A pleasant 37 miles north of Missoula, Montana, you can experience an
excellent example of wildlife conservation in action. Managed by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the 18,500-acre National Bison Range is
home to hundreds of free-roaming buffalo, antelope, elk, deer, moose,
bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
A 19-mile viewing road is open May 11 to October 10; a
five-mile section remains open during the winter. Both roads, while
narrow, steep and winding in places, are easily accessible by motorhome.
The range is located five miles off Montana Highway 200, near
the town of Moiese. Stop first at the visitor center for a map and to
view the video. The rangers can tell you where the animals are most
likely to be seen at that time. The entry fee is $4 per vehicle, free
for holders of Golden Age or Golden Eagle passports.
For information, call (406) 644-2211.
