By editor
Valley County, Northeast Montana
Formerly known as Halfbreed Lake, Grass Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a closed-basin, alkaline lake set within the rolling prairie north of the Missouri River. It is a harsh, dynamic environment; in years of deep snowpack, the lake fills and teems with life, while in drought years, it evaporates into a blinding white expanse of mineral salts.
When the water is present, Grass Lake is a vital stopover for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl. The shallow, invertebrate-rich waters attract thousands of Wilson's Phalaropes, which spin in tight circles on the surface to stir up food. American Avocets and Black-necked Stilts sweep their bills through the mud, while the surrounding grasslands support nesting Northern Harriers, which course low over the sage in search of voles.
Visitor Access
Grass Lake is an unstaffed, satellite refuge managed by the Bowdoin NWR complex. It is free to enter, but there are no facilities, established trails, or auto tour routes. Access is via unmarked county dirt roads that can be treacherous when wet. Visitors must be self-reliant and prepared for complete isolation.