Give Public Comment on the Marshall Mountain Conceptual Master Plan!

The City of Missoula and Missoula County are thrilled to announce that the conceptual master plan for Marshall Mountain Park is now available for public review on engagemissoula.com through June 19. This plan reflects years of community engagement, feedback, and listening sessions.

The conceptual master plan outlines both long-term development opportunities and immediate improvements needed for safety and public access, including trailhead enhancements, a vault toilet, parking improvements, and ADA access. Future development will depend on securing outside funding and partnerships.

The plan is flexible to accommodate phased implementation based on available funding. It will inform decisions about the park alongside grant requirements, regulations, infrastructure needs, program development, partnerships, and funding availability. In addition, the plan showcases our community's dedication to protecting public access and preserving natural resources at Marshall Mountain. If acquired, the City and County will make immediate improvements to open the park for public use, and we will explore additional enhancements through fundraising, partnerships, and grants.

Missoula County, the City of Missoula, and community partners have taken a lead role in securing permanent public ownership of the former ski hill. City and County governments are considering county ownership with shared operational costs between the city and county. A City-County interlocal agreement and contributions from community partners would support potential county ownership.

This acquisition opportunity follows years of public engagement and concerns about potential privatization. We have a time-sensitive chance to secure ownership through conservation partners. The cost to acquire the three parcels that comprise the 420-acre project is approximately $2.4 million, below market value, thanks to generous landowners. In addition, we are seeking nearly $800,000 in state, federal, and private grants, in addition to voter-approved Open Space Bond funds.

A comprehensive public process involving county and city agencies is underway. Final decisions will be made by the Missoula County commissioners and the Missoula City Council later this year.

We invite county and city residents to provide feedback on the conceptual master plan at engagemissoula.com. Stay updated on the project and further opportunities for public comment through missoulacountyvoice.com and engagemissoula.com.