The Swan Range

George Cecil, businessman

" It's an awesome experience to be able to so quickly leave a sometimes chaotic life in the Flathead Valley and within a half hour be experiencing Mother Nature at her very best. These experiences allow you to get re-centered on what is really important in life. What could be more devastating to these brief, peaceful moments in Valhalla than the ear-shattering roar of a motorcycle or ATV tearing up a foot or stock trail. The peace and quiet is immediately shattered, the quiet moment is ruined.

There literally are hundreds and hundreds of miles of forest land and roads open to mechanized vehicles in Northwest Montana. Why must they destroy the few, small wilderness areas like the Swan Range that remain for those of us who prefer the quieter more peaceful outdoor pursuits? When is enough enough for them? Please, allow us to have this small slice of wilderness."

Jim Cossitt, attorney, hiker and skier, Kalispell

"The rate of growth in the Flathead Valley is resulting in many more people
using the Swan Range. This includes both motorized and non motorized users.
Motorcycles, snowmobiles and ATVs results in many adverse impacts that are
not being adequately addressed, including trail erosion, water quality
degradation, litter and, most significantly, noise that shatters the peace
and quiet that many of us seek in tranquil and pristine areas."