In the "Wild" and "Pristine" Centennial Valley

Elk Lake Resort sits in the heart of nature. Families who visit find ample adventures outside their cabin doors. From adventurous hiking - searching for bugs, rocks, flowers, and other natural objects to identify - to horseback riding - with stories from history and lessons on nature - to viewing wildlife and learning about birds - identifying species and doing some simple projects to learn more about where they live and what makes them special - our Montana mountain lodge offers abundant opportunities for children and their families to enjoy nature. For some ideas on how to make this the best 'family' vacation ever, check out our Kids page.

Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Adventure destinations come in a variety of forms, but if you're looking for an adventure travel package which includes up-front and personal experiences with nature, Red Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to start. Established in the early 1930's, the Refuge is located in the 'heart' of the Centennial Valley. This 45,000 acre Refuge has been dubbed the most scenic in the United States. Originally developed to protect the beautiful and endangered Trumpeter Swan, Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is now home to over 230 species of birds. From colorful warblers to free-soaring eagles, this adventure destination offers wonderful opportunities to interact with a variety of bird life. Over 70% of the birds seen in Montana can be found here at some point during the year. In fact, according to Fat Birder, "At this refuge Swainson`s Hawks nest within 20 yards of the road, fledgling Bald Eagles test their wings over the water, flocks of American White Pelicans soar with a grace and poise like no other bird, and Trumpeter Swans share the waters with Long-billed Curlews, Cinnamon Teal and Clark`s Grebes, to name only a few. Spectacular birding surrounds the refuge for miles on all sides."

Part of Elk Lake Resort's all-inclusive vacation package, time spent exploring Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge exposes one to a diverse mammal population - from small Voles to massive bull Moose. An early morning or late evening drive through the Centennial Valley offers wonderful opportunities to view many animal species enjoying their natural environment. With Moose numbers dropping in Yellowstone National Park, the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge has become an increasingly popular spot to observe these amazing animals. In fact, according to Big Sky Fishing.com "Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge provides outstanding wildlife viewing for waterfowl, deer and antelope in a very beautiful setting, with the Centennial Mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the area." To learn more about specific birding opportunities at our waterfront vacation destination - Elk Lake Resort, check out our birding page.

You could spend your next vacation at a lakefront surrounded by a dozen, perhaps even hundreds of other tourists, or you could enjoy our adventure travel package - relaxation in the peace and quiet of pure nature on the shores of Elk Lake and exploration into a world the way it used to be. Continue to step back in time as you explore the Centennial Valley. One of the last remaining 'untouched' places, the Centennial Valley and Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge offer breathtaking vistas from 'back then'. Stretching from Interstate 15, its western boundary, to Red Rock Pass and the Idaho border, its eastern boundary, and bordering the Continental Divide to the south and west, the 'floor' of this incredible valley covers over 385,000 acres. Not a single paved road or town mars its pristine beauty. The Centennial Valley consists primarily of the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, several large ranches, one small waterfront resort (us), a scattering of smaller land holdings, and a lot of public land. A visit to the Centennial is a visit to life 'the way it used to be'.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service "The Montana Natural Heritage Program has rated the Centennial Valley as one of the most significant natural landscapes in Montana, a tribute to its intact ecological systems, expansive wetlands, diverse native fauna and flora, and unique concentrations of rare species." In addition, The Nature Conservancy, another important partner in retaining the unique character of the valley says, "The Centennial retains the same ranching and wide open, wildlife-rich character as it did a century ago. It's a quiet treasure of vast grasslands and wetlands ringed by the majestic Centennial Mountains to the south and the Gravelly Mountains to the north."

Fishing

For many, no waterfront vacation would be complete without numerous opportunities to wrestle with several lively fish. Our lakefront vacation package offers you wonderful opportunities to enjoy world class fishing. In fact, most early visitors to our western Montana Lodge came to fish. Some things don't change much. Many who come today spend a fair amount of time pursuing the wily fish inhabiting Elk Lake, Hidden Lake, and the neighboring creeks and ponds.

With a lakefront cabin just steps away from great fishing, you're set to let the adventure begin! Although many large cutthroat trout lurk in its depths, Elk Lake is only lightly fished. However, for those interested in taking the time to 'learn' the lake, the rewards are often large and numerous.

You don't have to travel long distances to wet your line. If you tire of Elk Lake, we also offer boats at Hidden Lake - a gem just a short drive up the road. A self-sustaining rainbow fishery, Hidden Lake produces some beautiful - and occasionally LARGE - fish. In fact, in 2005 an eleven-year-old caught a 12 pound rainbow out of the lake. Although the average fish is 3 - 5 pounds, we've heard sightings of other lunker. Who knows? Your next adventure might be hooking into something quite 'big'!

The headwaters of the Mississippi River may not look like much as they meander through the eastern end of the Centennial Valley, but they not only spawn a mighty river, they also grow impressive fish. Large cutthroat trout inhabit the stream. Additionally, one of the last native Arctic Grayling populations call it home.

Other fishing options are only limited to where you want to go. Travel across the valley or over the mountain to dip your line in the Red Rock River, the Bighole River, the Madison River, the Beaverhead River, Henry's Fork of the Snake River, or Henry's Lake. All are within easy driving distance of our Western Montana Lodge.

Best of all, the adventure doesn't stop at summer's end. Elk Lake is open year round. Ice fishing offers a chance for the die-hard fisherman to liven up his winter with a fishing adventure, even in the dead of winter! Learn more about the area, find local guides, and maybe learn something you didn't already know about fishing. Check out Elk Lake Resort's Fishing Page.

Hiking

Hiking is a relatively inexpensive sport which can have invaluable benefits. There are the physical benefits, of course. The American Hiking Association, for one, recognizes the heart healthy advantages of hitting the trail. And, because hiking is less stressful on the joints than many other physical sports, it is a viable option for people of all ages. In addition, as our article, Hiking with Children points out, it is a very family-friendly activity. All this aside, there are other benefits which are often much more relevant in today's society. Hiking should be at the top of the list for the family looking to strengthen family ties and relationships - and for couples seeking to deepen their relationships. A trip into the heart of nature has a wonderful way of putting things into perspective - of renewing and refreshing the tired and strained bonds which hold together families and couples. Elk Lake Resort is a wonderful place to pursue your next hiking adventure. Check us out!

Water Sports

For others, a lakefront vacation means 'play'! Although fishing remains a large part of the adventure for visiting fishermen, Elk Lake also offers great opportunities for our vacationing guests to enjoy other water activities. With a water surface of more than 650 square acres, there is plenty of space to play. Many families enjoy water skiing, tubing, or jet skies. Of course swimming off our swim dock is a great way to pass a warm day. But our favorite water adventure is spending a quiet morning or peaceful evening canoeing or kayaking around the lake enjoying the waterfowl and wildlife which call Elk Lake home.

Of course, you aren't limited to Elk Lake for water adventures. Our rowboats at Hidden Lake allow you access to the coves, nooks, and crannies of this pretty lake. In addition, many canoers and kayakers are drawn to the wide open expanses of Upper and Lower Red Rock Lakes, the smaller Swan Lake, and the slow meandering waters of Red Rock Creek and Elk Springs Creek. Boating is one of the best ways to view the wildlife which live on the refuge. Upper Red Rock Lake, Red Rock Creek, and Elk Springs Creek open to non-motorized craft on July 15th, and remain open until freeze-up. The marsh areas between the lakes and Lower Red Rock Lake and Swan Lake are open for boating from September 1st to freeze up.

Photography

If you're even remotely interested in photography, a camera is a necessary component for your adventure travels. The Centennial Valley, Centennial Mountains, Elk Lake, Hidden Lake, the often overlooked and thus lightly traversed Gravelly Range, and other adventure destinations in the area provide numerous photo opportunities. The ruggedness, beauty, and pristine nature of the scenery offer prime shooting options. Additionally, the abundant birds and wildlife provide chances to capture creation's most beautiful offspring in their natural environment.

Wildlife

Of course, fish aren't the only 'wildlife' in the area. Part of what makes the Centennial Valley such a wonderful all-inclusive vacation destination is its diverse animal population. It is not uncommon to see Moose, Elk, Deer (whitetail and mule), Antelope, Bears (black and grizzly), and Wolves. Additionally, one can often catch a glimpse of Foxes, Coyotes, River Otters, Badgers, Rabbits, and an abundance of smaller animals. Learn more about Elk Lake Resort's wildlife.

Hunting

Because of the vast variety of animal and bird life, many find the Centennial Valley a hunter's paradise. To these guests, no adventure destination is 'really complete' without big game - elk, moose, deer, and antelope - or waterfowl, or game birds. A mecca for adventurous bow hunters and riflemen alike, the area offers large expanses of public land where the hunter can pursue his prey.

Exploration

• Auto Tours: Because of the vastness of the countryside, many of our guests enjoy doing a little traveling in the area and increasing their adventures via the comfort of their (or our) car. In addition to the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, several other tour options exist. A day tour of Yellowstone National Park is one option. Take either the upper or the lower loop and spend an adventurous day traveling among the natural wonders of this magnificent National Monument. Or, escape the crowds and venture into the high regions of the Gravelly Range. Or, travel to any of the other nearby attractions: Quake Lake, Virginia City and Nevada City (a 'ghost' town) Montana, Ennis, Montana, Island Park and Henry's Lake Idaho, the Big Hole Valley and Bannock, Montana, or West Yellowstone, Montana. These and other travel adventure opportunities await you.

   

• ATV Adventures: Enjoy adventurous travel in the back country? Two substantial ATV trails originate near Elk Lake Resort. You can ride your own machine or we can rent one for you. The Continental Divide Trail takes you into the back country along the ridge which divides Montana and Idaho. The Brimstone Trail offers a variety of landscape options, beautiful views of the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, the Centennial Valley, and the surrounding area. You'll enjoy opportunities to view wildflowers and wildlife. Both trails are great for day-long rides or short adventurous jaunts. And, best of all, you'll likely be the only one out there!

   

• Mountain Biking: Do some adventure traveling via 'peddle power'. Bring your own wheels or we'll provide some for you. Many of the adventure opportunities available to ATV's are also open to the experienced mountain biker. For those less experienced - or for those seeking a more relaxed adventure - ride the trails and roads in the area. A variety of excursions are available.

   

  
• Horseback Riding: No 'all-inclusive vacation package' is complete - at least for the horse-lover without a few hours (or days) spent on the back of a horse. But why go where the crowds hang out? Elk Lake Resort offers enough horse back riding to satisfy any horse lover, without sticking to the hard-used trail and without the presence of a lot of other people. The Gravelly Range, out our back door, provides some of the best opportunities for cross-country horseback riding around. Because we're surrounded by public land, you can point your horse in almost any direction, travel all day, then return to a great meal and a comfortable bed. In addition, the developed trail system at Hidden Lake, the Blair and Lillian Lake trail, the Odell Creek trail, or the Continental Divide trail offer other riding options. Read an excerpt from Trail Rider magazine about Elk Lake Resort - a real 'bed and barn'.

  If you don't want to bring your own horse - or don't own one - let Elk Lake Resort provide a ride for you. As part of our western Montana Lodge adventure travel packages (or as an ala-carte add on), we work in cooperation with our local outfitter - whose experienced staff and horses can take you to breathtaking heights, along rarely traveled trails, and to hidden fishing spots. Our adventure packages include half-day, full-day, or two and three day pack trips. Just let us know how much you'd like to ride and when! Our horseback riding page tells you more!

Winter Sports

Don't let winter get you down this year! Let us set you up with a winter adventure vacation package to make a lifetime of memories. At Elk Lake Resort the fun just gets better with the falling snow. As the snow piles deepen, Elk Lake Resort becomes the perfect winter adventure destination. Although we are an easy ride from Island Park, Idaho or West Yellowstone, Montana, we are also far enough off the beaten path to maximize your experience. Take a look at our winter page to learn more.

Relaxation

The BEST part of a lake front vacation at Elk Lake Resort is the ultimate relaxation it offers. Some guests of our Western Montana Lodge enjoy an adventure vacation package with a twist. They like to play hard for part of their stay and relax for the rest. Others come simply to enjoy our brand of 'pure relaxation' - a variety unique to our piece of paradise. You can sit back, read a good book, listen to the wind whispering in the trees, watch the sun dancing on Elk Lake, and soak up some mountain sunshine. You'll feel the anxiety and pressures of your busy life disappear as you immerse yourself in our unmarred serenity.

Adventure Links

• Adventure Directory: A guide to all air, water, mountain, land and extreme sports - where to find them worldwide, with links to equipment suppliers in all areas.
• ATV Pathfinder: Comprehensive off-road destination guide and on-line community that features detailed information on places to ride and off-road adventures.
• Backwoods Bound: Hunting, fishing, wild game recipes, trophy photos, outdoor photos, fun facts, free newsletter, guide listings, unique products, and more.
• Dirt World: Dedicated to the serious mountain biker with everything related to mountain biking, hiking, and climbing.
• Fox Kits™ Wilderness Survival Kits and Survival School: Wilderness Survival Kits for all outdoor interests and environments; kits for recreation, outdoorsmen, law enforcement, military, and custom kits to fit your needs. Full spectrum survival training from military survival experts.
• First Treks: Equipping Kids (and Parents) for outdoor adventures. Kids specific gear for camping, hiking, bicycling, snowshoeing, snorkeling, paddling and much more to help families have fun and safe outdoor adventures.
• Outdoor Links Galore: Thousands of links to great outdoor sites. ATV, Camping, Climbing, Snow Sports, Soccer, Travel, Golf, Motorbike, Outdoor Magazines, Vacations, Winter Sports, General Outdoor information and much more.
• Sea Kayaking British Columbia, Killer Whale Kayak Trips, Vancouver Island Vacation Tours: Out For Adventure wilderness trips provide kayak and canoe lessons, kayaking in Desolation Sound, Quadra Island, and Johnstone Strait, B.C., and sea kayaking and canoeing in Ontario, Canada. Out For Adventure is your adventure specialist.
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  Peak to Peak Trail and Wilderness Links

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5200 Elk Lake Road, Lima, MT 59739
Just 1 Hour From West Yellowstone, Montana
phone: (406) 276-3282 - ♥ - fax: (406) 276-3399
email: Reservations@elklakeresortmontana.com

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