Take A Lovely Aerial Flyover Over This Beautiful River Island Near Missoula
Meg Archer
Author
Kelly Island sits just outside the Missoula city limits in the Rocky Mountains of western Montana. This 648-acre undeveloped island is actually made up of one large island and eight smaller islands. It is home a mixture of cottonwood trees, ponderosa pine forests and large meadows and the area is a natural sanctuary to many species of birds and other wildlife.
There is day-use area is near the confluence of the Bitterroot River and the Clark Fork River. The river channel constantly changes, allowing different habitats for wildlife and the site is popular for day hikes, dog walking and wildlife watching.
There are three public access sites exist to enter this incredible area; on 7th Street, Mullan Road and Spurgin Road. The Spurgin Road site (displayed here) has been recently upgraded with paved roads, defined parking, a boat launch, and restrooms. Take a walk, bike or drive Spurgin Road west of Reserve Street and follow the signs. You will not be disappointed!
Videographer David Eggebraaten travels across the state to document the stunning, one-of-a-kind features in Montana. Check out his videos of this eerily beautiful ghost town, his Fort Missoula Complex flyover, the stunning Kootenai River, and the otherworldly ruins of the Canyon Creek Charcoal Kilns!
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