Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Flathead Valley State Parks Hosting Outdoor Education Programs, National Trails Day Projects

Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop in Kalispell

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting several outdoor education programs, as well as projects on National Trails Day, at two local state parks in June.

Lone Pine State Park, located 5 miles southwest of Kalispell, is hosting several events open to the public. 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.

The Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park is 15 miles north of Polson on U.S. Highway 93 on Big Arm Bay along the west side of Flathead Lake. It is also hosting an event on National Trails Day.

Information on these events is listed below.

To learn more about Montana's state parks, visit https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks.

National Trails Day

Saturday, June 1, 8:30 a.m.- 1:00 pm

Lone Pine State Park

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 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 Kalispell Daybreak Rotary Club. Registration is required. To register, call 406.755.2706, ext. 0.

Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Big Arm State Park Archery Range

National Trails Day is an opportunity to celebrate all the benefits that trails provide for recreational access and enjoyment of national, state, and local public lands. The recently added archery range to the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake State Park features a roughly one-mile-long trail that connects a series of shooting stations. The trail has been dug but sill requires some finishing work to ensure it will remain in good condition for years to come. We are inviting the public to join us in finishing off these trails and come enjoy the incredible recreation opportunity this new archery range provides. Volunteers will need sturdy closed-toed shoes, long pants, weather appropriate clothing, water, and snacks/pack lunch.

Space is limited to 20 volunteers. Please call the Wayfarers Ranger Station at 406-837-3041, ext. 0 or ext. 5 to register for the event. For additional information, email FWP Land Improvement Specialist at kalle.fox@mt.gov.

National Get Outdoors Day

Saturday, June 8, 10 a.m.-noon

Lone Pine State Park

Celebrate National Get Outdoors Day by diving into the fascinating world of local wildlife. This drop-in program, running from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the picnic shelter, offers a unique hands-on experience where visitors can touch and explore the pelts and skulls of various animals native to our area. Learn about the habits, diets, and habitats of these incredible creatures. This interactive session is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with the outdoors and learn more about the amazing animals that share our environment. No registration is required.

Archery Basics

Ages 4th–8th grade: Tuesday, June 11, 10-11 a.m.

Adult: Thursday, June 13, 7-8 p.m.

Calling aspiring archers. Lone Pine State Park invites eager enthusiasts to join our basic archery sessions this June. Dive into the world of archery with specialized classes designed for two age groups. Kids in 4th-8th grade can build their skills on June 11 while adults (18+) can aim for greatness on June 13. Participants will receive expert guidance in fundamental techniques and safety measures within our welcoming environment. All necessary equipment will be provided. Secure your spot now to unlock your inner archer. Limited spaces available, so register today to secure your spot on the range. To register, call 406.755.2706, ext. 0.

Camo Digs Dads

Sunday, June 16, 1– 2:30 p.m.

Lone Pine State Park

Join us this Father’s Day for "Camo Digs Dads," a special program where families can uncover the wonders of soil alongside our resident bull snake, Camo. Join us as we delve into the mysteries beneath our feet, exploring the essence of soil — what it is, who depends on it, and its critical role in sustaining life. Participants will explore soil composition, textures, and ecosystem inhabitants through hands-on activities. Registration is required. To register, call 406.755.2706, ext. 0.

Wings of Freedom: Celebrate American Eagle Day

Thursday, June 20, 10 a.m.-noon

Lone Pine State Park

Gather at the picnic shelter to honor American Eagle Day, marking the bald eagle’s selection as our national symbol on the Great Seal in 1782. This day celebrates the eagle’s remarkable conservation journey, symbolizing its triumphant return from near extinction. Delve into the world of these majestic birds, discovering their role in our ecosystem and the conservation efforts safeguarding their population. Perfect for families and bird enthusiasts alike. No registration required.

Nature’s Detective Bug Hunt

Wednesday, June 26, 10 a.m.-noon

Lone Pine State Park

Join us for a captivating program where kids ages 5-10 become sleuths of the wilderness, uncovering the secrets of bugs and insects. Starting at the picnic shelter, kids will participate in a short, engaging program that introduces them to the fascinating world of bugs, highlighting their important roles in our ecosystem. Following the introduction, embark on a short, guided hike where young detectives will use magnifying glasses to observe various insects in their natural habitats. Registration is required. To register, call 406.755.2706, ext. 0.

Sundays with Camo

Sundays, June 2, 9, 23 and 30, 2 p.m.

Lone Pine State Park

Join us on one of four Sundays in June 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. No registration required.