In my opinion Spring is the best time of the year for those of us who enjoy birding. Fortunately there are many locations in Montana that are easily accessible for disabled birders. One of our favorites is Benton Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, located a few miles northeast of Great Falls Montana. Spring is a good time to visit Benton Lake to see the migratory birds who are passing through, birds who come to raise their families and birds that live on the refuge year round. Prairie Marsh Drive, which has signs to explain what you are seeing, provides a look at all of the habitats of the refuge from the comfort of your car. Your car becomes something of a mobile bird blind as you visit each stop along the drive. The handicapped accessible boardwalk, Prairie Marsh Boardwalk, allows you to get an closeup look at the marsh habitat.
There is a visitor center that is open weekdays, except holidays, where you can get information about recent sightings and answers to your questions. Handicapped accessible restrooms are located both inside the visitor center and outdoors in the parking area.
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| Prairie Marsh Boardwalk |
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| The end of Prairie Marsh Boardwalk, a unique feature at Benton Lake NWR that allows visitors to actually get right out into the marsh. |
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| This photo was taken from the car with a simple digital camera with a short optical zoom. This gives you some idea of how your car can be a great bird blind, if you just sit quietly and watch. |
We have visited Benton Lake several times during the spring and summer. It is open year round, but Prairie Marsh drive is not always passable, especially in the winter. To make the most of your visit I recommend visiting the refuge's website. Besides photos of the refuge, there are downloadable brochures and maps as well as contact information.
http://www.fws.gov/refuge/benton_lake/
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