The Montana Wilderness Association is offering guided snowshoe and regular walks across the state and a few near Columbia Falls.

The Winter Wilderness Walks, in its 13th season, provide outings that are free and open to the public. All participants need to preregister online by visiting www.wildmontana.org/walks. After preregistering, hikers have to call the walk leader to confirm their registration.

A moderate 4-mile hike to Stanton Lake is Jan. 9 with an elevation gain of 200 feet. The hike is lead by Ellen Horowitz and meets at 9:30 a.m. in Columbia Falls. Participants will learn about the winter ecology of the area and look for signs of wildlife. They will need to bring water, snacks and lunch.

An easy 3-mile hike and 1-hour animal tracking class is Jan. 30. The hike is lead by Brian Baxter and Amy Robinson and meets at 9 a.m. in Kalispell. Participants will learn the basics of winter wildlife tracking in a classroom setting, then use the new skills outdoors. They will need to bring carpenter’s tape, camera, binoculars, warm layers, water and lunch. Children who are older than 10 years are welcome with adult supervision.

A moderate 2.5-mile hike to Garry Lookout is Feb. 6. The hike is lead by Ellen Horowitz and meets at 10 a.m. in Columbia Falls. Participants will learn about the cultural and natural history of winter tracks left by wild animals and snowshoes. They will need to bring water, snacks, lunch and binoculars.

An easy 2-mile hike with bird watching in the West Flathead Valley and Pleasant Valley regions is March 26. The hike is lead by Brian Baxter and Amy Robinson and meets at 9 a.m. in Kila. Participants will have the opportunity to spot and identify birds of prey, waterfowl and songbirds at several observation points. MWA recommends using a four-wheel drive vehicle with a full gas tank. Children who are older than 10 years are welcome with adult supervision. 

For more information call Amanda Hagerty at the Montana Wilderness Association office in Helena at 443-7350, ext. 108 or email ahagerty@wildmontana.org. MWA will provide snowshoes for participants if necessary.