The Great Burn Conservation Alliance (GBCA) was founded in 1971 by a group of passionate University of Montana students who fell in love with the landscape. Now, over 50 years later, GBCA continues to rely on college students to advocate and steward these lands. With a wide variety of volunteer stewardship offerings, students, along with the general public, are able to get involved in a project they are passionate about.
Over the years, projects have evolved, ranging from trail work and restoration to campsite inventories and trash cleanups. Projects are open to the general public, reserved for school groups or organizations, or even co-hosted with various companies. The project planning process allows ample room for creativity!
The Benefits of Volunteering with GBCA:
Earn Field Work Experience:
Participating in a volunteer trip provides hands-on experience in conservation and environmental stewardship;
Learn about and participate in trail maintenance, invasive species removal, habitat restoration, or data collection;
Especially valuable for students studying environmental science, biology, botany, forestry, or other related fields.
2. Earn Community Service Hours:
These trips are a fantastic way to fulfill service hour requirements for school or other organizations;
Can enhance a resume or application for graduate programs in a related field.
3. Make New Friends and Build a Community:
GBCA brings together like-minded individuals who share a passion for the outdoors and conservation;
Students have the chance to network and create lasting friendships with volunteers and GBCA staff members.
4. Enjoy Backpacking for Free:
One of the best perks of these trips: backpacking and experiencing nature in a stunning, remote setting — all at no cost.
GBCA provides breakfast, dinner, and group gear; we can also help support your personal gear needs.
Trips offer students the opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Great Burn ecosystem, all while giving back to their public lands.
What the Stewardship Trips Involve:
During our projects, volunteers backpack to and camp at the project location. Projects range from overnight trips to weeklong ventures, offering work for anyone who would want to get involved.
In exchange for hard work, volunteers are rewarded with breathtaking scenery, peaceful surrounding, delicious meals, and the change to meet some incredible people.
Each trip has a different range of difficulty, be sure to check this out to ensure you register for the best trip for you.
Trips are guided by experienced GBCA staff, ensuring safety and a meaningful experience.
How to Get Involved:
Register for a trip HERE. While there’s a refundable deposit, don’t let this to be a barrier to participation. Contact volunteer@greatburn.org for a deposit waiver!!
Space on these trips is often limited, so plan ahead and register early!
If you lead or know of a group or organization that would like to co-host a trip in 2026, contact us and we’ll work together.
Get involved with the Great Burn Conservation Alliance this summer as a way to gain practical experience, contribute to meaningful conservation efforts, meet new people, and enjoy a rewarding outdoor adventure — completely for free.