YRPA is proud to provide support for parks and trails on public land that are managed by city, county, state, and federal agencies. Our work helps to connect the work of multiple agencies and private partners in pursuit of a continuous Yellowstone River Greenway park system.
Four Dances Recreation Area (BLM)
YRPA was a key partner in the donation of Four Dances to BLM by the Larsen family in 1991. This 765-acre natural area is well known for its historic sites and beautiful overlook of the Yellowstone River. YRPA continues to support the seasonal caretaker position on site and cooperates with BLM on a variety of park maintenance projects.
Norm’s Island and Riverfront Park (Billings City)
Norm’s Island was the first park YRPA was involved in, and our volunteers continue day-to-day management of its trails. Norm’s is part of the larger Riverfront Park complex, which YRPA has also helped out with over the years.
Two Moon Park and Earl Guss Park (Yellowstone County)
Two Moon Park and Earl Guss Park have long been a part of YRPA efforts. Earl Guss park is named after one of our founders. YRPA continues to assist with trail maintenance and invasive species management at both parks and support of the park caretaker at Two Moon.
Billings Trails
The Dutcher Trail, the Heritage Trail, the Kiwanis Trail…YRPA has been involved in connecting trails along the Yellowstone since the beginning. Much of the city-wide trail work is now coordinated by Billings TrailNet in partnership with the City, County, and State, though YRPA also continues to support specific river-adjacent sections where we can.
Other Parks
Mystic Park (also sometimes called Big Sky Park) is a water-quality easement natural area just upstream of the Billings water treatment plant and has great access to the Yellowstone River. It is also a trailhead for the Dutcher Trail. Find the parking lot on Belknap Avenue in Billings.
Coulson Park is a project of the City of Billings with a number of community partners. YRPA helped with the early trails in the area, though is not now involved.
Future Projects
YRPA is always on the lookout for opportunities to help and support properties for public access and habitat conservation along the Yellowstone River. We are guided in this by the 1994 Greenway Master Plan, which included 15 trailheads along approximately 20 river miles, from Duck Creek to Dover Park.
Know of such an opportunity? Let us know using the contact form below.