With the new year just a couple weeks old, the Squamish Trails Society (STS) has already been busy working on local trails to improve our local trail network.
The recent heavy rains have revealed where water is puddling and pooling on our trails which can contribute to trail erosion, widening and braiding. Providing drainage, particularly through relatively flat areas, can be challenging.
Recently, STS and its trail maintenance partners have begun to address sections of the north end of the Swan Trail which collect water.
The Squamish Trails Society would like to take this opportunity to thank Dwayne Kress and Leader Excavation for their donation of time, material and expertise in building up sections of the northern Swan Trail to improve the sustainability and overall experience of trail users travelling along this popular, long-loved Squamish trail.
Work on this trail may be ongoing through the winter months, so keep an eye out for trail workers if you are out enjoying this trail.
A second significant project in which the Squamish Trails Society has been involved is located in the north-west corner of Smoke Bluffs Park.
With the District of Squamish’s acquisition of property adjacent to Channel Road and its inclusion into Smoke Bluffs Park along with the considerable new climbing route development and refurbishment of some old classic routes located along there, connecting the Smoke Bluffs Park parking area and Main Trail to Channel Road with an accessible trail has become an important endeavor.
Immediately after crossing the bridge heading up the hill from the Smoke Bluffs Park parking lot, one can find the start of this newly refurbished trail which is still under construction to the right making its way cleverly past blocks, bluffs, trees and a bog.
For the adventurous, there are hours of fun to be had exploring the many trails located within and adjacent to Smoke Bluffs Park.
The Squamish Trails Society would like to convey its appreciation to John Harvey, Ryan McNutt, Kai Friele and Todd Nichols of Thimbleberry Construction for the recent work done on the Channel Road Connector Trail.
The rockwork, woodwork and earthwork represent hundreds of skilled, generously donated volunteer hours in addition to some masterful professional work. Its addition to the Park provides a new manner in which to explore this, Squamish’s Crown Jewel of city parks.
Matt Parker is the president of the Squamish Trails Society.
