New Bear Creek Trailhead Parking Lot Opens, Expanding Safe Access to Public Lands
Billings, Mont. — The Bureau of Land Management’s Billings Field Office celebrated the grand opening of the new Bear Creek Trailhead parking lot, marking an important step toward safer, more reliable access to public lands. Designed to improve traffic flow, the project adds a large primitive parking area, trail signage, and access to 6400 acers for hiking, hunting and horseback riding.
“This is about making it easier — and safer — for people to step onto their public lands,” said Outdoor Recreation Planner Jennifer Alexander, noting that the trailhead often serves horseback riders, hikers, birders, hunters, and families. “The parking area is a project completed thru a partnership with the Beartooth Backcountry Horsemen Chapter, the new lot reduces roadside congestion, improves visibility, and provides a more welcoming first impression of the area.”
"We put a plan together, and I just want to say, in the spirit of cooperation, it really all fell into place really nicely," said Scott Fluer with Back Country Horseman. "Through true cooperation among our partners, from BLM to the Backcountry Horsemen and the Montana Highway Department, everything came together to create a safer, well‑planned space for everyone to enjoy."
Why it matters
Safety first: Dedicated parking reduces roadside pull-offs and conflicts with local traffic, while better sightlines help drivers and trail users navigate safely.
Access: The parking area is designed so more visitors can safely access the area including enough space to pull a trailer through
Trail etiquette & education: Refreshed signage will highlight local partnership with the Backcountry Horsemen, trail information, local regulations, and Leave No Trace principles, supporting responsible recreation.
Community connection: The Bear Creek trailhead sits near the town of Belfry and provides a starting point to explore nearby landscapes. Local partners Back Country Horseman provided volunteers for the fence installation.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.