North of Missoula, MT and half way to Polson,( near Flathead Lake) is the National Bison Range NP. It is a 19 mile driving loop and is a preserve for the Bison and other wildlife. We enjoyed the "free with senior NP Pass" trip and spotted several. Near the top of a peak there was a 1/2 mile (RT) hiking trail that lead out to wonderful views. I spotted a herd down below in the basin. It contained many large Bison, mostly mothers with their new born babies. The babies were all lying on there sides in the sunshine napping. What a sight!
They looked like specks below us from our vantage point and Bob hadn't even spotted then yet when I'd approached him after shooting pics of wildflowers.
The hillsides took on a yellowish edge as they were full of blooming yellow Arrowleaf balsamroot flowers.
There were pronghorn antelope and white tail deer too!
After the diversion we drove on up to Whitefish to check out where Aaron had spent 2 snowy winters, then just south to Kalispell for the local Camp Walmart!
Just read your last reply comment. If you do head north up to Jasper NP remember that road is probably the best viewing and scenic road on your entire trip. We were coming back from AK heading south. There is a lot of wilderness to cover. I'm glad we were heading south...it left a lasting memorable impression of the Rocky Mountains. Have fun, stay cool and go for it!
ReplyDeleteI believe it, Bob kept saying that Alaska can't possibly beat this view and scenic road way! It was just amazing with all the snow cover. Much of the side treks are closed it is so early in the season. And the road is sparsely traveled. No traffic slow-downs which may occur in summer season. Also of note is the Bow Valley Parkyway coming out of Banff! Just beautiful!
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