If you have been up to the Skyline Trail recently, you will notice a little bit of color has been added to the tunnel underneath Zimmerman Trail.  That’s because we are currently working hard on finishing a mural by the end of August!  

In April, Billings TrailNet announced that we were awarded the BSED Space2Place grant to paint a mural in the tunnel on the Skyline Trail underneath Zimmerman Trail.  This project aims to highlight Native American culture and state history along Montana’s Heritage Trail.  

The creative behind the mural is Charli Sleeper, a Badé Apsaalooké, Southern Cheyenne & Arapahoe, and Chippewa-Cree artist from Montana. “My acrylic art paintings are a combination of Indigenous beadwork and ledger art motifs done in a folk art style. There are strong spiritual influences and symbolism in all of my pieces.” 

Work on the mural will continue throughout the first week of August. Anyone wishing to help paint is welcome to join the crew at the tunnel on the following days:

Friday Aug 2, 2024: 8-11 PM

Saturday Aug 3, 2024: 7-11 AM, 7-11 PM

Sunday Aug 4, 2024: 7-11 AM, 7-11 PM

Once the mural is finished, it’ll be time to celebrate!

Mark your calendar for the mural celebration party on August 23rd!  Charli will be talking about the meaning behind the artwork and snacks will be provided (until we run out).