2020 Trail Highlights

For every dollar donated the River’s Edge trail Foundation procures $10 of grant funds

A major repair project was completed near Black Eagle Dam in September. Caused by severe slope instability, the popular trail segment was in jeopardy of being closed down. The RETF stepped up and contributed/leveraged grants in the amount of $40,000 towards the $312,000 construction costs. Repairs included 110 feet of sheet pile wall with helical tieback, and a drainage system to carry the water that was causing the erosion.

We celebrated National Trails Day with the grand opening of the new River’s Edge Skillz Trail. Mountain bikers can learn and hone riding skills on this gently flowing downhill ½-mile course. RETF contributed trail crew labor costs. Funding partners: Scheels, City of Great Falls Parks & Rec and Great Falls Bicycle Club.

A unique ADA wildlife viewing station was installed in West Bank Park along the trail. RETF contribution-$1,000 Funding partner: Missouri Madison River Fund.

An accessible concrete path, connecting the RET to an upgraded ADA canoe/kayak dock was installed in West Bank Park. RETF contribution-$1,000 Funding Partner: Missouri Madison River Fund.

Great Falls Parks and Rec completed about a mile of crack filling and asphalt sealing to extend the life of the trail. RETF provided funds to cover labor costs for this project.

Art and interpretive opportunities make the RET a special asset. Here artist Alex Smithson stands with his new art piece installed in West Bank Park.“Oct-tool-Pus”