BOZEMAN – The Gallatin National Forest will open the Swan Creek Trail (FS Trail #186), and Moose Creek Road (FS Road #479) and Hyalite Canyon to the hydrologic divide or ridgeline between Hyalite and South Cottonwood Canyon to the public on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012 at 6 a.m. These areas were closed at the end of August because of public and firefighter safety concerns resulting from the Millie Fire.
The South Cottonwood, Little Bear and Storm Castle areas will remain closed at this time. The roads and trails in these areas are still being heavily used by firefighting and Burned Area Emergency Response equipment and personnel and lead directly into the Millie Fire perimeter.
It’s not safe for people to venture into the Millie Fire area, according to Gallatin National Forest officials. Helicopters, engines, and crews continue working the fire perimeter. Hazard trees, rolling rocks and hot spots are still present resulting in additional public safety concerns. Individuals entering the closed area can be fined up to $5,000 and face imprisonment of up to six months.
