Every spring and fall, the skies of northeast Montana fill with the songs, chirps, shrieks, and calls of migrating birds en route to their seasonal homes. With a bird list that includes 282 species, Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge was created to conserve its diverse wetlands and grasslands as a haven and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife.

The refuge was established in 1935, though the history of the land goes back centuries prior. In the 1700s, the Assiniboine tribe considered this area part of their traditional homelands. Later, the Sioux, Cree, and Meti settled here, next to the lake referred to as Bde Wakhan, which means medicine water. The native peoples collected medicinal herbs and roots from its shoreline and believed the water had medicinal properties.

Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge sits on the heavily glaciated plains of northeast Montana, between the Missouri River and the Canadian Border. It consists of over 31,000 acres of land, a mix of wetlands, rolling hills, native prairie grass, and brush patches. Great blue herons, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, grebes, and twelve different species of ducks make this their summer home.

What better way to explore the prairie lake ecosystem that makes up the refuge than by taking a trip down wildlife drive. Roll the windows down and feel the breeze as you travel down the fourteen-mile stretch of roadway, weaving in and out of wetland and grassland habitat. Stop at the Pelican Overlook or Bridgerman Point to get a closer look. If you are lucky, you will spot the American white pelican colony! Keep your eyes peeled for a Sharp-tailed grouse or a Baird’s sparrow as you make your way back to the headquarters!

Committed to both education and conservation, the Refuge provides opportunities for visitors to learn more information about natural and cultural resources. You’ll learn about prairie management practices implemented on the refuge such as grazing, prescribed burning, and invasive species control. In 1980 the Medicine Lake Site was designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, recognizing the refuge’s contribution to observing and protecting wildlife while also providing education and opportunities for visitors to view the wildlife who call this area home.