Red Rock Lakes
Photo courtesy: Red Rocks Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Scenery Overview
Photo courtesy: MTOT
The small Montana community of Lakeview sits in the foothills of the Continental Divide in the breathtaking Centennial Valley ninety miles southeast of Dillon. Railroad workers on the Utah and Northern line originally settled Lakeview. Today this small mountain community serves as a perfect entry point into the beautiful camping, hiking and fishing of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Established in 1935 to protect the winter habitat of the rare trumpeter swan, the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for bird watchers and photographers alike as the rugged Centennial Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for viewing the over 200 species of birds that call the refuge home.
To get to Lakeview and the headquarters of the Red Rock Lakes NWR, take I-15 exit 0 (Monida) and travel east for about 28 miles. From Ennis or West Yellowstone, head towards Henry's Lake, then head west on Red Rock Rd/Red Rock Pass Rd, continue 15 miles on South Valley Road, and enjoy the spectacular beauty that is Lakeview, Montana.
