Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge - Stevensville, MT
Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Dog Park in Stevensville, Montana
Located in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge offers scenic pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking near Stevensville, Montana. This nature refuge provides an ideal spot for dog owners to explore the area’s natural beauty, with accessible trails, picturesque views of the Bitterroot River, and abundant bird-watching opportunities. Dogs are welcome—owners often bring their pets for peaceful walks, sometimes letting them splash in the water along the way.
The park features well-maintained walking and hiking trails through woods and by creeks, making it a favorite among locals for both canine and human visitors. While the trails are pet-friendly, leash requirements may vary along different routes, so be sure to observe posted signs. The visitor center provides helpful information, clean porta-johns (outhouses) are available throughout, and there is ample shade for those hot summer walks. The refuge is known for its tranquil setting, wildlife encounters, and accessibility for families and dog owners alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking available throughout the refuge.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there is ample shade, especially along the wooded areas and riverbank trails.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are typically walked on-leash, but some visitors have let their dogs swim or play under supervision. Always check local signage for specific rules.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are porta-johns (outhouses) throughout the park.
- Is there parking available? Yes, parking is available at the visitor center and trailheads.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the refuge is open in all seasons.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, the visitor center is staffed by helpful personnel who can assist with information and park guidelines.
Reviews
Great for bird watchers! Wife wanted to paint, and I wanted to activate a POTA for ham radio. Lovely day out.
Great for bird watchers! Wife wanted to paint, and I wanted to activate a POTA for ham radio. Lovely day out.
Start at the Visitor Center for a great collection of taxidermy-style exhibits. Touch only the fur bearers, not the amazing feathered specimens. Talk to Kim to find the best trail for your style and stamina.
Know that this is a refuge and is a wonderful observation area. Porta John’s throughout.
There are resident Osprey and many other birds. I’m going back to find a Lewis’s Woodpecker!
A lovely doe spied on me as I ate lunch in the woods.
Start at the Visitor Center for a great collection of taxidermy-style exhibits. Touch only the fur bearers, not the amazing feathered specimens. Talk to Kim to find the best trail for your style and stamina.
Know that this is a refuge and is a wonderful observation area. Porta John’s throughout.
There are resident Osprey and many other birds. I’m going back to find a Lewis’s Woodpecker!
A lovely doe spied on me as I ate lunch in the woods.
Love this preserve! It’s beauty, tranquility and views are awe inspiring. Trails are great and super easy and accessible. Highly recommend a visit to this beautiful bitterroot gem.
Love this preserve! It’s beauty, tranquility and views are awe inspiring. Trails are great and super easy and accessible. Highly recommend a visit to this beautiful bitterroot gem.
Good place to bird watch see turtles go on a hike. The visitor center the staff were really friendly and professional. They help out with any information that you want to know. The gift shop could be a Lil bigger but I would highly recommend its for all ages
Good place to bird watch see turtles go on a hike. The visitor center the staff were really friendly and professional. They help out with any information that you want to know. The gift shop could be a Lil bigger but I would highly recommend its for all ages
I Love this fabulous, serene wildlife refuge and drive through often. For Mother’s Day I wanted to ride my bike and enjoy the park without the confines of a vehicle and was sadly disappointed as the road is too rocky or has too many potholes for cycling. We met a young family riding with small children in a bike trailer with the same complaints. I recommend this place to cyclists visiting the area as it is an easy, safe ride that is very close to the Bitterroot to Missoula bike path on Highway 93. After this ride I will warn them of the road conditions.
I Love this fabulous, serene wildlife refuge and drive through often. For Mother’s Day I wanted to ride my bike and enjoy the park without the confines of a vehicle and was sadly disappointed as the road is too rocky or has too many potholes for cycling. We met a young family riding with small children in a bike trailer with the same complaints. I recommend this place to cyclists visiting the area as it is an easy, safe ride that is very close to the Bitterroot to Missoula bike path on Highway 93. After this ride I will warn them of the road conditions.