MiSSioN VaLLeY
THE MISSION MOUNTAINS rise steeply from the valley floor, keep snow
well into July, and provide a dramatic backdrop for wildlife watching, museum hopping and
outdoor fun in the Mission Valley.
The National Bison Range, located near Moiese, was the second federally established area for
the protection of a specific species. Driving through the range, visitors can see bison, antelope, elk,
bighorn sheep and heart-stopping vistas. Farther up the valley, Ninepipes National Wildlife
Refuge is a birder’s delight with shore birds, songbirds and waterfowl flocking here in spring and fall.
To take in the region’s culture, view the elaborate frescoes at the St. Ignatius Mission. Learn about Native American history at the People’s Center in Pablo. Attend a public Pow Wow. Or get a feel for pioneer life at the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana.
For recreation, there’s boating, sailing and fishing on deep, clear Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake west of the
Mississippi. There’s also rafting the Flathead River below Polson; hiking Wild Horse Island; and teeing it up at beautiful
courses in Pablo, Polson and Ronan.To curb your shopping fix, wander Polson’s busy Main Street, where you’ll discover
galleries, boutiques, gear shops, bookstores and more.
Need a break? Just look east to the Mission Mountains and breathe deep.
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