The Swan Range

Karen Reeves and Doug Chadwick

As a budding wildlife biologist in the 1970s, Doug Chadwick, cut his teeth by studying mountain goats in the high country of the northern Swan, documenting how valuable the mountains are for mountain goats, and other species. Today, he is internationally known as a writer for National Geographic. Doug and Karen, of Whitefish, still enjoy knowing the Swan range is there for people and wildlife alike. “We both feel that if we can’t keep the very ridges and summits free of motorized traffic, engine noise, and accompanying disturbances, where on the Swans’ mountainsides are we supposed to go to get away from the hubbub and hurry of the world below?” they say.

Tom and Melanie Parker, Condon outfitters

We love all of the northern Swan Range and Historic Alpine Trail #7. We love to take visitors in from the Napa Point trailhead because it is an awesome place to get perspective on the entire Swan Valley. Spring wildflowers and birding are amazing. I grew up in a family that was serious about its horses and serious about its motorcycles. One thing we figured out early on is that the two do not mix well in a backcountry setting.

I have been on Historic Alpine Trail #7 and in one day encountered hikers, horseback riders, llamas and motorcycles. In my opinion, the high quiet wild country of the north Swan Range should be motor-free, to reduce user conflicts and to protect the spirit of the place.