Distinctly Montana Magazine

D I S T I N C T L Y M O N T A N A M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 0 80 WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: Stretching over 50,000 acres in the Centennial Valley, the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is part of the Greater Yellowstone Eco- system. This means the abundance of wildlife here nearly rivals the ecosystem's namesake national park. Just a few of the animals you might see at the refuge in- clude moose, deer, otters, pronghorn, lynx, cougars, foxes, trumpeter swans, black bears, eagles, falcons, and sandhill cranes. The refuge has a mindblowing array of ecosystems within its boundaries. Framed by lofty peaks, the lower region includes marshes, open meadows, sagebrush flats, and lush forests. While winter and shoul- der seasons can be frigid, summer is the time to bring your binocu- lars, hiking boots, and a spirit of exploration. Bring both a bird book and a wildflower identification book, and keep track of how many different species you can identify. Learn about the role this ecosys- tem plays in the reproductive season for its wildlife inhabitants and the refuge's critical role in the Arctic Grayling Restoration Project. WHILE YOU'RE HERE: Pull out your fly rod and cast along the banks of the Red Rock River, and grab a slice of pie at Jan's Cafe right in the tiny town of Lima. WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: Just 30 minutes south of chic, his- toric downtown Bozeman, Hyalite Canyon is a hub of year-round recreation. From the trailheads branch- ing off from the main road for most of the way in, to the paddling and fishing at the res- ervoir, to the epic peaks you can reach from the farthest-back trailheads, there's something for everyone at Hyalite. Pull into the day-use lot with your SUP or canoe, and spend time paddling around the reservoir, surrounded by dramatic peaks, cliffs, and lush evergreen forests. Check out one of the multiple campsites as you drive toward the reservoir, or look for sites behind the reservoir for a more secluded experience. Hiking trails abound, from short, well-graded paths leading to tum- bling waterfalls, all the way to full-day adventures up epic peaks with 360-degree views of the surrounding region. No matter what type of summer day (or weekend) you're looking for in the Montana outdoors, Hyalite Canyon is a must-visit for anyone in southwest Montana. WHILE YOU'RE HERE: Take an afternoon to stroll around downtown Boz- eman. Relax in Lindley Park, grab a local beer to enjoy on the MAP Brewing patio, and don't miss out on a bison burger at Montana Ale Works. 4 5 LIMA BOZEMAN The Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge HAS A MINDBLOWING ARRAY OF ECOSYSTEMS WITHIN ITS BOUNDARIES MAGGIE SLEPIAN KYLE TILLEMAN (2) Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Hyalite Canyon Reservoir Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Hyalite Canyon

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