Wanna Hang Out With A Montana Grizzly? Here’s The Safest Way.

If you're one of those folks who loves being around wildlife, but also understand that the keyword is "wild", there's a place here in Montana that you need to check out.

With places like Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, you have ample chances to see some of the most beautiful and dangerous creatures on Earth. Moose, Elk, Wolves, Deer, Bison, and of course, Bears are just some of what you can see across Montana, but for your safety and theirs, you should keep your distance.

However, for those who would like to get up close and personal, yet remain safe with one of the most fearsome animals on the planet, just outside of Bozeman is the place for you.

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My wife and I had family in town and decided to take them to Montana Grizzly Encounter which is just a few miles east of Bozeman on I-90. We have been there before, but the family hadn't so it was a fun adventure on a Saturday afternoon.

If you've never been to MGE, you really should take a trip. Not only do you get to see grizzly bears do their thing, but you also receive a wonderful education about the species as well as stories about each bear.

For me being that close to them (you're only a few yards away) there is almost a feeling of kindred spirit. You watch them play and pose and enjoy their surroundings but also know that they are one of the fiercest creatures walking the earth.

How many Grizzlies are at MGE?

Max was the star of the show the day we were there. Max, who is about to turn 6 weighs in at almost 1200 pounds and is a stunning grizzly bear. He was born in Alaska and wandered into a small town. The townsfolks kept him safe from the dogs while hoping his Mother would come for him. She didn't and soon Max was on a plane to Montana.

Max isn't the only grizzly at the Montana Grizzly Encounter. There is also Bella and Maggi. Maggi, the smallest of the three has been at the MGE since 2008, while Bella joined the family in 2014.

When is the Montana Grizzly Encounter open?

The Montana Grizzly Encounter hours vary depending on the time of year. The schedule is as follows:

• Spring 10 am to 5 pm Wednesday through Sunday
• Summer 10 am to 6 pm Wednesday through Monday
• Fall 10 am to 5 pm Thursday through Monday
• Winter 10 am to 4 pm Thursday through Sunday

The staff does a fantastic job of answering questions and there is a gift shop with all kinds of fun bear items for sale. In case you are wondering, video and pictures are allowed and the area is filled with different bits of information and education on the bears.

So, if you would love to see a grizzly up close AND remain safe, this is the way to do it.