Our Grateful Commitment to Trails
by Martha Calus-McLain, TKO Board of Directors
I used to think hiking was free.
Hiking was fundamentally embedded into my childhood in the Okanogan Highlands of Washington State. My siblings and I spent our free time clamoring over sun baked grassy hills, following deer paths, always vigilant for rattlesnakes, while declaring we were going where no one had ever gone before! Growing up in near-wilderness meant it was easy to take open space for granted.
After college, hiking became a cost effective way to spend time with friends and family while exploring Oregon. Once our family budget included two kids, hiking became an even more important part of our lives and we were regular users of OregonHikers.org. Family day hikes were an inexpensive way to spend a weekend day together, and we took pride in passing on to our kids our love of nature.
Years of hiking in National Forests with my family, I had the epiphany on one occasion that hiking is actually not free.
We were climbing a steep hill deep into a long day hike when we came across some stairs. I stopped my kids to take in the wonder of it.
Those stairs were in that wilderness miles from roads and vehicles because someone carried the materials to that remote spot – for us.
Later that year we made our first modest gift to Trailkeepers of Oregon – we have been annual supporters ever since.
Over the past year, as a board member, I’ve learned so much more about TKO and trail work in general, which has enriched our hiking treks.
This year, nearly all trail work in the state of Oregon has been completed by volunteers and now, more than ever, projects are funded with support from private donors, as federal support changes.
I’ve also learned an even greater level of appreciation for those who clear the trials. This year my family admired trail work at Wahclella Falls when we stopped to stretch our legs on a long drive along I84. We climbed Humbug Mountain on the Oregon Coast. We’re regulars at Chehalem Ridge Nature park and we made multiple pilgrimages to Short Beach, near Oceanside.
All of these hikes, along with hundreds of others throughout the state, were possible because TKO volunteers gave their time and energy.
Hiking may come at a relatively low cost to us, but it’s not free – the cost of these extraordinary experiences is covered by volunteers who give us this gift.
We’re deeply grateful and so proud to support TKO to help extend this gift to others. We encourage you to take a moment on your next hike to consider the gift you’ve been given, and perhaps, find your own way to contribute.
Welcoming & Accessible: What That Looks Like This Year
When we say “You Belong on the Trail,” we mean it. Here are a few ways that showed up across Oregon this year:
Accessibility Surveys
On the coast, in the Gorge, and across the state, TKO teams — including Trail Champions — surveyed trailheads and trail segments to identify barriers. This work helps land managers plan improvements so more people can explore confidently.
Trail Champions Listening for Access
Trail Champions don’t just greet hikers — they listen. Their conversations at trailheads shaped how we think about access, safety, and what helps people feel at home outside.
South Slough – Wasson Trail
At South Slough Reserve, Trevor’s crew made trail updates designed for beginners, school groups, and anyone wanting a shorter, quieter outing. A small project with big ripple effects.
Community Support & Mentorship
A huge shoutout to Jennifer Copland of the BIPOC Nature Network for mentoring Champions and helping us deepen our welcoming practices. As Champion Matt said, “It’s people like Jennifer who help us learn how to show up.”
Crew Leaders Creating Welcoming Spaces
Our Crew Leaders and staff work hard to make every volunteer feel at home on the trail. They ask for feedback, honor comfort levels, and keep the focus where it belongs: safety first, fun second — and getting work done a distant third.
DEIB Progress Inside TKO
Welcoming starts within. Guided by our Trail Work / People Work / Systems Work model, TKO staff and board have continued strengthening our internal practices so our values show up in everything we do.
Together, these efforts move us toward a future where the outdoors isn’t just open — it’s inviting.
Week 7 Nonprofit Partner
This week, we’re highlighting local furniture bank Community Warehouse. Like TKO, their work is about clearing the way so people feel grounded and supported. Community Warehouse provides comfort and dignity inside our neighbors homes by providing them with donated furniture and household goods. Because living in a home without a bed is like hiking without a trail.