1

Trail Building Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$16.90 - $18/hr

Knowledge of trail building techniques and Leave No Trace principles preferred. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Must be at least 18 years of age. * Live Scan background check ...

Well versed in all aspects of cross-country biking to meet demands of growing sport. * 2 years previous trail building and maintenance experience, preferably in a bike park environment. * 2 years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Trail Building information

See salary details

$28K

$98.1K

$148K

How much do trail building jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for trail building in the United States is $98,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trail Builder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trail Builder, you need expertise in outdoor construction techniques, environmental stewardship, and physical stamina, often supported by experience in landscaping or conservation work. Familiarity with hand tools, power equipment, GPS devices, and safety certifications like Wilderness First Aid are typically required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are essential soft skills for working in varied terrain and weather conditions. These abilities ensure trails are built safely, sustainably, and to high standards, supporting recreation and habitat preservation.

What is the difference between Trail Building vs Trail Maintenance?

AspectTrail BuildingTrail Maintenance
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of construction, safety certificationsSame as Trail Building, often with additional focus on safety
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor natural settingsExisting trails, outdoor natural settings
Employer & Industry UsageOutdoor recreation, parks, conservation groupsPublic parks, trail organizations, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding how to create new trailsMaintaining and repairing existing trails

Trail Building involves constructing new trails from scratch, requiring skills in excavation, grading, and safety. Trail Maintenance focuses on preserving and repairing existing trails to ensure safety and sustainability. Both roles are essential for outdoor recreation and conservation efforts, often performed by similar organizations and requiring comparable certifications.

What is trail building?

Trail building is the process of designing, constructing, and maintaining trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, or other outdoor activities. It involves planning routes, clearing vegetation, shaping the trail surface, and installing features like bridges or drainage systems. Trail builders work to create paths that are safe, sustainable, and minimize environmental impact, often collaborating with land managers and volunteers. Proper trail building ensures enjoyable and accessible outdoor experiences for the public while protecting natural resources.

What are some common challenges faced by trail builders during a typical project?

Trail builders often encounter a variety of challenges, such as adapting to changing weather conditions, working with difficult terrain, and minimizing environmental impact while meeting design specifications. Coordination with land managers or stakeholders is crucial to ensure compliance with regulations and community needs. Additionally, trail builders may need to use specialized tools or machinery and work collaboratively in teams to complete tasks efficiently and safely.
What cities are hiring for Trail Building jobs? Cities with the most Trail Building job openings:
What states have the most Trail Building jobs? States with the most job openings for Trail Building jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trail Building job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,146 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Mt. Bike Terrain Park & Trail Attendant

Mt. Bike Terrain Park & Trail Attendant

SPIRIT MOUNTAIN

Duluth, MN

$13.44 - $15.12/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description


Location: Spirit Mountain
Pay: $13.44-$15.12/hour (Union Position)
Schedule: Must be available for evenings, weekends, and holidays
Seasonal Role: Mid-May through end of October
Status: Union, Hourly, Non-Exempt


Position Overview

Spirit Mountain is hiring Trail & Terrain Park Crew members for the 2026 summer season. This hands-on, labor-focused position is ideal for individuals who want to work outdoors and contribute directly to building and maintaining our mountain bike trails and terrain park features.


You'll help shape riding experiences by digging, raking, lifting, and building - everything from hand-crafted dirt jumps to machine-assisted trail features. This is a physically demanding role that's perfect for those who take pride in hard work and enjoy being outside and part of a crew.


Age Requirements
  • Must be 16+ to apply
  • Must be 18+ to operate heavy machinery
Key Responsibilities
  • Build and maintain bike trails using hand tools (shovels) and light equipment (weed whacker)
  • Construct both natural and fabricated features (jumps, rollers, berms, etc.)
  • Operate machinery (if 18+), including mini-excavators, chain saws, compactors, and power tools
  • Shovel, rake, tamp, and pack trail surfaces
  • Assist with daily maintenance and inspections of trail systems and park features
  • Follow safety protocols and contribute to a culture of safe operations
  • Work as part of a close-knit crew to meet daily build and maintenance goals
  • Support broader mountain operations when needed

Requirements

What We're Looking For
  • Comfortable doing physically demanding, outdoor labor
  • Reliable and self-motivated with strong work ethic
  • Works well with a team and communicates effectively
  • Takes pride in craftsmanship and attention to detail
  • Follows instructions and safety procedures consistently
  • Open to learning new skills and operating different types of equipment
Why Join Our Crew?
  • Union position with consistent, meaningful work
  • $1 season pass to enjoy the mountain on your days off
  • Discounted equipment rentals and Adventure Park passes
  • Get hands-on trail building and park maintenance experience
  • Be part of a high-impact team that shapes the riding experience

If you like digging in the dirt, shaping trails, and seeing your work ridden by thousands - this is your job.
Apply today to join the Trail & Terrain Park Crew at Spirit Mountain.