Montana Volunteers Clear 50 Miles of Trails on Horseback

Deep in Montana's backcountry, nearly 40 volunteers are doing work that would otherwise leave wilderness trails impassable for years.

The Last Chance Back Country Horsemen have been riding into remote areas since 1981, partnering with the Forest Service to maintain trails that conventional crews struggle to access. This year alone, they've cleared between 40 and 50 miles of trail, including a recent 10-mile stretch in a single trip.

"For us to be able to enjoy it, we got to clear it, and someone's gotta do it," said president John Pavsek. "We don't get everything, but we get as much as we can."

The process is far from simple. Volunteers pack chainsaws, hand tools, and supplies onto horses and mules before heading into the wilderness. Certified sawyers cut through fallen trees while other team members drag logs off the path to keep hikers and riders safe.

In designated primitive areas, the work gets even harder. Chainsaws aren't allowed, so crews rely on crosscut saws and hand tools to clear obstacles. "It's definitely a labor of love, because I can knock out 10 times more trees with a chainsaw," Pavsek noted.

Forest Service Helena district ranger Kathy Bushnell doesn't mince words about the group's value. "What they do voluntarily and using their horses, their equipment, is truly invaluable," she said. "We can't state it enough how much we appreciate what they do."

The Ripple Effect

The volunteers' impact extends far beyond cleared trails. Their work keeps Montana's public lands accessible to hikers, riders, and outdoor enthusiasts who might never know someone cleared the path ahead. They also mentor new volunteers on backcountry best practices, spreading knowledge about responsible wilderness travel.

Member Sherri Lionberger sees benefits in every direction. "You get to keep your animals in shape, you get to be productive, you get to meet new people all the time, you get to spread the word about how best to travel in the back country," she said. "There's just all upsides to it."

The group welcomes anyone interested in joining their mission. Whether you own horses or simply want to help maintain trails, the Last Chance Back Country Horsemen are always looking for dedicated hands.

For these volunteers, every cleared mile represents more than just accessible trails—it's about leaving Montana's wilderness better than they found it.