The Flathead-Kootenai Chapter supports Wild Montana’s mission by providing community outreach and education that inspire residents of Flathead, Lincoln, and Lake Counties to protect wild public lands and waters in the northwest part of the state, including the Cabinet Mountains, Scotchman Peaks, the Yaak, the Swan Range, and other landscapes.
The Flathead-Kootenai Chapter typically meets the third Tuesday evening of the month (September through June) in Kalispell. All are welcome! Email flathead.kootenai@wildmontana.org for more information on when and where we’re meeting this month.
We organize a Wilderness Speaker Series at Flathead Valley Community College that runs February through April each year and host the wildly popular Winter Backcountry Film Festival in Whitefish, among other events.
We conduct day-long projects on local trails in the Kootenai and Flathead National Forests. Learn more about our stewardship work here.
President: Chris Rost
Treasurer: Bret Luedke
Secretary: Leila Avery
Members: Andy Crites, Leila Avery, Laura Hutton, Katie Marsonette, Sheila Jefferson, Hans Castren, Jane Ellen Hamilton
We hope you’ll join us at Flathead Valley Community College on Wednesday, April 17, for a panel discussion celebrating the 20th anniversary of Artist Wilderness Connection, a collaborative program between the Flathead National Forest, Hockaday Museum of Art, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation and Swan Valley Connections.
On Saturday, April 20, from 9 a.m.–4 p.m., step into a day where community, nature, and innovation come alive. Gather with us for hands-on learning and conversations that aim to nurture our environment and strengthen our bonds in the Flathead Valley.
REGISTRATION OPEN
This year, Wild Montana is celebrating Earth Day with Flathead Rivers Alliance. Join us on Sunday, April 21, to clean up several fishing access sites along the Flathead River.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: TROY | DIFFICULTY: EASY
Join Yaak Valley Forest Council and Wild Montana to identify native plants along the historic Callahan Trail! This walk is a part of the Lincoln County City Nature Challenge, an annual event promoting the connection between people and nature.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: KALISPELL
Join our Adopt-A-Trail Crew for a day of trail maintenance on the Tally Mountain Trail in the Salish Mountains. We'll be clearing brush, improving drainage, and tackling whatever the trail demands. No prior experience is necessary. Come make a difference on a lesser-known, quiet Tally Lake area trail that could use the help.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: HERON | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS
Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness is teaming up with Wild Montana to offer an early summer hike with big, sweeping views you normally wouldn't expect until July. We'll hike about halfway up Star Peak in the southern Scotchmans. It's a big climb, but lots of switchbacks keep the grade mellow and provide the excuse to pause for beautiful vistas of the Clark Fork Valley.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: TROY | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Join us for a scenic hike along the Old Highway 2 trail to Shannon Lake. Our route features fantastic views of Kootenai Falls and the river valley. We'll stop to identify plants and wildflowers along the way, including several wildflower varieties near Shannon Lake that are harder to find without a steeper or longer hike. There is a short scramble up to the lake, but the trail is otherwise gradual and wide, with a few interpretive displays about the history of the old road and area. Spring is the best and most bountiful wildflower time along this accessible and enjoyable trail. We'll end early enough for participants to explore the adjacent Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge afterward if they want to.
The Flathead-Kootenai Chapter meets on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. (online for now). All are welcome! Email flathead.kootenai@wildmontana.org for more information.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: KALISPELL | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Join Glacier Queer Alliance and Wild Montana for an evening hike to the top of Lone Pine State Park. We'll saunter up the Lone Pine Trail, gradually gaining elevation through open forest before reaching the rocky summit.
We’re hosting our second annual Wild Montana Dinner & Jamboree, and we want you to join us for a hootin' and hollerin' good time! Guests will enjoy a welcome reception with beer, wine, and games, followed by trivia, storytelling, and a live auction of rewarding experiences. Missoula's Bravo Catering will provide appetizers, dinner and dessert. Seating is limited and tickets are sure to go fast. Get yours today!
NEAREST TOWN: KALISPELL | DIFFICULTY: EASY
Lost Trail Wildlife Refuge is nestled within the Salish Mountains' Pleasant Valley. Its mosaic of ecosystems makes it an excellent habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Explore this hidden gem with knowledgeable leaders eager to share its historical and botanical delights.
The Flathead-Kootenai Chapter meets on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. (online for now). All are welcome! Email flathead.kootenai@wildmontana.org for more information.
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