Description:
Established in 1908, the National Bison Range, located in Moiese, Montana, (about an hour northwest of Missoula) is an 18,500 acre preserve for bison, deer (white-tailed and mule), pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and a wide variety of bird-life. The mission of the refuge was to preserve the American Bison from extinction and it provides not only an historical overview of the role of bison in Native American culture but awesome views of Montana landscapes and wildlife alike. During rutting season (mid-July through August), visitors may be treated to some violent confrontations between competing males. There are two self-guided auto tours - the Prairie Drive/West Loop (a five-mile gravel road through the flats) and the Red Sleep Mountain Drive (a nineteen-mile one way gravel road with elevation changes of 2000 feet (and is not open to trailers or long vehicles). The Red Sleep Drive (open May – October) will take at least 2 hours but plan for 3 – 4 hours as you will not want to rush. There is a lovely picnic area with tables, grills, water, and toilets. Hiking is limited to a few short walking trails. The visitor's center is open 8 am to 4:30 pm daily, and there is $4.00 fee per vehicle.
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Region: |
Mission Valley
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