Just 33 miles to West Yellowstone Red Rock Lakes National Wioldlife Refuge (NWR) is a great place for wildlife viewing and bird watching.

The Refuge was established in 1935 to protect the rare trumpeter swan. Today, this 45,000 acre Refuge continues to be one of the most important habitats in North America for the magnificent migratory birds. The Refuge lies in the eastern end of the Centennial Valley near the headwaters of the Missouri River. the Centennial Mountains border the Refuge on the south and east and catch the heavy snows of winter, providing a constant supply of water that replenishes the Refuge's 14,000 acres of lakes and marshes. the flat, marshy lands of the valley floor merge into the rolling foothills of the Gravelly Range to the north. This ideal habitat provides the solitude and isolation that are so essential to the trumpeter swan.

Recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, wildlife observation, photography, hiking, and wildflowers are allowed at Redrock Lakes NWR. Bicycles are permitted on Refuge roads.

Boating is limited to canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rafts, and other non-mechanized vessels in designated areas during designated times of the year. The best time to visit the Refuge for most activities is from May through September.

Fishing is permitted in specific areas during specific times. Check with the Refuge headquarters for more fishing information.

Hunting with a firearm and bow hunting is permitted in designated areas during the legal hunting seasons. Check with the Refuge headquarters for more hunting information.

To Preserve the wilderness explorer spirit, there are no artificially-maintained back country hiking trails. Instead, nature provides many routes created by big game animals. You are welcome to cross-country hike throughout open areas of the Refuge, or follow big game routs and see the Refuge from the wildlife point of view.

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are permitted on the Refuge. There are no artificially maintained trails. Snowmobiles are not permitted on Refuge roads; however; they are allowed on "through" road corridors.

Animals are best seen in the summer and fall during the morning and evening hours. Wild flowers start appearing in May. Moose can be found on the Refuge at any time of year.

Staff is available at the Refuge headquarters during weekdays from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm to help you get oriented, answer questions, or provide more information.