Kicking Horse Reservoir

Montana · Rocky Mountains

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

June-October

About This Location

Kicking Horse Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Montana, with 209 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, and Trumpeter Swan among many others. Elevation changes create diverse habitats, from riparian valleys to alpine meadows, supporting a wide range of species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Ferruginous Hawk

Buteo regalis

3/6/2026Back Rd, Polson US-MT 47.63544, -114.188312 observed

American Pipit

Anthus rubescens

3/2/2026Stinger/Leighton Rd. Pond, Ronan, MT., U.S.1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

3/2/2026Pablo (Reservoir) NWR5 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

2/24/2026Old Golf Course, Polson, Montana, US (47.695, -114.131)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Cackling Goose

42/25/2026

Canada Goose

2/25/2026

Trumpeter Swan

32/24/2026

Tundra Swan

12/24/2026

American Wigeon

42/24/2026

Mallard

452/24/2026

Canvasback

222/24/2026

Ring-necked Duck

152/24/2026

Lesser Scaup

52/24/2026

Common Goldeneye

52/24/2026

Common Merganser

202/24/2026

Bald Eagle

22/24/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

12/24/2026

Rough-legged Hawk

12/24/2026

Northern Flicker

12/24/2026

Black-billed Magpie

32/24/2026

Common Raven

22/24/2026

Western Meadowlark

22/24/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

52/24/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Acclimate to altitude before hiking to high-elevation birding spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Kicking Horse Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Kicking Horse Reservoir for birding are June-October. The best seasons are Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Notable species at Kicking Horse Reservoir include Cackling Goose, Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Tundra Swan, American Wigeon. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Birding at Kicking Horse Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Kicking Horse Reservoir?
Kicking Horse Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.