Montana
Lee Metcalf NWR Wildlife Viewing Trail
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.
Loop Trail? No
Type: Greenway
Agency: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Entry Fee? No
Parking Fee? No Allowed Uses:
Dogs - On leash
Fishing
Pedestrian - Walking/Hiking/Running
Snow - Cross-country Skiing
Snow - Snowshoeing
Wildlife Observation
Description
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 Wildlilfe 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.
Additional Details
Width: 72 inches.
Primary Surface: Asphalt
Secondary Surface: None
Elevation Low Point: 3,300
Elevation High Point: 3,300
Elevation Gain (cumulative): Not Available
Year Designated: 2005
Supporting Webpages and Documents
Website: Lee Metcalf National Wildlife RefugeWebsite: American Trails Featured NRT
Contact Information
For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails.
Trail Management:
Bob Danley
Outdoor Rec Planner
USFWS
4567 Wildfowl Lane
Stevensville, MT
59870
(406) 777-5552 ext. 20
[email protected]
http://leemetcalf.fws.gov
Photos
Reviews
Suggest an Edit
Do you see a problem with this trail data? Contact us below: