The best walks and hikes around Bonner-West Riverside
5.0
(11)
614
hikers
65
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Hiking around Bonner-West Riverside, located in Missoula County, Montana, offers access to diverse terrain characterized by forested mountains, river valleys, and prominent hills. The area is situated near the Clark Fork River and provides a gateway to trails within the larger Missoula area. Hikers can expect routes that traverse varied elevations, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging mountain ascents. This region features a mix of open landscapes and dense woodlands, providing distinct hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Bonner-West Riverside
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula, a 4.4 miles (7.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 31 minutes to complete. This moderate loop offers views of the surrounding Missoula valley.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Mount Jumbo Backbone Trail — Missoula, an easy 3.7 miles (5.9 km) path. This trail provides access to the prominent Mount Jumbo, known for its open slopes.
- Local hikers also love the On the top of Marshall Mountain, a 10.0 miles (16.1 km) trail leading through mountain forests, often completed in about 5 hours 7 minutes.
- Hiking around Bonner-West Riverside is defined by mountain trails, forested hills, and river-adjacent paths. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Bonner-West Riverside are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Bonner-West Riverside's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
16
hikers
12.8km
04:58
1,110m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
8.88km
02:35
250m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
hikers
3.61km
01:09
180m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
14.4km
04:14
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15.0km
05:10
1,300m
0m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a jumping off point for a lot of trails. There's a couple of easy options through the valley and some others that climb up the ridgelines and lead to some great views.
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The "M" on the west face of Mount Sentinel has been a Missoula landmark since 1908, when Forestry Club members forged a zigzag trail up the mountain and students carried up stones to shape the symbol of the University of Montana. The "M" Trail is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. There are great views of Missoula and the entire valley from the trail, but should be noted that there is no shade, so try and get there early! Being that this trail can get crowded, there are two alternative trails back down the mountain, one in the north towards the tree-line, and a slightly longer detour trail in the south if you continue on Evan's Trail.
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This stretch of riding has incredible views looking down the valley over the bend in the river. There's no doubt you're in Montana here.
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This is a jumping off point for a lot of trails. There's a couple of easy options that roll through the valley and some others that climb up the ridgelines and lead to some great descents.
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From the summit of Stuart Peak there is a great view of the lakes below and the peaks of the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. The hike is quite challenging, but the scenery is amazing.
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Just like the Forests of Endor in A galaxy far far away!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bonner-West Riverside located?
Bonner-West Riverside is situated in Missoula County, Montana, near the Clark Fork River. It serves as a gateway to numerous trails within the broader Missoula area, offering a mix of river valleys, forested mountains, and prominent hills.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Bonner-West Riverside?
The region offers diverse terrain, from gentle riverside paths to more challenging mountain ascents. You'll find routes traversing varied elevations through both open landscapes and dense woodlands, characteristic of the Missoula area's natural beauty.
How many hiking trails are available in the Bonner-West Riverside area?
There are over 45 hiking routes available around Bonner-West Riverside. These trails cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or a relaxed walk?
Yes, there are 17 easy routes in the area. An example is the Mount Jumbo Backbone Trail — Missoula, which is an easy 3.7-mile path providing access to the open slopes of Mount Jumbo.
What are some challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a more strenuous experience, there are 3 difficult routes. A notable option is On the top of Marshall Mountain, a 10-mile trail leading through mountain forests, typically taking over 5 hours to complete.
Are there any loop trails in the Bonner-West Riverside area?
Yes, several loop trails are available. A popular choice is the Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula, a moderate 4.4-mile route offering scenic views of the surrounding Missoula valley.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Bonner-West Riverside?
The trails in Bonner-West Riverside are highly rated by the komoot community, holding an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from riverside paths to mountain trails, and the well-maintained network of routes.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options?
Many of the easier trails are suitable for families. The The L on Mount Jumbo loop from Lower Rattlesnake is an easy 2.3-mile loop that could be a good option for a family outing, offering manageable distances and elevation.
What kind of views or landmarks can I expect to see on the trails?
Hiking in this region often provides scenic views of the Missoula valley, forested mountains, and the Clark Fork River. Notable landmarks and points of interest nearby include The M Trail on Mount Sentinel and the Kim Williams Trail, which offers riverside perspectives.
When is the best time of year to hike around Bonner-West Riverside?
The best time to hike is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October) when the weather is mild and trails are clear of snow. However, some lower elevation trails can be accessible year-round, with proper winter gear.
Are there any trails that offer good opportunities for wildlife viewing?
The diverse ecosystems around Bonner-West Riverside, including dense woodlands and open slopes, provide habitats for various wildlife. Trails like those in the Mount Jumbo area, such as the Hiking loop from Mount Jumbo Wildlife Management Area, offer opportunities to spot local fauna, especially during quieter times of day.
Is parking readily available at trailheads in the area?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular trailheads, especially those closer to Missoula, typically have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for information regarding parking at your chosen starting point.
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