Glacier Institute Establishes New Outdoor Education Campus Near Bad Rock WMA
The Glacier Institute, a longtime leader in outdoor education, has purchased 141 acres bordering the Bad Rock Wildlife Management Area — a move that both protects critical wildlife habitat and marks a new chapter in the nonprofit’s mission to connect people with nature and inspire future stewards of our landscape.
The newly acquired property, rich with natural springs, ponds, and riparian habitat, will serve as the Institute’s new educational headquarters. Located along a vital wildlife movement corridor, the land supports a wide diversity of native species, including elk, deer, grizzly bears, and songbirds.
More than a decade ago, Flathead River to Lake Initiative partners met with the previous landowner and neighbors to explore conservation and restoration opportunities. Today, those long-envisioned plans are poised to become a reality.
The property was purchased for $3.5 million from Twin Peaks LLC and includes a home and shop that will be converted into classroom and office space. To help fund the acquisition, the Glacier Institute sold its former downtown Columbia Falls office and raised $100,000 through community donations. A broader fundraising campaign is now underway to cover the remaining cost.
In addition to being an ideal location for expanding educational efforts, the property is worthy of protection in its own right and contributes to the growing network of conserved lands along the Flathead River corridor.
Check out this aerial video showcasing the property.
