Join us in 2026!
5th grade class experience: May 4-8, 2026 | Family day: Saturday, May 9, 2026
For Teachers
For Families
EXPLORE ACTIVITY STATIONS
See what you can learn at Family Forestry Expo
Backcountry Camp
By using low impact camping skills, trail users can reduce their impact on the diverse, fragile, and spectacular areas in our country.
Wildlife Station
The forests of Montana are home to over 600 species of wildlife. The instructors at the Wildlife Station give insight into what we can do to improve the homes of these animals and how you can help.
Plant Identification Station
Scientists need to be able to communicate clearly when discussing plants. Learn about their system of classification at this station!
Fisheries Station
Learn about why fish need forests at this station!
About Expo
The Family Forestry Expo is an event that offers hands-on exposure to the role forests play in our everyday lives. Each year, this event takes place through the dedicated involvement of over 30 diverse organizations, including local service clubs, forest industry, government natural resource agencies, conservation groups, professional societies, local businesses, many interested individuals and numerous local donations.
During the week, fifth grade classes from around the valley spend a day exploring each of the activity stations with a field trip. On Saturday, the grounds and stations are open to families and community members who want to learn more about the forest.
Come spend the day or a few hours to explore how the different parts of a forest are connected to make up a dynamic living system, and see how people and all parts of the environment are dependent on one another.
Take a forest walk along the half-mile wood chipped trail and:
- visit a backcountry campsite
- test your tree id and take home a free conifer seedling
- learn how to be bear aware
- take a look at the many insects that live in our forest streams
- learn how you can be “firewise” at your home in the woods and fire safe when camping
- check out the live owls and learn what animals make their home in Northwest Montana forests
Visit the exhibit tent to learn about the many organizations that help to take care of and manage our area forests, make a piece of paper, and try your hand at using a cross-cut saw.
Can’t make it to Forestry Expo or want to learn more?
Check out the Family Forestry Expo YouTube channel for videos featuring each of the activity stations, and get an inside look at how forest products are made.
Thanks to our Sponsors!
Thank you for contributing to this event to ensure the success of the program for years to come. Family Forestry Expo is a non-profit organization, so all donations are 100% tax-deductible.