Have You Tried Montana’s Best End-of-Winter Hike?

If you're anxious to stretch your legs after a long Montana winter there are a lot of places where you can lace up the boots and do some walking.

But year in and year out, one of the most consistent end-of-winter hikes is right in the heart of Montana's Bitterroot Valley. This destination offers trails that are generally snow-free by March and sweeping views across the river and meadows to the Bitterroot Front and plenty of wildlife.

Best of all, the trails are easily accessible for everyone from little kids to senior citizens.

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A Montana treasure for nearly half a century

The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge was originally established as the Ravalli National Wildlife Refuge in 1964, and re-named after the legendary Montana senator in 1978. It covers 2800 acres, with the primary commitment of protecting migratory bird species. Well over 200 have been identified on these lands north of Stevensville and east of the Bitterroot River. Up to 100 nests here on an annual basis.

Trails are a treasure

There are two primary trails at the Metcalf. The Ponderosa Trail and Riparian Way Trail Loop is 2.1 miles and circle the wetlands. The 2.3-mile Kenai Trail offers sweeping views both east and west. Both are rated "easy" and are paved.

One of our favorite spots is right off Wildfowl Lane, where there's a parking area and a short half-mile walk takes you to the eastern bank of the river, where you can sit and be warmed by the sun.

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More to see and do

The refuge has an informative visitor center and there are additional locations, like the historic Whaley Homestead, which dates to 1885. And now that the road has been re-surfaced on the south end, Wildfowl Lane also makes a great early-season bike ride.

Check all the refuge rules here.