Elk Bugling Time in Central Montana

The first time I ever went to the Slippery Ann elk viewing area was with a public tour organized by the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge folks from their Lewistown headquarters. We packed sandwiches and snacks for the evening tour, climbed on a bus and settled in. I’ve been lucky to go again on my own but I learned a lot about the wildlife refuge on the tour.

The elk usually start bugling mid September and continue for 3 to 4 weeks. They didn’t start until later in the evening last weekend but it was just as spectacular.

It’s interesting to watch the expressions on people who have never heard this.

I always compare the bugling to a symphonic orchestra warm-up. Lots of noise! The elk congregate in this particular area and seem to pay no attention to human on-lookers.

If you get the chance, head to Lewistown and take the public tour to the elk bugling area.