Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

Visitors are welcome to drive, walk, bicycle, snowshoe, or ski the 4.5-mile auto tour route.  Leashed dog walking is allowed on the ATR.  This one-way gravel road travels along Myrtle Creek, Refuge wetlands, and open grasslands for a chance to view wildlife.  The ATR is closed to...

Bicycles are allowed on the auto tour road only.  Prohibited on all trails throughout the refuge.

Cross-country skiing is allowed on the auto tour road and trails. No free roaming on other refuge lands is allowed.

Fishing regulations are designed to provide safe recreational opportunities through wise use of renewable wildlife resources. Fishing is permitted in accordance with Federal regulations governing public use on National Wildlife Refuges as set forth in Title 50 of the...

Four hiking trails offer visitors a chance to enjoy the diverse habitats on the refuge.

We recognize that hunting is a healthy, traditional outdoor pastime, deeply rooted in America’s heritage. Hunting can instill a unique understanding and appreciation of wildlife, their behavior, and their habitat needs. As practiced on refuges, hunting, trapping and fishing do not pose a...

Wildlife observation and photography are available from the four trails, the Auto Tour Route, the gazebo overlooking Cascade Pond, and overlooks along the county road. In addition, a photoblind is available on a first come, first serve basis.

Snowshoeing is allowed on the auto tour road and hiking trails only.  Closed to this activity in all other areas.

Wildlife observation and photography are available from the four trails, the Auto Tour Route, the gazebo overlooking Cascade Pond, and overlooks along the county road. The kiosk at refuge headquarters is equipped with two spotting scopes and offers good views of Greenwing Pond, Snipe Pond,...