An exciting new chapter in Billings’ active transportation story is unfolding with the development of the Stagecoach Trail—a multi-use pathway that will open new doors for walkers, runners, and bicyclists eager to explore the Rims and beyond.

The Stagecoach Trail will provide a vital and scenic connection from the west end of Billings to Zimmerman Park, and ultimately to the Heights via the Skyway Drive Trail and the Skyline Trail. Once complete, it will help unify our growing 55-mile multiuse trail system and make the Rims more accessible to all.

The project is being engineered by HDR, a national firm with a strong local presence and a dedicated corporate member of Billings TrailNet. We recently met with Bryant Johnson, Roadway Engineer for HDR and the project manager for the Stagecoach Trail, on June 6, 2025, to get an update on the progress and learn about the trail’s innovative design.

“This is a challenging and exciting trail,” said Johnson, “but we’re encouraged by the expert input we’ve received.” One of the early hurdles in the project was the stability of the sandstone cliffs the trail will climb. In May, expert HDR geotechnical/rockfall engineers from Denver came to Billings to survey the terrain, and their assessment was positive—they determined that stabilizing the rocks above the proposed trail is feasible.

In terms of design, Johnson is considering a switchback layout that would follow the natural slope of the terrain. This design would result in a grade of just 8.5%.

This thoughtful approach will make the trail more accessible to a broader range of users, including families, recreational riders, and those with limited mobility.

The City of Billings received a $5.5 million grant to build the Stagecoach Trail and has entrusted HDR with bringing the project to life. Johnson anticipates that the engineering and design work will be complete by the summer of 2026, with construction slated to begin in spring 2027.

For trail advocates, outdoor lovers, and anyone passionate about connecting communities through safer, scenic, and sustainable transportation, the Stagecoach Trail represents progress—and possibility.

Stay tuned as this transformative project moves forward. Billings TrailNet will continue to share updates and advocate for the connections that bring our city together, one trail at a time.

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