NMVFO plans 20+ volunteer work projects each year. Click here for a printable overview of the current project season, and check back often for additional information posted as it becomes available. To receive updates and detailed information about upcoming projects and events, be sure to sign up for the NMVFO newsletter on the Home page. Public land agencies that are interested in proposing a project should contact our Projects Team (projects@nmvfo.org) for more information and our easy-to-complete project proposal form.
If you’re new to NMVFO, be sure to visit our FAQ page to learn more about what to expect on a project. Project leaders are always happy to answer your questions about specific projects. Have a non-project related question? Send us a message from our Contact page. Pets are not allowed on any NMVFO projects. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or other legal guardian
- This event has passed.
Capulin Trail Backpack (SFNF)
Contact Leader(s): Mike Timmer, 281-622-6858, m.timmer@nmvfo.org with any questions.
RESULTS: Thirteen NMVFO volunteers along with two members of the Santa Fe National Forest Trail Crew cleared 42 deadfalls on 5.3 miles of the Borrego Trail and 181 deadfalls on 3.4 miles of the Capulin Trail! The volunteers also constructed four cairns and closed four social trails to make the Capulin Trail easier to follow and lopped 1.4 miles of the Borrego Trail to make passage easier. The project was supported and fed by two volunteers of the Backcountry Horsemen of America who used three pack mules, a riding mule , and a riding horse to bring in some of the tools, the food, a large shelter, and the cooking equipment.
Description: Join us on a four-day backpacking project to clear downed trees on the Borrego (#150) and Capulin Trail (#158) in the Pecos Wilderness. The Capulin Trail was hard hit in the Pacheco fire, and it has almost disappeared over the years. Back Country Horsemen of America will pack in our tools and prepare breakfasts and dinners for us. We will be hiking about 5.3 miles from the Aspen Ranch trailhead at GPS Coordinates 35.79832, -105.83347 to a base camp at Canada Vaca (aka Rancho Viejo depending on which map you’re using) at GPS Coordinates 35.85428, -105.82362
While the project starts on Thursday, August 21st, you are welcome to join us on Friday or Saturday and spend as much time working with us as you can.
All tools will be provided. We will be using one- and two-person crosscut saws, pruning saws, and loppers. USFS rules require all volunteers to wear ankle-high boots, long pants, long sleeves, hard hats (provided), work gloves, and eye protection (sunglasses okay) while working. Please bring a daypack to carry your lunch, snacks, sunblock, rain gear, and a full day’s supply of water.
Reminder: Pets are not allowed on NMVFO projects.
Please sign up below. Closing date for signups is August 18th, 2025
Difficulty: 
+
Group size: Up to 15
Meet at: Aspen Ranch Trailhead, GPS Coordinates 35.79832, -105.83347
Please read our Volunteer Guidelines before signing up for this project. On the signup form please leave the "Number of Volunteers" at 1. If you would like to sign up additional volunteers please submit multiple signups.