ALBERTON – An Interstate 90 bridge replacement project over the Clark Fork River west of Alberton will impact walk-in river access in the Alberton Gorge area known as "Triple Bridges" beginning April 15.
During construction, Old Highway 10 West will be closed immediately after the Tarkio East Fishing Access Site (FAS) entrance road. The Old Highway 10 pedestrian bridge, a kayaker trail that provides access to the Triple Bridges surf wave, and lands between the highway and the east bank of the river are part of the closed area. These areas are closed to all public use.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), along with construction partner Sletten Construction Companies, are working to replace the westbound bridge that carries I-90 over the Clark Fork River, approximately 9.5 miles west of Alberton. These closures are necessary to ensure public safety during activities associated with the bridge construction. MDT anticipates the closures will continue through the fall of 2027.
The river remains open to floating with no other closures. This means that access to the popular boat put-in for the Alberton Gorge section of the Clark Fork River at Cyr Bridge FAS to the main take-out at Tarkio FAS is unaffected. Tarkio East FAS and Ralph's Takeout, popular access sites in this section of river, also remain open.
Floaters are encouraged to be cautious when on the river in the Triple Bridges area. Boaters should move through the area quickly and be extra aware of construction activities.