Lee Metcalf Wilderness

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness spans 254,288 acres across four separate units, featuring mountain ranges, alpine lakes, dense forests, and high-elevation ridges throughout Montana.

Congress established the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in 1983, naming it after Montana congressman Lee Metcalf, who advocated for land preservation in the northern Rocky Mountains.

Native American archaeological sites within the wilderness boundaries indicate long-term human presence in these lands before European settlement of the Madison County region.

Visitors require permits for camping and fishing activities, and the absence of motorized vehicles maintains the natural conditions specified by the 1964 Wilderness Act.

The area contains the highest population density of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states, along with diverse wildlife including wolves, mountain goats, and Canadian lynx.

Location: Montana

GPS coordinates: 45.13330,-111.45000

Latest update: March 11, 2025 01:43