The National Bison Range provides one of the richest wildlife experiences in the Northwest. The Range is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System. It was established in 1908 to help save the American bison (buffalo) from extinction and is one of the oldest wildlife refuges in the nation.

A large portion of the 18,500-acre Range consists of native Palouse prairie with scattered areas of ponderosa pines and Douglas-firs. Wetlands and streams are also found here, providing a wide range of habitats for wildlife. Elk, deer, pronghorn, black bear, coyote and ground squirrels are just some of the animals that share the area with 350 to 500 bison.

You'll want to start your visit at the visitor center. Here you will find informative displays and brochures, restrooms, videos, a bookstore, and staff to answer your questions. The best way to experience the Range is by a self-guided tour in your vehicle along two loop drives through the area.

The Prairie Drive/West Loop is a 5-mile gravel road that travels through the flats by the Bison Display Pasture. The drive is open year round and is accessible to trailers and large RVs. Allow about 1/2 hour to complete. Red Sleep Mountain Drive travels for 19 miles on gravel road and takes about 2 hours to complete. There are many switchbacks and 10% grades along this drive so trailers or vehicles over 32 feet are not permitted. The route is open mid-May to late October.

The entrance to the National Bison Range is located off State Highway 212 at Moiese, Montana. From Missoula travel about 8 miles west on I-90 to Exit 96. Go north 27-miles on US Highway 93 to Ravalli, turn left (west) on to State Highway 200 to Dixon, about 6 miles. Travel north 4 miles on Highway 212 to Moiese, and east (right) at the refuge sign.