The best walks and hikes around Missoula

Yes, there are over 35 hiking routes to explore around Missoula. The area offers a great variety, from easy riverside walks to more demanding mountain climbs, catering to all fitness levels.

For a gentle and accessible outing, the Cherry Gulch Trail to North Ridge Trail loop is a great choice. It's a relatively short loop of about 2 miles (3.3 km) with minimal elevation gain. Another highly regarded option is the Maclay Flat Nature Trail, known for being a beautiful and easy path to escape the city.

Absolutely. For a more strenuous hike with rewarding views, consider the Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route involves a significant ascent up the open slopes of Mount Jumbo, offering panoramic vistas across the Missoula Valley.

Many trails in the Missoula area are dog-friendly, but leash regulations can vary. Areas like the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Pattee Canyon are popular with dog walkers. Always check specific trailhead signage for the most current rules, and be mindful of wildlife and other hikers.

For iconic views overlooking the city and the University of Montana, The "M" Trail is a local favorite. Although it's a short and steep climb, the panoramic reward at the top is well worth the effort. The Barmeyer Trail is another excellent option praised for its gorgeous views.

Yes, Missoula has several great loop trails. The North Hills Ridge & Cherry Gulch Trail loop is a popular 2.2-mile (3.6 km) circuit through the city's North Hills. It offers a complete walk with varied scenery without needing to backtrack.

The prime hiking season is from late spring to early fall, typically May through October. Spring offers vibrant wildflower displays, especially on Mount Jumbo, while fall provides pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is warm and ideal for reaching higher elevations, though it's best to start early to avoid midday heat. Winter hiking and snowshoeing are also popular, but require appropriate gear and caution.

While many trails follow creeks and rivers, prominent waterfalls often require a bit of a drive. A popular day trip from Missoula is the trail to Holland Falls at Holland Lake, which features a beautiful waterfall. Within the immediate Missoula area, the focus is more on river walks and mountain ascents.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails from the city center and the stunning panoramic views of the Missoula Valley from the surrounding mountains.

Parking can vary significantly. Popular trailheads like 'The M' can get very busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Other trailheads, such as the one for Crazy Canyon, are known to have a good amount of parking. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your first-choice trailhead is full.

Yes, the Kim Williams Trail is a well-known path that runs along the Clark Fork River. It's a mostly flat and accessible trail perfect for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride with lovely river views right from the edge of the city.

Missoula's trails are rich with wildlife. It's common to see deer, elk, and a wide variety of birds. Black bears and, less commonly, grizzly bears inhabit the region, particularly in areas like the Rattlesnake Wilderness. It's essential to be bear-aware: make noise while you hike, carry bear spray, and know how to use it.