The annual Pints for Paths Brewfest takes place this Saturday, July 13, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Heaven’s Peak Lodge in West Glacier, MT.

The Brewfest is an annual fundraiser for the Gateway to Glacier Trail, a nonprofit citizen’s organization dedicated to building a bicycle and pedestrian path stretching from Badrock Canyon to West Glacier along U.S. Highway 2.  A portion of the trail has been constructed and fundraising for the next phase is proceeding well.

New this year is a Pedaling Poker Run along the pathway route on Friday, July 12. Ride the route anytime after 2:00 p.m. (a group ride begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Stonefly Lounge in Coram) and stop at six participating locations to pick up a sealed poker card. Turn the cards in at the West Glacier Bar and the person with the best hand wins the prize.

We camped outside Coram this past July 4th holiday along the portion of Highway 2 without a path.  After heading out for a couple of morning runs before hiking using hiking sticks in Glacier National Park, I can attest to the benefit a pathway would provide along busy Highway 2.

Expected breweries at Saturday’s brewfest include Desert Mountain, Great Northern, Flathead Lake, Madison River, Tamarack, Bitter Root, Blackfoot, Bayern, Glacier, and Big Sky.  Live music will be provided by Dan Dubuque and Shakewell.  Advance tickets are $15, or $20 at the door.

For the latest information, head to the Gateway to Glacier Trail facebook page.