Montana’s Missouri River Country, a region encompassing the northeastern corner of the state, offers a trove of eye-opening wildlife opportunities and Slippery Ann Wildlife Viewing Area is no exception. One of the most popular elk viewing areas in the country, this particular spot is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
Situated in the rugged terrain within the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, Slippery Ann Wildlife Viewing Area is a haven for elk, a magnificent Montana ungulate. Hundreds of elk frequent the area from late August to early October for the rut, or mating season. During this spectacular display they will be bugling loudly, thrashing their large antlers through the sagebrush and asserting dominance with their size and strength. Often, this rut behavior results in several opportunities to witness male bull elk spar in an effort to win and maintain a harem — a group of female cow elk.
Upon arrival, find a spot alongside other eager wildlife watchers at the edge of the road. You may notice a harem in the distance. Watch their movements closely. Are they still? Are they being herded by a stocky bull in the golden grasses? If you have your binoculars handy, you may catch a young bull approaching from outside the herd. The older bull will attempt to fend off the young intruder, antlers clattering from afar. Who will be successful? Listen for the loud bugles of victory to announce the winner of the harem. May the best elk win.
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September, the peak of the rut season, is when you will find these hooved mammals the most active and at their greatest numbers. Aim to arrive during crepuscular periods — dawn or dusk — for the chance to see elk move about this pristine landscape. If you’re lucky, you may also see wintering bald eagles in the cottonwood trees above the herd.
Locals will bring camping chairs, layers and warm beverages to cozy up along the road of Slippery Ann. A spotting scope or pair of binoculars allows for a close-up view of this unique behavioral display. Make sure to pack out anything you bring onto the refuge, including outside food and beverages, and be sure to give wildlife their space — both for their safety and yours.
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Access the area from the Auto Tour Route 6 miles east of Highway 191 on the west side of the refuge. This is a maintained gravel road. When you reach the viewing area, park on the south side of the road and keep to the road’s edge to observe the elk.
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