This Volunteer Opportunity is Currently Not Being Recruited.
Position Summary
Hiking Trail Team volunteers work alongside the Zoo’s staff to care for and maintain sustainable hiking trails that protect sensitive habitats while creating safe, enjoyable outdoor experiences for community guests to explore and connect with nature. This hands-on conservation role directly supports the Zoo’s mission to protect wildlife and wild places through stewardship of protected landscapes across more than 2,000 acres of conserved land.
Activities and Responsibilities
- Clear natural debris from trail corridors using hand tools
- Shape and maintain trail surfaces for safe footing and water runoff
- Remove rocks, roots, and leaf layers to define trail paths
- Support sustainable trail design that protects surrounding habitat
Opportunity Highlights
- Meaningful, hands-on conservation work
- Active outdoor experience with visible results in a peaceful natural setting
- Small team environment
- Learn sustainable trail-building practices from Zoo staff
- Discovering animals in nature
This role is a great fit for volunteers who are:
- Able to walk up to 3 miles on natural terrain
- Comfortable using basic hand tools with guidance
- Reliable and have transportation to Ward Nature Preserve
- Team-oriented and safety-minded
Safety & Preparation
- Long pants
- Closed-toe shoes
- Work gloves
- Refillable water bottle
Note: Natural setting without restroom facilities
Scheduling & Commitment
Volunteers serve in cooler months when trail conditions are best for conservation work. Summer break June–August.
- September–May (seasonal assignment)
- Wednesdays, 9:00am–12:00pm
- Self-schedule two Wednesday shifts monthly
Location
Ward Nature Preserve (near the North Carolina Zoo)
Age requirement
Minimum age requirement is 18 years old
