Windermere Volunteers on Sunny Side on May 29

What started as a small group quickly grew into a crew of nine volunteers and two staff members, thanks in large part to Rachel and Nicole from Windermere. In just two days, they rallied friends, family, clients, and fellow trail supporters to join us for a morning of trail work. Their efforts turned what could have been a small project into a highly productive volunteer event.

The goal for the day was corridor clearing along approximately 0.8 miles of trail. While it may not be the most glamorous trail work, it is some of the most important. Overgrown vegetation can brush into hikers' faces, catch horseback riders and cyclists off guard, and even increase the chances of picking up ticks when users brush against plants along the trail edge.

Armed with loppers and hand tools, the crew got to work opening up the trail corridor and improving the experience for everyone who visits Sunnyside. Fortunately, the trail lived up to its name without being too harsh on us. A little cloud cover and some welcome patches of shade made for a beautiful morning in the foothills.

Of course, volunteer events are about more than just the work accomplished. Throughout the morning, volunteers had time to chat, enjoy the scenery, and even spot some of the few wildflowers making an appearance this year. After the work was done, everyone gathered back at the trailhead for lunch and some well-earned conversation.

We're incredibly grateful to everyone who came out and contributed their time and energy. Special thanks to Rachel and Nicole for making the event happen and showing just how much can be accomplished when community members rally together.

We're looking forward to having this group back out on the trails again soon.