BEARTOOTH RECREATIONAL TRAILS ASSOCIATION

BRTA improves the quality of life and health for Red Lodge residents and visitors by partnering with area organizations to create and maintain trails in Red Lodge and along the Beartooth Front for hikers, bikers, and horses. We work with the US Forest Service on non-motorized trails in the Custer-Gallatin National Forest, and with the City, County, and private landowners on the Rocky Fork trail system.

Since 2011, BRTA has donated more than $78,000 to bring crews of Montana Conservation Corps workers to construct and improve trails. This work has been done in partnership with the US Forest Service, city of Red Lodge, and dozens of local volunteers who cook hearty meals for the young crews (and compete to be voted the kids’ favorite!).

We’ve leveraged thousands of hours of volunteer time through trail “work days” and Adopt-a-Trail maintenance programs. Among the trails that BRTA has contributed to are the Palisades, Nichols Creek, Face of the Mountain, Coal Miners’ Park, and Red Lodge Airport trails. Part of BRTA’s mission includes providing resources on area trails that can be of value to residents and visitors; you can access this resource using the menu on the left.

TRAIL TIPS

Horses are allowed on trails except where noted. When encountering horses, hikers should step off the downhill side of the trail to let them pass; speak normally to the horse and rider. Always control your dog (leashes recommended) to protect your dog, yourself, others, and wildlife.

This is bear country. Carry bear spray, learn how to use it, learn about bears and how to live with them.

TRAILS RESOURCES

The Alpine-Mount Maurice topographical map by Rocky Mtn. Surveys is a good reference for these hikes. Day Hikes in the Beartooths by Robert Stone will define these and many more hikes in the area. Many of these trails are on US Forest Service public land. Call the Beartooth Ranger District, 406-446-2103 for information about trail conditions and restrictions; office is located on the south edge of Red Lodge on Highway 212.

The Airport and Coal Miners Park Trails are on city land. Some trails—such as the Face of the Mountain—traverse private land. Always respect private property: Stay on the trail, and do not litter, camp, build fires, or trespass on private property. We are profoundly grateful to private property owners for working with us on trail access—but keeping those relationships positive depends on you.