The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Path of the Great Bear

May 20, 2012 - May 26, 2012
$2200 per person

Pine Butte Guest Ranch

The Rocky Mountain Front is one of the last strongholds for grizzly bears. © Janet Haas

Overview:

Intinerary(Download a pdf )

This is one of our most exciting and fulfilling opportunities. Spring is a time when grizzlies are very active on the Rocky Mountain Front stoking up for the long winter ahead. We'll be taking daily field trips into the heart of the great bears' habitat.  We keep our groups small, so there's plenty of time to ask questions. 

This workshop emphasizes first-hand learning in the field. You'll learn to recognize grizzly habitat, foods and signs of the bears' presence.  We'll also discuss the efforts to manage the needs of both bears and humans so that both can co-exist. This session is designed for adults of all ages and experience levels.

We'll explore roads and trails where grizzlies live -- beautiful and remote country! Our adventures will lead into the diverse habitats of this ecosystem, including The Nature Conservancy’s sprawling Pine Butte Swamp Preserve. Several walks will be in mountainous terrain, at elevations from 4,000-6,500 feet. Round-trip lengths of the hikes are usually between 2-7 miles. We keep the group small and hikes move at a pace that accommodates everyone's ability and frequent stops to discuss the local natural history and bears.

Montana grizzlies are intelligent and cautious animals, often sensing and avoiding people.  The odds are good and we'll do our best to sight and view wild bears respectfully, although we can't make any guarantees. But, it's hard to beat the glories of springtime on the Rocky Mountain Front, so there's no way to lose on this adventure!

Field excursions are enriched by fascinating multi-media presentations. 

Enrollment and Cost:

This workshop is limited to 16 participants. Cost is $2200 per person ($2350 single occupancy). Price includes lodging, meals, airport shuttle, and all activities. Please contact Pine Butte Guest Ranch for more information.

Accommodations:

You’ll stay at the historic Pine Butte Guest Ranch, set in a spectacular mountain valley surrounded by thousands of acres of wilderness. It’s the perfect place to "get away from it all" and enjoy outstanding food and cozy lodging.