Ten years ago today, 08-May-2015, Bigfoot Trail Alliance (BFTA) signed its articles of incorporation and made it official as a California 501(c)(3) non-profit. In the time since, what was just a vision has become a vibrant force for conservation, education, and community. Our dream to protect and promote a 360-mile trail through the rugged Klamath Mountains has grown into a grassroots movement.
Trail Stewardship by the Numbers
Since its founding, BFTA has recruited and equipped nearly 500 volunteers who have collectively contributed over 10,000 hours to maintaining the Bigfoot Trail corridor. These dedicated folks have restored more than 100 miles of trail, cleared thousands of fallen trees, and brushed overgrown sections to keep this wild route passable. Through partnerships with the Forest Service, conservation corps, and fellow non-profits, BFTA has stewarded lands across 5 national forests, including 6 wilderness areas.
Paying it Forward
A cornerstone of BFTA’s mission is to inspire and empower the next generation. Through its Youth Stewardship Project and the newly launched Klamath Mountains Workforce Training Network, the alliance has connected young people with wild nature through restoration opportunities and immersive field experiences. These programs blend ecological education with trail stewardship and other hands-on skills that nurture deep connection with the natural world.
Building Community
Beyond boots on the ground, BFTA has fostered a growing community of trail users, educators, and conservationists. From summer volunteer trips and seasonal gatherings to collaborative trail summits, the alliance has created space for people to fall in love with the Klamath Mountains bioregion. The Bigfoot Trail itself—linking biodiversity hotspots and cultural crossroads—has become a pathway for connection, story, and stewardship.
Looking Ahead
As BFTA enters a new decade, our roots are deep and our vision remains bold: to protect a world-class long-distance trail and living classroom. With every trail cleared, mile walked, and student inspired, the Bigfoot Trail Alliance strengthens the bond between people and place. But make no mistake about it- these are challenging times for our public lands. We need your help to keep them wild and accessible, while inspiring the next generation to carry the torch for biodiversity conservation. Please join BFTA or renew your membership today. Together we’ll protect an enduring legacy…for the next 10 years and beyond!
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