Flathead Lake, Lone Pine state parks hosting education programs in March

KALISPELL — Montana’s state parks in the Flathead Valley are hosting several family friendly programs and events in the month of March.

Learn more about Montana’s state parks at https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks

 

Flathead Lake State Park

Flathead Lake State Park consists of six unique park units located around Flathead Lake. The park units on the east side are Wayfarers, Yellow Bay, and Finley Point, and the west side units are West Shore, Big Arm, and Wild Horse Island. In addition to boating, swimming, and fishing, each park unit offers unique experiences including camping, rental picnic shelters, group camping, hiking, sightseeing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

These programs are led by one of the parks’ rangers. Topics and locations vary, and reservations are required. Call 406-837-3041 ext.0 for questions and to register.

Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park

Owl Prowl

March 12, 6:30 p.m.

Join the search for owls and find out what lurks in the trees at the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park. This program will meet at the Entrance Station. Please bring warm clothes, a headlamp, water, and binoculars (some are available to loan).

 

Owl Prowl

March 19, 6:30 p.m.

Join the search for owls and find out what lurks in the trees at the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park. This program will meet at the Entrance Station. Please bring warm clothes, a headlamp, water and binoculars (some are available to loan).

 

Wayfarers Unit of Flathead Lake State Park

Park After Dark Guided Hike

March 18, 8 p.m.

On the March full moon, come join a park ranger on a 1.5-mile guided hike of the Wayfarers Unit of Flathead Lake State Park to see what lurks after dark. This hike offers a unique way to experience local trails and the shore of Flathead Lake. Please bring headlamp, sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, and warm clothes.

 

Lone Pine State Park (Kalispell)

Lone Pine State Park is located 5 miles southwest of Kalispell and offers vivid views of the valley, 7.5 miles of trails, and a beautiful interpretive center that provides information on living in a wildlife urban interface. Additional amenities include a picnic shelter and a community room, which are both available to rent, as well as a volleyball court, and an archery range.

Owl Prowl

March 4, 6:30-8 p.m.

Join the search for owls in the forest of Lone Pine. Learn about area species, animal adaptations, and how to identify owl calls heard in Northwest Montana’s woods. Dress in warm layers, as the group will be standing for long periods in the night air. Trails are typically icy at this time of year, so wear spikes like Yaktrax. The park will have snowshoes available for rent at $5 per pair if needed. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

Call the visitor center at (406) 755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited.

Cost is $4 per hiker ($8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident vehicles)

 

Park After Dark Hike

March 18, 7:30-9 p.m.

Experience Lone Pine on a late-winter night on this full moon hike. Moon views vary depending on cloud cover, but you’re guaranteed a nighttime adventure that experiences the park after hours. Be sure to dress for the weather. Trails are typically icy at this time of year, so wear spikes like Yaktrax. The park will have snowshoes available for rent at $5 per pair if needed. Please bring a flashlight or headlamp.

Call the visitor center at (406) 755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited.

Cost is $4 per hiker ($8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident vehicles)

 

Spring Break Junior Ranger Days

March 22-23

Each 45-minute event is limited to 15 kids. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and registration is required. Call the visitor center to sign up and reserve a spot. With the completion of at least two different events, students can receive their own Junior Ranger badge! For more information and sign up, please contact: (406) 755-2706, ext. 0.

March 22 (Recommended for Grades K-3)

• 10-10:45 a.m.: Senses Scavenger Hunt Hike
• 11-11:45 a.m.: Wildflower I.D and Craft
• 12-12:45 p.m.: Leave No Trace Talk and Game
• 1-1:45 p.m.: Animal Adaptations and Games

March 23 (Recommended for Grades 4-6)

• 10-10:45 a.m.: Senses Scavenger Hunt Hike
• 11-11:45 a.m.: Wildlife and Games
• 12-12:45 p.m.: Wildflower I.D. and Craft
• 1-1:45 p.m.: Fire Building Clinic

 

Beginner Fly Tying Workshop

March 30, 6-7 p.m.

Join us for a fly-tying workshop to learn to tie a classic Adams 16 dry fly. We will be watching a video led by Orvis Learning Center to help guide us through tying the Adams 16. Fly tying kits will be provided, but all are welcome to bring kits and accessories from home for the workshop. This workshop is designed for beginners, but all are welcome to join.

Call the visitor center at (406) 755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited.

Cost is $4 per participant ($8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident vehicles)