September Whitefish Trail Report

Out on the trail right now you can feel the season beginning to change. The mornings are noticeably darker and a bit cooler, and understory leaves are beginning to change color. Fall is certainly on the horizon, and everyday biking or hiking (without winter spikes) is a gift!

We are kicking off late summer/early fall Adopt-a-Trail season with more workdays scheduled in the upcoming weeks! Be sure to thank the hard working volunteers when you see them out there working on the trail! If you want to get on the email list for our Volunteer Trail Crew, email Sarah@whitefishlegacy.org for more information. If your family or business is interested in sponsoring a specific section of trail, visit our website for more information about our Adopt A Trail Sponsors program or email Cynthia at cynthia@whitefishlegacy.org.

Now that the busy summer season is behind us, it's a great time to continue to explore the Whitefish Trail and appreciate the beautiful landscapes that surround our community. Please remember that we share this landscape with wildlife and carry your bear spray when you recreate. MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks has some fantastic resources about how to stay safe in bear country including:

Carry bear spray in an accessible place and know how to use it.

• Stay alert and look for bear activity, especially where visibility or hearing is limited (woods, bushy areas, streams).

• Travel in a group and keep members together.

• Make noise whenever possible to avoid surprising a bear, especially where visibility or hearing is limited.

• Avoid traveling at night, dawn or dusk.

• Avoid carcass sites and scavenger concentrations - look for groups of crows, ravens and vultures.

They have specific tips for mountain bikers as well!

Anyone traveling quickly (mountain biker, trail runner) can be at high risk of surprising a bear.

Slow down and look ahead, especially in areas of dense vegetation, berry patches, and around blind corners.

• Ride or run in daylight and in groups.

• Make noise! Let bears hear you, especially where visibility is limited.

• View a video about Bear aware when riding or running in Bear country.

  • WATCH: Biking in Bear Country

Get out and enjoy our community trail system!

Send your trail reports and photos to info@whitefishlegacy.org!