NWTA Volunteers Return to Firelane 5 in Forest Park
On January 17, 2026, a crew of 12 volunteers headed into Forest Park to continue long-term maintenance and improvement work on Firelane 5. This popular, close-in multi-use trail is a key connection for riders, runners, and hikers, and ongoing stewardship plays an important role in keeping it functional year-round.
Addressing Mud and Groundwater on a Legacy Trail
Firelane 5 is wide and low-sloping as it descends through the forest, making it especially prone to mud and standing water from groundwater sources above the roadbed. Even with the relatively dry conditions this winter, several flat sections still required attention. With crushed rock delivered to the meetup spot by Portland Parks and Recreation, volunteers transported heavy material by wheelbarrow to armor and reinforce the trail surface where it was needed most.
Clearing and Re-Sloping Drainage Along the Corridor
In addition to surface work, the crew focused on identifying and restoring drainage features along the trail. Volunteers moved methodically from drain to drain, clearing and re-sloping a total of 35 drains over the length of approximately one kilometer. These improvements build on earlier work completed by NWTA crews and the Ditch Witch trail machine about a year and a half ago, and the results were clear. The lack of deep ruts or boot prints showed how much stronger and more resilient the trail surface has become.
Visible Impact for Heavy Trail Use
Firelane 5 sees consistent, high use, and the work completed during this dig day directly supports its ability to handle that traffic. Volunteers also unloaded and placed an entire truck bed of crushed rock, targeting the areas most susceptible to wear. The result is improved drainage, better surface integrity, and a trail that holds up more reliably through wet conditions.
Community Connection and Partner Support
Working on a busy Saturday morning meant volunteers had the chance to see firsthand how many people rely on Firelane 5. Hearing words of thanks from passing trail users was a meaningful bonus for the group.
NWTA’s long-standing partnership with Portland Parks and Recreation continues to be central to this work. Firelane 5 has long served as a showcase for what is possible when volunteers and land managers collaborate to care for legacy trails. Parks staff provided tools, materials, and logistical support, helping ensure a welcoming and productive experience for volunteers of all skill levels.
This ongoing collaboration supports NWTA’s goals of lowering barriers to outdoor access and maintaining strong relationships that allow meaningful, high-impact stewardship work close to home.