Recently, Larry and Sherry Baysinger attended the annual Back Country Horsemen of Washington (BCHW) Rendezvous in Ellensburg. For Sherry, the trip carried a special secret—Larry was to be honored with the highest award BCHW bestows: the President’s Diamond Award. Arrangements were made, and their family, including sons Scott and Jeff, along with five of their seven grandchildren, joined them for the occasion.

At the Saturday evening fundraiser dinner and auction, BCHW President Dana Chambers took to the podium. She read aloud complimentary commendations from the U.S. Forest Service, Olympic National Park, the Quileute Tribe, and other agencies that had worked with Larry over the years. The recognition was well deserved. Larry and his dedicated crews have cleared countless trails, built bridges, and even assisted in moving the historic Enchanted Valley Chalet.

As Larry’s name was announced, the more than 300 BCHW members in attendance rose to their feet, offering a standing ovation filled with cheers and applause. It was a moment of immense pride, not only for Larry but for all who have worked alongside him.

Larry’s contributions to BCHW span decades. He and Sherry officially joined the organization in 1994, but their commitment to trail work began long before. Over the years, Larry has been recognized for his relentless volunteer efforts, receiving the Lopper Award in 2008 and the BCHW Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. However, the President’s Diamond Award stands as the pinnacle of recognition, honoring a lifetime dedicated to preserving Washington’s backcountry trails.

The work Larry and his fellow volunteers do is crucial but often goes unnoticed. Keeping trails open in the rugged terrain of Washington’s wilderness is no easy task. It requires hauling heavy equipment, clearing fallen trees, maintaining structures, and ensuring that horseback riders, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts can continue to enjoy these cherished landscapes.

Sadly, the future of such work is in jeopardy. The Mt. Olympus Chapter of BCHW, which Larry and Sherry were deeply involved with, recently closed due to a lack of willing board members. Like many volunteer-based organizations, BCHW faces the challenge of an aging membership with fewer younger volunteers stepping in to take their place. Without people like Larry and his team, these trails—so important to the outdoor experience in the Pacific Northwest—could soon become impassable.

For now, the Baysingers remain dedicated to their mission. They continue to maintain the Littleton Horse Campground, its water system, and the stunning 12-mile loop trail offering breathtaking views of Mt. Olympus, Canada, and Lake Crescent. But they need help.

Larry’s award is a testament to what one person’s dedication can accomplish. But, it also serves as a call to action. The trails we enjoy will not maintain themselves. It is up to the next generation of volunteers to pick up the tools, saddle the horses, and continue the work that Larry and Sherry have devoted their lives to.

For those who have ever marveled at the beauty of Washington’s backcountry trails, now is the time to give back. The legacy of people like Larry Baysinger depends on it.