The oldest and largest state conservation corps program in the country (established in 1976), California Conservation Corps (CCC) crews will return to Yosemite this summer restoring trails and developing life skills. Crew members come from diverse backgrounds and through ongoing programs that include employment training, academic education and scholarships youth are set on a path to successful lives.
Part of the crews’ backcountry experience includes training in the dry-stone masonry techniques. Techniques in trail repair are part of a comprehensive program where youth also learn about ecology, resource management, sustainability, wilderness survival training, career development training and health and safety skills.
Crews will cover over 40 miles of trails in the Tuolumne watershed, including restoration and repairs on the Pacific Crest Trail / John Muir Trail near Donahue Pass. The Merced watershed will see over 60 miles of trails restored through the CCC crews efforts.
The Tuolumne River is one of Yosemite’s two main watersheds. Its area includes streams, meadows, granite domes, canyons and the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. Wilderness trails in this watershed offer access to spectacular hiking and are the only way to access some of the park’s best fishing and backcountry camping spots. Many people are familiar with portions of the Merced watershed as its flows through Yosemite Valley and nearby Wawona, both popular areas for park visitors. Look out for these crews if you visit Yosemite this summer, and say hi if you pass them on the trail.
Your support goes to work in creating the best in youth programs and trail restoration. Visitors enjoy better trails and youth spend their summers immersed in the outdoors while learning valuable skills.
Partnering with California Conservation Corps (CCC), a program for young adults in their late teens and early 20s and Yosemite National Park.