Wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone who loves to hike, need to spend extended time in the Gallatin National Forest. The forest covers more than 3 million acres across Montana and South Dakota.
So it’s safe to assume that you can find a variety of different wildlife that call the Gallatin National Forest their home. In fact, there are more than 300 species you could spot. A great place to start your exploration is in Montana, specifically between Big Sky and Yellowstone National Park, where you will find the 320 Guest Ranch. Simply put, we are right in the heart of the Gallatin Valley.
While the Ranch is nowhere near as large as the Gallatin National Forest, 320 Guest Ranch covers about 160 acres, and there are still ample opportunities to see Montana wildlife on hikes, the waterways, or right outside your cabin window.
Overview of Montana Wildlife In The Gallatin National Forest
When you are hiking on or off the Ranch throughout the Gallatin National Forest, reference this blog as a quick reference for the types of wildlife you might come across in the region.
Mammals
You’ll have a unique opportunity to see some iconic American West wildlife. However, observe with caution. Follow these guidelines when encountering a bear. Montana is home to many grizzly and black bears. Remember to store your food properly. If you can remember some basic tips, you can safely observe and take some amazing photos of these Montana animals
- Grizzly Bear
- Elk
- Mule Deer
- White-Tailed Deer
- Bison
- Moose
- Mountain Goats
- Bighorn Sheep
- Pronghorn
- Cougar
- Gray Wolf
- Black Bear
- Wolverines
- Canada Lynx
Birds
Bird watching is a very popular activity in Montana. This is just a taste of some of the high-flying critters that you might see on the Ranch.
- Bald Eagle
- Peregrine Falcon
- Mountain Bluebirds
- Turkey Vulture
- Western Meadowlark
- Rock Wren
- Ferruginous Hawk
- Loggerhead Shrike
- Franklin’s Gull
- Northern Goshawk
- Sharptail Grouse
- Song Sparrow
- American Robin
- Red-Tailed Hawk
- Great Horned Owl
- Downy Woodpecker
- Red-Winged Blackbird
Fish
Two miles of the Blue Ribbon Gallatin River flows through the 320 Guest Ranch. It’s a beautiful waterway, and we also offer fly fishing lessons only in the on-ranch pond. Whether you are a seasoned angler or looking to dip your toes into a new hobby, these are some of the fish you should get acquainted with before arriving on the Ranch.
- White Sucker
- Longnose Sucker
- Mountain Sucker
- Longnose Dace
- Western Mosquitofish
- Mottled Sculpin
- Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout
- Mountain Whitefish
- Rainbow Trout
- Brown Trout
- Brook Trout
Get To Know The Montana Wildlife
The Gallatin National Forest is one of the many places in Montana that are bursting with amazing wildlife, and 320 Guest Ranch is a great place to put you close to these creatures’ natural habitat.
With outdoor experiences close at hand and comfortable accommodations waiting at day’s end, it is an ideal place to settle in and savor the season. For travelers seeking an unhurried winter escape rooted in authentic Montana experiences, this is a place worth posting up and staying awhile.
For more information, email info@320ranch.com, call toll-free at 800-243-0320, or visit our website to book directly.