Skunk Creek Road Summary

Skunk Creek road has been used by residents of Gallatin and Park Counties for decades with a seasonally closed gate located at the entrance to the Gallatin National Forest. Recently the property at the end of the road was sold and the new landowner approached the Forest Service (FS) with requests to close or otherwise move the access gate. He has repeatedly harassed residents and other public land owners parking within the public road easement and has threatened to call the Sheriff's office or have the vehicles towed on several occasions. The local Sheriff’s office has been made aware of the ongoing harassment.

PLWA sent a letter to the FS citing the current documented easement. The FS has been responsive and continues to work to resolve the issue. Members of the public have the right to park within the boundaries of the right-of-way for up to 48 hours, as long as they are not blocking the gate or driveways. The FS maintains the gate will not be moved unless there is a benefit to the public and/or administrative need. The current biggest threat is the landowner’s unwillingness to plow the road for public use as the FS does not have the resources to plow during winter months.

Update: April 2023

PLWA received a second complaint this winter stating the landowner has blocked public access by plowing a snow berm to prevent parking in the public easement. The landowner continues to threaten to have vehicles towed. According to FS documents, permitted landowners are required to plow an adequate turn around and parking area for public use, remove snow from the entire width of the road surface, and are not allowed to leave snow berms. Occupancy and Use Order R1-2022-01 prohibits using snow removal or grooming equipment on National Forest System roads or trails without a permit or written authorization from the Forest Service. The landowner refuses to obtain a permit. According to the order, this type of violation is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than six (6) months, or both.

The FS continues to have conversations with the landowner and is proceeding with actions to resolve the issue.