Western Montana’s mountains, rivers, forests and open spaces create endless opportunities to get outside—and learn something new while you’re there. Birding, nature journaling, horsemanship skills, river surfing, night sky interpretation and Indigenous cultural education are just a few ways visitors can build new skills and connect more deeply with the landscape. Led by local experts and designed for a range of experience levels, these hands-on classes offer a meaningful way to explore Glacier Country.
RIVER SKILLS
In the heart of downtown Missoula, take an introductory river surfing class from Zoo Town Surfers. Equipment is provided and no experience is necessary, though participants must be able to swim in Class I and II rapids. Depending on water levels, Zoo Town Surfers also offers instruction on the Blackfoot and Lochsa rivers.
In Alberton, Montana River Guides offers one- and two-day Introduction to Rowing clinics throughout the summer. For those seeking more advanced rafting and rescue skills, they offer swiftwater rescue courses as well as a professional raft guide school, operating since 1995.
BIRDING
In Noxon, Montana’s Eagle Experience provides an opportunity to get up close to native and non-native raptors through educational programs like the Raptor Meet and Greet and Nature in Focus sessions for photographers and artists.
The Montana Natural History Center in Missoula offers classes for adults, families and children, along with free online learning resources. Participants can pursue Montana Master Naturalist certification through a series of lectures, field trips and hands-on learning opportunities. Other popular offerings include Introduction to Nature Journaling and Scavenger Photography Club.
If you’re new to birding or interested in learning more about Western Montana’s avian species, join one of Five Valleys Audubon’s birding field trips. Led by experienced guides, these outings help participants identify birds, bird calls and habitat while exploring the Missoula area. Many day trips are free to attend.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
The Glacier Institute is the education partner of Glacier National Park. Their broad range of outdoor education programs are for all ages and include topics ranging from birding and fly-fishing to geology, alpine ecology and wildlife studies. Classes take place throughout Glacier National Park and the surrounding region, with options for individuals, families and groups.
If you’d like to learn the basics of fly-fishing, head to Glacier Outdoor Center for an Introduction to Fly Fishing course. On site in West Glacier, fish the stocked trout pond for a beginner-friendly setting to practice casting, fly selection, knot tying, fish handling and catch-and-release techniques. All equipment is provided and no fishing license is required. More experienced anglers can build their skills through casting lessons and full-day fly-fishing schools on the river.
Glacier National Park also offers a variety of ranger-led activities throughout the summer, including guided hikes, ranger talks, evening programs and astronomy programs. Topics range from the park’s natural and cultural history to wildlife, geology and ecology. The Native America Speaks program features members of the Blackfeet Nation and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes sharing their history, culture and traditions through storytelling, presentations and hands-on learning. Astronomy programs provide an opportunity to learn about the night sky while using telescopes and learning about the importance of dark skies.
HORSEMANSHIP
McGinnis Meadows Cattle & Guest Ranch is a working cattle ranch offering horsemanship clinics and guest stays in Libby. Programs range from indoor arena horsemanship to ranch horsemanship and cattle work, with options for both beginner and experienced riders. The ranch also hosts Buck Brannaman programs, a horsemanship philosophy centered on understanding horse behavior, building trust, and creating a stronger partnership between horse and rider. Guests stay on the ranch throughout the program, combining hands-on instruction with an authentic Montana ranch experience.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
June 22, 2026
Related: Alberton, Birding, Boating, Fishing, Glacier National Park, Guest Ranch, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Libby, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Summer Fun, Vacation, Water Fun, West Glacier
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