North Country Trail Association

Volunteer Resource Center

Get the resources you need.

The North Country Trail Association is dedicated to providing its volunteers with the most comprehensive, safe, and accurate resources needed to build, maintain, and promote the North Country National Scenic Trail.

New Volunteers

I'm totally new. Where do I start?
Submit a Volunteer Interest Form and we’ll get you connected with your local NCTA Chapter or the best point of contact based on the skills and interests you’d like to offer.
I am ready to head out on a project. How should I prepare?
First, protect yourself through the National Park Service (NPS) Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) program agreement. Then consider contacting the NCTA Chapter or group you plan to volunteer with to confirm the meeting time and location, and any other details. Always dress for the weather, wear sturdy footwear, and bring extra water!
Where do I find volunteer opportunities?
Browse the NCTA Events Calendar. Activities are searchable by date, location, NCTA Chapter, or the type of activity or event. You can also reach out directly to your local NCTA Chapter.

Current Volunteers

Where do I find volunteer opportunities?
Browse the NCTA Events Calendar. Activities are searchable by date, location, NCTA Chapter, or the type of activity or event. You can also reach out directly to your local NCTA Chapter.
How do I sign my Volunteers-In-Parks agreement?
Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) program and agreement information and instructions are available at northcountrytrail.org/nps-vip.
I recently volunteered on a project. What now?
Report your volunteer hours as soon as possible, so we can recognize your service appropriately and report to the National Park Service the value of your service. We also recommend you request to be included on your NCTA Chapter’s email list to stay informed of upcoming activities and opportunities, and keep an eye on the NCTA Events Calendar.
How or when do I update information on my Volunteers-In-Parks agreement?
As long as you continue to report your volunteer hours at least once a year, you must only update your volunteer agreement when there is a change in personal information, or if you wish to make any changes to the volunteer positions you wish to perform. We recommend you contact the NPS Volunteer Program Manager before making or submitting any changes.

Volunteer Resources

In addition to the guidance listed below, the NCTA Chapter Leadership Handbook is the go-to document for anyone interested in a leadership position within the NCTA.

  • Trail Management
    Design and build sustainable trail, blaze and sign the NCNST, and stay safe while managing groups of volunteers.
  • Volunteer Management
    Recruit, manage, and recognize Chapter volunteers.
  • Trail Protection
    Secure long-term protection of the Trail across private land and effectively partner with our public land management agencies.
  • Outreach + Communication
    Showcase the NCTA and NCNST, and inspire stewardship.
  • Grant + Financial Management
    Apply for grants (including JEDI Mini-Grants) and manage Chapter finances.
  • Leadership
    Lead your Chapter and fellow volunteers with the best resources available.
  • Policies
    Learn how to represent the North Country Trail Association accurately with this guidance.
  • Trail Towns
    Establish, implement, manage, and engage the program in your Trail Town.

Header photo by the NCTA Hiawatha Shore-to-Shore Chapter