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Open Lands Division outlines new trails, trailhead improvements and proposed nighttime trailhead closures
Summary
Parks staff presented a list of 2025 Open Lands major projects — new and reconstructed trails, a proposed trailhead parking area and a proposal to close six interior trailhead parking areas at night (11 p.m. to 5 a.m.) — after a two‑step stakeholder process and public comment.
Brad Langstaff, Open Lands Manager, presented the Open Lands Division’s proposed major projects for 2025 to the Helena City Commission on March 19. Staff described a two‑step public engagement process that included a December 18 listening session and a January 30 follow‑up; the outreach involved more than 250 stakeholders, media notices and online comment opportunities.
Langstaff said staff refined the list after public feedback and removed one project that provoked concern. The final 2025 project list includes four new trail constructions (including loops on Mount Ascension and a connector on Mount Helena), three large reconstruction projects (including work on the Prickly Pear Trail and Meatloaf Hill commuter routes), one new trailhead parking area proposal to address unsafe parking near Mountain View Meadows/Arrow Road, and a small parking‑area improvement at Reader’s Village to improve upper‑to‑lower tier access.
Langstaff said staff received over 30 public comments, mostly positive. In response to increased nighttime activity and disturbances at some trailheads, staff proposed a nighttime vehicle closure limited to six interior trailheads between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Langstaff clarified the proposal would restrict vehicular access and parking at those trailheads during the stated hours but would not prohibit people from hiking into the parks from street access or other trailheads.
Commissioners asked about long‑term maintenance and the need to address social trails to avoid larger capital fixes later; Langstaff said staff will continue to evaluate maintenance strategies. If the commission supports the trailhead closure proposal, Langstaff said an ordinance would be required and staff would install signage; he estimated implementation could begin in the summer following ordinance and signage work.
No final ordinance or budget appropriation was adopted on March 19; staff will return with any ordinance language, cost estimates and a recommended implementation timeline.
