Hyalite Road closes annually on April 1 – May 16 to motorized use while the road subgrade thaws and gets saturated due to snow melt.  As one of the most popular recreation destinations in Montana, Hyalite receives an overwhelming amount of traffic and the asphalt road is unable to support the repeated motorized use during the spring thaw which causes additional surface cracking and potholes.  This transition period provides a great opportunity to clean-up Hyalite, Bozeman’s well-loved backyard.  It also provides an opportunity for non-motorized recreational pursuits during the spring season.

“Hikers, bikers, runners and other recreationists all enjoy and look forward to experiencing Hyalite in a different way during this time,” said Wendi Urie, Bozeman District Recreation Program Manager.  “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.”

Over 20,000 visitors a month explore Hyalite during the winter, and more than of 40,000 a month during the summer.  That makes Hyalite one of the most sought after destinations in Montana.  With all that love from recreationists, it is also important to take care of our backyard treasure.  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 Sunday, May 12 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 12 please visit www.hyalite.org.