Triple Creek Ranch in Montana has announced its program of birding adventures geared toward serious bird-watchers as well as casual nature lovers. The “100th Birday” quest, directed by Triple Creek Ranch’s on-staff nature guides, challenges participants to find 100 bird species in one day throughout Montana’s Big Sky country. Participants explore western Montana’s rivers, lakes, canyons, forests, ridges and mountain tops in search of the birding century. Guests can plan ahead or sign up at the last minute, as Triple Creek Ranch’s guides are available at guests’ request.
More than 400 bird species have been spotted in Montana and 246 have been recorded in the Bitterroot Valley, where Triple Creek Ranch is located. A typical birder’s outing could net anything from swans and grebes to eagles and falcons or cranes and curlews to hummingbirds and woodpeckers. It is not unusual to spot 20 or more species in the environs of the ranch’s lodge on any given day. In addition to birds, the region abounds with elk, moose, wolves, bear and mountain lions as well as wild flowers, forests and mountain vistas.
“Birday” outings are included with a reservation and scheduled upon request.
Additionally, Triple Creek Ranch has several other guest events this fall:
• The first Steelhead Fly Fishing Celebration will be Nov. 8-12 on the Salmon River. Led by owner Craig Barrett, this fishing trip is open to all experience levels and includes two days of guided fly-fishing on the Salmon River, a day of trap shooting and an Idaho fishing license.
• "Klicks for Chicks” annual event is back at Triple Creek Ranch for the third time this November. This riding experience is an all-female, four-day, 100-kilometer ride through the Rocky Mountains that draws cowgirls and horsewomen from around the world. Riders venture into deep canyons, over mountain passes, past crystal-clear lakes and through open meadows by day and then return to the ranch for an evening full of pampering, fine dining and a comfortable bed. Space is available for the Nov. 8-12 and 15-19 events.
• Artist Weekends allow visitors the chance to learn from, and paint alongside, prominent American Western genre artists during this series of four-day, three-night workshops available Oct. 11-14, 18-21 and 25-28. Workshops focus on watercolors, oils, pastels, sculpture and more.
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