Favorite Hiking Spots in Missoula

My favorite summer activity is hiking, and I am in love with all of the hiking trails in Missoula.

My all time favorite spot would probably be Rattlesnake. This trail-head is pretty simple to get to; you just follow Rattlesnake road until you hit the hiking entrance.

Rattlesnake has a plethora of different trails, it provides you with a different experience no matter how often you walk this area. Enormous trees offer generous amounts of shades, which gives you have the opportunity to hike at really any time of day without suffering from heat exhaustion. 

There is crystal clear spring run-off that runs along the trails, and is spotted with enjoyable beaches. The bubbling water is great for humans and creatures to cool off. 

You are able to hike in the Rattlesnake as long or as little as you would like. The Nature Boundary is about 15 miles in which can mostly be done on a bike. Most trails allow dogs and bikes, but clear signs explain what is permissible on each trail. 

 The Rattlesnake is pretty deep into nature, so it is important to be careful with creatures that may be enjoying their homes. This summer, mountain lions and bears have been spotted quite often; a bear bell or animal spray is a good thing to keep on hand, and always remember to be aware of your surroundings. Coghlan's Bear Bell with Magnetic Silencer (Google Affiliate Ad)

Another enjoyable place for hiking is the Water Works mountain. I use the Orange Street trail head to get to Water Works. This is located right next to the Orange Street Exit. 

This area is a little steeper than Rattlesnake, but is does give you a great view of Missoula. You can see the train tracks crossing through town.

I opt for this hiking trail when I am looking for more of a work-out. You will find a few off-trails on this mountain which ultimately hook-up into a big circle, this takes me about and hour a half to complete. Some off-trails will take you to a homestead, past a livestock pen which occasionally houses livestock, or down towards the Rattlesnake area. 

Trail Towards Rattlesnake

Dogs are allowed on all of the trails, and are permitted to be off the leash after only about 100 feet up the trail. Remember to bring water for your pooch if he is coming along. This trail doesn't have a lot of shade, so the best time to go is in the morning or evening, that way the sun is not beating down on you.

The 'M' is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. This trail is located on Mount Sentinel which hugs the University of Montana campus. 

The M is not very high up, however it gives a great vantage point of the University Campus. You do have a couple options for getting to the concrete letter. All trails are fairly steep, again this is a trail you don't want to hike during mid-afternoon. 

Fun Fact: Groups of people will sometimes carry up rocks and spell a variety of words out with the M on various holidays or special occasion. My favorite has been the word "mom" spelled out on Mother's Day.

  

The "M"

If you are looking for more of an adventure, you can continue on to the summit of Mount Sentinel which supplies a breath-taking view of Missoula.

Across the highway is Mount Jumbo which houses The "L". This destination is not as popular as The "M", but is does provide a more leisurely trek. 

Blue Mountain is in my top 3 hiking destination because it supplies an endless amount of trails that reach out across a wide area of land. Blue Mountain Trail Head is located just past Super Walmart towards Lolo.

This heavenly spot is very well shaded with pine trees which create the great smell of warm pine-needles. 

Blue Mountain is very dog-friendly, and I have noticed it is a popular destination for dog owners. 

I hope this post provided you all with ideas of where to go for a fun hike if you are planning on visiting Missoula, and maybe this reminded Missoula Natives of destinations forgotten.

Feel free to comment, subscribe, maybe explain an area around Missoula where you enjoy a hiking trip.