Flathead Trails Association rolls out illustrated map

The Flathead Trails Association (FTA) has just introduced an illustrated map of the valley. On the back, are descriptions of the member organizations Including our own!) with QR codes linking to their web sites . . .

For an outdoor enthusiast in northwest Montana, opting for a trail-based adventure brings myriad options for choosing a map to help plan your outing…

…Now, however, there’s a comprehensive guide to the Flathead Valley’s recreational opportunities, a long-time-coming initiative by the Flathead Trails Association (FTA) that locals and visitors alike can use to plan, discover and learn about the outdoor scene in our own backyard.

Continue reading . . .

Grizzly Inn repairs almost complete

Roofing work on the Grizzly Inn is almost finished thanks to the efforts of a US Forest Service repair crew led by Ryan Powell, Heritage Program Manager for the Flathead National Forest.

Originally called the “Nasukoin Cabin,” the Grizzly Inn got its current name back in the 60’s when Chuck Jonkel spent a lot of time there doing his early, foundational grizzly bear research. It has been around for better than 80 years and likely much longer ago than that — Ralph Thayer inscribed his name on the north wall on April 22, 1942. Until recently, the Grizzly Inn was maintained by “traveler’s code.” Folks who used it made repairs.

On September 19-20, the Forest Service started a badly needed update to the roof, which had been badly damaged  by (of course!) a bear a few years ago. They ran out of time on the first visit, but should have the remaining work wrapped up within the next few days. Here are a few photos from that effort . . .

Grizzly Inn hike, including Forest Service repair crew, September 19, 2023 - W. K. Walker

Grizzly Inn hike, including Forest Service repair crew, September 19, 2023. From left to right: Josh Heflin (USFS), Cole Osbrink (USFS), Randy Kenyon & Numa (NF Trails), Polly Preston (NF Trails) and Ryan Powell (USFS). – W. K. Walker

Grizzly Inn repair, old roof removed, Sep 19-20, 2023 - Photo by Ryan Powell, USFS

Grizzly Inn repair, old roof removed, Sep 19-20, 2023 – Photo by Ryan Powell, USFS

Grizzly Inn repair, new roof almost finished, Sep 19-20, 2023 - photo by Ryan Powell, USFS

Grizzly Inn repair, new roof almost finished, Sep 19-20, 2023 – photo by Ryan Powell, USFS

 

 

Glacier View & Hungry Horse trail condition reports for September 29 posted

T26-Red Meadow Trailhead Signage Replacement, July 14, 2021 - W K Walker

T26-Red Meadow Trailhead Signage Replacement, July 14, 2021 – W K Walker

The September 29, 2023 Forest Service Trail Condition Reports for the Glacier View and Hungry Horse Ranger Districts have been posted to the website Trail Conditions page.

These reports contain a fair amount of useful information. Besides trail conditions, they include trail numbers, their official names and end-to-end mileages. The reports may also list information on trail and area closures, especially during fire season.

The current fire danger is MODERATE.