EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY: CEDAR FLATS TRAILS CLOSURE
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are investigating a bear attack on a woman walking her dog on the Cedar Flats trail complex north of Columbia Falls. The attack occurred around 7 p.m. on Aug. 31. The species of bear involved in the attack is currently unknown.
Last night (8/31), investigators from FWP and USFS, with assistance from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, searched for the bear using a thermal infrared drone but were unable to locate it. The area remains closed by Forest Service officials in the interest of public safety. The victim sustained significant injuries and was transported to Logan Health Medical Center for treatment. The incident is still under investigation, and no further details are available at this time.
Gateway to Glacier Trails develops and maintains a network of local trails in order to foster stewardship and connect communities to our open spaces.
It’s pretty simple, we’re here to build local trails, take care of them, steward the land (and help others take care of it, too), while bringing our communities together through outdoor recreation. Our current focus is the greater Glacier area of Northwest Montana (where we are lucky enough to live and play). Think places like West Glacier, Coram, Hungry Horse, the North Fork and Columbia Falls. We have three main projects we’re currently focused on, each offering unique multi-use and non-motorized recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities to enjoy.
Support local trails in the Great Fish Community Challenge!
From Aug. 11–Sept. 11, support 89 local nonprofits through the 2026 Great Fish Community Challenge. One gift can support multiple organizations making a difference across the Flathead Valley — and every donation helps participating nonprofits qualify for a percentage-matching grant.
Our Projects
Cedar Flats Trails
Developing and maintaining 25 miles of non-motorized, multi-use trails north of Columbia Falls.
Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area Trails
Providing public access via a primitive 3-mile trail in the Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area.
Gateway to Glacier Trail
The project that started it all. A 10-mile shared-use path providing safe, off-highway access to West Glacier.