Shell Falls site will remain closed for 2026

Shell Falls site will remain closed for 2026

By Avery Howe

Shell Falls Interpretive Site will remain closed this year as the U.S. Forest Service works to hire contractors to install a solar array, erect a storage building for electrical equipment, upgrade the septic system and improve the site’s water quality. Two million dollars in Great American Outdoors Act funding has been approved for the project, with the total estimated cost to be announced after a contract is awarded. 

“We expect to award the contract by the end of June. If that stays on track, the project could be finished within a year,” said Sara Evans Kirol, a public affairs specialist for Bighorn National Forest.

The Forest Service initially solicited bids in 2024, but costs were higher than available funds. In May 2025, a special order was issued closing all trails, pathways, grounds, viewing areas, buildings and parking areas at Shell Falls due to the site’s power and waste system failure. 

“Because the site draws high visitor use each year, and because restrooms are essential for health and safety, we cannot open the site without working facilities,” Evans Kirol said. “If construction does not begin this summer, we plan to work with partners to place temporary portable toilets nearby.”

Despite the closure, Shell Falls has had visitors. A social trail to see the site’s waterfall has been established outside of the closure area, with some even jumping the gate. 

“Some visitors entered the closed area illegally last summer, and parking along the highway right of way or blocking closure gates is unsafe and prohibited,” Evans Kirol said. “We appreciate the public’s patience. This project invests in long-term stewardship, improves visitor safety and supports the local recreation economy. We look forward to reopening the site as soon as we can.”

The Great American Outdoors Act reports the project is in its design phase, 13% complete, and has a planned completion date of November 14, 2027.