Project Lead

Scenic Montana Trails Association (SMTA)

Project Purpose/Need

The Seeley Lake Recreation Enhancements project addressed the growing problem of garbage and human waste at the warming hut seven miles from the Westside Trailhead in Seeley Lake, a popular stop for winter recreators. The project aims to maintain the area's natural beauty by improving facilities, promoting responsible recreation, and ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors to the warming hut.

Project Description

The project involved providing porta-potties at the warming hut during winter to reduce waste issues. It also included the construction of a custom sled to transport the restroom facilities between the trailhead and the warming hut throughout the season. The Scenic Montana Trails Association worked with a local machinist to create a custom sled design. They maintained these facilities, ensuring they were accessible and functional for the 2023 winter season.

Western Montana’s Glacier Country Role

• Funding Partner
• Resource Assistance

Goals and Objectives

Goals:

• Provide clean and accessible restroom facilities at the warming hut.
• Reduce garbage and human waste in the area.
• Promote responsible recreation practices among users.
• Enhance the overall recreational experience for visitors and residents in Seeley Lake.

Objectives:

• Install and maintain portable restrooms and signage at the warming hut.
• Construct and utilize a custom sled for transporting restroom facilities.
• Collaborate with local vendors for construction, rentals and maintenance.
• Educate the public on responsible recreation through signage and outreach.

Project Location

Seeley Lake, located in the Clearwater Valley between the Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges.

Project Timeline

Pilot Project Launch: 2022 - 2023 winter season

Project Implementation: 2023 winter season

Project Partners

Scenic Montana Trails (lead organization)

Pitman Machine Shop (sled design and construction)

Sanitation Solutions (porta-potty rentals and maintenance)

Western Montana’s Glacier Country (funding and support)

Project Outcomes

• Improved sanitation and reduced waste at the warming hut.
• Enhanced recreational experience for snowmobilers, ATV/UTV riders, dirt bikers, and mountain bikers.
• Increased awareness and practice of responsible recreation.
• Strengthened partnerships with local vendors and community organizations.
• Preserved natural beauty and environmental health of the Seeley Lake area.
• Promoted responsible recreation in Seeley Lake, ensuring the area's continued appeal as a recreational destination.
• Created a custom sled which will be used moving forward on other sections of the trail system to provide bathroom facilities and other services in remote yet popular locations.