Forest Service authorizes multiple use rail-trail route

Superior, MT.— District Ranger Tawnya Brummett has signed the Decision Notice for the Route of the Olympian project, which designates a multiple use rail-trail route on the abandoned Milwaukee and Northern Pacific railroad grades between Taft and St. Regis. The project was developed collaboratively with the public to balance the desires for a range of recreational opportunities and experiences. A copy of the Decision Notice is available on the Lolo National Forest website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/lolo/landmanagement/projects. This decision is subject to appeal.
In summary, during the spring, fall, and winter seasons, all existing legal motorized and non-motorized uses will be maintained. Additional access will be provided for wheeled motorized vehicles through the Dominion tunnel during the spring and fall seasons. During the non-snow season, ATV users will continue to have access between Taft and St. Regis. Full-sized motor vehicle use will remain unchanged in the spring and fall, but will be restricted on some segments of the route during the summer. During the summer season, the Milwaukee grade between Taft and Saltese will be open to non-motorized use only and the Northern Pacific grade between Taft and Saltese will be open to all motorized use.
This project, including changes to existing uses, will be implemented over approximately a five-year period as funding becomes available to repair bridges, place gravel, and install traffic control devices.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting Beth Kennedy at (406) 822-3954 or District Ranger Tawnya Brummett (406) 822-4233.