HELP FRENCHTOWN POND STATE PARK BE
MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE
This project seeks to develop an ADA kayak and canoe launch, fishing dock, access trail, and accessible parking at Frenchtown Pond State Park.
The park’s 18-acre pond offers the closest access to flatwater recreation in the greater Missoula area.
Frenchtown Pond State Park features several accessible amenities (e.g. trails, restrooms, picnic areas, parking) but has limited fishing access and no ADA access to boating opportunities the pond presents.
The park currently has one dock that falls short of ADA requirements. Swimmers heavily use this dock in the summer. A new all abilities dock would be dedicated to fishing and safe boat launching while serving people of all abilities in the rural communities of Frenchtown, Huson, Ninemile, Alberton, as well as neighboring Missoula.
The all-abilities dock will be located on the park's east side on a new spur trail from the existing walking path. The location has been chosen because of the deeper water in the east bay and its relative distance from the more intensively used dock in the park's lawn area.
The dock will be designed to accommodate people with disabilities, although its use will be open for everyone, young and old. Signage will encourage courtesy between those launching watercraft and those fishing. Park staff will also be on hand throughout the peak season to help ensure good dock etiquette.
WE’RE ALMOST THERE…
We are pleased to announce that Montana State Parks Foundation has received a charitable grant that will help Montana State Parks be more accessible for everyone.
The grant was received through the Community Pond Program by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks for $35,000 to install the abilities dock at Frenchtown Pond.
This is in addition to a $20,000 grant from the National Environmental Education Foundation we received in December 2021.
Now we only need $10,000 in donations to build an all-abilities dock and boat launch at the park.
