You know me — I love a good potluck. There’s something about the mix of homemade casseroles, creative salads, and that one person who always shows up with a plate of cookies that disappear in seconds. But this time, it’s not just about the food. It’s about trails. It’s about community. And it’s about rolling up our sleeves (after a second helping of pasta salad, of course) to talk about how we can keep Nevada County’s trails thriving for generations to come.
On Saturday, August 30th from 5–7pm at The Trail Center (15150 Manzanita Diggins Dr, Nevada City), Yuba Trails Stewardship (YTS) is hosting a Community Meet & Greet – Volunteer Interest Potluck Social. Think of it as part community dinner, part trail pep rally, and part chance to learn what this amazing organization is all about.
This event isn’t a lecture — it’s a gathering. Plan to:
Meet new people
who share your love for nature and community.
Learn about YTS
and how you can get involved.
Share your ideas
for the future of trails in our county.
Enjoy good food
because potlucks are the glue that hold small towns together.
Details at a Glance
When:
Saturday, August 30th, 2025 | 5–7pm
Where:
The Trail Center, 15150 Manzanita Diggins Dr, Nevada City
Bring:
A dish to share + your ideas + your trail-loving self
RSVP:
Email info@yubatrailsstewardship.org
Who is Yuba Trails Stewardship?
Yuba Trails Stewardship is a community-driven organization with the mission of:
“Advancing our regional pedestrian vision by uniting public land managers and stakeholders in transparent, collaborative care.”
What does that mean in practice? YTS doesn’t build the trails themselves — instead, they organize, plan, develop, and secure funding for projects that shape our regional trail system. Their role is to bring together public agencies, nonprofits, and community stakeholders to create a shared vision and ensure trail projects move forward with transparency and collaboration.
The actual hands-on work of trail construction and maintenance is carried out by the Sierra Builders Guild, a separate organization that trains volunteers in the skills needed to build and care for our trails. Together, these two groups form a powerful partnership: YTS lays the groundwork and secures the resources, while Sierra Builders Guild puts tools in the hands of volunteers to make the trails a reality.
YTS and the Sierra Builders Guild have already helped create more than 50 miles of community trails — including the stunning Tribute Suspension Bridge Trail — all built for free through the dedication and hard work of local volunteers. That’s not just impressive… it’s inspiring.
The Bigger Picture
Let’s be real — our trails are more than dirt paths through the woods. They’re lifelines for families looking for a safe place to walk, for kids chasing butterflies on a Saturday afternoon, for hikers craving fresh air after a long week stuck in a cubicle, and one of the ways visitors fall in love with Nevada County’s charm.
By helping develop a world-class trails network, YTS is transforming our community into a place where living a healthy, active lifestyle isn’t just possible — it’s easy and fun. And the best part? When you volunteer with the Stewardship, the time you spend organizing, planning, and securing resources directly supports the construction and care of trails that future generations will enjoy.
It’s like planting seeds today that will grow into shade trees your grandchildren can rest under someday.
Trails don’t just happen — they’re built, loved, and protected by people like you. Volunteering isn’t just about giving time; it’s about gaining friendships, finding a sense of belonging, and feeling connected to the land beneath your feet. Every dish shared and every conversation at this event helps fuel a movement that ensures Nevada County’s trails remain safe, beautiful, and accessible for all. Showing up, even for one evening, is your chance to be part of something much bigger than yourself.
Behind-the-Scenes Volunteers Needed
Yuba Trails Stewardship depends entirely on behind-the-scenes champions — the people who make trails possible without ever lifting a shovel. We’re seeking community members with skills in administration, grant writing, fundraising, outreach, marketing, and project coordination who also share a passion for trails. Your work powers the vision: by helping us plan, secure resources, and connect with the community, you make it possible for the trails we dream of today to become the trails we walk tomorrow.
Click here to fill out an interest form for YTS
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