Appalachian Trail: Swamp River Workday

Saturday, May 16, 2026
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Appalachian Trail - Swamp River Boardwalk
Pawling, NY

The Dutchess-Putnam Appalachian Trail Volunteers are scheduling another workday to improve the decking on the Swamp River Boardwalk. Volunteers are needed to transport lumber, install boards, and pack out old damaged boards. Come join for a day of fun and help improve a beautiful stretch of the Appalachian Trail.

• What to expect: After a successful workday in April, the crew is meeting back up on May 16 to finish the job of improving the Swamp River Boardwalk on the AT. The crew will split into groups, working to transport new pre-cut lumber up the trail to the boardwalk, install the new boards, and transport out old decking.
• Terrain: Easy terrain. Volunteers will be making trips up and down the boardwalk to transport materials.
• What to bring: Water, work gloves, snacks for break time, and lunch. Safety glasses and gloves are required. Please bring them if you have them. If you do not have your own, they will be provided. Also recommended: long sleeve shirt, long pants, and sturdy shoes. Kneepads will be helpful for kneeling on the boardwalk.
• Where to meet: Trailhead Parking just north of Native Landscapes, 991 NY-22, Pawling, NY - Google Maps Link. The crew will meet in this pull-off before moving to the AT Trailhead 0.2 miles south.
• Contact: Please direct any questions to Project Leader and DPAT Supervisor Jim Angley at [email protected]
• Rain Date: Sunday, May 17. Same time, same place.

Required Paperwork: Please complete the ATC Volunteer Service Agreement prior to coming out for the workday, if you have never filled this form out before. 

This Event counts as part of Trail U curriculum.

Attending this worktrip will fulfill the "Non-Trail U NYNJTC Event" elective for any of the 3 curriculum tracks. Fill out your attendance in the Trail U Brochure to track your progress and earn a patch upon completion!

If you have any questions about Trail U, please email [email protected]