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Alternative Spring Break 2026 – Tarleton State University

ByAmanda Lipps

The 2026 Alternative Spring Break brought together Tarleton State University students, volunteers, and staff for a week of meaningful service and connection. Split between trail work on the Cumberland Trail at Bird Mountain and an office support day in Crossville, the event combined hands‑on conservation with behind‑the‑scenes nonprofit support.

The goals of the week were to:

  • Support sustainable trail construction on the Cumberland Trail
  • Provide students with opportunities to learn conservation skills
  • Strengthen the capacity of the Cumberland Trail Conservancy through administrative and fundraising assistance
  • Build community, confidence, and leadership among students

Participants contributed more than 280 total hours of service, learned the foundations of sustainable trail building, supported organizational operations, and donated unused food to blessing boxes and a local halfway house. Students reported increased confidence, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of what community‑centered service can look like.

1,215

Feet of Duff Removed

225

Volunteer Hours Dedicated to Trail Construction

63

Volunteer Hours of Administrative Support

Students using hand tools to pull the duff layer from the trail tread
Students using hand tools to pull the duff layer from the trail tread
Local volunteer, John Wigington, talks to the students about his thru hike of the Appalachian Trail
Local volunteer, John Wigington, talks to the students about his thru hike of the Appalachian Trail
Tarleton students hike to Ozone Falls on the Cumberland Trail on their last day to celebrate a successful week
Tarleton students hike to Ozone Falls on the Cumberland Trail on their last day to celebrate a successful week
Each participant is responsible for a 10 foot section of trail - just enough to be close to your neighbors without being in swinging distance
Each participant is responsible for a 10 foot section of trail at a time – just enough to be close to your neighbors without being in swinging distance

This year’s Alternative Spring Break was a powerful blend of hard work, learning, and community. Students shared that they felt welcomed, included, and valued throughout the week—both on the trail and in the office. One student’s rallying cry, “NO DUFF TOO TOUGH!”, became the spirit of the trip as the group cleared a quarter mile of new trail corridor and built momentum toward future progress.

Participants also appreciated time to learn how sustainable trails are built and why thoughtful design matters. While travel time posed some challenges, students noted that the overall experience was “fantastic,” and many expressed interest in returning for more days next year to make an even bigger impact. We are grateful for every student, volunteer, partner, and staff member who made this event possible. Their efforts will benefit hikers, local communities, and the region for years to come.