JOIN US FOR A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION ON MAY 1ST. LEARN MORE.
1,131 ACRES OF LAND
Foys to Blacktail Community Forest Project
This project is made possible through a unique partnership between Flathead Land Trust, Foys to Blacktail Trails, Trust for Public Land, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Whitefish Community Foundation.
FTBT is a 501(c)3 nonprofit
organization (Federal Tax ID
#86-1101906)
Help us protect vital habitat and connectivity
This landmark conservation initiative successfully completed its first goal on April 9, 2026 with Flathead Land Trust’s acquisition of a 1,131-acre property from the Griffith Family Foundation.
Located just five miles from Kalispell, the property lies directly south of Flathead County’s popular 440-acre Herron Park.
Donate to the Stewardship Fund
Why this project is so important to the future of the Flathead Valley:
Protecting Access & Wildlife Habitat
The forested property encompasses 12 miles of existing forest roads and trails, including 3.5 miles of existing ridgetop trail, a key segment of the Foys to Blacktail Trail. This trail segment links Herron Park to Blacktail Mountain via 13.5 miles of trail for non-motorized use. With sweeping views of Smith Valley, Flathead Valley and the Swan Range, the Foys to Blacktail Community Forest Project will ensure permanent access for hikers, runners, mountain bikers, hunters, and equestrians of all abilities.
Beyond recreation, the property supports important habitat and functions as a corridor for wildlife movement. It provides foraging opportunities, security and a passageway for many of Montana’s iconic megafauna, including elk, moose, wolves, mountain lions and black bears.
Permanent Protection & Sustainable Stewardship
In 2025, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks secured funding through the U.S. Forest Service Forest Legacy Program, with support from Trust for Public Land, to establish a conservation easement on the property, expected to be completed within one to three years pending approvals.
The easement will permanently protect open space, wildlife habitat, and conservation values while prohibiting development and ensuring public access for non-commercial recreation.
“This project aligns with our mission and goals to advocate for access and trail connectivity between Blacktail Mountain, Herron Park, and the greater Flathead Valley. It’s about stewardship, expanding outdoor recreational opportunities for our community, bringing people together, and celebrating the spirit of collaboration.”
THE PATH FORWARD
Long-term Stewardship and a $350,000 Community Goal
Now that the property is secured, the next phase of fundraising will include long-term stewardship and maintenance of the property. Flathead Land Trust and Foys to Blacktail Trails are launching a joint public fundraising campaign to raise $350,000.
Join the celebration with us on May 1st. Time TBD
As the Foys to Blacktail Forest project moves forward, partners are planning a community celebration for May 1, 2026. This gathering will serve as a centerpiece for the ongoing campaign, bringing supporters together to celebrate our progress and the future of the project.
Ways to give to the Foys to Blacktail Community Forest Project
FTBT Online Donations
Donations made easy online through FTBT’s PayPal Donation Portal.
*You don’t have to have a PayPal account to donate.
Mail Checks To Our PO Box
Foys to Blacktail Trails
P.O. Box 81
Kalispell, MT 59903
CHECKS PAYABLE TO:
Foys to Blacktail Trails
PLEASE WRITE IN MEMO:
Stewardship Fund
Flathead Land Trust
Visit Flathead Land Trust’s website to learn about other ways to give.
Thank You!
This project would not be possible without the following organizations, partners, and project sponsors. Your generosity is vital to the success of the Foys to Blacktail Community Forest Project.
Project Partners
