Swan River National Wildlife Refuge

The Swan River National Wildlife Refuge spans 1,778 acres of floodplain between the Mission Mountains and Swan Mountains, featuring wetland habitats and river ecosystems.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service established the Swan River National Wildlife Refuge in 1973 to protect essential habitats for native waterfowl populations.

The refuge forms part of the Northwest Montana Wetland Management District, contributing to regional conservation efforts through wildlife monitoring and habitat preservation.

Visitors can access the refuge from Highway 83 and explore the Bog Road and Tollefson Trails, with a parking area and information kiosk available.

The refuge documents 171 bird species, including nesting bald eagles, while also supporting large mammals such as elk, moose, and occasional grizzly bears.

Location: Lake County

Inception: 1973

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/swan_river

GPS coordinates: 47.89810,-113.85500

Latest update: March 3, 2025 07:16