September 26, join over 100 trail stewards and public lands advocates on National Public Lands Day in the moss-draped old-growth forests of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley, where we’ll unveil a groundbreaking model to safeguard trails and habitats for good. This model won’t be threatened by the ebbs and flows of funding, and it will support the US Forest Service as we continue to advocate for increased staffing.
If you’ve heard of Mailbox Peak or Mount Si, chances are you know about the majestic beauty of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley, a crown jewel of the Pacific Northwest and the most ecologically intact river valley remaining in King County. Right now, it’s facing unprecedented challenges. Federal staff cutbacks are starting to affect public lands across the nation, and in the Middle Fork, they threaten to overwhelm trail systems, damage vital wildlife corridors, and disturb one of the cleanest watersheds in the Puget Sound.
Though this place used to be a literal dumping ground, our coalition spent decades cleaning it up, restoring degraded sections of habitat, and creating 12 new sustainably built trails like the new Mailbox Peak Trail, plus amenities that protect people and wildlife! We’ve worked with land managers, Tribes, community members, and non-profits to create something the region has never seen before: a self-sustaining $10 million stewardship fund that can protect this place forever!
Why This Matters:
- 80% of the Middle Fork is at risk due to underfunding and staffing shortages at the US Forest Service
- Trails, waterways, and ecosystems need urgent care to survive climate threats and overuse
- Your voice and platform can inspire thousands to take action and support long-term stewardship
- The more people learn about this model, the more likely it is that other groups will use it as a solution
Highlights of the event:
- Unveiling the creation of a $10M self-sustaining stewardship fund to protect trails and habitats
- Hands-on restoration and trail reviving activities by the stunning turquoise-blue Wild and Scenic Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River
- Opportunity to capture unique recreation activities throughout trails that lead to mountain views, lush forests, and wild rivers
- Opportunities to meet fellow advocates and learn about the Middle Fork’s conservation efforts
Event Details:
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Trail Work: 9 a.m. – Noon
Followed by a Cheers for Volunteers celebration at Tanner Landing Park in North Bend.
