Bison Range switches to fall hours

As the seasons change, other changes can be expected at the National Bison Range.

One of the most noticeable changes is the shortening of days, with evening coming earlier and earlier.  This is reflected in the Bison Range’s new fall hours which start after Labor Day, on Tuesday, September 3, 2013.  The Visitor Center will continue to be open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but times for the scenic drives change.  The Refuge will be open from 7 a.m. to dark. The actual closing time will change frequently from 8:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., as the sun sets earlier every day.  Visitors will need to begin the Red Sleep Mountain Drive by 6 p.m. to be able to finish before the main gate closes at dark.  This 19-mile, one-way gravel road takes about 1? to 2 hours to drive.  The shorter West Loop and Buffalo Prairie Drives take about 20 to 30 minutes.  If you are unsure about the opening or closing times of any of the scenic drives or the Visitor Center, please call (406) 644-2211 for further information.

Visitors should also note that Red Sleep Mountain Drive will close for about a week sometime between October 2 and October 9 to allow staff to move the bison herd.  During this time, the Winter Drive will be open for use with no fees charged.  Red Sleep Mountain Drive will reopen through the next weekend (with fees back in place) but will close completely for the season after Friday, October 18.  Visitor Center hours will also vary during this time frame.

Road repairs to begin

The National Bison Range is planning to do some preliminary road repairs the week of Sept. 16.  The Visitor Center and Red Sleep Mountain Drive will remain open throughout but visitors will need to follow the detour signs.  The Day Use Area may also have restrictions during this time.

You can learn the details about detours and closures as they are confirmed by visiting our website.