Spring trail season reminders

  • Published
  • Fish, Wildlife and Parks office
GREAT FALLS, Mont. --  Giant Springs State Park officials would like to remind park and trail users that all dogs must be on a leash while in the park and owners are required to remove their pet's waste. 

The park and city provide "mutt mitts" at various locations for owners to use. Pet owners can also bring along plastic grocery bags when using an area where mutt mitts are not available. Trash receptacles are provided at many locations, or owners can take the waste home with them for disposal. Do not discard the bagged waste next to the trail. 

The leash requirement is for all areas of the park and trails. Leashes are also required on adjoining city and Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center property. Remember to have your dog leashed when exiting your vehicle at the trailheads so they do not run in front of other vehicles. Pet owners must know and understand the regulations so everyone can enjoy their visit to the park. 

Dogs should not be aggressive towards other people or dogs. It is illegal for dogs to chase or disturb wildlife. 

Be sure to bring water along for you and your pet. Water is available in the park and at FWP Region 4 Headquarters. 

Stay on designated trails when hiking or biking. Venturing off-trail damages vegetation, causes erosion, disturbs wildlife and increases the spread of noxious weeds. Off-trail use also places you and your pets in danger from snakes as the weather warms. 

Spring weather can create muddy conditions on the unpaved trails in the park. If muddy conditions occur, alter your hike or bike ride to stay on paved trails until the trails dry out. Walking or riding on muddy trails causes damage to the trails and increases the potential for erosion. 

Spring hikes and bike rides are an excellent time to observe birds and wildlife, and enjoy the wildflowers. Watch wildlife from a distance so they are not disturbed. Do not pick flowers or other vegetation, leave them for others to enjoy. Carry a field guide to help identify things you see along the trails. Consider attending educational programs offered at Giant Springs and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center to improve your knowledge of the natural world and the rich history of the area.
Park maps and Rivers Edge Trail maps are available at FWP Region 4 headquarters and Giant Springs ranger station. Trail and natural history information is also provided on bulletin boards located along the Rivers Edge Trail. Additional information on Giant Springs is available by calling 454-5840 or visiting the park.