News Release

Bighorn Canyon Road and Lake Conditions Update July 2024

Date: July 17, 2024
Contact: Christy Fleming, [phone]

Fort Smith, MT: Road crews continue to work on both the North District and South District of Bighorn Canyon.

Road Conditions

The week of July 22, crews will be continuing to complete paving and milling projects, and guardrail work on the North District, near Fort Smith, MT, along HWY 313 and the Afterbay road. Expect single lane closures during daytime hours while paving and guardrail work is being conducted. On the South District, near Lovell, WY, Crack sealing is being completed on the Horseshoe Bend road, Horseshoe Bend campground road, and along the Bad Pass road. Expect single lane closures in these areas.

The week of July 29, crews will be crack sealing HWY 313 on the North District, with single lane closures during the day. On the South District, crews will be milling and paving the Horseshoe Bend upper parking lot. Crews are expecting a full closure for milling the parking lot on August 1st and 2nd. They will open the parking area with a gravel surface for the weekend, and return to a full closure the following Monday, August 5 to 7, for paving. During this closure the Horseshoe Bend marina parking area will remain open.

The week of August 5, crews will be finishing up the Horseshoe Bend upper park area and moving to the Lovell Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center parking area. To allow crews to complete their work quickly, the Visitor Center will be closed, and all visitor services will move the Crooked Creek Ranger station near Horseshoe Bend. The original start date has changed, and the Visitor Center closure will begin on August 5. Staff is planning to be at the Crooked Creek Ranger station until August 9 or until the project is completed.

Schedules and locations of work are subject to change based on weather. Visitors are encouraged to check park social media accounts for the latest updates.

Lake Conditions

The lake level as of July 17, 2024, is 3635.9. The driftwood continues to be minimal but can cause serious damage to boat props and lower units. Dayboard 9 docks and floating restrooms have been installed and the campground is open. The Black Canyon floating restrooms have been installed for day use, but the campground remains closed due to bear activity. The floating restroom at Devil Canyon will remain out for the season for repairs. Floating restrooms are available at Barry’s Landing and Dryhead. There will be no Fuel on the lake this summer.
 

If you have questions, please call the Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center at 307-548-5406.