Andreas's Lower Loop #6 and Andreas's Upper Loop

Description:

These trails provide a remarkable mountain bike descent through the forest to the north of the Swift Mountain Forest Road. Andreas Thoni is said to be the mastermind behind these Laundry Chutes of Doom.

The upper loop is steep but passable on foot or perhaps by truly hard-core mountain bikers. It begins its descent directly from the fourth switchback up the Swift Mountain road and connects with the lower loop at the old logging road that forms part of the lower loop. "Structures" along this trail include a long, narrow wooden bridge about 6 feet off the ground that spans a small stream.

The lower loop ascends along an old logging road from the Swift Mountain Road and then suddenly dumps over the bank and winds downhill through the woods and across another old road to join the Swift Creek Loop. "Structures" include several ramps and jumps made of wooden poles, and a small wooden bridge. There is a drinking water pipe at the bridge. It is possible to bypass all the structures on foot or if your mountain bike does not seem to want to travel over them.

Getting There (upper loop):

See the directions for accessing the five-mile trail. Ascend the Swift Mountain Road to the fourth switchback (consider the Selwyn Traverse trailhead to be the first one).

Getting there (lower loop):

The entrance to this trail is marked by a small pile of rocks beside the Swift Mountain road about 270m. up the road from the Swift Creek Loop trailhead and 730m. down the road from the Selwyn Traverse trailhead.

Hiking Times:

Allow about 1 hour to wander down the hill and see what Valemount's enterprising young people are up to. Another hour will likely be needed if you explore both loops and ascend up the road back to your vehicle.

Biking times: Almost no time at all if you live. Longer if you don't.