National Bison Range offers free day
SANDERS COUNTY - Need an excuse getting outside and enjoying the fall weather? Want to hear elk bugling and see geese migrating? Your chance is coming up on Saturday, September 28 as the National Bison Range in Sanders County celebrates National Public Lands Day. Many federal lands throughout the nation will be waiving fees for the day, as will the Bison Range. So come visit us for free on September 28.
As long as weather and road conditions permit, visitors will be able to take Red Sleep Mountain Drive and head over the top. This road is the 19-mile, one-way gravel road which gains 2,000 feet and provides access to the high country of the National Bison Range. You’ll have the opportunity to hear elk bugling in the higher forested areas as well as along Mission Creek. Watch for white-tail and mule deer, pronghorn, and, of course, bison. Keep an eye out for migrating birds; you might catch sight of something unusual passing through.
To reduce disturbance to wildlife, the Refuge does not allow the use of any electronic or game calls, including elk calls or bird song players. This minimizes stress on the animals and allows for visitors to have a more natural experience.
Also, remember that Red Sleep Mountain Drive is a one way road and traveling backwards to reach Mission Creek is not allowed when the Do Not Enter signs are posted.
The Front Gate opens at 7 a.m. but you need to start Red Sleep by 6 p.m. to be able to finish before the Front Gate closes at dark. The Refuge closes to all public use at night and visitors should plan to be off Refuge by the posted times. The Visitor Center will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Get current hours at our website http://www.fws.gov/refuge/national_bison_range/.
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to visit the National Bison Range, or any public land near you, for FREE on Saturday, September 28, to celebrate National Public Lands Day.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov.