The River’s Edge Trail Luminaria Walk is 7-11 p.m. Aug. 22 with 1,500 hand decorated paper bags filled with sand and tea lights lighting the trail from the caboose to Giant Springs Road.
The Luminaria walk began in 1993 and continues highlighting various sections of the trail in Great Falls, according to organizers.
Students from various schools, the Great Falls Public Library, AWARE and Easter Seals colored rainbows, stick figures and flowers on the bags, continuing the tradition, and adults gathered to color bags during dinner parties.
The River’s Edge Trail Foundation continues to improve the 57 miles of trail with private funds, grants and city partnership.
The trail follows both banks of the Missouri River past five dams and reservoirs and four natural waterfalls.
There are 19 trailheads, 15 bridges and 13 underpasses with new projects always on the horizon, according to the foundation.
The foundation has been organizing the Luminaria Walk for years “to celebrate the trail, summer and showcase some great music and enjoy the colored luminaria,” Becky Nelson, foundation board member, said in a release.
To share musical talent along the trail during the event, contract the River’s Edge Trail Facebook page or text Nelson at 406-899-8642.
Volunteers are needed on Aug. 22 around 5:30 p.m. when organizers fill the luminaria bags with sand and candles at the Park and Rec office building at 1700 River Drive North, as well as 8:30 a.m. Aug. 23 at the caboose to walk the trail, picking up the luminaria.
