For those thinking of using the Mount Vernon Parkway trails but are concerned of possible security risks or accidents that may, a Trail Patrol volunteer program offers an added sense of security and confidence.

Local volunteers supplement the U.S. National Park Service’s park ranger presence by patrolling the area and offering advice, help, and a secure presence throughout the trails of the Mount Vernon parkway.

Trail patrol volunteers work under the general supervision of park rangers, and have the responsibility to report incidents and help to those in need.

Park Ranger Sarah Gamble, coordinator of the Mount Vernon Trail Patrol Volunteer Program for more than a year, describes the volunteer program.

“The NPS’ role is to protect and preserve the cultural and natural resources of of the park resource and trail, and provide the highest level of visitor safety to the users of the park,” Gamble said. “The Mount Vernon Trail Patrol program, begun in 1999, supports those responsibilities in an effective and personal way. MVTP volunteers assist in medical and mechanical emergencies, educate trail users of proper trail safety rules and etiquette, and inform park rangers of trail conditions and incidents, provide services at outdoor races and events. I have greatly enjoyed my time with the volunteers and never cease to be amazed how dedicated and diligent this diverse group of Trail Patrollers are.”

Describing the Mount Vernon Trail Patrol’s geographic area, Gamble said, “The MVTP trail runs 18.5 miles beginning at the Mount Vernon parking lot adjacent to the George Washington estate circle drive in the southern end of the Mount Vernon parkway, extends north along the Potomac river, includes a 1.5 mile loop at Fort Hunt Park, and continues north to Theodore Roosevelt Island on the Potomac river across from the District of Columbia. This multi use trail is visited by over 1 million users annually, and is one of the most used trails in the U.S. It was originally built in 1973 and paved in 1975.”

There are currently 20 volunteers in the program.

“We provide training on the job through a mentoring program,” Gamble said. “Trail volunteers must take a walk or bike ride with the Ranger Trail Patrol Coordinator two times before they are authorized to serve. Guidelines in a handbook and training manual are also issued. Vests or jackets and first aid kits are provided by the NPS and paid for through our volunteer account. Individual volunteers use their own bikes. We have supplied bike repair kits and other items on request.”