New Additions

Here it is, May 6th, and still no final word about all of the teams? Well, yes, but for good reason. Last week, as we were spreading the word to 300 prospective volunteers, we realized that there are some great sections of trail out there that need more coverage. Particularly, the San Juans in southern Colorado and the Bridger-Teton Wilderness, just south of Yellowstone. There's also Yellowstone itself and Glacier National Park; spots that deserve just a little bit more attention, where a 35-mile trip can last well into the week.

So we pored over maps and came up with six new sections, meaning six new teams with spots for roughly 30 more volunteers. So the coming week will bring more good news to those wanting to get out on the trail this summer and do some recon. Thanks for your patience--we're anxious to get this thing rolling ourselves.

In the meantime, we are hearing back from loads of volunteers that have signed on, and the range of experience and skill sets are quite impressive. A team that's heading to Montana will be joined by Clay Zimmerman, an outfitter from Utah who manages a unique staff: pack goats. About six breeds of dairy goats make excellent hiking companions over rocky terrain, and Clay straps the bearded porters up with their own packs to help spread the load. You can check out his rental site, High Uinta Pack Goats, for a better look at the hearty hoofers.