National Bison Range
Refuge Manager
132 Bison Range Road
Moiese, MT 59824
(406) 644-2211
Located in western Montana, the Range protects one of the most
important of the remaining herds of American bison or buffalo. Within these
lands of the beautiful Flathead Valley, in the "Land of the Shining Mountains,"
from 300 to 500 of the great shaggy animals roam over nearly 19,000 acres of
grassland and park-like patches of timber. When visiting the refuge don't miss
the two hour Red Sleep Mountain self-guided drive.
This is an area of steep hills and narrow canyons at the southern end of the Flathead Valley, which lies in the shadows of the majestic Mission Range, northwest of Missoula in western Montana. Though snow piles into huge drifts in nearby hills, the Bison Range is so located that it is scantily covered in winter. Even in the worst weather, bison are ruggedly self-sufficient, and can find forage by rooting through the snow. Besides the bison, the Range holds herds of whitetail and mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and pronghorns. There are also a few Rocky Mountain goats.
Visiting the National Bison Range
The best place to start your visit to the Bison Range is the Visitor Center. Here you will find informative displays on the bison, its history and its habitat. Helpful staff will answer your questions, direct you to areas where you are most apt to see wildlife and assist you in emergencies.
The highlight of a visit to the Range is the two hour Red Sleep Mountain self-guided drive. A short tour, the Buffalo Prairie Drive, is also available for those with less time. Both tours begin and end at the visitor center. It is recommended that you check with refuge personnel regarding hours of operation.
Picnic sites and a nature trail are available in the Day Use Area. Public fishing is permitted along Mission Creek as posted, and on the Jocko River where it flows through the south edge of the Range. The Jocko River fishing access is located 3 miles (5 km.) west of Ravalli on State Highway 200. Compliance with all applicable state regulations is required.
Special tours are provided for organized groups if arrangements are made in advance. Otherwise, visitors are restricted from the open range. This is a precaution for the safety of visitors, and to minimize the adverse impacts of overuse.