Volunteer Profile: The Pie Guy Is Delivering Smiles to the Backcountry One Slice at a Time

by Brandon Tigner

In the lush, rugged backcountry of Washington, WTA volunteers work tirelessly to maintain the paths that meander through the wild landscape. Amidst the sounds of axes and shovels clanking, a new sound might be heard: the crunch of a pie crust and the delighted laughter of trail workers enjoying a delicious surprise.

Meet Mike Read, the "Pie Guy," whose passion for conservation, community, and culinary delights has brought joy to the trail crews of Washington.

A Passion for Conservation: the Pie Guy Origin Story

Mike's involvement with WTA began with his deep-rooted love for conservation and trail maintenance, fostered through years of volunteer work with Trout Unlimited stream restoration projects and leading the Boy Scouts of America.

Retirement brought Mike to Washington, and he soon found WTA, a perfect match for his interests.

Mike transports treats like tomatoes to WTA crews
Photo courtesy Mike Read.

The idea of surprising trail crews with pies comes from Mike's upper Midwest background and his mother, the best pie baker in the world.

Inspired by the tradition of sharing food with friends and family, Mike thought, "What better way to bring a smile on a trail volunteer's face than a delivery of pie to the backcountry?"

A piece of pie isn't just a sweet treat; it’s a symbol of appreciation and warmth, like a hug on a plate.

Building Morale, One Pie at a Time

Mike's process of preparing and delivering pies to remote trail locations involves a combination of carefully timed bakery visits and meticulous packing. Utilizing reusable grocery bags to keep the pies level, Mike treks miles to greet crews with his delicious surprises.

The reward? Smiles and marionberry stains on all the faces. Also maybe a post-pie nap?

Nap or pie during this break? Porque no los dos? Photo courtesy Brandon Tigner.

Mike's pies have done more than satisfy sweet cravings; they've nurtured camaraderie among trail crews. The shared experience of enjoying a surprise dessert in the wilderness boosts morale, fostering a sense of community and connection.

"That fresh pie and fruit on a hot day really made my day, especially after days of dehydrated food," remembers Karen Bean, crew leader, pictured above holding a slice of said pie.

The art of delivery

Mike's backcountry pie deliveries haven't been without challenges. From ten-mile day hikes, to large river crossings, the journey to deliver pies is often an adventure itself.

But armed with a full daypack of essentials (and pies), Mike navigates the terrain to ensure his special delivery reaches the volunteers.

Fresh food after a few days on trail? IYKYK. Photo courtesy Mike Read.

Inspiring Others and Strengthening Bonds

“In places with few physical comforts, Mike’s deliveries of pie and home grown produce are a cherished treat among volunteers and crew leaders alike," says Josh Orendorf, North Puget Sound Crew Leader.

Other treats are received just as well! Mike's initiative has inspired others to become trail angels and find unique ways to combine their passions with community service. From delivering frozen popsicles to fresh walnut bread, these acts of kindness forge a stronger sense of community within the WTA and reaffirm the importance of showing appreciation for volunteers' hard work.

But food is always a good fallback. Photo courtesy Mike Read.

His advice for those looking to contribute? Volunteering doesn't always mean hard work on the trail. Communication, outreach, advocacy are all vital roles within WTA.

"There is a role for everyone to participate," Mike says. We agree.

Mike's aspirations for his backcountry pie deliveries are to reach further areas of the state and inspire others to support trail work in their unique ways. Now a volunteer crew leader focusing on teaching trail skills, he continues to make a difference in the lives of those dedicated to trail conservation.

A Sweet Conclusion

In the wilderness of Washington's backcountry trails, Mike Read's pies are more than just desserts. They are expressions of gratitude, tokens of community, and symbols of the joy that can be found in giving.

His unexpected initiative serves as a reminder that sometimes the simplest gestures can have the most profound impact. The taste of a pie, a smile on a trail, a shared moment of joy — these are the ingredients that make our world a little sweeter.

So the next time you hike those beautiful trails in Washington, know that behind the well-maintained paths, there may have been a pie, a smile, and the Pie Guy's undying passion for community and conservation.