C M Russell National Wildlife Reservation

Encompassing approximately 1.1 million acres, Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is the second largest national wildlife refuge in the lower 48 states. Given the size and remoteness of Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, the area has changed very little from the historic voyage of the Lewis and Clark expedition, through the era of outlaws and homesteaders, to the present time. Visitors will find spectacular examples of native prairie, forested coulees, river bottoms, and “breaks” badlands so often portrayed in the paintings of the colorful artist for whom this refuge is named,

A self-guided auto tour route, which may be accessed from two points along Highway 191 on the west side of the refuge, provides visitors the chance to see the refuge close-up and gain a better understanding of Refuge resources. The tour route follows an all-weather gravel road that parallels the Missouri River before climbing out onto upland prairie and rolling rangeland. Interpretive stops along the route provide information on the wildlife, geology, and history of this unique landscape. This auto tour route is 19 miles long and takes 2-3 hours to complete.