Missoula is the kind of place that makes you want to keep your camera within reach and your hiking shoes by the door. With mountain views in nearly every direction and easy access to public lands, it is a natural basecamp for anyone who likes their vacations with a little fresh air built in. If you are planning a visit to the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, you are already on the right track, because Missoula puts you close to some of the most rewarding Montana wildlife viewing in the state, without feeling like you have to rough it to get there.
Beyond the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Missoula, including ample hiking and biking, fly fishing on world-class trout streams, and adrenaline-packed adventures like rafting through the Alberton Gorge. The Bitterroot Valley runs south, home to working ranches and wild spaces, while the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area heads north into some seriously remote backcountry.
Trips to Missoula aren’t all about ruggedness and backcountry. The Clark Fork River flows right through town, creating its own beautiful way to enjoy nature without even leaving Missoula. Montana birdwatching is outstanding throughout the region, so if you’re into birds or just appreciate seeing something unexpected, the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge and surrounding area won’t disappoint.
After a day enjoying the big sky of Missoula, head back to our relaxing Bed and Breakfast. We pair a personalized retreat with a stunning property that mirrors what you’ll see out at the refuge. At our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula, the outdoor space and thoughtful amenities will help you recharge between adventures. It is the ideal home base for early mornings on the trails, sunset drives through the valley, and leisurely days exploring the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Start planning your wildlife adventure and book your room today!
Visit the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge
The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge sprawls across 2,800 acres of river country near Stevensville, which puts it about 30 minutes south of Missoula. What started in the 1960s as a protected spot for migratory birds moving through the wetlands has grown into something way bigger. It’s actually part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, too. These days, close to 250,000 people make their way here every year, which tells you something about how special it is. Don’t worry, though, the trails never feel overcrowded.
The bird life alone is worth the trip. Over 235 species have been recorded at the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge over the years, and more than 100 of them nest here every season. If you’re into Montana birdwatching, plan to spend at least a few hours here. But it’s not just about birds; plenty of mammals, amphibians, and reptiles live here full-time, so you might spot deer, river otters, or even a moose if you’re lucky. The Montana wildlife viewing here feels accessible in a way that’s perfect for everyone, from serious naturalists to couples just wanting to see some animals.
Walking the trails at the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge offers flexible ways to explore, from hiking and birdwatching to photography, fishing, or an easy bike ride along Wildfowl Lane that lets you see more in one outing. If you’re planning your first visit, definitely stop by the Visitor Center before you head out onto the trails. They’ve got exhibits and information that’ll help you understand what you’re looking at, and the staff can point you toward the best spots for whatever you’re hoping to see that day.
What makes the refuge so interesting is how the landscape shifts as you explore it. You’ll walk through riverfront forests where cottonwoods tower overhead, then step out into wet meadows that open up to views of the mountains. The wetlands attract different species depending on the season, and the grassland benches give you a totally different perspective on the valley. There are plenty of kiosks and interpretive signs scattered throughout that give you context about the habitats you’re moving through.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in Missoula
After a day exploring the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, it feels good to come back to a place that keeps you connected to the outdoors, instead of pulling you away from it. At our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula, you’ll find a private, nature-forward retreat where the scenery starts the moment you step outside. The best part is the balance; you are away from the bustle of downtown, yet close enough to enjoy the best places to eat in Missoula, shops, and local events whenever you feel like it.
Our Missoula Bed and Breakfast offers five comfortable guest rooms with beautiful views, plus the warm, personal hospitality that makes staying here feel like being genuinely cared for. Mornings start with the smell of a home-cooked breakfast, the perfect fuel for a day outside. This is the kind of Montana getaway for couples built around wildlife, scenery, and fresh air. This is where it all comes together. Book your stay with us today and see what makes this corner of Montana worth your time.
