The closure of the Fourth Street NE entrance to West Bank Park was announced by the City of Great Falls in coordination with Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway, and is effective immediately as of September 4, 2025. The decision was made to ensure public safety due to potential rail expansion into the Calumet Refinery area, which could increase rail traffic.
The Fourth Street NE rail crossing, used to access West Bank Park and the River’s Edge Trail, is permanently closed. This affects parking access on the east end of West Bank Park, which has been used by the public for decades.
Public access to West Bank Park and the River’s Edge Trail remains available via Third Street NW (between Cowboys Bar and Tasty Hot Pot).
The closure is linked to BNSF’s planned rail spur expansion to serve the Calumet Refinery, requiring the installation of a controlled gate for the wastewater treatment plant, which cuts off public access at this point.
A separate temporary closure of the River’s Edge Trail occurred from January 27 to March 7, 2025, between 4th Street NE and the 10th Street Bridge for a Missouri River bank stabilization project. This closure affected a portion of the trail but has since concluded.
West Bank Park Features
Located at 200 3rd Avenue Northwest, the Park offers views of the Missouri River, a disc golf course, a covered shelter with picnic tables, a vault restroom, and access to the River’s Edge Trail for hiking, biking, and kayaking/canoeing.
River’s Edge Trail
This paved trail along the Missouri River is part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s portage route, with scenic overlooks and historic dams. It remains open, with multiple access points like Garden Home Park, though the Fourth Street NE closure limits one entry.
Recent Trail Updates
A 1,129-ft section of the River’s Edge Trail in the Park was upgraded to a new multi-use path with ADA ramps, striping, and revegetation, completed prior to the closure announcement.
Current Status
West Bank Park and the River’s Edge Trail remain open for public use, except for the Fourth Street NE access point. For updates or questions, contact the City of Great Falls Park and Recreation Department at 406-771-1265 or Cascade County Public Works at 406-454-6920 for road-related inquiries.
