Secret Kayak Spots
Flatwater kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the Basecamp; with a good boat, proper technique and the right gear, it’s relaxing and fun. On river trips, the current will even do most of the work. There’s no better way to spend a summer day than in the freedom of a boat built for one. A special word of
Get to Know the Rocky Mountain Front
You can see why they call that wall of mountains west of Great Falls, “The Front.” It rises abruptly as much as 3,000 feet from the Great Plains, a true “front” to the sea of mountains behind it; the Rockies, the Continental Divide, the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat, and Great Bear wilderness areas. This brilliant white and beige wall of limestone and mudstone
Glacier’s East Side: 3 Insider Secrets
Glacier’s East Side: An Insider’s Guide It’s no surprise that every square inch of Glacier National Park is gorgeous. But locals know: some of its best views are east of the divide, and they’re easy to reach along US 89. High points include: Two Medicine Lake A scenic campground and the historic Two Medicine Store on the lake make this area a spectacular
A Lifetime of Recreation in Montana’s Island Ranges
Think Great Falls is all alone out on the Great Plains, far away from the mountains? Look again. You can clearly see the Little Belts, Big Belts, Adel, Highwoods mountain ranges and a slew of one-of-a-kind mountainous “buttes” from town, as well as the main “Front” of the Rocky Mountains and the Scapegoat and Bob Marshall wilderness areas from the busy 10th
What to Do in State Parks Near the Basecamp
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning land in Montana, we have good news: you already do. Our state parks offer some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities under the Big Sky, and a few of our finest parks are easy to enjoy from Great Falls. Giant Springs Imagine standing on the banks of North America’s longest river and the world’s shortest river—at
Ride the Road in Montana’s Basecamp for Diverse Scenery
Throw a leg over the saddle of your 2 wheeled steed anywhere in Great Falls, and you have several options for a pedaling adventure. There are routes for road rides in every direction and distance. The River’s Edge Trail (RET) is easily accessible for casual rides along the river that are family friendly. RET has over 20 miles of paved
Finding Our Feathered Friends | Birds Flock to Great Falls, Montana Skies, Waterways
You probably won’t find a yellow-bellied sapsucker in Montana, but tundra swans, snow geese, bald eagles, waterfowl, songbirds, and dancing sharp-tailed grouse abound if you know where and when to look. Benton Lake Wildlife Refuge Located 12 miles north of Great Falls, Benton Lake isn’t really a lake, but rather a marshy wetlands area brimming with native grasses and wildlife. Springtime is
Top Spots For Snowshoeing In the Basecamp
When the temperature drops in Great Falls, it’s time to get out and explore. Snowshoeing is an easy, low-impact way to enjoy winter, and some of the best spots are close by. Be sure to check the forecast, dress appropriately and bring extra food, water and gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable walk. Moonlight Snowshoeing at Silver Crest offers
Baby, It’s Cold Outside, But Snowshoeing Will Keep You Warm
Peace, solitude and warmth await those willing to drive a few miles or up to an hour for some snowshoeing fun. Yes, snowshoeing can be quite warm once participants leave their car and get on the trail for this aerobic exercise. @Katie Kotynski River's Edge Trail A beginner snowshoe right in town is the River’s Edge Trail from Rainbow Dam to Crooked
3 Days, 3 Diverse Landscapes
I don’t get out and hike near as much as I want to – but who really does? August provided me one perfect weekend to use Great Falls as my basecamp and head out to explore North, West & East – three days, three different landscapes to view – all while relaxing with good food and modern amenities at night.