Council Grove State Park

This post is dedicated to Missoula's very own river state park. This 187 acre park is nestled between farm land and is located less than 1 mile off of Mullan Road!

 When you pull into the parking area, you are surrounded by beautiful plant life and our glorious Montana mountains just add to the awe-inspiring view. You are greeted with a park sign that contains a plethora of information. You will find that weekends are a busier time, but the park is so huge that you barely run into anybody, you will mostly notice more cars parked.

Council Grove provides disabled accessible facilities, adventurous hiking trails, picnic tables, grills for bbq fun, and a green little water fountain that you pump yourself from a fresh, cold well. 

My pug jumped in the shot for a modeling opportunity.

This fountain is a two person job (one to pump, and one to drink), but it is a blast! Come on, you are pumping your own well water! Past the intriguing pump, you are welcomed with a gorgeous grassy field which contains a few well-worn trails. You can pick any trail that will lead you through the trees and towards the river. 

You are provided with the splendid adventure of crossing the river to reach the other side of the park. This side of the park contains majority of the acreage and the grills and picnic tables. Since you will be crossing the shallow, clear water of the Clark Fork, you may want to be prepared with Ziplock bags for electronics(in the rare case you lose footing and slip) and sandals or water-shoes. Crossing the river is, personally, where I think all the fun of the park is.Speedo Wave Walker Water Shoes, these are cheap and reliable, you may get sand stuck in them but all need need to do is slip them off and rinse out in the water.. nature's gift!

Shallow waters.

I enjoy venturing down the shallow waters and finding a nice shaded beach were I can sit and enjoy a well packed picnic. Your senses are bombarded with the smell of the flowing river water, the sight of the colorful rounded river rocks, the warmth of the sun, the touch of the trickling river, and overwhelming view of beauty....

The river provides areas for simply walking through, and areas were you can enjoy a nice refreshing swim. My little pug is a fairly strong swimmer, but resides to being afraid of deep water, so the shallow parts were a great way for him to cool off without stressing.

I know any living, breathing dog would enjoy a trip to this eccentric "water" park. The main entrance to the park will tell you that dogs are required on a leash, but you will find designated areas in which dogs are be released to enjoy the wild with out a tether. Also remember to bring fresh water for you four-legged buddy, river water isn't always the best thing to drink from. "Jr. Folding Dog Water Dispenser in Assorted" Also a great way to always have a poop bag on you.. just clip a dispenser to your leash  and you will never be without!"N2N Poop Patrol Pet Waste Bag Dispenser"(you can find a really cheap bone-shaped one at most dollar stores) My favorite leash is the Flexi Leash, this thing has been through thick and thin and still remains loyal. I love it because it allows for the pooch to venture but not too far away."Compact Extra Large Retractable Dog Lead"

This is an incredible place to visit, Missoula natives are so lucky to have this in their back yards. This place a worth a trip for anyone who lives any where. Add it to your bucket list! I hope every single person reading this is able to come and enjoy nature here!

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