Point Defiance Trails Day

Take the time to discover Point Defiance in a whole new way.

Saturday, June 5,  8am - Noon

Why we celebrate National Trails Day

This is the 4th year of the event, in conjunction with National Trails Day, the largest trails celebration in the nation.

Participants will help to restore our trails back to their original conditions and clean up the impact of severe storm and mudslides from recent winters. 

Volunteers will focus on litter and garbage removal, vegetation pruning, path repair and removal of accumulated brush piles and downed limbs.

Meet at the Zoo entry at 8 am for an early morning guided walk through the Park. Meet at Owen Beach at 9 am to help with trail maintenance projects.

Why Volunteer on Trails Day?

Without the support of volunteers, land managing agencies and outdoor-minded businesses, our trails would disappear. Trails take us to good physical and mental health by providing us opportunities to breathe fresh air, get our hearts pumping, and to escape from our daily challenges and stresses. National Trails Day is the only nationwide celebration that was created to:
  • Promote public awareness and appreciate for trails and the people who build and maintain them.
  • Promote the health benefits of trails.
  • Build partnerships among trail groups, businesses and public land managers.
  • Encourage cooperative efforts among the various trail users.

Event Schedule

8am: Early Bird Nature Walk
Take a guided walk through Point Defiance Park. The walk begins at 8am, starting in the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium Parking Lot. The walk is estimated to be around 5 miles, however, you can return at any time!

9am - Noon: Trail Maintenance Projects begin at (meet at Owen Beach)
Take time to discover Point Defiance Park "behind the scenes."   We need your help in restoring our trails back to their original conditions due to severe storm and mudslide impacts from prior years.  Volunteers will focus on:

  • Litter and garbage removal
  • Vegetation pruning 
  • Path repair
  • Removal of accumulated brush and downed limbs and branches.

Work projects are broken out into different areas, each requiring different levels of skill.   There are projects for everyone regardless of age, health, size, etc.      

What to Bring

All tools, equipment, safety supplies and materials will be provided.  Volunteers can help by wearing warm, appropriate clothes, depending on the weather.  Volunteers are encouraged to carpool to the site they chose. Most of all bring your enthusiasm, smiles and be ready to burn some calories and have fun! 

More Information

Questions? Contact richardm@tacomaparks.com or call (253) 305-1014

View Photos: Trails Day 2007

Last Updated: May 27, 2010 11:38 AM