First Accessible Trail in Many Glaciers Valley -- Glacier National Park
Popular Area at Glacier Becomes Accessible
I have hiked the Swift Current Trail out to Swift Current Lake, and count it among my favorites at Glacier National Park. When I hiked this trail, I encountered a resting moose lying in the tall brush, a bear eating berries, a beaver family and countless birds. There are wildflowers and the ever-present bear grass along the path. The views captured through the forest of the surrounding mountains were simply breathtaking.
The accessible trail is being widened to at least three feet. There will be several wider areas, and some of these will provide seating. This is good to know for people like me, who sometimes use a walker -- at present, I am using a knee walker -- and need frequent rest stops.
According to the National Parks Service, work has already begun on phase one of this project, a quarter-mile trail starting at the picnic grounds and ending at the Swift Current Bridge. The work is being done by volunteers from the Glacier Mountaineering Society and the Montana Conservation Corps.
Funding for this project has been provided by the Glacier National Park Fund, which has raised more than $70,000. This project has been identified as a Legacy Project for Glacier Centennial, and donations are still be accepted.
When this project is completed, my favorite place in Glacier National Park will be open to me at all times of my life. I and thousands of others can enjoy the beauty and excitement this trail has to offer. The possibility remains that this trail could be made accessible all the way to Swift Current Lake. It appears the enthusiasm is there; they just need the money.
Sources:
Published by Kent Hadley
A writer of the true and untrue. A teller of tales and sharer of recipes. A political addict. A husband, father, grandfather, dog friend, traveler, roamer, and person liker. A Bear's fan, Buck's fan, Badger... View profile
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