Are dogs allowed on Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?

No, Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge?

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is rated easy. It is 13.9 miles long with 200 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Montana trail conditions

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge route map

EasyLoop

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge/Montana

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Great Falls, Montana

13.9 mi

Distance

200 ft

Elev. Gain

4h 44m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The national wildlife refuge is located on the western edge of the northern Great Plains and is 50 miles east of the Rockies. The pot hole wetlands were created by glaciers thousands of years ago. The northern mixed-grass prairie provides an annual habitat for grassland birds. Waterbird use is highest during the fall and spring migration periods. As the basin is flooded in the spring and fall, critical migration habitat is provided for birds of prey, songbirds, rails and blackbirds.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,101 ft

Max:1,123 ft

188 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge — official page
Park unit page with alerts and visitor information.

Verify by phone or mail

Address:ID

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context