Restoring Trails on the Oregon Coast

This summer, a crew of American Hiking Society volunteers traveled to the scenic town of Newport, Oregon, to restore the Salal Hill Trail. With the Pacific Ocean as their backdrop, the group spent their days widening and reshaping tread, placing rock, and installing geotextiles to ensure the half-mile trail remains safe and enjoyable for visitors. The work was demanding, but as one volunteer put it, “Hard but satisfying.”

The location quickly became a highlight of the trip. Volunteers spotted seabirds, explored beaches, and were even treated to a private tour of the Yaquina Lighthouse, which is normally closed to the public. On breaks, they enjoyed tours arranged by park staff and wandered through the coastal town of Newport, known for its mix of history, seafood, and ocean views.

Many participants join Volunteer Vacations not only to give back to public lands but also to connect with others. One volunteer reflected, “The camaraderie among the volunteers is always unique. Everyone’s shared experience and knowledge are what made a lasting impression on me.” The hospitality of the hosts and the warmth of the BLM crew added to the experience, with comfortable accommodations and thoughtful amenities waiting at the end of each day.

This project offered the best of both worlds: a chance to care for a beautiful stretch of the Oregon coast while building new friendships. As the week came to a close, volunteers left with gratitude, pride, and a bit of bittersweetness. One participant summed it up perfectly: “I would have liked to stay another week!”

Volunteer Vacations mean something different for everyone, and for this group it was a week of stewardship, coastal beauty, and new friendships. 

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