Letter to the Editor - Hiking trails benefit the park

Editor,

I read the Tuesday, Feb. 8, Havre Daily News article covering the Hill County Park Board meeting. The presentation on adding a new loop trail on the Bear Paw Nature Trail near Brough Coulee was exciting. The development of the Nature Trail was a cooperative effort between the Hill County Conservation District, Beaver Creek Park Board, Hill County Commissioners and Havre Lions Club to enhance the outdoor experience in Beaver Creek Park. That trail is used year around and enjoyed by many.

I now write this letter because I am disappointed at the negativity displayed at the park board meeting this past week, with reference to the development of a new loop trail on the Nature Trail. Thank you to the park board for seeing the trail project as an asset to the park and approving the project.

Yes, there is a lot of hikeable land in the park, but not everyone enjoys or is able or wants to trailblaze. The trails open up a whole new way to explore the park by lots more people. I was lucky to spend many summers at our family cabin in Beaver Creek Park, and only wish we could have enjoyed the fun of hiking a trail through the aspens, along the creek or stand in awe of a beautiful view from a high vista.

The work and vision of the Havre Trails groups has been nothing short of amazing. From the first town trail completed, Devlin Trail at U.S. Bank Park, to the wonderful additions of the two loop trails at Rotary Canyon.

It was exciting to see the people experiencing the first loop trail upon its completion. And more excitement and anticipation grew when the second loop was being completed. I believe there are many people, myself included, that now can explore the park and enjoy a spring to fall afternoon walk that may not have just struck out without a defined trail.

We need to be thankful for the Havre Trails Group and their dedication to providing accessible trails that make discovering the greatest recreation area we could have right out our back door. The opportunity for families, friends and visitors to learn about the park while exploring a trail is a gift.

Thank you Havre Trails.

Debbie Vandeberg

Havre