The Flathead National Forest is a national forest in the western part of the U.S. state of Montana. The forest covers 2.3 million acres of which about 1 million acres is designated wilderness. It is named after the Flathead Indians who lived in the area. The forest is located in the Rocky Mountains with elevations ranging from less than 4,500 feet (1,400 m) to over 8,500 feet (1400 to 2600 m). The Forest provides habitat for approximately 250 species of wildlife and 22 species of fish.