The best walks and hikes in Missoula County

Missoula County offers a diverse range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging multi-day excursions. You'll find routes through picturesque river valleys, rugged mountain ranges like the Sapphire and Bitterroot Mountains, and extensive wilderness areas. The komoot community has documented 71 routes, with 21 easy, 35 moderate, and 15 difficult options.

Yes, you can find trails featuring waterfalls. A notable option is the Holland Falls Trail — Flathead National Forest, an easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) path that leads through forest scenery to a beautiful waterfall.

For families, trails like the The "M" Trail — Missoula offer a quick elevation gain and panoramic views suitable for many. The Kim Williams Trail along the Clark Fork River is paved and popular for walking, running, and birdwatching, making it very accessible. Additionally, the Mount Jumbo Backbone Trail — Missoula offers an easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) experience.

Missoula County is generally very dog-friendly. Many trails, especially those in areas like Waterworks Hill and Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, welcome dogs. Always check specific trail regulations for leash requirements or restrictions before heading out.

Missoula County offers stunning natural landmarks and viewpoints. The The M Trail on Mount Sentinel provides breathtaking panoramic views of Missoula. Mount Jumbo is known for its spring wildflowers and offers excellent vistas. The confluence of the Clark Fork and Blackfoot Rivers at Milltown State Park also provides scenic overlooks.

Yes, Missoula County features several enjoyable loop trails. The Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula is a moderate 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route known for its wildflowers. Another option is the North Hills Ridge & Cherry Gulch Trail loop — Missoula, an easy 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike.

Spring is ideal for experiencing vibrant wildflowers on trails like Mount Jumbo and Waterworks Hill. Summer offers warm weather for exploring higher elevations and river-based trails. Fall brings spectacular foliage to the region's forests. While winter hiking is possible, some trails may be snow-covered, requiring appropriate gear.

The Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, just north of Missoula, provides an extensive network of trails with varying difficulty and length, including options for challenging multi-day excursions. It features lush forests and Rattlesnake Creek. The Bitterroot National Forest also offers vast wilderness and numerous trails for longer adventures.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 16 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from river valleys to mountain views, and the accessibility of trails directly from Missoula. The variety of options, from quick city-adjacent climbs to extensive wilderness routes, is also frequently highlighted.

Many trails in Missoula County, especially those in the vast wilderness areas and national forests like the Bitterroot and Lolo National Forests, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Areas with rich ecosystems, such as Fishtrap Lake, are known for their diverse habitats. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, various bird species, and other local fauna.

For those seeking a challenge, Missoula County has 15 difficult routes. The Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail — Missoula is a demanding 11.3-mile (18.1 km) hike with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Turquoise Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness, a 12.1-mile (19.4 km) route.

Yes, Missoula offers several trails directly accessible from downtown. The Riverfront Trail extends along both sides of the Clark Fork River, providing a network of walking paths with diverse scenery. The Kim Williams Trail is another popular paved option along the Clark Fork River, easily reached from the city center.