It’s Helena against Bozeman, as two Montana conservation and trails groups go head to head for a good cause.
Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT) and Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) are holding a friendly Helena v.s. Bozeman Trails Challenge to try and see which community enjoys their trail system more.
PPLT is currently holding their Don’t Fence Me In Virtual Trail Run and Challenge, and Gallatin is holding their Summer Trails Challenge.
Both events raise money to support the maintenance of trail systems and other conservation efforts in their areas.
“We think Helena’s South Hills Trail System is the best in the state,” said Mary Hollow, PPLT executive director. “We see a lot of vehicles with Gallatin County plates parked at our trailheads, so it’s no secret with folks from Bozeman, either. We wanted to have some fun with it, and put our pride on the line against them.”
“At the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, we’ve always been impressed with how Bozeman rallies around our Summer Trails Challenge and logs miles to raise funds for more trails. But we’ve never been able to tell if this is just a Bozeman phenomenon or are other communities in Montana equally as committed to building trail systems. That’s why we’re excited about the Helena vs. Bozeman Trail Challenge,” said EJ Porth, GVLT Associate Director. “So now the question remains, which community loves trails more? Which community is going to put in more miles to take the 2020 crown for Most Trail Loving Town in Montana. Bozeman is ready to take on Helena; are you in?”
Helena v.s. Bozeman Trails Challenge will take place from June 12-14. To participate, people need to sign up for their trail run they want to support and log their miles on each organization’s website.
The winning organization will earn bragging rights.
“This year, more than ever, we have seen the value of our trails and public lands,” said Hollow. “It has been both an opportunity but also something to highlight the critical importance of the work we do and the work that underscore the primary value of people that live here.”
Those interested in helping to “beat Bozeman” can join the challenge by registering on PPLT’s website. The weekend challenge is part of the overall Don’t Fence Me In Virtual Trail Run and Trail Challenge, which is $30 for adults and free for kids 17 and under and includes a special-edition t-shirt. For more information and to register, visit here.
