Lower Wooley Creek Trail Work

Restoring Wild Paths

In early April 2025, a dedicated team of stewards converged in the rugged heart of the Klamath Mountains for a shared mission: to clear and restore the Wooley Creek Trail. This remarkable effort was led by a powerful partnership between the Six Rivers National Forest, Ascend Wilderness Experience, and the Bigfoot Trail Alliance. Over five days of boots-on-ground action, these partners exemplified the spirit of community-powered conservation.

Spanning April 2–6, crews worked through diverse terrain from the trailhead to Wooley Camp Junction and beyond, clearing over 6.5 miles of trail and removing approximately 75 downed logs—a mix of firs, oaks, and towering madrones. Each log told a story of storms and seasons past, and each cut was a step toward re-opening this wild corridor for hikers and wildlife alike.

Key Highlights:

• Major blowdown removal included:
  • Multiple firs up to 24″ diameter
  • Clusters of oak and madrone blocking the path
  • A significant hazard tree assessed and cleared for safe hiker passage
• Intensive brushing and tread maintenance from Deer Lick Creek to Wooley Camp
• A major slide 100 yards past the Wooley Camp junction, where a massive root ball took out the trail—not yet passable for stock, though hikers can detour

While much was accomplished, nature reminded us of its power. A particularly challenging obstacle—a fir tree with an upended root ball—remains for future crews, presenting a hazardous but necessary task for continued trail restoration.

This project underscores the beauty and importance of collaborative stewardship. With chainsaws, handsaws, and an unwavering passion for wild places, volunteers and forest staff alike carved a safer, more accessible trail through one of California’s most remote and biodiverse landscapes.

Looking Ahead

As spring breathes new life into the Klamath backcountry, the trail now awaits its next travelers—footsteps that echo appreciation for those who came before, sawed through tangle and timber, and left the trail better than they found it.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an aspiring volunteer, or simply a lover of wild lands, this is your invitation: come walk where the work was done. And if you’re inspired to join us next time, the Bigfoot Trail Alliance, Ascend Wilderness Experience, and the Six Rivers National Forest are always looking for more hands to help shape the future of our trails.