Island Trails, Shared Effort: Volunteering in the San Juans

Two Volunteer Vacations brought American Hiking Society crews to Washington’s San Juan Islands in May and June 2026. On San Juan Island and Lopez Island, volunteers spent time caring for trails, exploring their surroundings, and getting to know the people working alongside them.

San Juan Island: A Week with the Land Bank

From May 10–16, volunteers joined the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank for a project at Mt. Grant/Cady Mountain Preserves. The work plan focused on trimming overgrown vegetation and maintaining trail surfaces and drainage.

For participants, the hosts were a memorable part of the experience. Freeman praised Shauna and Jacob’s daily leadership and fellowship, along with the setting at Mt. Grant Preserve. The week left him looking forward to a return visit.

Time with fellow volunteers mattered just as much. Freeman named meeting and sharing the week with the crew as a highlight, while Lange pointed to the “Camaraderie with crew and hosts!”

Outside of the project, volunteers made time to explore. Ho especially enjoyed the hiking and the opportunity to meet new people and visit new places. Spending a week on the island gave participants time to get to know it beyond their daily work sites.

Lopez Island: Keeping Well-Loved Trails Clear

From June 25–28, another crew joined the Bureau of Land Management at San Juan Islands National Monument. Working in the Watmough and Iceberg trail networks on Lopez Island, volunteers trimmed brush to help keep popular routes clear for residents and visitors.

Host Brie Chartier described the project as part of a relationship built over years. AHS volunteers have helped the Monument maintain quality trails and support recreation opportunities that connect visitors with stewardship.

Chartier also highlighted the value of offering easier projects that help people stay active in the trail community. A shorter trip with lighter trail tasks provides another way for volunteers to take part.

Briggs appreciated being on Lopez Island and having time to explore. She also praised the care shown by the crew leader and host staff, and the support she received from AHS.

Across both trips, volunteers found opportunities to contribute while enjoying island life. The hosts shared their time and guidance, crews tended trails, and participants explored places they hoped to visit again.

Find your own opportunity to give back through American Hiking Society’s Volunteer Vacations. Sign up for our newsletter for trip announcements and upcoming opportunities.