The Gallatin National Forest encompasses 2,149,629 acres in south central Montana. The Forest is adjacent to Yellowstone National Park. This Forest contains portions of the Lee Metcalf and Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Areas.

Big-game species found in the area include bear, elk, moose, big horn sheep, mule and whitetail deer and Rocky Mountain goat. Along the trails, naturalists and photographers can see a variety of songbirds, hawks, eagles, and owls. In shaded groves, along quiet pools and out on the windswept range, gophers, chipmunks, beaver, porcupine, woodchucks, rabbits, squirrels, and other animals can be watched and photographed.