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A close-to-home safari reveals some pretty amazing wildlife
National Bison Range
Best for: bison, pronghorn antelope, black bear, bighorn sheep, and eagles
Throw on a cowboy hat and tap into your vehicle’s horsepower for a tour of the National Bison Range in Montana. Located about 45 miles outside of Missoula, this 18,500-acre range was created in 1908, largely thanks to the support of Theodore Roosevelt, making it one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the country. Visitors will find home on the range some 350 to 500 bison that indeed roam where the deer and the antelope play. Stop by the visitor’s center to gather information from informed park rangers before heading down to the Red Sleep Mountain Drive, which covers 19 miles of inclining gravel road for magnificent views. www.fws.gov/bisonrange
Smart Splurge Hotel: Nestled in the mountains of nearby Missoula, the Blue Mountain B&B offers four charming guest rooms, set on 20 acres of natural wildlife habitat. Fuel up for a day on the range with a warm home-cooked breakfast, accompanied by breathtaking scenery. www.bluemountainbb.com
Great Value Hotel: Fully embrace the wilderness in one of three teepees at Twin Creeks B&B, or, remain in the 21st century with seven Internet-ready rooms – regardless of your choice, you’ll be welcomed by freshly-baked cookies. www.twincreeksbb.com
When to Go: The range is open year-round, but fees are charged mid-May to late October. Still, it’s a worthy trade-off for longer – and warmer – days. Catch the bison being round-up by real cowboys in early October, or check out the next generation when calves are born in April and May.
See Sonoma Travel Guide | See Montana Travel GuideSee Maine Travel Guide
