Trailhead: Swift Creek
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles
This easy trail in the summer makes for a great place to snowshoe or nordic ski in the winter! It is a secluded loop that can be completed in bad weather, since the thick forests it leads through offer protection. Additionally, there are two overviews providing natural, expansive views even with the low visibility we can experience here. If you want a longer day head towards Smith Lake - you’re bound to find yourself alone on a frozen lake!
I think the loop is best completed by going West (see picture below for recommended direction) as the elevation gain is very subtle and the river views make it unnoticeable! In about 1’ of fresh powder it took us about 2 hours to complete the loop, and we were enjoying pictures, the fresh snowfall, and snowshoe adjustment breaks! The view points are designated by a sign, but can be hard to find if there isn’t already a packed trail. Also note that this trailhead is a trailhead for snowmobilers, but this trail stays off of the access road they use and its not the most popular trailhead in the area so often is not busy. It can be louder at the start but once you get on the trails you’ll find the quiet!
