Several events are coming up with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 4.
First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park will kick off its popular summer “Jump Talks” educational programs beginning on May 23.
Join the rangers for a 30-minute program held at the top of the buffalo jump every Saturday of the summer, ending on Sept. 5. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views in the park while rangers describe how the First Peoples drove bison over the cliffs and share other stories and information about the sacred sites in the park, which is also a National Historic Landmark.
The free programs will be offered every Saturday at 1 p.m., with programs also offered on Memorial Day (May 25), and Labor Day (Sept. 7). No advance reservations are needed, although the talks may be cancelled in case of inclement weather.
For more information, contact park ranger Andy Keller at 406-866-2217, or email firstpeoplesbuffalojump@mt.gov.
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Learn more about the native plants found in Giant Springs State Park with a plant walk on May 23 from 2-3 p.m.
Registration is required. Call the park at 406-727-1212 or sign up here.
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The Growing Together Junior Ranger’s Program is May 24 from 10-11 a.m. for kids ages 7-12, younger siblings can also attend. Meet at the Giant Springs Ranger Station.
This program requires registration and is free to attend.
During the program, children will help park staff plant annual flowers in garden beds/pots near the ranger station. This fun and engaging volunteer work will be recognized with a Junior Ranger Badge. Park staff will also provide an activity for the kids and any younger siblings that want to attend. Parents are encouraged to stick around during the program and help their children plant flowers. Kid’s size garden gloves will be provided.
Register by calling the Giant Springs Ranger Station at 406-727-1212 or here.
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The Cochrane Dam crossing is June 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Although the dam is normally closed to public access, NorthWestern Energy and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are working together to provide this special opportunity for hikers and bikers to experience the trails along both sides of the Missouri River on National Trails Day 2026.
The River’s Edge Trail from the north shore to the south shore (or vice versa) can be used to reach Cochrane Dam, and once there, visitors may hike or walk their bike across the dam.
Normally only available as an out and back hike or ride on only one side of the river, opening Cochrane Dam for public access allows trail users to make a loop and traverse both sides of the river during a single trip.
More information is here.
