Lewis and Clark National Forest
October 30, 2009 by RV Camper
Filed under Montana Campgrounds, Montana Forests
Lewis and Clark National Forest
The Lewis and Clark National Forest captures and preserves both the minds of Montana – the big dramatic mountains and then the smooth, rolling plains. Lewis and Clark National Forest is a huge chunk of public land that lies from the eastern boundary of Glacier National Park and the Continental Divide eastward through seven mountain ranges, on through foothills and finally onto the plains which are south of Great Falls.
The varying landscapes from board prairies to rugged ridges to high mountain peaks and the beautiful grassy parks and mountain meadows which are surrounded by forests of Douglas fir and lodge pole pine provide many recreational opportunities. The Forest is a haven for large game animals, small animals and several protected species.
Hunting of elk, mule and whitetail deer, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, black bear, mountain lion and blue grouse is allowed with the proper license. Lynx, bald eagles, grizzly bears, peregrine falcon and the gray wolf are some of the protected wildlife that lives in or near the Forest. There are also many popular viewing sites for migrating ducks and geese.
There are 1,600 miles of year round streams and several small natural and man-made lakes. Here a visitor can fish for trout or mountain whitefish. Some streams also support the cutthroat trout. There are 14 boat camps and 20 miles of frontage on the Smith River which is an ideal place to stay and fish.