Lemhi County: CDT Gateway Community
In September 2018, the S/C Trails Group officially designated Lemhi County, Idaho as a Continental Divide Trail (CDT) Gateway Community. The CDT Gateway Community Program is a national platform designed to raise the profile of communities located near the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Salmon City Councilor, Ken Hill cut the CDT Gateway Community ribbon, with support from BLM Field Office Manager, Linda Price (left) and Salmon-Challis Deputy Forest Supervisor, Cheri Ford (right).
“Gateway Communities are towns that recognize the unique economic and cultural value that the CDT brings. They make services accessible to hikers, educate local residents, and advocate for continued access to public lands.
Designation as an Continental Divide Trail Gateway Community and participation in the program is designed to act as a catalyst for enhancing economic development, engaging community citizens as Trail visitors and stewards, aiding local municipalities and regional areas with conservation planning and helping local community members see the Trail as a resource and asset. The program also serves to highlight and recognize those communities who are taking steps to ensure the ongoing protection of their natural, cultural and recreational resources, including the CDT. Preserving and enhancing a charming, memorable community destination will contribute to the long-term economic health of CDT towns and make a CDT hike even more desirable. “
Many thanks to Alex Sholes for gorgeous photographs of Lemhi County, donated for use in CDT Gateway Community promotional materials.
For those people who love our Salmon Challis Trails and want to contribute in a different way, your donation can help us by:
· Providing match. The Salmon Challis Trails Group has been working with Lemhi County in applying for Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grants and we must cover 20% of the cost. By making a tax deductible donation you, the trail user, ensure these projects move forward.
· Supporting volunteers. YEP maintains a trailer with tools for volunteers. We also provide items like T-shirts, hats, water bottles, and food at our volunteer workdays.
· Training. Donations will help us provide first aid, CPR, saw training and more to ensure the safety and well-being of our trail stewards.