C. Ben Memorial Fishing Access Site & Trail

After many years of managing their property as natural space, the Stomberg, Dickman, and White families partnered with the Bitter Root Land Trust and Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks to permanently set 97 acres aside for wildlife and community enjoyment. Now in public ownership, the Fishing Access Site known as “High Bank” and adjacent trail property is dedicated in memorial to Marty Stomberg’s son, Ben, who passed away in 2010.

Across from the river on the west side of HWY 93, a new trail runs 1.5 miles across both State and National Forest land and climbs up a to a ridge on Hart Bench with sweeping views of the West Fork of the Bitterroot River and the valley beyond, connecting into hundreds of miles of state land and endless recreation opportunities.

Organizations and stakeholders from across the valley came together around conservation to make this project possible: The Ravalli County Open Lands Program, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), Connell Foundation, Ravalli County Fish & Wildlife Association, Montana Fish and Wildlife Conservation Trust, Five Valleys Audubon, and Bitterroot Audubon.

Thank you to the Stomberg and White families and our partners in conservation for ensuring forest and river access for camping, fishing, horseback riding, hunting, and hiking are here to stay.