2024 Update
As of June 2024, all three bridges have been installed, the entire 9 miles from Iris Street to the Idaho state line is paved, and the interpretive signs exploring the area’s cultural and natural history are in place.
In 2025, there are many things to look forward to. The project is continuing to work with Sea Reach on the design, fabrication, and installation of benches, the donor board, and other donor recognition pieces. We are also planning an official ribbon cutting ceremony and celebration for Train Day, which falls on June 11th, 2025. Check back for more details as the date approaches or click here to subscribe to our newsletter.
This project would not have been possible without our partners at the Hebgen Lake Ranger District of Custer Gallatin National Forest and the local Yellowstone Historic Center. Much credit is also owed to the hundreds of individuals, businesses, and grantors donated over $1.25 million in 2020 to the Yellowstone Shortline Trail which helped Custer Gallatin National Forest secure funding through the Great American Outdoors Act for paving the trail. The Yellowstone Shortline Trail Project is continuing to raise funds for maintenance and long-term expenses. Visit the Donate page to learn more about how you can support the future of the trail.
The trail currently begins near the corner of Iris Street and Obsidian Avenue in West Yellowstone, MT. The trail is a non-motorized trail open to hiking, biking, rollerskating, roller skiing, skateboarding, and more. By policy of the US Forest Service, motorized vehicles, including E-bikes, ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes, are not permitted. Wildlife sightings are common along the trail. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
About the Yellowstone
Shortline Trail Project
Our Mission
The Yellowstone Shortline Trail Project is led by a group of local individuals who have joined together for the interest and purpose of providing West Yellowstone’s residents and visitors with a sustainable, healthy, and authentic way to experience the region’s unique environment and history through the establishment of a world-class trail following the historic route of the Oregon Short Line Railroad from the Montana-Idaho state line into the heart of West Yellowstone, Montana.
Our Goal
The Yellowstone Shortline Trail Project consists of several dedicated individuals and the Yellowstone Historic Center serving as the fiscal sponsor of the Project. Together, our goal is to convert a 9-mile section of abandoned railroad bed into a world-class hiking-biking trail. The Yellowstone Shortline Trail will follow the historic route of the Oregon Short Line Railroad from the Montana-Idaho border at Reas Pass to the west boundary of Yellowstone National Park in West Yellowstone, MT. The trail will be a 8-foot wide path with a paved surface and several bridges covering approximately 9 miles and will include amenities such as pavilions, benches, and interpretive signage focused on the history of the area. Once completed, visitors and residents will be able to experience the historic route of the railroad in a way that promotes local tourism and businesses, strengthens public health, improves quality of life, and encourages learning about the past.
The Yellowstone Historic Center, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit, serves as the fiscal sponsor of the Yellowstone Shortline Trail Project. The Project would not be possible without the YHC filling this important role. Please show your support of the YHC by becoming a member today. Click here for more information.