EBS STAFF
A March 29 release from Custer Gallatin National Forest announced that between April 1 and May 15, the Hyalite Canyon Road gate will close for its annual spring closure.
The temporary closure aims to preserve Hyalite’s infrastructure during the spring thaw, when the ground underneath Hyalite Canyon Road saturates and cannot serve motorized traffic. A closure prevents surface damage to the road, such as cracks and potholes, according to the release.
“As the transition from winter to spring unfolds, visitors are encouraged to explore the canyon in a non-motorized manner, such as walking, running, and biking,” the release stated.
In the summertime, the area sees more than 60,000 visitors monthly, roughly doubling winter’s visitation numbers.
“The public’s engagement with Hyalite canyon this time of year is truly remarkable. The closure offers a unique opportunity to experience the canyon in a different way,” Kat Barker, the recreation program manager for the Bozeman District stated in the release.
During the annual spring closure, recreationists should be aware of heavy equipment using the road for maintenance, including preparing for the final paving of East Fork Road.
