SOUTHWEST MONTANA LANDSCAPES

MILES OF DISCOVERY: SCENIC DRIVING

Around every bend and over every hill awaits another beautiful view—at least that’s the case when you’re driving through Southwest Montana. The point of the drive is the drive itself, each bend a new opportunity to dig deeper and explore a little further. Here, we’ve suggested a few of our favorite routes and some things to do and see along the way. Be sure to have your camera handy and allow plenty of time for “Pull over! I have to get a picture of that.”

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK TO GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

DAY 1: WEST YELLOWSTONE TO BUTTE VIA MADISON AND RUBY VALLEYS (167 miles)

• From West Yellowstone, head north along U.S. Highway 191, turn left onto U.S. Highway 287. It is only 8 miles from West Yellowstone to the junction.

• Stay on U.S. Highway 287, continuing northwest through the Madison River Valley with a stop at the Earthquake Lake Visitor Center.

• Continue northwest on U.S. Highway 287 into Ennis, a fly-fishing mecca and home to quaint shops and galleries.

• Head west out of town on Montana Highway 287 (U.S. Highway 287 heads north from Ennis). Stop and visit the ghost towns of Virginia City and Nevada City.

• Continue north on Montana Highway 41, then take Montana Highway 55 to Whitehall and admire the town’s murals depicting the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

• Leaving Whitehall, take I-90 northwest to Butte. Visit the Butte Visitor Center for a historic trolley tour, the World Museum of Mining, the historic landmark district or stretch your legs on one of the many urban trails.

DAY 2: BUTTE TO WEST GLACIER VIA THE BLACKFOOT RIVER VALLEY (245 miles)

• Leaving Butte, continue west on I-90. Stop in Deer Lodge to tour the Old Montana Prison Complex, the Montana Auto Museum and the Frontier Museum. Don’t miss the GrantKohrs Ranch National Historic Site, the only working cattle ranch in the National Park Service.

• From Deer Lodge, continue west on I-90 until reaching Garrison. Veer east on U.S. Highway 12 to Avon, turn north onto Montana Highway 141. Turn west on Montana Highway 200, stop in Ovando for a meal at Trixi's Antler Saloon.

• Continue on Montana Highway 200 to Montana Highway 83.

• Head northwest on Montana Highway 83 following along the majestic Mission Mountains and Bob Marshall/ Scapegoat Wildernesses to Bigfork.

• Head north on Montana Highway 35 toward Kalispell, take U.S. Highway 2 north to West Glacier, the west entrance to Glacier National Park.

DIG DEEPER: The Yellowstone Trail was the first transcontinental automobile highway in the United States through the northern tier of states from Washington through Massachusetts. Started in 1912, it passes through Southwest Montana from Harrison to Drummond. www.yellowstonetrail.org

1 YELLOWSTONE

NATIONAL PARK TO GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

2 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK TO YELLOWSTONE

NATIONAL PARK

ALTERNATE ROUTE

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK TO YELLOWSTONE

NATIONAL PARK ALTERNATE ROUTE: EAST

GLACIER TO WEST YELLOWSTONE (360 MILES)

• Leaving Glacier National Park at East Glacier, drive east on U.S. Highway 2 and then south on U.S. Highway 89.

• At Choteau, turn south onto U.S. Highway 287 toward Augusta. This route follows the Rocky Mountain Front, where the towering peaks of the Rockies meet Montana’s rolling plains.

• Near Wolf Creek, travel south on I-15 and take exit 209 to experience the Gates of the Mountains.

• Continue south along I-15 to the city of Helena.

• From Helena, head south on I-15 for 18 miles then take exit 176 to Tizer Botanic Gardens, Montana's only full-time botanical garden and arboretum.

• Continue 10 miles to exit 164 to Boulder, turn onto Montana Highway 69. Just south of Boulder visit Elkhorn Ghost Town before continuing south 34 miles to Cardwell.

• Turn left at Montana Highway 2 and stop at Lewis & Clark Caverns, best known for its limestone caverns.

• Leaving the caverns turn left onto Montana Highway 2 for 5 miles. Turn right on Montana Highway 287, continue for 35 miles to Ennis. Turn left to continue on Montana Highway 287 for 65 miles. Turn right on Montana Highway 191 for 8 miles into West Yellowstone.

BLACKFOOT RIVER RUN: MISSOULA TO HELENA VIA BLACKFOOT RIVER VALLEY (150 miles)

• Heading east from Missoula on I-90 to Bonner, exit onto Montana Highway 200 along the Blackfoot River Valley. Between mile markers 22 and 23, turn right onto Garnet Range Road for an 11-mile side trip up to the very well-preserved Garnet Ghost Town.

• Continue east, turning south upon reaching Montana Highway 141. Enjoy a quiet drive and wildlife watching opportunities through the picturesque valley near the Garnet Range.

• At Avon, merge onto U.S. Highway 12 and drive east over spectacular MacDonald Pass into Helena. For more info, visit: www.helenamt.com/2022/07/getto-know-the-birds-of-helena

PINTLER SCENIC ROUTE LOOP: BUTTE TO ANACONDA,

PHILIPSBURG, DRUMMOND,DEER LODGE (132 miles)

• From Butte, head west on I-90, taking exit 208 toward Anaconda and the start of the Pintler Scenic Highway (Veterans Memorial Highway/MT Hwy 1)

• In Anaconda play a round at the Jack Nicklausdesigned Old Works Golf Course and look south to view the historic Anaconda Smoke Stack.

• Continue west through Anaconda to Georgetown Lake and on to Philipsburg. Here you can dig for sapphires or shop at the old-time candy store.

• Continue north to Drummond and stop in at Parker’s Restaurant to try one of more than 100 different hamburgers on their menu.

• Hop back onto I-90 east toward Butte with another stop in Deer Lodge, home to the Grant-Kohrs National Historic Site which commemorates and preserves the Western cattle industry. Tour the Old Montana Prison, the first Territorial Prison in the western United States, before heading back to Butte on I-90

PIONEER MOUNTAINS SCENIC BYWAY: DILLON TO ANACONDA (118 miles)

• From Dillon head south on I-15 to exit 59 , Montana Highway 278 , toward Jackson and Wisdom.

• Travel west for 21 miles and turn left onto Bannack Bench Road to visit Bannack State Park, Montana's first territorial capital turned ghost town.

• Turn north onto the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway , a stunning drive following the Wise River through historic ranching and mining communities.

• Stop for a swim at Elkhorn Hot Springs or dig for crystals at Crystal Park.

• At Wise River, turn west on Montana Highway 43 and then continue north onto Montana Highway 569 to reach Anaconda and to access I-90

SWAN’S ROUTE: DILLON TO RED ROCK LAKES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE (153 miles)

• From Dillon, get on I-15 S . Stop at Clark Canyon Reservoir along the way for some wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities.

• Continue on I-15 to Lima, a popular destination for fossil hunters, wildlife viewing and year-round outdoor recreation.

• From Lima continue to Monida. Take exit 0 and make a left on to South Valley Road . Follow the gravel road for 29 miles, through the Centennial Valley, to Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, home of the largest population of trumpeter swans in North America. The South Valley Road is accessible in summer.

Ghost Towns

Explore the past and visit the many ghost towns that helped influence Montana today. From the first territorial capitol of Bannack to the most "alive" ghost town of Virginia City to the many towns nestled in the mountains, Southwest Montana is the place to uncover the Old West. For directions and information, visit www.southwestmt.com .

1. VIRGINIA CITY / NEVADA CITY

Virginia City is a vast National Historic Landmark, housing America’s finest collection of 1860s “boom town” buildings on their original sites plus collections of Old West artifacts. Nearby Nevada City is an open-air museum with more than 100 buildings, thousands of artifacts and gem mining. 406.843.5247, www.virginiacitymt.com, www.montanaheritagecommission.mt.gov

2. BANNACK STATE PARK GHOST TOWN

The discovery of gold on Grasshopper Creek in 1862 triggered a major gold rush to what would become Montana. Bannack was founded that fall and became the first territorial capital. Bannack is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the country and was once home to the infamous Sheriff Henry Plummer and his gang of outlaws. More than 50 buildings still stand in Bannack. The visitor center is open from May through October. Town tours, mill tours, living history, gold panning and Saturday entertainment programs are scheduled from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Bannack Days, a celebration of pioneer life, takes place the third weekend of July. The park and campground are open all year. Bannack is located 25 miles southwest of Dillon off Highway 278. 406.834.3413, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/bannack-state-park

Coolidge

Located in the eastern Pioneer Mountains above 7,000 feet, Coolidge was the last silver boom town in Montana. A narrowgauge railroad was built for mine access, but the quantity of silver ore did not justify the expense of the rail line or the huge mill that was built. Coolidge can be reached by a 5-mile gravel road and a half-mile hike at Mono Creek along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. 406.832.3178, www.southwestmt. com/specialfeatures/ghosttowns/coolidge.htm

The Vipond brothers built a road to Dewey in 1872 to transport the rich silver ore discovered there in 1868. Numerous old buildings and mining sites are found in the area. The Quartz Hill mining camp can be reached via the Quartz Hill Road about a half mile south of Dewey on Montana Highway 43. Take Quartz Hill Road about 5 miles to the area. 406.683.5511

DIG DEEPER: There are over 60 ghost towns in Montana, with almost half located in Southwest Montana, many with intact buildings that preserve the state’s rich history. Three of the state's five spookiest ghost towns are in Southwest Montana.

FlatheadRiver

5. GLENDALE AND CANYON CREEK CHARCOAL KILNS

Once a thriving smelting town, the little that remains of Glendale includes a stone Confederate-era office building, a smelter stack and a few other buildings. During the boom period of the 1880s, the town boasted a population of 2,000. In order to supply charcoal for the smelter, the Canyon Creek charcoal kilns were built about 5 miles up Canyon Creek beyond Glendale. Numerous beehive-shaped kilns remain. Take the Melrose exit off I-15 and head west on Trapper Creek Road for 5 miles to Glendale. To reach the kilns, turn right on Canyon Creek Road at Glendale and travel about 5 miles. 406.832.3178, 406.683.3900, www.fs.usda.gov/main/bdnf/learning/history-culture

Farlin

The boom years for Farlin were 1905 and 1906 when the Indian Queen produced half a million pounds of copper. Farlin had its own post office and school. Today, a few cabins remain along Birch Creek Road, and the schoolhouse is a short hike up a side gulch. Take the Birch Creek exit between Glen and Dillon and go west for 6 miles. 406.683.5511, www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/ghosttowns/ farlin.htm

Rochester

The Watseca gold mine was discovered in 1869, and the town of Rochester sprang up. The Watseca mine operated until the 1980s. A few stone buildings, a wooden headframe, a modern gold mill and the old cemetery remain. Rochester is located approximately 12 miles from Twin Bridges. 406.684.5121, www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/ghosttowns/ rochester.htm

YELLOWSTONE

PONY

This town is named after Tecumseh “Pony” Smith, discoverer of the placer gold deposits in 1867. Although Pony has seen better days, this picturesque little town refuses to die. Many old, abandoned buildings remain, including the Morris State Bank and the Morris Elling stamp mill. It is located 6 miles southwest of Harrison on Montana Highway 283. www.southwestmt.com/ specialfeatures/ghosttowns/pony.htm

9. ELKHORN STATE PARK

Rich silver deposits were discovered here in 1870, and the population of Elkhorn soon reached nearly 2,500. Much of the remaining town site is owned by private individuals, so be sure to heed the “no trespassing” signs. Fraternity Hall and the adjacent Gillian Hall are managed by Montana State Parks. From I-15, take the Boulder exit, go 7 miles south on Montana Highway 69, then travel 11 miles north on Lower Valley Road and take Elkhorn Road/FS-258. 406.495.3270, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/elkhorn

9 COMET

The Comet Mine was developed in the 1880s and a large mill was built in 1926. During this period, it is reported that Comet had 22 saloons. The town is on private property now but is open to the public. It is located approximately 5 miles north of I-15 on High Ore Road between Boulder and Basin.

Rimini

History has it that Rimini was either named after a city in Italy or a drama production that traveled through during the town’s formative years. Several of Rimini’s old buildings are inhabited today and make up the Rimini community (all private residences). Rimini is located about 17 miles west of Helena just off U.S. Highway 12. Turn south on Rimini Road to reach the old town site. 406.442.4120, www.southwestmt.com/listings/6775.htm

Charter Oak Mine And Mill

The Charter Oak Mine and Mill was a lode mine and mill, active off and on from 1916 to 1955. It is located near the Little Blackfoot River south of the community of Elliston. It contains standing buildings and mining/milling buildings and equipment. The mine has been stabilized and is open for public visitation on select summer weekends. 406.449.5201, www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/ghosttowns/ charteroak.htm

Marysville

Once a thriving gold camp, Marysville is now a small community with several buildings listed on the National Historic Register. There is a lot to see here in this almost-ghost town. Marysville is just 21 miles northwest of Helena. Leaving Helena, take Lincoln Road heading west for approximately 7 miles. Turn left onto Marysville Road and follow for about 6 miles. 406.442.4120, www.southwestmt.com/listings/6757.htm

Garnet

Gold was discovered at the Nancy Hanks Mine in 1898. Garnet’s population boomed to nearly 1,000 people, but by 1950 the town was deserted. More than 30 buildings have been preserved. Garnet offers a visitor center, interpretive signs and self-guided trails. From I-90, take either of the Drummond or Bearmouth exits, then follow the north side frontage road to the Bear Gulch Road and proceed 11 miles up the gravel road. This road is not suitable for trailers or motor homes. Use access 30 miles east of Missoula on Montana Highway 200. 406.329.3914, www.garnetghosttown.org

Granite Ghost Town State Park

The remnants of this once-thriving 1890s silver boom town bear stark witness to Montana’s boom-and-bust mining history. Montana State Parks preserves the Granite Mine Superintendent’s House and ruins of the old Miners Union Hall. The road is narrow, steep and winding; a vehicle with good clearance is recommended. From the flashing light/stop sign in the middle of Philipsburg, turn right. Just past the railroad trestle, turn left. Follow this gravel road for approximately 1 mile, then turn right at the sign marking the way. Granite is about 4 miles from Philipsburg. 406.859.3388, www.philipsburgmt.com/ghost-towns.php

Ghost Tours

In addition to spectacular natural beauty, Montana is known for having a penchant for the peculiar. With the state’s history of Copper Kings, trying hardships and rowdy residents, it’s no surprise that many of Montana’s ghost towns and historical sites have tales of lingering souls and spooky spirits. Whether you are a thrill seeker, ghost hunter or history buff, a ghost tour will provide a different type of adventure.

For information about additional haunted locales, contact the Southwest Montana office: 800.879.1159 or www.southwestmt.com/ghosts/ghost-tours/

1. VIRGINIA CITY / NEVADA CITY

The frenzied energy of the gold rush at Alder Gulch produced a spirited history in this part of Montana—famous local ghosts include a gunslinger walking through the walls of the Hangman’s Building, Virginia Slade thundering down the hill on her black stallion and Sister Irene, who cared for the sick. You can stay with ghosts at Fairweather Inn or Nevada City Hotel, where guests and staff have reported strange noises, mysterious footsteps and visions of previous inhabitants. 406.843.5247, www.virginiacitymt.com, www.montanaheritagecommission.mt.gov

Bannack State Park

Bannack’s haunted history has little to do with its infamous gold rush beginnings. The spirit of 16-year-old Dorothy Dunn, who drowned in 1916, is said to be fond of showing glimpses of herself to children visiting the Meade Hotel. On the park’s seasonal ghost walks you may encounter some of Bannack’s most illustrious citizens. 406.834.3413, www.bannack.org, www.stateparks.mt.gov/bannack

DIG DEEPER: The Travel Channel's Ghost Town

Terror and Ghost of Devil's Perch, filmed in Anaconda and Butte, are the most recent stories about the ghosts in Southwest Montana.

Old Prison Museum Deer Lodge

From 1871 to 1979, inmates at the Territorial/Montana State Prison in Deer Lodge left pieces of their souls behind. More than 200 men took their last breaths within these walls, where it’s said the dead are not at rest. Visitors may encounter foul odors, cell doors clanging and heavy footsteps clomping down deserted corridors. Ask about ghost tours. 406.846.3111, www.pcmaf.org/explore/our-museums/old-montana-prison/

SPOOKS AND SPIRITS HAUNTED TOURS − BUTTE

Enjoy an interactive two-hour tour of Butte's historically verified hauntings found under the big sky. Small to large groups can participate in this interesting history of the Mining City's haunted buildings. 406.723.3177, www.facebook.com/spooksandspiritshauntedtours/

Helena

Board the Last Chance Tour Train Trolley and hear stories of Helena's haunted past. Visit Reeder's Alley and Benton Avenue Cemetery. Each October, visit the original Montana Club and the original Governor’s Mansion. Join a spirit guide on a historical tour of Montana’s oldest gentleman’s club, including scandals and unmentionables, or explore the neighborhood surrounding the Original Governor's Mansion and enjoy the spine-tingling side of its history. 406.449.2107, www.helenamt.com

HOT SPRINGS & WATER PARKS

Southwest Montana's proximity to the geothermal activity of Yellowstone National Park has given this region a variety of developed year-round hot springs facilities. From simple soaking pools to resort locations, warm water awaits.

1. FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS RESORT

Enjoy two Olympic-sized swimming pools and two mineral soaking pools—one of each located indoors and outdoors—plus a 350-foot enclosed waterslide. Lodging, a golf course, a spa and dining are located on-site. 406.797.3241, 800.332.3272, www.fairmontmontana.com

2. BOULDER HOT SPRINGS INN, SPA & RETREAT CENTER

This hundred-year-old historic inn in a natural, relaxing environment offers outdoor and indoor pools filled with geothermal waters for soaking and swimming. 406.225.4339, www.boulderhotsprings.com

3. BROADWATER HOT SPRINGS & FITNESS

Come soak in the pools and enjoy Big Sky Country. Pools are outdoors and available to comfortably swim in year-round. No city water is used in the pools or spas. 406.443.5777, www.broadwatermt.com

4. ELKHORN HOT SPRINGS

This year-round resort offers two outdoor hot mineral pools, a Grecian sauna and a restaurant and bar. Accommodations include rustic cabins, modern cabins and lodge rooms. 406.834.3434, www.elkhornhotsprings.com

5. NORRIS HOT SPRINGS

A unique wooden pool and lush wetlands make this historic hot springs a special location. A café serves delicious organic entrées from on-site gardens plus local produce, microbrews and wines. 406.685.3303, www.norrishotsprings.com

6. JACKSON HOT SPRINGS

William Clark noted this hot springs in his journal in 1806. Cabins, a full-service restaurant, a large Western-style bar and a dance hall are all centered around a natural hot springs mineral pool. 406.834.3151, www.jacksonhotspringslodge.com

7. RIDGE WATERS WATER PARK

Montana’s newest destination waterpark located in Butte’s Stodden Park is managed by Butte-Silver Bow Parks and Recreation Department. Ridge Waters features Montana’s longest lazy river, diving board, water basketball goal, water volleyball, six-way tippy tree, climbing wall, gusher jet, two slides, play structure with a slide, and rope climb, aqua arch and concession stand. Enjoy the Spirit of Columbia Gardens Carousel. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. 406 . 497.6585, www.co.silverbow.mt.us/2092/Ridge-Waters-Waterpark

8. LAST CHANCE SPLASH WATERPARK AND POOL

Located at Memorial Park and managed by Helena Parks and Recreation, the waterpark features a splash deck, lazy river, slides, zero depth, and concessions stand. Open June through August. 406.447.1559, www.lastchancesplash.com

9. BASIN RADON MINES

Since the 1960s, a few radon mines in the Basin/Boulder area have marketed themselves as health mines, citing the reputed health-giving benefits of radon exposure. 406.225.4039, www.radonmine.com

FlatheadRiver

X Pipestone Village And Hotsprings

10

Five spacious cabins and two "glamping" dome sites—that include private hot tubs or outdoor bath tubs—are available in this desert setting that is surrounded by mountains. 406.461.7310, www.pipestonehotsprings.com

ROCKHOUNDING & GEOLOGY

Even today, you can tap into the euphoria of making a find in Montana. Many sites are open to the public. We’ve suggested a few options below, but we also recommend you contact the local Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Mineral Museum at Montana Tech or World Museum of Mining in Butte for other opportunities.

Lima Area

Prehistoric ocean seabeds west of the Rocky Mountain Continental Divide and prehistoric tropical swamplands east of the divide feature displays of tempered rocks, lava and fossils. 406.276.3535

Crystal Park

This unique public dig site offers rockhounds the chance to find amethyst and smoky, brilliant clear quartz scepters in normal form, double terminated, and Japanese Law Twin forms. 406.683.3900, www.southwestmt.com/listings/11967.htm

Humbug Spires

The Humbug Spires Primitive Area is a non-motorized area popular for rock climbing. Impressive outcroppings of quartz monzonite, part of the Boulder Batholith, rise 300 to 600 feet. www.southwestmt.com/listings/904.htm

Ruby Reservoir

Calcite, opalite and garnets are found south of Alder. Some people find gem-quality almandine garnets by screening the gravel along the shores of the reservoir. www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/rockhounding

Sheridan Area

The area near Indian Creek offers white and banded masses of calcite. 406.842.5431, www.southwestmt.com/communities/Sheridan.htm

Virginia City Area

Flecks of gold still sparkle in tailings between Virginia City and Alder. Pan for gold at the River of Gold and visit Alder Gulch Mining Museum. 406.843.5247, www.virginiacitymt.com

LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS − WHITEHALL

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is Montana’s first and best-known state park featuring one of the most decorated limestone caverns in the Northwest. See page 22 for more information. 406.287.3541, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns

RINGING ROCKS – WHITEHALL

The rocks in this unique geologic area chime when tapped lightly with a hammer. It is believed that the ringing is a combination of the composition of the rock and the way the joining patterns have developed as the rocks have eroded away. If a boulder is removed from the pile, it doesn’t ring. Please don’t disturb this natural phenomenon!

www.southwestmt.com/listings/16408.htm

Butte Area

Smoky quartz and amethyst can be found in the porphyry deposits in the Delmoe Lake area. Check out the Mineral Museum at Montana Tech. 406.496.4414

Anaconda Area

Find old tailings of scheelite and epidote at Cable Mountain, northeast of Georgetown Lake. Argillite and quartzite can be found west of Georgetown Lake. 406.563.2400, www.anacondamt.org

FlatheadRiver

Philipsburg Area

Indoor “mining” can be done at Sapphire Gallery and Gem Mountain. There is outdoor mining with a seasonal water flume at Montana Gems of Philipsburg. 406.859.3388, www.philipsburgmt.com

Helena Area

The Spokane Bar Sapphire Mine and Gold Fever Rock Shop is an excellent place to mine for beautiful Montana sapphires. Tools are provided. 406.227.8989, www.sapphiremine.com

Boulder River

Nice cubic crystal of barite can be found about 5 miles west of the Whitehouse Campground along the Boulder River. 406.465.2106, www.bouldermtchamber.com

Earthquake Lake

In 1959 an earthquake in the Madison Canyon River Area, near West Yellowstone, formed Quake Lake. The earthquake created a massive landslide of about 80 million tons of rock, which stopped the flow of the Madison River in the Madison River Canyon gorge. The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center displays a Memorial Boulder from the earthquake with a plaque of the names of the 28 people who died and the events of the earthquake. www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ custergallatin/specialplaces/?cid=stelprdb5127785

DIG DEEPER: Wolf Creek (Prickly Pear) Canyon

One of the most beautiful scenic drives in Montana, this canyon was the most difficult section along the route from Helena to Fort Benton. Stagecoach drivers and teamsters feared the narrow canyon and swift-flowing Prickly Pear Creek. To access the canyon, take I-15 north from Helena. www.southwestmt.com/communities/wolfcreek.htm

BIRDING & WILDLIFE WATCHING

Throughout Southwest Montana visitors have an opportunity to view, hunt, or fish a variety of wildlife. Whether it’s birds, deer, elk or moose you can observe wildlife on any day of the year. There are few activities that can make you feel “in touch” with nature like watching wildlife.

For more information on birding, call 800.879.1159 or visit www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/birdingtrails.

For more information on state wildlife areas, call 406.444.3570 or visit fwp.mt.gov.

RED ROCK LAKES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

This remote area has one of the largest populations of trumpeter swans in the lower 48 states as well as a bevy of other birds. Best viewing is June to July for breeding birds. www.fws.gov/refuge/red_rock_lakes

CLARK CANYON RESERVOIR & BANNACK STATE PARK

The sprawling reservoir teems with birds and other wildlife along its shores and in the surrounding foothills, the streams and flats of the territorial capital. www.bannack.org

GEORGETOWN LAKE & WEST OF ANACONDA

This scenic high mountain lake is surrounded by forest providing a home for many resident waterfowl, raptors and other birds. Look for moose, elk and deer around the lake. As you drive west from Anaconda look for bighorn sheep along Montana Highway 1. www.southwestmt.com/communities/anaconda.htm

OVANDO

Browns Lake, Blackfoot Waterfowl Production Area and the Aunt Molly Wildlife Management Area is where you will see eagles, loons, herons, trumpeter swans, buffleheads and other waterfowl. www.southwestmt.com/communities/ovando.htm

NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Here you can find plenty of healthy riparian habitat populated by diverse bird species. www.southwestmt.com/ specialfeatures/birdingtrails/grantkohrsranch

State Wildlife Management Areas

For opportunities to view wildlife, visit one of the 19 Montana Wildlife Management Areas in Southwest Montana. They provide vital habitat for a variety of wildlife including bears, bighorn sheep, birds, deer, elk, furbearers, moose, mountain goats, wolves and an array of other game and nongame species. 406.444.2535, fwp.mt.gov/ conservation/wildlife-management-areas

Here are just a few popular wildlife management areas to visit for wildlife viewing opportunities:

• Deer Lodge: Spotted Dog

• Helmville: Nevada Lake, Aunt Molly, Blackfoot-Clearwater

• Helena: Canyon Ferry, Lake Helena

• Ennis: Wall Creek, Bear Creek

HELENA VALLEY / CANYON FERRY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

Located on one of North America’s major north-south migration routes, this network of dikes and ponds provides nesting birds plenty of protection. myfwp.mt.gov/fwpPub/landsMgmt/siteDetail. action?lmsId=39753388

BIG HOLE NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD

This quiet high-valley landscape near Wisdom is rich in diverse bird species. www.nps.gov/biho/learn/nature/birds.htm

WARM SPRINGS WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

Autumn brings 28 species of shorebirds to this series of human-made ponds in the Upper Clark Fork Valley and winter is the time to spot rough-legged hawks, prairie falcons and gyrfalcons. myfwp.mt.gov/fwpPub/landsMgmt/siteDetail. action?lmsId=39754067

TIZER BOTANIC GARDENS & ARBORETUM

Tizer is one of only three privately owned internationally accredited arboretums in the United States. Open April to September. www.tizergardens.com

ENNIS LAKE AREA

Just north of Ennis, this 3,692-acre lake beckons with exceptional bird-watching, solitude and more. www.ennischamber.com

BEARTOOTH WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA / AUGUSTA

All of Montana’s big game species call this area home at various times of the year, as do upland game birds, raptors, songbirds, furbearers and small mammals. www. southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/birdingtrails/beartooth/

MOUNT HAGGIN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

Montana's largest at, 54,000 acres. Moose, elk, cranes and other native species abound. Cross country skiing in winter. From Anaconda, SE on Highway 1 to Mill Creek State Highway 273. 406.444.2535

Remember To Give Animals Their Space

for the best viewing so they do not run away. Keep your distance and avoid chasing or touching wildlife. Help Keep Wildlife Wild and Healthy—Human food is not healthy for wild animals, and they do not need food from humans to survive. Wildlife can become a nuisance for others if they become used to human food.

Adventure On The Water

Southwest Montana has an abundance of year-round access to rivers and lakes. Whether it’s whitewater or calm-water rafting or canoeing—or spending a day on a lake sailing, waterskiing, or touring—there’s a place for you. Some of the best blue-ribbon trout streams, rivers, and lakes with majestic mountains, bald eagles, and waterfowl are the backdrop to your fishing, boating, and hiking experiences. 406.444.2535, fwp.mt.gov/fish

CLARK FORK RIVER

The Clark Fork offers boaters, floaters and anglers mile upon mile of beautiful recreation. The river offers excellent trout fishing, and the light use from anglers and floaters ensures hours of uninterrupted enjoyment.

JEFFERSON RIVER

The Jefferson, along with the Madison and Gallatin rivers, is one of the three forks that form the Missouri River. This river offers a day of solitude on the water.

HAUSER LAKE RESERVOIR

Fish for rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye and perch at this 3,200 acre reservoir on the Missouri River. Operated by the Bureau of Land Management, several campgrounds are located nearby. Explore the picturesque “Devil’s Elbow” of Hauser Lake. It offers stunning views of the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains.

HOLTER LAKE

Located near Helena, this is a popular location for both day trips and overnight camping. Rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, walleyes and perch are found in this beautiful lake setting.

MADISON RIVER

The Madison deserves its reputation as the best trout stream in Montana. The “Fifty Mile Riffle” between Quake Lake and Bear Trap Canyon is home to vast quantities of trophy trout.

ENNIS LAKE

At the McAllister junction on U.S. Highway 287 turn onto Ennis Lake Road. Ennis Lake is a 3,692-acre lake that has designated areas for camping, fishing, boating and a beach area for swimming. There is also a good birding loop that circles the lake. www.bigskyfishing.com/lakes/southern-montana-lakes/ ennis-lake/

Beaverhead River

With its willowy banks and tight twists, the Beaverhead offers plenty of challenges even to skilled anglers. However, the river boasts more trophy brown trout than any other waterway in the state.

Dearborn River

The Dearborn River is a tributary to the Missouri River and offers scenic floating and wade fishing early in the summer. www.bigskyfishing.com/River-Fishing/central-rivers/ dearborn-river.php

Big Hole River

Over its 150-mile course, the Big Hole offers a chance to fish for trophy rainbow, brook and brown trout and for fluvial arctic grayling—a fish unique to the Big Hole in the lower 48.

BLACKFOOT RIVER

This is the river that braids its way through the dramatic prose of Norman Maclean’s A River Runs Through It, and it remains one of Montana’s wildest and most productive fisheries.

MISSOURI RIVER

Below Holter Dam, this is one of Montana’s most popular destination fisheries with enormous trout found in dense, shallow-water pods.

CLARK CANYON RESERVOIR

Here you’ll find some of the finest stillwater fishing for large rainbow trout in the state.

FlatheadRiver

GEORGETOWN LAKE

Yearlong fishing for kokanee salmon and rainbow and brook trout along with its breathtaking scenery make Georgetown Lake the perfect setting for fishing and boating.

CANYON FERRY LAKE

If you’re looking for walleye, look no further than this scenic lake. Big, plentiful walleye lurk in its waters, coexisting with fat, red-fleshed rainbows.

RUBY RESERVOIR

Stocked with trout, this remote reservoir is lined by peaceful willows and makes for good fishing when water levels permit.

NEVADA LAKE ( NEVADA CREEK RESERVOIR)

Located 34 miles from Lincoln, Nevada Lake is a great little fishing hole. Tucked between two mountain ranges, the reservoir is host to excellent fishing and beautiful scenery.

BROWN’S-KLEINSCHMIDT-UPSATA LAKES

Located between Helmville and Ovando these small lakes offer great fishing and bird viewing around marshy areas. Fish for trout, bass, perch, and bluegill at Brown’s Lake and walleye and northern pike at Kleinschmidt Lake.

SUN RIVER-GIBSON RESERVOIR

Located on the Sun River, Gibson Reservoir built to control flooding is located just south of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, 20 miles northwest of Augusta. Enjoy camping, boating, and fishing with spectacular views of the wilderness. Rainbow, westslope cutthroat, and brown trout provide for great fishing opportunities. The Sun River continues northeast providing additional fishing opportunities.

KIDS' FISHING PONDS

There are fishing ponds in Anaconda, Butte, Dillon, Ennis, Helena and Virginia City that provide kids under 12 a free place to learn the art of fishing and the thrill of catching a fish.