Fluctuating valley temperatures have left our local trail system with mixed conditions as we wait for that dependable MT winter to arrive. We want to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season! It's been a difficult year in so many ways, and we are fortunate to have your support. Read the latest trail report, learn about logging in Beaver Lakes, and consider an end of year gift to WLP.
Happy Holidays from everyone at WLP!
 
This holiday season, we are especially grateful for the trails and open spaces that have provided our community with opportunities to stay active, come together with family and friends, and enjoy moments of quiet during these difficult times. 

None of it would be possible without you - our donors, volunteers, and partners! We have missed seeing you at trail work days, guided learning hikes, and community events like the WT Hootenanny, and we appreciate all the ways you've still shown your support. Wishing you happy holidays filled with joy, love, and snowy trails! 
Did you enjoy the Whitefish Trail this year?
Consider an end-of-year 2020 donation
The Whitefish Trail and our local conservation lands would not exist without our donors. Make a lasting investment in the future of our local lands, and help us in 2020. We are working hard to maintain our existing trail network, permanently protect Smith Lake, develop new trails, and expand outdoor education opportunities for our community. 
The Whitefish Trail at Beaver Lake
www.whitefishlegacy.org/donate

*If you prefer, send your end of year donation check to Whitefish Legacy Partners, PO Box 1895, Whitefish, MT 59937. To donate stock or to take advantage of the
MT Endowment Tax Credit, contact WLP Director of Development directly.
alan@whitefishlegacy.org

If you have been enjoying the Whitefish Trail,
we need your help with our 2020 fundraising!

Be a WT Friend or Family this year and make an investment
in the future of our local lands. 

Big Mountain Trailhead & Nordic Update

Credit: HeartStone Advisors

We are thankful that Glacier Nordic Club partners to maintain the Big Mountain Trailhead for winter use. They have started daily grooming of the Nordic trails in Haskill, and you can find the latest trail conditions on GNC's grooming page. 

As a friendly reminder, here are some guidelines for winter trail use in Haskill:
  • Parking for the Big Mtn Nordic Trails is allowed at the Big Mountain Trailhead on Big Mountain Rd and at the lower parking area on Haskill Basin Road
  • Parking for the Big Mtn Nordic Trails is NOT allowed at the Base Lodge at Whitefish Mountain Resort. WMR parking areas are for alpine skiers only.
  • When accessing trails from the Big Mountain Trailhead, dogs must be on leash for the first half-mile of groomed trail
  • Stay in your lane to preserve the set classic track and skate ski zone. Snowshoers and walkers should stay on the opposite side of the classic track and on the far edge of the groomed corridor. 

Did you know that Glacier Nordic Club receives 75% of the donations received during the winter at the Big Mountain Trailhead? Grooming is expensive, and they need your help to keep this amazing resource free and available to the entire community. Donate cash at the trailhead or directly through their website. Thank you and enjoy!

Trail Closures & Updates

Beaver Lake Timber Sale - The DNRC's Beaver Timber Sale is underway. Expect temporary road and trail closures, and watch for traffic at all road crossings. Cutting and hauling logs is mostly complete in Unit K, and the contractors have moved their operations to Unit Y. The WT 'Beaver Tail' or spur trail to Beaver Lake will be temporarily closed at times. Flathead County recently bladed and spread sand on Beaver Lake Road to help with traction. Drive slowly and watch for logging trucks.

For up-to-date information regarding the most current logging operations, check the DNRC kiosk at the Beaver Lake Trailhead.



Reservoir Trailhead - The City of Whitefish is completing maintenance work of their water treatment facility near the WT Reservoir Trailhead. The trailhead may be temporarily impacted by construction equipment and materials, and the trail may be temporarily closed during construction. Stay up-to-date on our FaceBook or Instagram pages for the latest information. 
Whitefish Trail Report - December 2020
by Alan Myers-Davis, WLP Director of Development 

Credit: Whitefish Bike Retreat

Credit: @warbleswithbella
Winter has been slow to arrive in NW Montana this year. We had snow in October, then warm temperatures in November, and now rain and snow in December. Mtn biking and trail running had an early season extension that is quickly coming to a close. Despite the fluctuating weather, it's been nice to see so many people taking advantage of our local trails and open lands. Lion Mountain, Beaver Lakes, and Reservoir trailheads have been busy with walkers and fat bikes, while the Big Mountain Trailhead has been full of eager Nordic skiers hoping for a taste of winter in Haskill Basin. 

As a reminder, the following WT trailheads are plowed for winter use:
  • Lion Mountain, Skyles, Beaver Lake, Swift Creek, Reservoir, and Big Mountain 
All other trailheads are not plowed consistently, so drive with care if trying to access these harder to reach places. 

For the most part, trails are snow covered with patches of ice throughout the trail system. Recent rain and snow will be followed by colder temperatures and traction devices are strongly recommended. It's a wonderful time to enjoy our local lands and connect with family and friends. Be sure to tag your photos with #whitefishtrail on social media for a chance to be featured in our next trail report!

As you get out and explore the Whitefish Trail this winter,
we'd love to see your photos and hear your trail stories! 

Email info@whitefishlegacy.org 


Thank you to our Corporate Sponsors

The Whitefish Trail relies on the generosity of trail users, conservation-minded supporters, and local businesses to create a year-round sustainable asset for future generations.  

 
Buffalo Cafe is a Founding Sponsor of the Whitefish Trail and has been donating a portion of their sales since 2011. Next time you are looking for a night on the town, consider a locally owned, locally operated restaurant that gives back to the community in so many ways. 

Thank you Buffalo Cafe for being a 
WT Founding Sponsor!
Third Street Market is a Founding Sponsor of the Whitefish Trail and has also made a long-term commitment to the project. They have been supporting WLP and the project since 2011, and we feel lucky to have them on our team. Shop at your local, organic grocer! 

Thank you Third Street Market for being a WT Founding Sponsor!
 
Click here to learn more about becoming a Corporate Sponsor of the Whitefish Trail.