By editor
Flathead County, West of Kalispell
Hidden in the quiet, timbered valleys northwest of Kalispell, Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is a landscape in recovery. Established in 1999 on a former cattle ranch, the refuge protects a rare, intact remnant of Palouse prairie, surrounded by dense pine forests and riparian wetlands.
The diversity of habitats here supports a wide range of species. In the pine forests, Red Crossbills use their specialized, asymmetrical bills to pry seeds from pine cones, while Hairy and Pileated Woodpeckers work the dead snags. The meadow wetlands attract breeding Northern Shovelers and Hooded Mergansers. In the late spring, the shorelines are visited by American Avocets and Greater Yellowlegs. The refuge is also known for its population of breeding Sandhill Cranes, whose ancient, rattling calls carry for miles across the valley.
Visitor Access
The refuge is free to enter and open from sunrise to sunset. There are no developed auto tour routes or observation platforms; birding is done by hiking the refuge roads and trails or skiing in the winter. A seasonal closure is in effect for a large portion of the refuge from September 1 through December 10 to provide sanctuary for migrating wildlife. The county road through the refuge is gravel, and cell service is sporadic.