Remember the "Trail to nowhere" along the highway in Thompson Falls? That first bit of trail was a grant-funded beginning that grew into a popular trail system.

The Thompson Falls Community Trails (TFCT) committee is always working to add to or to improve the community trail network. The group's efforts may not always be noticeable but there are many facets to acquiring funds for trail building, trail maintenance and organizing fundraising events. The most noticeable recent additions are the kiosks at the North Shore parking area and the Powerhouse Loop trailhead. These are informational kiosks that include detailed maps.

The North Shore parking area, on Gallatin Street, now has a one-panel kiosk that directs folks to many of the recreational opportunities in Thompson Falls. There is a detailed map and photos depicting the sites and trails in the area. Eventually the backside of the kiosk will also have a placard with various photos of sites to visit in the area.

The two-panel kiosk at the Powerhouse Loop trailhead also includes a map of the loop trail and state park connector on one side and Northwestern Energy (NWE) warning signs on the other. This kiosk helps to organize and centralize all the signage found at that location.

The kiosks were made possible by funding from Northwestern Energy. NWE has been a valuable and enthusiastic partner of the TFCT efforts. The Bill Susic Construction crew built both attractive kiosks. Over several months TFCT volunteers planned, coordinated and designed what you will see as an end product of their time, energy and foresight.

Take a hike or bike, walk your leashed dog and enjoy the outdoors and the sights along the growing non-motorized network. The trails are open dawn to dusk year-round and there are seasonal restrooms available as well.

The TFCT committee welcomes volunteers to join the group. Call 827-6942 if you have questions or are interested in joining the committee.