To say the Headwaters Trail System is a boon for the Three Forks area would be an understatement. Throughout the year, the 12-mile trail system is utilized by both area residents and visitors to the area. It’s a big deal for Three Forks.
This weekend, the annual Headwaters Bank Run on Saturday, July 27, will be an excellent opportunity to give back to the trail system.
Throughout the year, Trail System Director Gene Townsend and others work hard to obtain government grants for both maintenance and expansion. There have been plenty of recent success stories like securing Gallatin County Open Lands Funding in the past two years, a Montana Trail Stewardship Grant in 2024, a recent AARP grant, and recent Montana Trails Stewardship Program grants.
Magris Talc has also been critical to the success of providing grant-matching funds for 25 years.
While the grants and donations made throughout the year are vital to the trail system, the Headwaters Bank Run is also an integral piece of the funding puzzle.
Not only does the walk/run serve as a way to get out and enjoy a beautiful morning along the trails, but the money generated at the system’s largest fundraising event goes a long way in helping pay for costs associated with the trails.
The money raised on Saturday will be put to good use, whether to help with the cost of spraying weeds or for the engineering for future trail expansion.
The volunteers who put countless hours into the system should be commended and thanked for all their hard work. The same can be said for the local banks that help support the event.
In conversations with Gene and Pat Townsend, they have often mentioned that the walk/run is also essential for raising awareness of the trail system. On Saturday, people who come to town will learn more about the fantastic trail system and the volunteers who make it a wonderful place to visit.
It will be a good time for a great cause.
Saturday is also another chance to spend a morning getting out in the community.
Having a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon also allows various people to participate. Even if someone wants to walk, the event is a great way to experience the trail system and give back simultaneously.
Online registration is available until July 25 at 11:59 p.m. at https://runsignup.com/Race/MT/ThreeForks/HeadwatersTrailBankRun.
Same-day registration is also available.
The half marathon will start at 7:30 a.m., and the 5K/10K will begin at 8 a.m.