Trail Crew Member

The Ranch at Rock Creek•Philipsburg, MT

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Trail Crew Member is responsible for the stewardship of our extensive trail network, which caters to mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. This role involves maintaining existing routes and actively participating in the construction of new purpose-built singletrack and multi-use trails. The ideal candidate is a passionate outdoor professional who understands the nuances of sustainable trail building and can operate effectively in a high-end guest service environment.

Requirements

Minimum of 1–2 seasons of professional trail building or conservation corps experience.
Understanding of sustainable trail guidelines (IMBA for bikes, USFS standards for stock/hiking).
Proven experience with chainsaw operation and safety (sawyer certification preferred).
Ability to hike 5+ miles daily over steep, uneven terrain while carrying a 40lb pack and tools.
Ability to lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs. frequently.
Ability to work long hours in variable Montana weather conditions (heat, rain, snow, bugs).

Nice To Haves

Strong riding ability is highly preferred to test flow, speed management, and feature safety on bike-specific trails.
Experience operating mini-excavators (e.g., Kubota U17/KX040) or skid steers for trail construction preferred.
Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification preferred.
Experience with dry stone masonry or rock armoring preferred.

Responsibilities

Act as a knowledgeable Ranch Ambassador; be prepared to offer trail recommendations, identify local flora/fauna, or provide directions with a warm, professional demeanor. You are often the 'face of the ranch' in remote areas.
When encountering guests on the trail, pause work to allow safe passage and engage in polite, knowledgeable conversation regarding the ranch and routes.
Perform routine brushing, limbing, and removal of deadfall across 5,500 acres to ensure safe clearance for riders (equestrian and MTB) and hikers. Maintain tidy and professional work site(s), even mid-project, to preserve the ranch’s aesthetic.
Identify and repair drainage issues, erosion, and braking bumps; perform frequent maintenance of grade reversals, knicks, and rolling dips.
Regularly inspect trail features (berms, bridges, rock gardens) for structural integrity and safety; report hazards immediately to the Activites Manager.
Execute new trail builds based on flagged corridors using hand tools and/or mechanized equipment; work includes bench cutting, rock armoring, retaining wall construction, and finishing work.
Assist in the creation of specific features including flow trail berms for mountain bikes and hardened stream crossings for horses.
Navigate and work in challenging terrain, utilizing the natural landscape (canyons/gulches) to create engaging and sustainable trail alignments.
Sharpen, clean, and maintain a fleet of hand tools (Pulaskis, McLeods, rogue hoes) and power tools (chainsaws, brush cutters).
Safely operate 4x4 trucks and UTVs (Side-by-sides) to transport crew and gear to remote areas of the ranch.