Golden spring light filtered through the trees, catching the dust we stirred on the hillside. Above us, mountain bike hubs buzzed in chorus, riders gliding past on finished sections of trail, unknowingly cheering us on. Charles greeted us enthusiastically for trail work and led us down the fresh corridor—a new trail in the making that will soon be a climbing trail to the middle mountain of the Western Slope. Our task: benching the trail to a beginner-friendly three-foot width and building a rock garden.
This land holds stories. Before we started, Charles points out what was once an old cow pasture, and later, the start of a cul-de-sac planned for resort development. It now brims with trail potential. Fertile soil from the cow fields meant the return of thick, tangled invasives—vines and brush overtaking the area. The tour of the trail work operation and the history of the land grounded us before we began. Since April, weekly trail crew volunteers have worked tirelessly to clear it. Now, we’re shaping it into something rideable, sustainable, and inviting that aligns with the newly released trail plan.
For many at the trail work, it is their first time, not knowing what to expect, how to use a tool, or even where to go. The trail leaders make it easy, approachable, and the group’s relaxed, playful, encouraging tone turns it into a game you don’t want to end.
Dig Days aren’t just about moving dirt and rock (though that part sure is satisfying). They’re about learning and shaping the future of our community—how to safely handle tools, how to respect our bodies and each other, and how to read the land. Charles, Karl, Michael, and Luke, volunteers on the Western Slope team, each offered pointers and educational information on trail care. Water flow, erosion, and the rider’s experience are all accounted for. Trail work is an art and a science.
As we swapped places with the rock crew, it struck me: every element of the trail is a series of thoughtful, physical decisions. A rock is pried from the ground, carried to the site, tested for fit, turned, chipped, rotated again. Does it work? Is it safe? Is it rideable? Especially for someone new to the trail?
This is how trails are built: one rock, one step at a time.
Join Us.
Come out to a Weekly Dig Day or mark your calendar for the Big Dig Day on Saturday, May 17th. No experience needed, just a willingness to give. We’re extending trail work through June, so there are plenty of chances to get involved.
Whether you’re new to digging or a seasoned builder, your hands are needed. And as a bonus: volunteer 8 hours of trail work and earn a Massanutten Western Slope pass. But even more rewarding—you become part of building something real and lasting.
We’re grateful for local businesses and groups who are stepping up to give back. Shenandoah Bicycle Company, Rocktown Bicycles, and Mole Hill Bikes have each proudly sponsored a Dig Day, as well as the Her+ Trail Run and Women’s Monday Night Ride.
If your group or organization wants to be a part of the trail magic, reach out to —we’d love to have you on the mountain with us.
These trails don’t build themselves. They are shaped by community, sweat, and care. Be part of it, and I promise you’ll appreciate each time of the trail even more.
👉 Check our events calendar for upcoming dig days and sign up.
