Reflections on the Looking Glass Trail
Written by Matt Parker and published in The Squamish Reporter
While the last thirteen months been challenging, it is important to take stock of those things that have given us strength and respite. The term “Nature Therapy” has been creeping into our vernacular and daily practice. Trails have allowed us to connect to nature and, as safely as possible, with each other. Approximately one year ago with little fanfare but a strong sense of achievement, The Looking Glass Trail between the north end of Tantalus Road and the east end of Depot was completed. There are a large number of people and organizations to thank for making this important trail link between the Ray Peters & Wonderland trails and Brackentrail possible.
An immense debt of gratitude is owed to the following individuals and organizations. During the planning stages and initial work: Jim Harvey, present and past Mayors and Councils, District of Squamish Operations and Planning staff, Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association, Squamish Trails Society, as well as the FLNRORD Trails and Recreation Sites Coordinator, Alistair McCrone and Cascade Environmental’s Mike Nelson who provided on the ground guidance, advice and oversight. It was great to see how well our Municipal and Provincial levels of government and their staff work for the common benefit of our citizens. Funding for the project was generously supplied by Polygon as part of their commitment to off-site trails linked to their Garibaldi Springs Project and the Trans Canada Trail foundation. Lastly, we need to express our deep gratitude to Ted Tempany of Dream Wizards Events and Mike Reed who began physical work on the trail in October 2020, pre-pandemic. They worked through the winter and into the spring breaking rock, installing drainage, building up a trail bed and topping it with local mineral soil. Ted and Mike endured tough terrain and challenging weather to finish this trail by May 1st. Thanks is also owed to the unnamed folks who helped Ted and Mike with survey work, danger tree removal, operating the mud buggies and dropping by to offer help and encouragement. Money may pay the bills and in this case it went for many drills, but it is the notes of appreciation that keeps all those involved donating their time, experience and expertise on these projects.
Although only in its first year, we hope that this trail will outlive us all and be enjoyed by future generations allowing them to connect to nature and their neighbors.
Happy Birthday Looking Glass! Here’s looking at you.
