Introduction to Building Rock Steps and Waterbars
Details
Activity Type: Trail Work | Trail Work
Difficulty: 4 - Moderate
Trip Leader(s): James Liptack
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000011nZB
Register By: 6/5/2026
Audience: Everyone
Description: If you have ever wondered how all those rock steps and waterbars get built, or you want to hone your developing rock building skills, or maybe you just want to give back to the trail, here is your opportunity. In this workshop you will learn about all that goes into building the perfect rock step, from sizing up the job, searching for just the right rock, getting the rock to where it is needed, preparing its new home (a hole in the ground), setting the rock in place, and, finally, making sure that the hikers actually use it rather than walking around it. No experience is needed, only a desire to learn and build something that will last for generations. All tools will be provided. Bring lunch, water, and work gloves. Registration is required to ensure that enough tools are available. Meet at 9:00 AM at the Mobil gas station in Kent at the junction of US 7 and CT 341. See map at right. (41.724212N, 73.477044W) Please contact the leader if you have any questions. PLEASE NOTE ACTION REQUIRED: Federal agency land management partners enable volunteer service on the AT and extend certain protections to volunteers under the National Parks Service “Volunteers in Parks” (VIP) program. If you haven’t already signed the required form, you MUST do so prior to participation in this activity. That form can be found at this link: https://www.tfaforms.com/4876629 . (Note: The form will require that you enter, among other things, a “Group Name”. Please enter “Appalachian Mountain Club”.)
Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!