions, or hang out at camp. Group excursions can be planned or set-out on your own.
Day 5: Work Day
Day 6: Work Day
Day 7: Departure
Break down camp, say goodbyes, and travel home. Please note: This schedule is subject to change due to weather or other circumstances. Any updates will be communicated to the group.
Land Acknowledgment:
AHS acknowledges with gratitude that this project takes place on the traditional lands of the Salish, Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla, Tséstho’e (Cheyenne), Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, and Apsáalooke (Crow) people past and present. We honor the land itself, the Indigenous communities who have stewarded these islands and mountain landscapes for countless generations, and those who continue this stewardship today. This acknowledgement is one step in our ongoing commitment to uplift Indigenous voices. We invite the American Hiking Society community to learn about, support, and stand in solidarity with the Indigenous peoples whose lands we live, work, and recreate on.
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