Swan River
Big Fork, MT 59911
Plan Your Visit
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Swan River National Wildlife Refuge, from bird-watching to waterfowl hunting, and fishing to snowshoeing. Visitors are allowed to observe or photograph wildlife, hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe on Bog Road Trail year-round and in the hunt area during waterfowl hunting season.
Swan River National Wildlife Refuge is in bear country. Be prepared for bear encounters - carry and keep bear spray readily available. Learn how to be Bear Aware.
The Refuge is located just off the west side of state highway 83 in northwest Montana near the south end of Swan Lake about 23 miles southeast of the town of Bigfork. The only facility here includes a small parking area from which one can access a kiosk and an overlook with interpretive panels. The kiosk and wildlife viewing platform are accessible.
Trails
Visitors are encouraged to hike on the Bog Road and Tollefson Trails year-round.
Activities
Get Involved
Imagine banding birds, conducting wildlife surveys, leading a tour, or restoring fragile habitat. You can do this by volunteering at National Wildlife Refuges. Volunteers play a vital role in helping the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service fulfill its mission of conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish, wildlife, and habitats.
Services
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issues permits for legitimate wildlife-related activities that would otherwise be prohibited by law. These programs ensure activities safeguard wildlife and promote conservation through research and management. Special Use Permits for Swan River National Wildlife Refuge can be obtained by contacting the Refuge Manager.
About
Established in 1973 for the benefit of migratory birds, the 1,568-acre Swan River National Wildlife Refuge is situated in northwest Montana between the Swan and Mission Mountains. The refuge features a flat valley floor with wetland, grassland, and forested upland habitats, including oxbow sloughs formed by the meandering Swan River. It provides critical habitat for over 200 bird species and serves as an important corridor for grizzly bears. The refuge is managed as part of the Western Montana National Wildlife Refuge Complex by the Northwest Montana District.