The 2.5 mile Swiftcurrent Lake Trail in the popular Many Glacier Valley not only has spectacular views but also is relatively flat and can be accessed from the Many Glacier Hotel, as well as the Grinnell Picnic area, making it a great choice to build a new accessible trail. In 2011, the first 1300 feet leaving the picnic area were made accessible. This project would take the next step by making the first 1000+ feet from the hotel accessible.
The biggest challenge in the past has been sustainability of the accessible tread itself. Native material-based products have been located which will provide a great accessible surface, be environmentally friendly, and have excellent longevity and ease of maintenance. Trail location and transportation of nearly 65 tons of materials make this type of project expensive and labor intensive but this project would set the stage for eventual continuation around the entire lake in the years to come.
