The sixth annual Harriman Trail Tea Party got a boost this year, both in elevation and in the amount of money raised to support maintenance.
The trail features stellar views of the Boulder Mountains, lodgepole pine forests, open meadows, creeks and, on occasion, wildlife. It also has several interpretive sites and benches.
District naturalist Cathy Baer, who conducts weekly hikes on the trail, calls the gathering of women "Stewards of Harriman." Indeed, were it not for these fit and chic women in hats, the trail—which is not supported in any way by taxes, Blaine County Recreation District funds or trail pass fees—would not be kept up for the many hikers, bikers and skiers who use it each year.
The party, Tuesday, July 11, was held at the guest home of Vancouver (B.C.) and Sun Valley resident Kim Kawaguchi, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Kawaguchi matched the amount raised that day. The total put the Harriman Trail endowment over the $100,000 mark.
"That amount is because the women of this community rallied to make this happen." Blaine County Recreation District Director of Development Kris Stouffer said. "We want this trail in place. What we do here is make sure it is. It's a very special event with a familiar, welcoming group of women who love gathering in this way."
The Harriman Trail, named for Sun Valley Resort founder Averell Harriman, runs from Galena Lodge south to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area offices, eight miles north of Ketchum.
