Applications will open Sept. 1 for youth hunters and hunters with a Permit to Hunt from a Vehicle (PTHFV) seeking an opportunity to access Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area near Columbia Falls this fall.

Bad Rock Canyon WMA is a 772-acre property along the Flathead River that provides seasonal recreation opportunities, including limited hunting for certain game species. Permission is required to hunt Bad Rock Canyon WMA and is issued on a limited basis.

Below are details on seasonal hunting opportunities and application information.

How to Apply

Applications can be received and submitted:

• In person: FWP Region 1 Office, 490 N. Meridian Rd., Kalispell, MT 59901
• By mail: Same address as above
• By email: fwprg12@mt.gov

Hunting Opportunities

Youth 2-Day Deer Hunt & General Rifle Season

• Application Period: Sept. 1–30, 2025
• Who May Hunt:
  • Youth hunters ages 10–15
  • Hunters with a Permit to Hunt From a Vehicle (PTHFV)
• Hunting Days: Thursday through Sunday (or Monday if a holiday)

Notes

• Access at Bad Rock Canyon WMA is limited to hunting during this time
• All legal species may be hunted with valid licenses
• Hunting is within Deer/Elk Hunting District 170
• Random drawing determines access
• Hunters must enter the WMA from designated parking areas along Highway 2.

Winter Closure

Bad Rock Canyon WMA is closed to all public access from the end of the general hunting season in late November through May 15 at noon to protect big game winter range. As with all WMAs, the area is managed with wildlife and habitat conservation as the priority.

Recreational Access

Outside of hunting seasons and winter closure, the WMA is open for non-motorized recreation from May 15 at noon through the start of the youth hunt in late October.

• Motorized Vehicles: Only allowed on designated access routes and parking areas
• Non-Motorized Access: Open to foot travel, horseback, and bicycles
• Prohibited Activities:
  • Camping
  • Fires
  • Wood cutting
  • Commercial outfitting

For questions or to obtain application materials, contact the FWP Region 1 office at 406-752-5501 or visit https://fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/regions/region1.