Spring in to some new adventures with Outdoor Recreation

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kristina Overton
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office --  With the winter snow finally melting away and signs of the coming spring beginning to appear, it's natural to want to spend a little more time outdoors. Whether it's pulling out the barbecue pit for a picnic or packing up the camper for a weekend trip to Yellowstone, the good weather is a chance to take advantage of some of Montana's open air and splendor. Malmstrom's Outdoor Recreation has something for everyone, offering convenient hours to provide a variety of classes, trips and rental equipment that any enthusiasts might need.

"Something different that we added to the summer program this year is the Family Camping Club," said Jim Beisel, ODR adventure programmer. "It'll be a series of classes that we run, special rental opportunities and local trips to promote a fun and safe family environment. Especially with smaller children, you want to be able do things but don't know how or where to start. This program is ideal for those families."

People with families aren't the only ones who can enjoy a fun-filled trip with ODR. Some of the other different activities include moonlight Big Bend kayak and canoe paddling trips, expeditions to Lick Creek Cave, spring in Yellowstone camping trips, overnighters to Gates of the Mountains, Missouri River float trips and much more.

Another big part of the summer program will be rafting. Maneuvering through the obstacles of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork rivers, whitewater rafting has quickly become one of the most popular and thrill-seeking events of the summer. ODR is also planning to try and take on two newer rivers this summer as well, the Lochsa and the Gallatin.

For those looking to tour some of Montana's larger attractions, the Glacier Adventure is another good opportunity for families and Airmen to go and see Glacier National Park. With different levels of things to do, the trip offers different types of activities for all outdoor enthusiasts.

"The Glacier Adventure is a lot of fun, gives you a look at some amazing scenery and the kids have a good time too," Mr. Beisel said. "You never know what's going to happen next. You might see a beautiful sunset, or some deer and elk standing in a field grazing, or an eagle swoop down and catch a fish. It's the unknown that makes the adventure, the story that you might've missed had you not been out there to see it."

Being a part of an adventure is a lot easier than most people would think. With the knowledgeable staff there to assist you and the wide range of equipment easily accessible, the recreation opportunities are endless.

"We have a great selection of equipment," said Steve Surls, ODR recreation assistant. "There are 14 foot fishing boats, canoes and kayaks and a variety of campers available where you can make reservations up to 30 days in advance. It's really beneficial to be able to rent rather than own it. We store and maintain all the equipment, and it's available for each time you need it."

ODR also offers fishing and hunting equipment, tents, backpacks, generators, sleeping bags, cooking equipment and just about any other necessity needed to enjoy the great outdoors.

Rental prices range and are affordable to meet everyone's financial needs. Rental items can be picked up a day prior to use, held within 24 hour charge periods and then returned the following day prior to noon.

"With spring and summer on its way, we also have lawn and garden equipment," Mr. Surls said. "Everything from wheelbarrows, shovels, ladders and fence post pounders are available for rent."

For more information about ODR and future activities, call 731-3263, or visit the website at www.341fss.com.