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Lee Metcalf Wilderness – Image Gallery

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California


Lee Metcalf Wilderness

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness in Montana is a pristine and rugged expanse of protected land, home to diverse wildlife and stunning mountain landscapes.

Details

Lee Metcalf Wilderness

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is a designated wilderness area located in the Madison Range and northern Gallatin Range within the state of Montana. It covers approximately 254,635 acres of pristine and rugged land, providing a sanctuary for a diverse range of plant and animal species.

Features

The wilderness area is characterized by its towering mountain peaks, alpine meadows, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes and streams. It is home to several prominent peaks, including Hilgard Peak, Sphinx Mountain, and Lone Mountain. The Lee Metcalf Wilderness also contains the headwaters of several major rivers, such as the Madison River and Gallatin River, which flow through the surrounding valleys. Visitors to the wilderness area can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, backpacking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are over 200 miles of trails that wind through the rugged terrain, providing opportunities for both day hikes and extended backpacking trips. The area is also popular for fishing, with numerous lakes and streams teeming with trout.

Ecological Significance

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is critical for the conservation of a wide variety of plant and animal species. The area provides important habitat for species such as elk, deer, black bear, mountain lion, and bald eagle. It is also home to several rare and endangered plant species, including the Yellowstone sand verbena and the whitebark pine. The wilderness area plays a key role in maintaining the health of the surrounding ecosystems, as it helps to protect water quality, prevent erosion, and preserve biodiversity. The pristine landscapes of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness also provide important opportunities for scientific research and environmental education. Overall, the Lee Metcalf Wilderness is a valuable natural resource that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and solitude of Montana's wild lands while also contributing to the conservation of the state's natural heritage.



Lee Metcalf Wilderness

Points of Interest

Lee Metcalf Wilderness Points of Interest

1. Spanish Peaks

The Spanish Peaks are two prominent mountains in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, known for their unique shape and stunning views. Hiking to the top of these peaks offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding wilderness and is a popular activity for visitors.

2. Bear Creek Falls

Bear Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky cliffs, creating a serene and tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy. Hiking to Bear Creek Falls is a popular activity for those looking to experience the beauty of the wilderness up close.

3. Sphinx Mountain

Sphinx Mountain is a prominent peak in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, known for its rugged terrain and challenging hiking trails. Climbing to the summit of Sphinx Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and is a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Lee Metcalf Wilderness Visitor Center

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness Visitor Center is a hub for information and resources for visitors to the wilderness area. The center offers exhibits on the local flora and fauna, as well as maps and guides for hiking and camping in the area. It is a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.

5. Taylor Fork Trail

The Taylor Fork Trail is a popular hiking trail that winds through the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful wildflowers, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Overall, the Lee Metcalf Wilderness offers a wide range of points of interest for visitors to explore, from majestic peaks to serene waterfalls and everything in between. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, there is something for everyone in this stunning wilderness area.



Lee Metcalf Wilderness – Images

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo credit: Bob Wick, BLM For more photos of the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/sets/72157633855741349/ For more information about the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness, visit: www.blm.gov/mt/st/en/fo/dillon_field_office/recreation/be...

Image by Bob Wick of the Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness is one of the four units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The Bear Trap Canyon is the first wilderness area to be managed by the BLM. The 6,347-acre area offers beautiful wilderness scenery plus exciting whitewater rafting featuring the famous Class IV - V “Kitchen Sink” rapid. The 1,500-foot cliffs that border the canyon provide a dramatic backdrop for nature study, hiking, sightseeing, whitewater rafting and fishing along the nine-mile Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail. The trail follows the river the length of the canyon but can only be accessed from the north end (no through-hiking). Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

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