Bison Range opening day draws wildlife watchers

Friday, May 12, marked the opening day for the CSKT Bison Range, with over 125 visitors. Saturday brought over 400 visitors, with the same expected for Sunday.

A new pricing structure has not diminished the number of visitors wishing to view the abundant wildlife along the well-traveled interior roads.

The 18,766-acre Bison Range was established in 1908 for the preservation of the American Bison by the federal government. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes took over ownership and management with the passing of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.

The range has approximately 350 bison grazing on the land.

Along the Red Sleep Mountain drive, visitors can see a beautiful panoramic view of the Mission Mountains. On the drive, visitors will be able to view the high-water mark of the ancient glacial Lake Missoula.

Abundant wildlife can be viewed along the road, ranging from the elusive black bear to the majestic elk along Mission Creek. The swift pronghorn antelope can be seen grazing along the road. Keep your eyes open for the many Mule deer roaming the range as well as the solitary coyote searching for the occasional vole or young newborn calf.

Many of the Bison were grazing on the Ravalli side of the Bison Range, with some being viewed along Prairie Drive.