“We would highly recommend hiring Elena to go on a nature hike. She is extremely knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, personable and easy to talk to. We learned a lot about geology and local history. We only wish we could go on more hikes with her!”

Gwynn

Eugene, Oregon

Elena is a consummate guide. She knows the natural environment of Montana and joyfully shares her enthusiasm for the flora and fauna. She was excellent with my daughter who has a disability and was able to smoothly adapt to her needs . I would highly recommend Blue Heron for anyone, whether you want an adventurous hike or need an accessible easy walk. ( 5 stars)

Sasha and Elisabeth

Wisconsin

Highly recommend the birdwatching tour! Elena was a fantastic guide and great company throughout the 2.5 hour tour of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Her knowledge of bird species was really impressive. We all learned a lot and came away with renewed appreciation for the beautiful place we call home and the incredible animals we share it with. This tour makes a great family outing or gift for a nature lover.

-Patrick

Helena, Montana

“We are locals who enjoy hikes-but never learned much about birdwatching. Elena created such an interesting and fun time on our walk-that we truly cannot wait to go on another of her hikes. We watched 25 different birds including a hawk, an eagle and an enormous owl. Thank you Elena, looking forward to learning more!”

Lulu and Hlynur

Ottawa, Canada and Missoula, MT

“Elena really knows her stuff!!! We had a bird packed morning and she even adjusted the itinerary so that I could see a dipper. She's fantastic.”

Rebecca

Netherlands

“Elena took me to a great hiking location. She is great company and very knowledgeable about the wildlife there. I learned a lot about Montana's birds! She even carries her bird book to show you detailed pictures, and you can borrow nice binoculars from her to see the wildlife up close. I also learned red squirrel's interesting habits in this forest --fascinating!”

Maria

Florida

“Elena is friendly and sharp about Missoula flora and fauna. We saw lots of birds ( including my first raven). I particularly applaud her considerable knowledge of plants used by Native American peoples. The view from the top was stupendous! Do yourself a favor and go!”

Norma

Texas

“Elena is a great guide and knows her stuff! We took the Bitteroot Valley birding tour and saw about 30 different bird species. I added several species to my life list. We walked all around the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, which is a mixture of prairie and wetlands. It houses songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and more. Elena brought a spotting scope so we could see the birds much better than with binoculars. We would definitely use her again!”

Jan and John

Florida

“The group enjoyed your tour immensely. We are still talking about our memorable experience with you. Can not say enough about the time spent on the hike and variety of birds and other wildlife observed especially the turtles. Thank you very much.”

Bill

Ketchikan, Alaska

“Elena was super knowledgeable about the natural world around her. I went on the walk primarily for birds, but as a horticulture grad I also expressed interest in learning some of the native plants in the area as well and she was very helpful.”

Heide

Willington, Connecticut

“We had a fantastic excursion with Elena in June. We saw 25+ species of birds as we walked through a magnificent forest. Elena is very knowledgeable and could identify birds by sound or sight. She spotted birds I would’ve never known were there. One of the highlights was seeing a family of Great Horned Owls. One adult and two young ones on different branches of a Ponderosa Pine, and the other adult in a nearby pine. We saw herons and smaller water birds along the Clark Fork river, and many other birds. We ended our walk with a just-for-fun quiz, which we all passed! I highly recommend this excursion with Elena.”

Michelle

“Elena is a knowledgeable, patient, and thoughtful guide. She was quick to point out wildlife we would have otherwise missed and eager to teach us about forest flora. My husband and I enjoyed cross country skiing with her and highly recommend any excursion she leads.”

Shana

Atlanta, Georgia

“Elena is very knowledgeable and experienced. We looked at plants and birds, too. And if she does not know something she will look it up. The walking was easy and quite shaded. Excellent value for the experience.”

Mo

Chalfont, Pennsylvania

Thank you for a wonderful day of birding the Missoula area. We were so impressed with your knowledge of birds and the surrounding eco systems (especially your ability to speak in bird language!). Not only did we enjoy our time with you but we added a number of lifers to our list! I would highly recommend you to both experienced and novice birders.

We hope to see you again!

Cathy & Roger

Pennsylvania