Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Hosts Moose Creek Open House Jan. 11

The Helena‑Lewis and Clark National Forest is inviting the public to an open house at Moose Creek Cabin on Jan. 11 from 1–4 p.m. The event will include an interpretive hike or a snowshoeing trek depending on conditions, a short presentation and hot drinks such as hot chocolate. Hikes will depart from the cabin at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Organizers say the open house is geared toward people who want to learn more about forest products and recreational opportunities on the forest. The free event requires advance registration so staff can plan for adequate personnel and beverages; residents may register at forms.office.com/g/pjTgKVh3EK or by emailing Elizabeth.A.Burke@usda.gov.

Moose Creek Cabin is located outside Helena; from the city take U.S. Highway 12 West for seven miles to Rimini County Road, then take Rimini Road south approximately four miles. The cabin is on the east side of the road just past the entrance to Moose Creek Campground, with parking available to the north of the cabin.

For Lewis and Clark County residents, the open house offers a direct way to see how winter recreation and forest product activities fit into broader land management. Events like this can clarify how access, trail maintenance and resource use are coordinated between federal forest staff and the public, and they give residents a chance to learn about seasonal conditions that affect trail use and public safety.

The timing of the event on a weekend afternoon is meant to accommodate families and working residents. Because activities will be tailored to on‑the‑ground conditions, attendees should expect organizers to choose hiking or snowshoeing based on weather and trail status. Advance registration will help staff anticipate turnout and arrange for sufficient guides and refreshments.

This open house is one of the first public outreach events of the winter season for the Helena‑Lewis and Clark National Forest. For more information or to register, residents should use the online form or contact Elizabeth A. Burke at Elizabeth.A.Burke@usda.gov.