|
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting several family friendly outdoor education programs and events at Lone Pine State Park in May.
From guided hikes to bear safety and trail work, Lone Pine State Park is hosting several opportunities. Space is limited for many of the programs with advance registration required to secure a space. Anyone interested can register by calling the visitor center at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Learn more about Montana’s state parks at https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks.
Coffee is for the Birds
Wednesday, May 1, 8 a.m.
Bird enthusiasts are invited to gather at the Lone Pine picnic shelter for a unique experience on International Dawn Chorus Day. Participants can enjoy a cup of coffee while immersing themselves in the melodies of the park's birds. Set against the backdrop of the park, attendees will have the opportunity listen and identify various bird species as they serenade the morning with their enchanting calls. This program does not include hiking. Dress for being outdoors. Advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Recreating Safely in Bear Country
Thursday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.
Join Justine Vallieres, FWP bear and mountain lion conflict management specialist, for an evening program about recreating safely in bear country. The session will include instruction on bear spray and other information necessary for responsible outdoor adventures. Advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 11, 1 p.m.
Explore Northwest Montana's early spring wildflowers on a short guided wildflower walk through the park with Julia Smit, a seasoned educator, writer, and former park ranger. Delve into the fascinating world of flora as you uncover the secrets of the common species that dot our hillsides and line our highways. All ages are welcome. Be prepared with sturdy walking shoes, water, and a snack, while dressing appropriately for the weather. Bring along your favorite field guide if you have one. Advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
The Fungus Among Us: Mushroom ID Workshop
Saturday, May 11, 3 p.m.
Curious about fungi and not sure where to start? This mushroom identification workshop, led by educator, writer, and former park ranger Julia Smit, will guide participants through a classroom portion discussing fungi, mushrooms, and lichen and how to identify them. Learn the art of spore prints and what characteristics to look for when identifying these unique organisms. A short walk into the field will follow to explore Lone Pine's fungi. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Wear sturdy walking shoes, bring water and a snack, and dress for the weather. Bring along your favorite field guide if you have one. There is a $4 fee to attend this program and advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Beginners Tree ID Hike
Saturday, May 18, 3 p.m.
Embark on a journey of discovery amidst the beauty of Lone Pine State Park with a beginner's tree identification hike. Join a leisurely stroll through the park's scenic trails and delve into the world of tree identification. Gain the skills to discern unique characteristics of various tree species, unlocking the secrets hidden within their leaves, bark, and branches. All ages welcome. Come prepared with sturdy walking shoes, water and a snack, and dress for the weather. Bring along your favorite field guide if you have one. Advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Learning Spring Birds by Sight and Sound
Saturday, May 25, 8-11 a.m.
Join Flathead Audubon Conservation Educator Denny Olsen for a morning learning adventure. Forging an unlikely union between science, humor, and drama, Denny has established a reputation as an innovative performer and educator. This program is recommended for older teenagers and adults to build your bird identification skills. Wear sturdy walking shoes, bring water and a snack, and dress for the weather. Bring along your favorite field guide if you have one. There is no fee to attend, however space is limited and advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
National Trails Day
Saturday, June 1, 8:30 a.m-1 p.m.
Lone Pine State Park, in collaboration with Foy's to Blacktail Trails, invites outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to join forces in an inspiring initiative to improve our trails on National Trails Day. This event promises a day of camaraderie and stewardship as participants come together to enhance the natural beauty of our beloved trails. By working in groups, volunteers will engage in a variety of trail maintenance activities, including pulling noxious weeds and repairing damaged sections of trail infrastructure. Participants will be treated to lunch provided by the generous support of the Kalispell Daybreak Rotary Club. Advance registration is required at 406-755-2706, ext. 0.
Sundays with Camo
Sunday, May 5, May 12, 19 and June 2, 2 p.m.
Join us on one of three Sundays in April for an exploration into the world of our resident bull snake, Camo. Discover the unique characteristics and behaviors of these slithery inhabitants as we observe Camo and witness him enjoy his weekly meal, offering a glimpse into the life of these misunderstood creatures. Whether you're a snake enthusiast or simply curious about the reptiles in our midst, Sundays with Camo promises an educational and thrilling experience for all ages. No registration required for this drop-in program.
For more information, visit https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lone-pine or call 406-755-2706, ext 0. Lone Pine State Park is open year-round and the visitor center is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Lone Pine State Park is 5 miles southwest of Kalispell and offers views of the valley, 7.5 miles of trails, and an interpretive center with 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 horseshoe pit, and an archery range. The nonresident vehicle entry fee of $8 applies.