National Trails Day Will Offer Unique Opportunity in Great Falls

If you're like me, you are probably feeling a slight crunch on the wallet when filling with gas.  And probably like me as well, it has also put a wrinkle in weekend plans of getting away to our favorite locations outside of the city limits and work.

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For anyone looking for alternative ways to enjoy the weekend and still get some fresh air, National Trails Day across Montana is coming on June 6, 2026, and it offers a once-a-year opportunity to enjoy one of the popular trails around Great Falls in a unique way.

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National Trails Day Will Offer Unique Opportunity in Great Falls

For the special day, the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (MFWP) in conjunction with Northwestern Energy will make the normally closed Cochrane Dam to the public for access.  Hikers and bicyclists will be able to cross the Missouri River and complete a "loop of" the popular River's Edge Trail in Great Falls.

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The dam will be open for public use Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  During that time, recreationists can reach the dam via the River's Edge Trail from the north shore to the south shore, or vice versa.  Bicyclists will need to dismount and walk their bikes across the dam.

What to Expect During This One Day Event at Cochrane Dam Near Great Falls

If you're ready to take in National Trails Day at Cochrane Dam, there are a few things to expect for the event.  Those include:

• at least a five-mile strenuous hike or ride
• proper footwear, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water for participants and pets
• arrange a shuttle or park a vehicle at their ending location
• expect to encounter heavier than normal traffic
• bicyclists should control their speed, yield to all, stay to the right except when passing, and ring a bell or call out before passing
• RATTLESNAKES!  (yes, they are out)

For more information on the event at Cochrane Dam, contact the Giant Springs Ranger Station at 406-727-1212.  You can also access the River's Edge Trail Interactive Map with the City of Great Falls website here.