Lee Metcalf NWR Wildlife Viewing Trail
check with the trail manager for updated details before visiting.
Lee Metcalf NWR Wildlife Viewing Trail
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Frontcountry Trail
- Length
2.2 miles
- Elevation Gain
--
- Route Type
out & back
- Length
2.2 miles - Elevation Gain
-- - Route Type
out & back
This wildlife viewing trail extends over 2 miles in Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), one of the largest publicly owned riparian properties in the Bitterroot Valley.
Hooded Merganser. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Bucks in the meadow. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Red-Naped Sapsucker and NRT sign. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Spotted Sandpiper chick. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Pine Tree Squirrel. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Woodchuck. Photo by Kimi Smith.
First snowfall. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Bull Moose. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Great Horned Owl.
Great Horned Owl. Photo by Kimi Smith.
Location: Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
- States: Montana
- Counties: Ravalli
National Wildlife Refuges are singular in mission -- the preservation of native plant and animal life for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. On Refuges these benefits accrue in the form of the following allowed activities: wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation.
The refuge hosts approximately 150,000 people each year, and the trail is an integral part of the visitor experience. Trail users enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including wildlife observation, snowshoeing, and fishing. This scenic trail will eventually serve as a trailhead for the Bitterroot Birding and Nature Trail, the first trail of its kind in Montana.
The Wildlife Viewing Trail incorporates all the allowed activities while passing through all representative habitats on the Refuge. Lee Metcalf NWR is one of the largest publicly owned riparian properties in the Bitterroot Valley. Some 80% of Montana's birds use this particular habitat for nesting. As evidence of its uniqueness, the Refuge averages about 150,000 visitors per year using both the Wildlife Viewing Trail and the adjacent Auto Tour Route.
Beyond biological significance, the refuge and the trail are part of Stevensville, the first European settlement in Montana. Lewis and Clark also passed Refuge properties on their trek up and down the Bitterroot Valley.
Accessibility Information
No text provided.
Allowed Uses:
Dogs, on leash Hiking/Walking Snow, cross-country skiing Snow, snowshoeingOther Activities
- Fishing
- Snow, snow play general
- Wildlife viewing / observation
Public Contact
Bob DanleyUSFWS
4567 Wildfowl Lane
Stevensville, MT 59870
[email protected] • (406) 777-5552 ext. 20
leemetcalf.fws.gov
Contact the trail manager for current maps and visiting details.
More Details
- Elevation (low): 3300
- Elevation (high): 3300
- Elevation (cumulative): --
- Part of a Trail System? No
- Surface (primary): Paved
- Surfaces (additional): --
- Tread Width (average): 72"
- Tread Width (minimum): --
- Running length (minimum): --
- Tread Grade (average, percent): --
- Tread Grade (maximum):
- Running length (maximum): --
- Cross-slope (average, percent): --
- Cross-slope (maximum): --
- Running length (maximum): --
- Certified as an NRT
Jun 3, 2005