Volunteer stewardship of the Los Alamos County Trail Network is a long-standing community tradition initiated by the Los Alamos Ranch School for Boys in the early 1920s. Since 2000, official records document more that 40,000 volunteer hours devoted to trail maintenance and repair. The Adopt-a-Trail program is an easy way for community members to make important contributions to the continuing enhancement of the trail network. 

What is the Adopt-a-Trail Program?

It is an all-volunteer program that gives the public an opportunity to become actively involved in conservation and maintenance of the County's unique and scenic trail system.

 Who can adopt a trail?

Any individual, family, neighborhood, organization or business can adopt a trail.

 What are the responsibilities?

1. Attend a two-hour training session on the basics of safety, trail construction, and trail maintenance. The next training will be held on in fall 2009.
2. Walk the trail as frequently as possible - once a month or more is a good goal.
3. Pick up litter.
4. Report problems such as trail erosion, tree falls, damaged water bars, trail cutting, vandalism or safety concerns. to the Open Space Specialist at 663-1776.
5. If you so choose, perform simple routine maintenance such as clean out water bars, obliterate detour trails, remove downed limbs or branches.
6. Fill out a short quarterly report form regarding your trail maintenance activities.      

Which trails can be adopted?

The Adopt-a-Trail program includes any trail on the County Trail Network, but stewards are particularly needed for:

Bayo Canyon Trail                   Ranch School Trail

Perimeter Trail                         Los Alamos Mesa Trail

Woodland Trail                        Quemazon Trail

Acid Canyon Trail                     Homestead Crossing

Consult the County Trail Network Map (click here)

Can I adopt just part of a trail?

Yes, just specify the particular section of trail that you want to adopt when you sign up.

 How long does the adoption last?

The adoption lasts as long as you are interested in being involved.  Continued interest will be affirmed each year around National Trails Day, the first Saturday in June.

 How do I adopt a trail?

Send an email to craig.martin@lacnm.us or call 663-1776 with the following information: 

• Name of individual, organization, or business adopting the trail
• Name of the trail or trail segment you would like to adopt
• Contact person with name, email address, phone number