The recent reconstruction of the Upper Goat Creek Bridge on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest is a great example of how the National Forest Foundation works with the Forest Service and local partners to make a positive difference on National Forest lands.

The Methow Valley is known for having the most extensive network of groomed cross-country ski trails in the nation, attracting recreational skiers and Olympians in training alike to the gorgeous valley surrounded by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. In the summer trekkers, bikers, horseback riders and runners extensively use the 120-mile Methow Valley Sport Trails System, over 50 percent of which is located on National Forest. It is a vital component of the local, recreation-based, economy.

The Upper Goat Creek Bridge, located on National Forest land, is a critical link on this trail system, allowing passage over Goat Creek, and connecting one of the major portions of the trail network. Each year 50,000 users cross the bridge, and it is on the course of nine different race/sporting events. So in 2012, when the 20 year-old bridge was closed to all users due to safety issues, it threatened the local economy by limiting access to popular trails.

Goat Creek itself provides critical habitat for threatened species of bull trout and salmon. The old bridge was impeding the stream channel, which meant during periods of high water there were incidents of stream blockage and channel over-flow, and potential for bridge damage, all of which can degrade both upstream and downstream critical habitat.

Pieces of the old bridge about to be removed.

Machinery removes large pieces of the old bridge.

Replacement of the Upper Goat Creek Bridge was a project that fit well with the NFF’s mission to promote both the health of and the public enjoyment of our National Forests. So, we partnered with the Forest Service and the Methow Valley Sport Trails Association to redesign and reconstruct the bridge.

The start of the new bridge.

The complete bridge ready for hikers and skiers.

The bridge replacement, part of the NFF’s Majestic Methow Treasured Landscapescampaign, was completed in 2013, reconnecting the trail system for the 2013-2014 ski season. The new bridge allows for unimpeded stream flow, protecting the habitat critical for threatened fish species. This project has resulted in happy skiers and recreationalists, happy fish and happy business owners. And we are happy to have helped it happen!

To learn more about the Majestic Methow Treasured Landscapes campaign, visit nationalforests.org or contact Dayle Wallien at 206-832-8280 or[email protected].