Discover Hidden Destinations

Outdoor Adventure awaits in Montana's Russell Country

May 2008 - Great Falls, MT - Don't expect this to be a run-of-the-mill summer vacation. Sprinkled throughout Russell Country are hidden-treasure havens that will excite and inspire visitors to explore further into the heart of Montana. From rock climbing to waterfall gazing to spelunking, Russell Country has the perfect opportunity to feed the need of any adventure seeker.

Tired of climbing the same-old rock wall? Visit the Rocky Mountain Front to experience 1,000 foot tall limestone escarpments. These relatively unexplored cliffs provide endless climbing opportunities. The Blackleaf Canyon is just one of several canyons in the area. It has a service road that leads right to the mouth of the canyon and is accessible by passenger car. There are a handful of developed climbing routes, including one that reaches nearly 600 feet into the sky. Climbers can potentially create dozens of routes up to six pitches or more because of Blackleaf's slabs, bulges, roofs and ramps. After a hard-day's climb, roll out a sleeping bag in one of two nearby camp sites. Visit http://russell.visitmt.com/recreationandactivities/rockclimbing.htm for more information on Blackleaf Canyon.  

Other spectacular features found along the Rocky Mountain Front are naturally-occurring waterfalls. There are three falls west of Augusta, one of which is Cataract Falls. This breath-taking waterfall is southwest of Augusta in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Cataract Creek tumbles down 80 feet through Elk Canyon to create this must-see cascade. The flow of Cataract Falls is heaviest in the spring, and is no more than a trickle by August.

Another adventure option is to canoe or float the Wild and Scenic Missouri River. The river winds across Russell Country and cuts through prairie lands and the White Cliffs. Named for stunning white sandstone formations created by years of exposure to the elements, the White Cliffs area is sure to delight visitors. This stretch of the Missouri River has no rapids and can be enjoyed by nearly everyone. May, September and October are often warm enough to float the river; June, July and August are prime months to visit. Outfitters can help you plan your trip and will facilitate it. Some will even provide shuttle service while you float the river. For a list of river guides please visit http://russell.visitmt.com/listings.asp?ActivityGroupID=25&Title=Rafting%2C%20Canoeing%20%26%20Kayaking.

Visitors who prefer a lake setting over the river will be pleased to find Crystal Lake located in a pristine alpine basin in the Big Snowy Mountains. Named for its clarity, this gem sits in the shadow of Mount Harlow at an elevation of 5,700 feet. The lake is 46 acres, or the size of seven city blocks, and is stocked with, on average, 1,000 Rainbow Trout each year. Only boats with manually-powered or electric motors are allowed, making this the perfect place to paddle around in a raft or canoe. There are 23 sites in the adjacent campground, two of which are handicap accessible. A large network of trails allows visitors to explore the area around this picturesque lake. There is a loop trail around the lake that is tightly compacted gravel, making it wheelchair accessible. For more information call 406.566.2292 or visit http://russell.visitmt.com/listings/2370.HTM.

Russell Country is bursting with more hidden treasures that are waiting to be explored. This unique area offers something for everyone and accommodates every experience level. Russell Country is a great place to visit for a real adventure this summer. For more information please visit www.russell.visitmt.com or call 1.800.527.5348.

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