Pam,
As I type this answer I am sitting in the
Everything POP Shopping & Dining food court at
Disney's Pop Century Resort, waiting out a rain storm. I just got back from
Disney's Wilderness Lodge, where I had been exploring the great wild west for an answer to your question. I too had heard recently of a closing of the path because of some construction, but it was unclear if the closing was temporary or permanent.
I am sorry to say that it appears that the walking path between Fort Wilderness and the Wilderness Lodge will not soon return. In chatting with cast members, it became clear that it may even be permanently gone, though there was no official confirmation of this. As Disney develops this area it seems as if it will not return.
I am certain that this is not what you wanted to hear, but let's see what else might fit the bill. My suggestion is to stretch your legs on the 3.1 mile (5 km)
jogging trail at Fort Wilderness. It is a great way to help those grandchildren burn off some of that extra energy while getting to experience the fun outdoors. I would boat over, take the walk, and then end your adventure with a Mickey Bar from the
Settlement Trading Post. It is by the marina, so you can grab that treat before sailing back to your resort. I hope this helps in replacing your original plans.
Please do
write me back if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!
Doug