Harrell Forest Community Trails

Experiencing Montana’s natural beauty can be restorative to the mind and body. But as cities across the state experience breakneck growth, the outdoor places Montanans love most are put at risk. 

The population of Bigfork, Montana has quadrupled in the last 20 years and this drastic rise in population has led to increased development of natural areas. Nestled on the flanks of Swan Hill, Harrell Forest was once slated for this very fate: the development of 17 new residential lots.

But community members Alan Horn and Cindy Harrell Horn knew this space was special and decided to take action with the help of Trust for Public Land. The Horn family purchased the 236-acre Harrell Forest and donated it to TPL to fulfill their dream of increasing community recreation.  

The protection of Harrell Forest is rooted in the very community it serves. With our partners at Flathead Land Trust and Montana Land Reliance, we safeguarded this land as Harrell Forest Community Trails so residents can enjoy access to over six miles of hiking and biking trails, a new trailhead, and awe-inspiring vistas overlooking the pristine waters of Flathead Lake and the majestic Swan Mountain Range.  

Beyond offering excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, Harrell Forest Community Trails help reduce the risk of wildfires through forest health management and habitat protection for wildlife species. It also represents the best of TPL’s mission to connect people to the outdoors by giving the community ownership of the places they love—meaning Montana’s beloved landscape can be enjoyed today and for generations to come.