Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Time: 9 AM -2 PMM
Location: Taylor Creek Trail, First trailhead (milepost 3)
Flavor: Primarily brush-clearing

Join SOTA for a volunteer trail work day in the Briggs Valley west of Grants Pass, where we’ll plan to work on clearing brush and storm debris from the Lower Taylor Creek trail.

Lower Taylor Creek is the backbone trail of the Briggs Valley and will be a main focus of SOTA’s work in 2026. The 7-mile trail connects to many other trails, trailheads, swimming holes, and waterfalls. It has needed maintenance for years since the 2018 Klondike and Taylor Creek fires, but SOTA and others have been chipping away at keeping the trail open. This year, our goal is to get the entire trail completely reopened and passable! However, this is one volunteer day and we’ll tackle just the first section of it. 😉

The trail needs brushing work, downed tree and strom debris removal, and some potential tread restoration. Volunteers can expect to work primarily with loppers, hand saws, and rakes.

We will plan to work on the trail for 4-5 hours and then reconvene at the trailhead for a warm meal and drinks afterwards, to celebrate the work we accomplished!

Email larry@southernoregontrails.org to RSVP or ask questions. In your email, let us know if you are familiar with the area and what tools you plan to bring, if any.

Location

There are multiple trailheads along Taylor Creek. We will meet at the very first trailhead, which is 3 miles down Taylor Creek Rd from Merlin.

There is little to no cell service in the Briggs Valley, so plan your maps and route ahead of time to ensure you know where to meet us.

Coordinates: 42.525089, -123.596792

Directions from Merlin:

1. 1. Drive west on Galice Rd for 8.5 miles
2. 2. After passing Morrison’s Lodge, turn left on Taylor Creek Road/NF-25 (Sign for Briggs Valley 13mi)
3. 3. Drive 3 miles and then the small trailhead will be on your left

Once the small trailhead is full, we will direct folks to park a little farther down the road at the English Cabin Meadow.

What to bring

SOTA has tools and hardhats to lend. Weather can be variable this time of year, so check the forecast and dress accordingly, with breathable and removable layers. Regardless of the temperature, we recommend long pants, long sleeves, and tall socks to protect your skin from weather, poison oak, scratchy brush, bugs, etc. Please bring:

• – Weather-appropriate clothing
• – Gloves and eye protection
• – Water and snacks for yourself during the work hours
• – Optional – loppers, clippers or small hand saws if you have your own you want to bring

Click below to let us know you’re coming!