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Trail Work Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort

Trail Crew

Twin Bridges, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Trail Crew Department: Ski Patrol Reports To: Director of Ski Patrol Prepared By: Sierra-at-Tahoe ... Here at Sierra, we pride ourselves on our welcoming and inclusive work atmosphere that keeps the ...

Oakland Zoo

Float Keeper B, California Trail

Oakland, CA · On-site

$28.45/hr

... Trail, including large carnivores, bison, and condors. This role will cover strings in the absence ... Willingness to work outside normal business hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays

Alterra

Snowcat Operator, Winter 26-27

Mammoth Lakes, CA · On-site

$20.70 - $29.51/hr

Ability to work independently trail grooming, trail grading, and push projects. * Strong verbal communication skills and adequate writing abilities. * Operator must be able to complete PistenBully ...

Alterra

Snowcat Operator, Winter 26-27

June Lake, CA

$20.70 - $29.51/hr

Ability to work independently trail grooming, trail grading, and push projects. * Strong verbal communication skills and adequate writing abilities. * Operator must be able to complete PistenBully ...

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Trail Work information

See California salary details

$20

$23

$24

How much do trail work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for trail work in California is $23.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in trail work, and why are they important?

To excel in Trail Work, you need physical stamina, basic knowledge of trail maintenance techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools (like shovels, saws, and loppers), safety gear, and sometimes certifications in first aid or chainsaw operation are typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication help individuals succeed in varied outdoor conditions and coordinate with crews. These skills ensure trails are built and maintained safely, efficiently, and sustainably for public use.

What are some common challenges faced by trail workers, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Trail workers frequently encounter challenges such as working in remote locations, exposure to varying weather conditions, and physically demanding tasks like lifting, digging, and carrying heavy materials. To address these, teams are trained in safety protocols, proper use of tools, and wilderness first aid. Collaboration and communication within the crew are essential to ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently, and many organizations provide ongoing training to help workers adapt to changing trail conditions and equipment.

What is trail work?

Trail work involves building, maintaining, and repairing hiking, biking, or multi-use trails in natural or recreational areas. Workers clear debris, repair erosion damage, build structures like bridges or steps, and ensure trails are safe and accessible for the public. This job can be physically demanding and is often performed outdoors, sometimes in remote locations. Trail work is essential for preserving natural habitats and providing safe access for outdoor enthusiasts.

What is the difference between Trail Work vs Trail Maintenance Worker?

AspectTrail WorkTrail Maintenance Worker
CertificationsOften requires basic safety training, equipment operationSimilar certifications, may include chainsaw safety, first aid
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, forested or mountainous terrainsOutdoor, similar terrains, often in parks or national forests
Employer & IndustryNational parks, forestry agencies, outdoor recreation companiesPublic parks, forestry departments, conservation organizations
Job FocusBuilding, repairing, and constructing trailsMaintaining, repairing, and clearing existing trails

Trail Work and Trail Maintenance Worker roles both involve outdoor work in similar environments and often require comparable certifications. The main difference is that Trail Work focuses on constructing and building new trails, while Trail Maintenance Workers primarily maintain and repair existing trails. Both roles are essential for outdoor recreation and conservation efforts.

What are popular job titles related to Trail Work jobs in California? For Trail Work jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trail Work jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Trail Work jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Trail Work jobs? Cities in California with the most Trail Work job openings:
Trail Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trail Work job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,504 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Pacific Crest Trail Maintenance Volunteers - California

Pacific Crest Trail Assn

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Join the Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) for a day in the dirt, a weekend in the wilderness, or a stint in the backcountry!

Trail maintenance volunteers are a vital component in building, maintaining, and protecting the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the first trails designated as a National Scenic Trail through the National Trails System Act in 1968. Our volunteer crew leaders and PCTA staff lead new and seasoned volunteers across the trail, which stretches 2,650 miles from Campo, CA (near the US-Mexico border) to Manning Park, BC (near the Canada-US border). Our work is divided into 6 regions, which allows our staff to work closely with community members and local volunteer chapters - PCTA regions in California include Southern California (Mexico to Northern boundary of the Angeles National Forest), Southern Sierra (Northern boundary of Angeles National Forest through Yosemite National Park), Northern Sierra (Northern boundary of Yosemite National Park to southern boundary of McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park), and Northern California/Southern Oregon (Southern boundary of McArthur Burney Falls Memorial State Park to Windigo Pass).

Projects are dependent on the needs of the trail in a particular area. Volunteers in the mountainous terrain of the High Sierra may have a different experience than those in the desert landscapes of Southern California. Trail work may include:

  • Cutting and removing fallen trees to clear the trail corridor (trail corridor = like a tunnel through the woods, it includes all the elements of a trail affected by trail maintenance)
  • Brushing the trail (brushing = removal of overgown vegetation, saplings, and tree limbs to open the trail corridor)
  • Maintaining and improving the trail tread (tread = the area where people and stock walk)
  • Maintaining and constructing structures such as rock walls, steps, or bridges

Most PCTA projects do not require prior trail maintenance experience, and we encourage all levels of experience to get involved. You will receive a training session by the trail crew leaders before you begin working on a project, including proper techniques and appropriate tool use.

View upcoming projects and register to volunteer on PCTAConnect: https://connect.pcta.org/volunteer/s/project-schedule

Find answers to frequently asked questions on PCTA.org: https://www.pcta.org/volunteer/new-volunteers/

Apply