BCDC Trails Committee Update
Author: Carol Hatfield, BCDC Trails Committee and Chairman of the Broadwater. Co. Parks and Rec Board
Carol Hatfield
BCDC Trails Committee and Chairman of the Broadwater. Co. Parks and Rec Board
Broadwater County Development Corporation Trails Committee Launches New Era of Collaboration and Community-Driven Trail Development.
Broadwater County’s outdoor recreation network is gaining fresh momentum as the Broadwater County Development Corporation (BCDC) Trails Committee advances its Trails Vision Plan and begins forging new partnerships across the region. With multiple projects underway and growing support from statewide and regional trail organizations, the committee is positioning Broadwater County as a leader in collaborative, community-driven trail development.
A Vision for a Connected Future
The Trails Vision Plan, adopted after months of public input and mapping work, outlines a long-term strategy to expand and improve trail access throughout the county. The plan emphasizes connectivity between neighborhoods, public lands, and recreation destinations, while also prioritizing safety, accessibility, and stewardship.
Committee members describe the plan as a “living roadmap” that will guide project development for years to come, ensuring that new trails reflect community priorities and strengthen Broadwater County’s outdoor recreation economy.
Front Street Asphalt Trail Improvements Move Forward
One of the first projects to advance under the Vision Plan is the maintenance and improvement of the North Front Street asphalt trail, a heavily used walking and biking route in Townsend. The trail has become a daily fixture for residents of all ages, and resurfacing and safety upgrades are planned to extend its lifespan and improve accessibility. BCDC has applied for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Trail Stewardship Grant for funding to get this project started.
The project reflects the Vision Plan’s commitment to preserving existing assets while planning for future expansion of the community’s paved trail network.
River Paddlers Trail Takes Shape Along the Missouri
Another major initiative is the proposed River Paddlers Trail, which identifies a series of designated access points, interpretive features, and safe launch areas along the Missouri River. The concept has generated strong enthusiasm among paddlers, anglers, and local businesses who see the river as an underutilized recreational corridor.
The project aims to highlight the Missouri River’s natural beauty while improving safety and access for boaters, kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders. This project is in partnership with the Gallatin Valley Land Trust who oversees a portion of the River Paddlers Trail in Gallatin County with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Regional Partnerships Strengthen Local Capacity
Two important partnerships that the BCDC Trails Committee sought advice from on the Trail Vision Plan are the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) and the Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT). Both groups bring decades of experience in trail planning, land conservation, and community engagement.
Now in a significant step forward, the BCDC Trails Committee has strengthened collaboration efforts with these two respected regional organizations that will help refine the county's trail planning processes, explore new funding opportunities, and learn from successful trail systems in neighboring communities. GVLT and PPLT have expressed enthusiasm for supporting a county that is proactively building a long-term vision for recreation and open space.
Pilot Project with the Montana Trails Coalition
Broadwater County will be working with the Montana Trails Coalition as a pilot project, giving the BCDC Trails Committee access to statewide expertise in trail funding, policy, and advocacy. The coalition’s support will help the county navigate grant opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and elevate local trail priorities at the state level.
Committee members say the pilot project is a major milestone that will accelerate progress on both current and future trail initiatives.
Community at the Center
As these projects and partnerships move forward, the BCDC Trails Committee emphasizes that community involvement remains essential. Public meetings, volunteer opportunities, and open house events will continue throughout the year as the Trails Vision Plan is implemented.
With new collaborations, active projects, and a clear long-term strategy, Broadwater County is stepping into a new chapter — one where trails, open spaces, and outdoor recreation play a central role in the county’s quality of life and future growth.
If you are interested in being a part of the BCDC Trails Committee, please come to the next planned meeting on February 12 at 6 pm at the Lodge in Townsend. We are seeking volunteers with skills and interests in the trails program: marketing, public relations, media, design of logos, signs and posters, or actual trail construction-related work and fundraising activities. Contact Al Christophersen, Trails Committee lead 406-439-0197; John Hahn, BCDC President, 406-202-1050; or Carol Hatfield, Broadwater County Parks and Recreation Board Chair, 406-431-9656.
