Ken Graves and the Heart of Backcountry Trail Work

A Life in the Saddle

For nearly five decades, Ken Graves has ridden into the wilderness with horses at his side and purpose in his heart. As a seasoned horse packer on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Ken has spent most of his career navigating the rugged beauty of the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness — hauling tools, gear, and stories into the backcountry.

A Conversation with Ken Graves

In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Ken to talk about his remarkable journey. He shares memories from a lifetime on the trail, reflections on the changing nature of public lands, and his commitment to training the next generation of packers — people who will carry on this vital, behind-the-scenes work that makes modern trail stewardship possible.

The Backbone of Backcountry Work

Horse packers like Ken are the unsung heroes of trail work. Machines aren't allowed in wilderness so it's the hoofbeats of mules and horses that bring in what’s needed to get the job done. Their contribution to trail conservation is quiet, powerful, and essential.

How You Can Get Involved

We invite you to listen in, be inspired by Ken’s story, and consider how you can support the trail — not just by hiking it, but by helping care for it.

The Bigfoot Trail Alliance offers opportunities for all skill levels to get involved, whether on remote volunteer vacations deep in the Klamath Mountains or weekend work trips near the trailhead. Every hand, hoof, and heart counts.

Listen to the episode and learn more at bigfoottrail.org/podcast Sign up to volunteer at bigfoottrail.org/volunteer