March is just around the corner, and in this corner of Montana, that means Waterfowl Migration at Freezeout Lake.

From Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, we're just weeks away from a truly magnificent spectacle, hundreds of thousands of waterfowl during migration in Montana. From Visit Montana, "The Snow Geese usually reach Freezeout Lake in early March, where they rest up from a nearly 1,000 mile flight from California. Best viewing of the birds is from sunrise to 10:00 am and from 4:30 pm until sunset. Binoculars, telescopes, a light lunch, and possibly warm clothing will make your viewing more enjoyable."

What are the dates

There is no definitive date given to be at Freezeout to see the birds. Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area in Fairfield says the window for viewing is about 2 weeks and is driven by a lot of natural factors. They recommend mid-March and April for viewing. Flathead Audubon Society is planning their trip March 26th and 27th this year, to give you some kind of indication of when the pros go.

Where can you stay?

Freezeout Lake is about 40 miles west of Great Falls between Fairfield and Choteau. There are a few hotels and Airbnbs available in the area. The Park Inn in Fairfield, The Stagestop Inn in Choteau and hotels in Great Falls. Airbnbs are also available. There are plenty of places to grab a bite of homemade goodness in Choteau, Augusta and Fairfield, as well. You can get the whole small town, Central Montana experience. My personal favorites are in Choteau. I grew up there. I'd recommend pizza from John Henry's on main in Choteau and anything at the Log Cabin, also on main, in Choteau. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it.