Help refurbish Sierra Club huts

Sierra Club huts have been a tradition since the 1930s. Established in California by Club members who had seen and used huts in Europe, they have provided shelter for generations of skiers, snowshoers, and (now) snowboarders who find wonder in overnight exploration of areas near Donner Summit and Lake Tahoe.

Each September and October work parties of volunteers come to the four huts to refurbish and resupply them for another winter season by bringing in firewood, repairing broken windows, and generally cleaning up. There are plenty of things to do for just about everyone.

Volunteers need only simple backpack gear, clothes they don't mind getting dirty, and a healthy attitude toward manual labor. The Club provides tools and supplies (including food) as well as overnight and breakfast at Clair Tappaan Lodge near Donner Summit at no cost before the work party begins.

Enjoy the camaraderie of working with other volunteers in the crisp fall air of the mountains. No experience is necessary. For more information or to sign up, contact one of the leader/organizers below.

Sep. 10 - 11 - Benson Hut - Jim Gannon, (707)525-1052 or jgannon99-at-earthlink.net

Sep. 17 - 18 - Peter Grubb Hut - Chris MacIntosh, (650)325-7841 or cmaci-at-sbcglobal.net

Sep. 24 - 25 - Peter Grubb Hut - Debbie Benham, (650)964-0558 or deborah05-at-sbcglobal.net or Herb Steierman, (408)773-7013 or herb.s-at-ix.netcom.com

Oct. 8 - 9 - Ludlow Hut - Dick Simpson, (650)494-9272 or rsimpson-at-stanford.edu

Oct. 15 - 16 - Bradley Hut - Dick Simpson, see number above.

Oct. 22 - 23 - location to be determined, Dick Simpson, see number above.

For information about using the huts during winter (including reservations) visit ctl.sierraclub.org/outings/lodges/huts/map.asp or phone (800) 679-6775.