Around these parts we cherish our wild places and the wildlife who call them home. Western Montana’s Glacier Country is lucky to have 20 wildlife refuges that are protected public lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife and plants. One of our favorite places of refuge to visit is the Bison Range in Moiese, Montana.

Located just off Highway 93 north of Ravalli, the Bison Range, established in 1908, has 18,500 acres of terrain that’s home to an estimated 350 head of bison, as well as antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, deer, coyote and black bear. It also has three scenic drives: Red Sleep Mountain Drive, Prairie Drive and West Loop. Since springtime has officially arrived in Western Montana, we decided to spend the day exploring this beautiful place.

Take a look at our day below…

Welcome to the Bison Range!

 

At the base of the visitors center is a pile of elk antlers that have been collected on the range.
Spring at the Bison Range is a beautiful thing.
The best place to start your visit to the range is at the Visitor Center.
The views are absolutely breathtaking.
Bison hanging out along the road are a sight to be held.
Hello, handsome.
Watching these majestic mammals roam is at the top of our list of things we love.
The Mission Mountains create the perfect backdrop against the Bison Range.

Some things to remember when visiting the Bison Range:

  • There are three drives on the range: Red Sleep Mountain Drive (open mid-May to early October), Prairie Drive and West Loop (both open year-round). Learn more about all three drives here.
  • Vehicles over 30 feet long are not allowed on the Red Sleep Mountain Drive.
  • Dusk and dawn are the most active times to view wildlife. Check out some helpful hints for how and where to photograph wildlife on the range here.
  • Front gate hours are 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
  • Cost to visit the range is $5 per vehicle.
  • When visiting the range, take time to explore its nearby communities including Moiese, Ravalli, St. Ignatius and Charlo.
  • If you’re looking to overnight near the Bison Range (allowing for easy access to early morning views and prime wildlife-watching), check out Ninepipes Lodge near Charlo. You can also grab a delicious espresso drink at Great Gray Gifts next door.
  • Last but not least, remember to bring your binoculars and have the best time.

May 1, 2018

Related: Bison Range, Fall Fun, Moiese, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Spring Fun, Summer Fun, Wildlife

Comments

Gloria A Wurm
I have visited the National Btison Range once before but have a visitor coming from Houston, TX and I want to take her there. It is a very interesting place and of course I thoroughly support your efforts and the environment. Thank you for opportunity to show off our beautiful part of the country. Your blog is well put together.

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