Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Federal wildlife sanctuary in Great Falls area, Montana.
Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a federally protected area near Great Falls in Montana with wetlands, grasslands, and marshes. The refuge covers thousands of acres and sits at the base of mountain ranges that shape the landscape.
The refuge was established in 1929 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect habitats in the northern plains region. This creation was part of broader efforts to preserve important stopover areas for migratory birds.
The refuge serves as a learning space where visitors can understand ecosystem conservation and watch native species in their natural behaviors. The observation points and walking paths help people connect with the land in a direct, hands-on way.
The refuge is located roughly 12 miles north of Great Falls and is accessible by car. Visitors can drive a designated route with viewing stops and walk a boardwalk through the marsh areas for close-up wildlife watching.
During migration periods, the wetlands become a temporary home for enormous numbers of waterfowl moving between distant regions. The scale of birds arriving here at certain times of year is truly remarkable to witness.
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