Crew Week

Because its work sites are so remote, the Rocky Top Crew has an eight-days-on schedule. Please note that the Rocky Top Crew involves a long backpack in to the work site, and eight days of rustic backcountry camping. From the spike camp in the field, volunteers take day hikes to reach the project area where they will install steps and waterbars, build drains, or reestablish sidehill. On the eighth day, the crew hikes out from the field, cleans gear and tools, and has dinner followed by a recognition ceremony.

Volunteers spend eight consecutive days and seven nights working in remote backcountry locations, far from medical facilities, performing physically demanding manual labor in a variety of intense weather conditions. In addition to trail work activities, volunteers also actively contribute to community chores and always practice Leave No Trace.

Qualifications/Requirements

Volunteers must be physically and mentally ready for the challenges of crew life.

• Volunteers must demonstrate an adequate fitness level upon arrival at base camp by participating in a team-building physical assessment consisting of the following: hiking with a 30 lb. backpack 1.5 miles in 30 minutes or less, a five-minute step test at a rate of 96 beats per minute on a 12’’ step, a minimum of 15 push-ups in 1 minute, two core exercises that consist of one minute of plank and/or boat pose, and balance exhibited by standing on each foot for 20 seconds.

  NOTE:Volunteers who are unable to complete a portion of this fitness assessment may be asked to reconsider their participation on crew.

• Recent backpacking trip report(s) that document distance, location, elevation change, difficulty, and trip length may be required to demonstrate backcountry experience.
• Ability to perform essential functions of the position listed above.
• Respect and follow instructions from crew leaders.
• Understand and apply the training you receive for associated trail work and safety practices.
• Communicate well with others, resolve conflicts effectively, and promote positive interpersonal relationships.