Level Up Your Trail Building Skills: Fall Trail Master & Mechanized Construction Courses
Are you ready to take your trail-building skills to the next level? This October, we are bringing two incredible training workshops to Oak Mountain State Park, led by industry expert Mike Riter of Trail Design Specialists.
Whether you need to earn your foundational certification or you are an experienced trail builder ready to operate heavy machinery, these back-to-back courses offer the ultimate blend of classroom learning and hands-on, in-the-field experience.
1. Trail Master Certification Class
Dates: October 4–8
Location: Oak Mountain State Park
Course Fee: $750 (Note: Lodging is not included)
This intensive, five-day course covers the latest advances in trail design, construction, and maintenance, with a strict focus on long-term sustainability and ease of maintenance. Participants will receive a detailed instructional booklet specific to each segment of the course.
What You’ll Learn:
- Design & Layout: How to properly design, map, and lay out a sustainable trail.
- Environmental Stewardship: Crucial techniques to avoid erosion and minimize environmental impact.
- Trail Dynamics: How to handle user conflicts and plan for multi-use trails.
- Construction & Rehab: Proper construction techniques and how to successfully rehabilitate existing, worn-out trails.
2. Advanced Mechanized Trail Construction Class
Dates: October 9–11
Location: Oak Mountain State Park
Course Fee: $650 (Note: Lodging is not included)
Prerequisite: Trail Master Certification is required to participate in this class.
What You’ll Learn:
- Machinery Training: Hands-on operation and training with professional equipment, including the Ditch Witch® mini skid steer.
- Mechanized Restoration: High-efficiency techniques for restoring rugged trails using machinery.
- Safety First: Comprehensive safety guidelines and best practices for operating heavy equipment in the field.
Help Us Gauge Interest!
Know Someone Who Wants to Join?
Help us spread the word! If you know a volunteer, staff member, or fellow trail advocate who wants to level up their skills, send us their contact information. Because the Trail Master Course runs immediately before the mechanized class (October 4–8), they can secure their prerequisite certification and take both courses back-to-back!