They are no longer just names on a map: Star Peak, Little Spar Lake, Pillick Ridge, Ross Creek Cedars, Goat Mountain, Scotchman Peak. Some are close friends, while others are neighbors that I would like to know better. I am new to this country, but have already discovered that each name represents an individual entity and an experience unto itself. I have hiked in many congressionally designated wilderness areas; Scotchman Peaks is a unique place, a wilderness in every sense of the word. Being close to this untamed land is exciting. Visiting it is humbling.
There are many ways to be Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. There are hikes to join; stewardship projects to do; and rare carnivores to find. If you are averse to using a Pulaski or cannot engage in major physical activities, there are still actions you can take to fulfill our mission. Indoor work is available and donations are always happily accepted. One of the most important actions is outreach to let others know about this wild treasure.
There are two events coming up where you can share your enthusiasm and knowledge. The Huckleberry Festival in Trout Creek is August 11th and 12th. You can march in the parade or spend time at our booth. Contact Ernie Scherzer at xberea@blackfoot.net to share in the fun.
The Bonner County Fair starts August 21st and ends August 25th. There are still afternoon and evening time slots to fill at the booth. Choose the time that works best for you. Talk to people, smile a lot, pass out maps and newsletters, reminisce about the fairs of your childhood, and arrive early to explore. Contact trails@scotchmanpeaks.org for more information and/or to sign up for the booth.
The last day for the Star Peak Trail re-build this summer is August 17th: same time and place. For more information, contact trails@scotchmanpeaks.org . So far, we have cut 0.9 miles of trail. It is time to thank our volunteers and celebrate their hard work on this project!
The last trail project of the year is Saturday, September 29th at Morris Creek Trail. Further information is on the way, but mark it on your calendar now. We have some hikes coming up as well; I will be telling you more about those next week.
See you on the trail!
