Hyalite Road Closing to Motorized Use April 1 for Spring Breakup
By Moosetrack Megan

Posted: March 24, 2023

Bozeman, MT (March 24, 2023) — Hyalite Canyon Recreation Corridor is slated for its annual spring closure, starting April 1 through May 15, reopening on May 16th.  During the spring melt and thaw, the subgrade becomes saturated and is unable to support the repeated motorized traffic, which can increase surface cracking and potholes.

With over 30,000 visitors a month during the winter, and more than 60,000 a month during the summer, Hyalite is one of the most popular recreation destinations in Montana. The transition from winter to spring is a great opportunity to enjoy Hyalite in a non-motorized way, including walking, running and biking.

“The recreating public truly takes advantage of this time in Hyalite.  The road closure provides an entirely different way to experience the canyon,” said Bozeman District Acting Recreation Program Manager, Kat Barker.  “The plowing and winter access provides a fantastic winter opportunity.  We are thankful to Gallatin County and Friends of Hyalite for their community involvement helping continue to keep Hyalite plowed.  During spring break-up, we are happy to provide a different kind of opportunity for the public.”

This season during the closure, construction and hillside stabilization work will continue along the road within the first mile of the gate.  One lane will be open at all times. Other administrative work will be occurring too, like maintenance on the main road and crews preparing for the upcoming summer. Visitors are asked to use caution traveling through construction areas and be prepared to see administrative use and vehicles on the road.

Prior to the road opening, Friends of Hyalite, a local non-profit providing support, conservation and year-round recreational opportunities in Hyalite, will be hosting a clean-up day on Saturday, May 13 at 12:30.  Volunteers are needed to help clean up along the road, trailheads, parking lots and other heavily used areas.  We need your continued support to help keep Hyalite enjoyable to all.

For additional information please contact the Bozeman Ranger District at (406) 522-2520 or visit us online at www.fs.usda.gov/custergallatin.  For information about the Friends of Hyalite group and the clean-up day on May 13 please visit www.hyalite.org.

 

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