Clearing the Way: Trail Restoration in the Marble Mountains on the Let’er Buck Trail

Deep in the heart of the Marble Mountain Wilderness, where fire-scarred slopes meet ancient forests and alpine meadows, two dedicated trail crews came together this spring to open a long-overgrown section of the Let’er Buck Trail. This effort was part of a special partnership between the Bigfoot Trail Alliance and Ascend Wilderness Experience, combining forces to restore access to one of the wildest corners of the Klamath Mountains.

For three days, the two groups camped together, shared stories and meals, and poured their energy into revitalizing the trails that wind through this rugged and remote landscape.

Let’er Buck: Where Fire and Forest Collide

The Bigfoot Trail Alliance focused their efforts on the Let’er Buck Trail—a key route within the Bigfoot Trail corridor. The area had been severely impacted by high-intensity wildfire, leaving the first mile of trail buried beneath fallen logs, charred snags, and brush.

Over the course of the trip, the crew:

• Cleared 1.7 miles of trail, including the removal of 86 downed logs
• Restored tread on 0.75 miles, where fire and erosion had erased the path
• Brushed overgrown sections, making the trail clearly visible and passable once again

Multiple stretches of trail were nearly impossible to follow before the crew arrived—now, hikers can confidently navigate through this dramatic wilderness with clear tread underfoot.

A Wilderness Collaboration

While the Bigfoot Trail Alliance tackled the Let’er Buck Trail, the Ascend Wilderness Experience crew worked simultaneously on the adjacent Haypress Trail, just across the drainage. Both groups shared a basecamp, meals, and a deep sense of purpose—proving that when organizations come together with a shared vision, the impact is multiplied.

The entire effort was powered by over 75 volunteer hours, donated by individuals who believe in the power of stewardship and the importance of keeping wilderness trails open for all.

Want to join us next time? Become a trail volunteer and be part of a growing community working to protect and restore the Bigfoot Trail.