Buzzards (Turkey Vultures) are a seasonal inhabitant of Makoshika State Park and play a vital role in this harsh ecosystem.  Known as "Nature's Ultimate Garbage Collectors", Buzzard Day celebrates their seasonal return.

Buzzard Day is an annual event organized by the Friends of Makoshika, in cooperation with Makoshika State Park.  The purpose of the event is to involve the community in the park by encouraging participation in outdoor activities. Buzzard Day is scheduled for the second Saturday in June of each calendar year.

This year Miss Montana 2007 Kristen Mantooth, will be present to announce the winners and hand out prizes for our Buzzard Day Runs!

Children's Carnival • Concert • Kite Flying • 10K • 5K • Fun Run • Kid's Run
Sno Cones • Botany Hike • Wagon Rides • Bird Walk • Funnel Cake

Buzzard Runs

The most popular activities on Buzzard Day are the runs.  There are four running/walking events that vary in difficulty. 

• For the serious runner there is Montana's Toughest 10K! 
• 5K
• Fun Walk/Run
• Kid's Run

Both the 10K and the 5K are divided into male/female divisions.  The courses lead runners from the Group Use Shelter, up the winding switchbacks to a turnaround point, and then back to the Group Use Shelter.  Prizes are awarded in the respective categories.   

The Fun Walk/Run is suitable for all ages and participants can choose to walk or run. 

The Kid's Run is dedicated to kids ages ten and under.  There is no fee to participate in the Kid's Run.

Individuals wishing to participate in any of the first three events may register in one of the following ways:

• online using the link below;
• the morning of the event;
• request a registration form by calling (406) 377-6256 or emailing fom@midrivers.com;
• print off your own registration form using the link below and mail it to Friends of Makoshika, PO Box 1242, Glendive, MT  59330. 

Use the link below to find the respective registration fees.

There is no fee or registration required for the Kid's Run.

Pre-registration is recommended to guarantee participants get their desired
t-shirt size and to avoid a wait the morning of the event.

All participants should be at the Group Use Shelter no later than 8:00 for those who need to register and 8:30 for those who pre-registered.

Take a look at the Buzzard Day Run results below!