WAR HORSE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Three units make up this refuge in central Montana: War Horse Lake, Wild Horse Lake, and Yellow Water Reservoir. While War Horse is best known for its population of waterfowl and migratory birds such as sage grouse, peregrine falcons and long-billed curlews. You can also find elk, which were brought to the refuge from Yellowstone after moving away from the region, black-tailed prairie dog colonies, and wild ferrets, which were re-introduced to the refuge in 1993. Hunting and fishing are allowed here. Anglers will love the rainbow-trout stocked lakes!
NATIONAL BISON RANGE
This is one of the oldest National Wildlife Refuges in the country. It was established in 1908, and it's been working to preserve herds of American buffalo ever since. A herd of between 350 and 500 beasts roves across the 18,000 acres--a far cry from the tens of millions of bison that once roamed across the US and Canada, but considering that they were nearly extinct in 1890, it's a vast improvement. There's a visitor center where you can learn about bison and the NBR's efforts to save them. Cruise along the two scenic routes that take you right to prime buffalo-viewing areas, because no trip to Montana is complete without seeing one of the furry creatures! Pro tip: this place is beautiful in the spring and summer, but it's truly stunning covered in snow during the winter.
BOB MARSHALL WILDERNESS
"The Bob," as locals fondly call it, is one of the most rugged and untouched regions in Montana. You won't find any roads through the wilderness; you have to hoof it on foot or on horseback (even bikes and hang gliders are banned) but it's worth the trek through the dense, old-growth forest for the hunting and untouched mountain scenery. Don't be surprised if you meet some of the residents of the wilderness as you explore: elk, bears, mountain lions, wolverines, bighorn sheep, bald eagles and more populate the Wilderness. And if, like me, you were wondering who this Bob Marshall fellow is, he's a co-founder of The Wilderness Society (which explains a lot, actually.)
LEE METCALF NATIONAL WILDLIFE REGFUGE
Birds love this Southwestern Montana Wildlife Refuge! Two hundred thirty-five species of bird have been spotted in the refuge, and 100 of those nest in the refuge. The park itself is a lovely combination of woodland and wetland, making it ideal for avid birdwatchers, and it also means that each season here provides a different landscape and set of wildlife to spot. Plus, paved nature trails and a wheelchair-accessible viewing area make this a great place for anyone to experience wild Montana without too much hassle!
