Explore: Hike, Bike, Run 2019

explore

SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2019 |

Hike, Bike, Run • 2019

POWER HOUR Top

running picks

TRAIL MAPS | EARN YOUR BEER | FOOD FAVES

ADVENTURE IS LOCAL

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2 | Sunday, June 23, 2019

The

VIEWS COME AFTER THE HARDEST CLIMB

MOUNT SENTINEL MISSOULA, MT

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MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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The connector route between Seeley Lake and Rattlesnake Canyon consists of logging roads which were already in existence but hadn’t been mapped out. The team at Adventure Cycling Association spent two summers exploring the area to find the best route through the network of roads.

COLTER PETERSON, MISSOULIAN

Table of Contents Top running spots in Missoula

page 4

South Missoula trails

page 39

Agents of Discovery comes to the Bitterroot

page 6

Rattlesnake trails

page 40

Power up your lunch hour

page 8

Pattee Canyon

page 44

Earn your beer with a bike ride

page 12

North Hills trails

page 48

Get out to Point of Rocks

page 14

South Hills trails

page 50

Bringing your No. 1 adventure buddy

page 15

North Hills Moon-Randolph Homestead

page 51

Watercraft powered by you

page 16

Mount Sentinel trails

page 52

Get outta here

page 17

Kim Williams Trail

page 53

Calendar of summer events

page 18

Blue Mountain Recreation Area

page 54

Grant Creek Trail

page 30

Mount Jumbo trails

page 56

Milltown State Park

page 32

Cha-paa-qn

page 57

Missoula and surrounding areas map

page 34

Lolo Peak/North Summit

page 58

Ron’s River Trail

page 36

Fort Missoula Regional Park

page 59

Mount Dean Stone

page 38

River access maps

page 60

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Best

running trails in Missoula FORREST BOUGHNER

For Explore

Best Spring Flowers—Sound of Music/Sidewinder One of the best days of the year is when the North Zone of Jumbo re-opens. The Sound of Music trail, which heads north out of the Jumbo Saddle, is great all year, but in early May it is at its most spectacular. Balsam roots set the tone for a lovely meander through lush fields. I like to use the Sidewinder trail to loop back to the car for a great five mile loop.

Best View of Missoula -Barmeyer Trail The newest trail in town offers a different perspective of Missoula. This new trail offers a three mile lollipop route as it climbs up to a vista on the south end of town. From the high point of the trail you can see deep into the Rattlesnake Valley, Blue Mountain, Sentinel, and everything in between.

Easiest, but “I still did something…”—Milltown State Park TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN

A short section off the Barmeyer Loop Trail leads to a scenic overlook at Mount Dean Stone above the Missoula valley. The overlook offers views previously not accessible to the public.

If you cover every trail here it’ll be just under 3.5 miles. That’s an accomplishment in itself!

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Established in 2010 as the Milltown Dam was removed, this state park highlights the rehabilitation of the wetlands at the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers. Don’t let the big hill keep you from descending to the river’s edge! The rest of the park is flat and a mix of crushed gravel and well-maintained single track. Bring your binoculars and birdbooks.

Best Kept Secret—O’Brien Creek

The O’Brien Creek trail system is tucked on the northside of Blue Mountain and Black Mountain and incorporates grown over logging roads and newer single track into multiple looping options with wonderful open vistas and short sections of creek bottom wildlife.

Check the calendar, much of this system is closed through the winter for elk habitat.

Best for Going Long—Rattlesnake

The Rattlesnake Recreation Area and Wilderness area is the perfect place for those long, long days on your feet. Every mile beyond the three-mile camping line become more wild.

The change from forested slopes to alpine, rocky ridges is abrupt and encourages more exploration. Mosquito Peak and Sheep Mountain are great summer goals for long loops.

TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN‌

Mount Dean Stone rises over Miller Creek, on the left, and Pattee Canyon, Mount Sentinel and Missoula, on the right, in a recent aerial view. Five Valleys Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy are working out an agreement to secure 4,000 acres on the south face of Mount Dean Stone above Miller Creek to expand access to trails and outdoor recreation.

I am Sparta—Pengelly Ridge to Smokejumper All the trails on Mount Sentinel are tough, but Pengelly Ridge is my favorite. After a switchbacking meander up Mo-Z the straight shot up the ridge offers wide open, exposed views, but then abruptly changes to treed forested slopes. The descent down smokejumper is always quiet and serene with deep greens in the summer and brilliant yellows later in the year.

Forrest Boughner is the events coordinator and a manager at Runner’s Edge. He also owns his own trail running guiding company, Alpine Running Guides.

TOTTY RUIZ‌

Slow and steady or built for speed, Missoula’s trails offer a wide variety of options to suit all your running needs.

TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN‌

A panorama from the new scenic overlook shows the Missoula valley, with the South Hills area on the left and Mount Sentinel and University Mountain on the right.

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‘Agents of

Discovery missions’

launches in Bitterroot KRISTINE KOMAR

A

Bitter Root Cultural Heritage Trust

gents of Discovery, an educational mobile gaming platform that uses augmented reality to get youth outdoors, active and learning, is ready for your family at four sites in the Bitterroot. Parents, grandparents and adults unaffiliated with children, hear this: Discovering cool stuff through playing the missions is a lot of fun and an opportunity to learn about mobile gaming! Don’t worry, your kids will lead the way — they know how to work the tech even if you do not.

The four Bitterroot missions include:  Join Agent Seaman, Captain Lewis’ Newfoundland dog, at Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo.  Let Tomaso, Father Ravalli’s cat, guide you through Historic St. Mary’s Mission in Downtown Stevensville.

 Agent It’syYeYe, our only female agent, wears her regalia as she shares Nez Perce culture with you at River Park and Ravalli County Museum in Downtown Hamilton.  Agent Mallard Duck with be at your side as you work through the mission at Lake Como Recreation Area near Darby.

Free to download and play; Bring a picnic.

The Agents of Discovery app is free to download at Google Play or the App Store. All Bitterroot missions except Lake Como have an internet connection for downloading but it’ll go faster if you download the app before leaving home.

Since there is no connectivity at Lake Como, if you’re heading off to play that mission be sure to download it before you leave home. Once downloaded, the mission uses GPS (which doesn’t need connectivity) to provide a full experience.

All mission sites are free and make a great family outing. So pack a picnic and enjoy a visit to four outstanding natural and heritage sites and parks in the Bitterroot. (Please note that while there are some free parking spots near Lake Como, if you park in the developed area there is a $5/vehicle day use fee.)

Agents of Discovery makes learning fun. Nature can improve the overall cognitive function, self-control, attention and mental health of our kids Agents of Discovery has been made possible in the Bitterroot through the generosity of the U.S. Forest Service. The Conservation Education program in the Washington D.C. Office is working to bring Agents of Discovery to National Forests across the country

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— there are now over 80 mission sites nationwide. Locally, leaders at the Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail and the Bitterroot National Forest also provided funding to bring Agents of Discovery to the Bitterroot.

Local partners, including the Bitter Root Cultural Heritage Trust (BRCHT), Travelers Rest Preservation Heritage Association, Historic St. Mary’s Mission, Ravalli County Museum, as well as the Heritage Program on the Bitterroot National Forest, developed the missions.

“Each mission was a team effort and we all learned so much building them out. I’m very proud of our mission partners, most of whom are not digital natives,” said Kristine Komar, BRCHT project coordinator. Sandra BroncheauMcFarland, Nez Perce National Historic Trail administrator for the Forest Service, was the spear-

head for the project. “It was a huge team effort, we are delighted with the results, and we expect to see additional missions developed in the future. The NPNHT has embraced technology and is eager to offer engaging and powerful learning experiences to visitors of all ages as they explore their National Forests and other pub-

lic lands and the great stories and adventures found there,” she said.

Awards and Prizes

Upon completing a mission, young agents are eligible for a collectible award. Collect all four awards and become eligible to enter to win grand prizes.

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POWER HOUR

Last year, Missoula-based Adventure Cycling Association released guides to what’s considered one of the longest off-highway bike routes, the Great Divide Mountain Bike Trail, the additions include a 65 mile off-shoot to Missoula.

COLTER PETERSON, MISSOULIAN

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‌S

ometimes an hour is all you can spare in the day, whether it’s a run, walk, bike or float, our staff is sharing their top picks for an active lunch break — or mid-day romp.

Blackfoot River is a great float trip

‌One of the best river daytrips in the Missoula area is the Blackfoot River from Whitaker Bridge to Johnsrud Park. There’s enough whitewater to make it exciting, especially in the spring, but the stretch is tame enough later in the summer for family inner-tubing adventures (as long as you wear a lifejacket).

The turn for Johnsrud Park is about 10 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200. After the turn (and leaving a car at the takeout), follow the gravel road as you go upstream along the Blackfoot for six miles. The put-in at Whitaker is easy, and the Blackfoot is a great fishing and bird-watching river with plenty of sandy beaches for lunch.

Thibodeau rapids are one mile downstream from Whitaker. If you don’t want to get wet, you can start the trip below the rapids. The Blackfoot’s waters are clear and cold, so bring goggles if you want to see huge mountain whitefish and trout below your boat.

David Erickson

TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN‌

The Blackfoot River’s boulder-strewn channel makes it a thrilling ride for everything from drift boats to inner tubes, such as this party from the E-L Ranch resort are about to find out. Balancing the impact of fishing and non-fishing river use with the water needs of ranchers and irrigators keeps river communities in continual communication.

Hike for time, not destination

‌Here’s a fun way to tackle the North Hills if you have only one hour. Instead of hiking to a destination, like the top of Waterworks, hike for time.

If you start at the Orange Street parking lot, you have no option but to climb a bit right away, so you’re sure to get your heart pumping.

In the spring, look for yellow balsamroots near the trailhead. After the switchbacks, head east toward Mount Jumbo and look for shooting stars, and, later in the season, purple lupine.

Further along the same path, Treasure State bitterroot show off different shades of pink in abundance. If you’re quick and get high enough, you’ll see phlox close to the ground as well.

Keep your eyes open for snakes (including bull snakes that look deceptively like rattlesnakes); bluebirds, meadow larks and owls; and the rare fox.

Set a timer to ping at 35 minutes, and then, turn around for a quicker descent.

Keila Szpaller

Mosey along the waterfront

‌Although only two miles long, Ron’s River Trail lassoes most of central Missoula’s high-

For 20 years, it was Missoula’s most dubious and surreptitiously maintained icon: the peace sign painted on a telephone relay tower atop Waterworks Hill. Each spring, the reflector was whitewashed, purportedly to improve its signal. Each spring, the anonymous activists known only as the Northside Liberation Front ascended the hill under cover of darkness and restored the symbol. But in 2001, Qwest proclaimed the tower obsolete and dismantled it. Alternating howls of protest and high-fives of victory ensued. lights without ever crossing a street.

Thanks to a variety of entry points, one can start a loop from the University of Montana campus, downtown Missoula, or the public parks surrounding Ogren-Allegiance baseball stadium. Five bridges, three with dedicated pedestrian decks, send the trail across the Clark Fork River. Interpretative signs along the way tell stories about early explorers, bio-

mimicry, local geology and historic buildings.

Much of the route follows a former railroad track, allowing for a wide, smooth grade. It passes the historic Milwaukee Road Depot by the Higgins Avenue Bridge. That towered building now houses the Boone and Crockett Club national headquarters, and its public lobby features an extensive collection of record-setting big game animal displays.

10 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 Northside trail walkers pass right through the Saturday morning Clark Fork Market, as well as Out To Lunch live music performances on summer Wednesdays and Downtown Tonight music and food gatherings on Thursday evenings. Children can find playgrounds to explore as the trail passes Silver and McCormick parks on the western end, Kiwanis Park on the northeast end and Dragon Hollow (with a real carousel) between Higgins and Orange Street bridges.

Some lesser-known features include the unique Water-Wise Garden on the west end of Toole Park displays plants and flowers that evolved to thrive in Missoula’s semi-arid climate. A hard-to-find stairway sneaks up from Toole Park to South Fifth Street. A subtle path leads out of Kiwanis Park straight to the Missoula Public Library back door. And intersections in McCormick Park connect to the lengthy Bitterroot Trail bike path to southwest Missoula’s commercial district and the Milwaukee Trail’s link to westside shopping areas.

Rob Chaney

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KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN‌

Hikers walk the boardwalk of the heavily trafficked Hidden Lake Trail at the top of the Continental Divide at Logan Pass.

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN‌

Waterfront access or river views make for some of the most sought-after real estate in western Montana. But homeowners along the shoreline often get surprised by how the Bitterroot and Clark Fork rivers can snatch away property in flood events.

B J

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Run the Rattlesnake

‌One of the best places to run in Missoula is also the most obvious — the Rattlesnake Recreation Area.

It’s especially great if you’ve only got an hour, which for me, a slow (very slow) runner, makes for a pretty short distance. Under those circumstances, I’m looking for the most bang for my buck, and the Rattlesnake provides.

For starters, it’s shady. In the heat of summer, it’s pretty much the only place I run. If you get really hot, you can always flop in the creek at the end of your run, which I’ve been known to do.

There’s variety — you can run up and back on the main trail, or fashion a loop with the various side trails. If you head west on one of the side trails (517.1) at

the horse bridge, you can get in nearly 3 miles by running as far as the restroom and crossing the little creek there and heading back on the trail (517) on the other side of that creek.

For a pleasant loop of roughly 5 miles, head up the main trail a little over 2 miles and take the Wallman loop to the west and just follow that back to the main trail.

Or, for about 8 miles — call this Power Hour Plus — instead of making the whole Wallman loop, follow the turnoff to the west partway through the loop and go up and over the ridge and through Kench Meadow, and back on 517 to the main trail, coming out near the horse bridge. By all means, reward yourself with a beer at Rattlesnake Market & Cafe for making that climb.

Gwen Florio

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KEN BARNEDT‌

TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN‌ KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN‌

Beargrass has started blooming in huge numbers above Lincoln in late June, with many stalks still unopened.

A short section off the Barmeyer Loop Trail leads to a scenic overlook above the Missoula valley. The overlook offers views previously not accessible to the public.

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KEN BARNEDT, Missoulian

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‌A basic philosophy for many Montanans is that an icy cold beer tastes twice as good if you earn it. The Bitterroot bike path gives you an 8-to-10-mile option for doing that.

The easiest way to earn that beer starts on the south side of the Clark Fork River, on the paved bike path known as the Riverside Trail. At the roundabout (yes, there is such a thing as a bike roundabout) head south on the Bitterroot Branch.

After a short uphill pedal, the path winds its way through Missoula on a relatively flat route. Recently installed safety lights and flashers remind vehicular traffic to stop at intersections to allow bikes and pedestrians to cross.

Don’t forget to stop on the green bike pad near the Southgate Mall to prompt the “bike” crossing light to be illuminated. But be hasty — it only lasts for about 20 seconds or so.

After a flat cruise, jump on those pedals and downshift when you hit the ramp that crosses over Reserve Street and deposits you by the Missoula Country Club. Another bridge brings you over the Bitterroot River, then ride to the next stoplight, where the bike trail crosses from the west to the east side of Highway 93.

From here, the trail pulls away from the highway and has more hills, with some fairly easy up and down cruising. You’re paralleling the Bitterroot River, and be sure to stop at the bench situated for the perfect view of the river valley and Sapphire Mountains.

Also, don’t forget to check out the resident bison herd, also to the east of the bike trail.

After one more big push up a small hill, take a right at the first light and cross the highway. Head up Ridgeway Drive and take a right on Pinyon Way, where you’ll see the Lolo Peak Brewery & Grill at 6201 Brewery Way. Indulge in one of their craft brews — might we suggest the LouLou Amber Ale — because you’ve earned your beer. And the teriyaki chick tacos, with sweet chili Sriracha broccoli slaw and pineapple ginger salsa are to die for.

But don’t overindulge. You still have that sweet ride back.

oks Bro 39th Old U.S. Highway 93

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Earn your

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN FILE PHOTO‌

Cyclists work their way up the Bitterroot Trail near Florence in 2016.

Nearly 650 cyclists gathered at the Travelers’ Rest State Park after riding from Missoula and Hamilton for Adventure Cycling’s 40th anniversary RAVALLI REPUBLIC FILE PHOTO‌ Bikecentennial celebration. More than 4,000 bikers rode across the famed Riders pedal uphill in last year’s “Fork to Farm” group ride Trans-America Trail in 1976. held by the Bike Walk Bitterroot.

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Make a point to get to KIM BRIGGEMAN

kim.briggeman@missoulian.com‌

‌ALBERTON — A late April hike on the Point of Rocks trail west of here began with a tease at the trailhead.

“We’re going to see one of the most historic features in this part of the world,” promised Bert Lindler, guide of the Mineral County Health Department’s first trek of the 2019 Healthy, Happy Hiker season.

For the next two hours, 15 women, men and 2-year-old Ash Sibert of Alberton strolled up and down a mile of the Lt. John Mullan’s U.S. military wagon road, blasted and built across the rocky hillside in the spring of 1860.

Cars zoomed just below on Interstate 90, their occupants not fully realizing they are folded into the history here, too.

When I-90 was opened through this stretch of Mineral County in 1965, it was a piece of just the latest transcontinental transportation route to squeeze through the narrow neck of Clark Fork River canyon a couple of miles west of Alberton.

Jim Cyr of Superior counted off the others.

First there was the Mullan Road.

Then came the Northern Pacific Railroad across the river in 1883, the Milwaukee Road Railroad in 1908, the Yellowstone Trail in 1919 and U.S. Highway 10 in 1926.

With the exception of Highway 10, which was usurped here by the interstate, at least remnants of all of them are visible from the trail that starts on the abandoned Milwaukee bed.

The Healthy, Happy Hikers series is newly named. It was instigated by the Mineral Community Hospital in 2016, when Monte Turner was the hospital’s patient satisfaction/emergency preparedness coordinator.

“By taking the program over to the health department, it ties into our Zero to Five Initiative, which is healthy and safe early childhood development along with positive parenting,” said Turner, now the local collaboration coordinator for the Zero to Five program.

The series is supported by the

Point of Rocks

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN‌

Bert Lindler leads a group of hikers up an incline on the Mullan Road’s Point of Rocks trail earlier this year. The hike was the first of 21 treks the Mineral County Health Department is sponsoring as part of their 2019 Happy, Healthy Hikers series. The next excursion is Sunday. The nine-mile hike is along the River Trail off Highway 135 between St. Regis and Paradise.

Lolo National Forest, on which many of the hikes take place, and which Lindler said makes sure the trails are open. It’s sponsored by the Great Burn Study Group and the Montana Wilderness Association.

Twenty-one treks are scheduled this year in Mineral County and the Bitterroot Valley. By the time the last one rolls around, up Canyon Creek in the Bitterroot on Sept.

14, participants will have had the option for group trips to Hoodoo Pass; Ch-paa-qn and Trapper peaks; Lost and St. Regis lakes, and many more.

One of the summer’s highlights will be an all-day gold tour to the Gildersleeve Mine south of Superior on Aug. 24 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the gold strike on Cedar Creek.

There are few remnants of the original Mullan Road from Walla Walla, Washington, to Fort Benton so well-defined as the Point of Rocks. In 2009, the Point of Rocks Historic Transportation Corridor became just the second piece of the road in Montana to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Cyr, 81, and retired surveyor and historian Bill Weikel of Missoula provided the historic background in the April hike as walkers wound their way through rocks, grasses, weeds, springs and giant boulders.

As an engineer with the Montana Department of Transportation, Cyr worked on every mile of I-90 through Mineral County.

“It took us two years to build this (six-mile) stretch from Alberton to Tarkio,” he said. “Mullan built his whole road, 624 miles of it, in two years.”

The needs were different — a path seven feet wide for wagons to pass through vs. a paved, four-lane freeway. Here the Mullan Road was still in use in the early 20th century, when Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul crews built on this side of the river, opposite the NP on the south side.

To avoid dangerous crossings, the railroad rerouted parts of the road. It remains a brainteaser for even the experts to discern where the original road ran.

A fire that charred the hillside in August 2005 helped.

“After it burned it was very obvious where the road went,” Cyr said. “Before that you’d wander all over and it was the Mullan Road here, there and all over, and we didn’t know which was the Mullan Road. After the fire we could tell definitely it was the road we’re traveling now.”

As early as the mid-1990s, Weikel worked with the late Chuck Mead to identify aspects of the road at Point of Rocks.

Mead, whose family ranch at Cyr

stretched east to this rocky hillside, worked with the Montana Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources on a three-way land swap to put Point of Rocks in public hands. MDT, with historian Jon Axline’s lead, gated it in an effort to prevent vehicle access. Interpretive signs are now scattered along the trail and the railroad bed, up to an abandoned and crumbling railroad Tunnel 18 on the west end.

Among the highlights: Evidence of the pick and shovel work required, supplemented by explosives, used to chisel a wagon route through the rocks.

“It took (Mullan) five weeks to build this stretch of road,” Cyr said.

“It was the most difficult stretch of road they had in all the 624 miles.”

The rock foundation of an old homestead is visible, flanked by patches of irises that grow untended. Cyr’s father told him stories of traveling with his grandfather to the house to buy strawberries in the early 20th Century.

At one time there were remnants of rusty black powder cans near a narrow rock cut that Weikel stumbled on after the 2005 fire. He was dismayed on Tuesday to see that the wagon cut, perhaps the purest evidence here of the original road, had apparently been widened in recent years to get machinery through to replace a power pole.

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MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

Keeping your furry friend safe in the summer EMILY PETROVSKI

For the average Montanan there is perhaps no greater enjoyment than being in the great outdoors with your hound by your side.

Make sure you keep them safe and healthy with these tips so you can both experience the fun of the Treasure State.

Hiking

As the sun comes out to play more and more, pavement and sidewalks can heat up and hurt your pupper’s paws. A hike is a great way to get your pet his or her exercise while seeing some beautiful sights yourself. Make sure you have bags to pick up their poop (don’t be that person that leaves it) and extra water for your furry friend. Bring extra food or treats too if it’s going to be an especially strenuous trek.

Compare the trail’s aspects to your dog’s abilities. Shorter and flatter is much better for your aging companion Even if leashes aren’t required on the particular hike you’ve chosen, bring one along in case there are more critters, or more dogs, on the trail than you were expecting.

Camping

your dog’s reaction. Bring along a blanket or dog bed to keep them comfortable and bring along a few toys if they’re into that.

Many campgrounds require your dog be leashed while on site, so bring a stake with a lead or a tie out to give your companion freer reign while still adhering to the rules.

Swimming/boating/ floating Even the strongest swimmers can get swept up by high currents, so keep an eye on Fido while you’re on the river. Consider a life jacket with a handle on top so you can easily grab your pup out of the water if they need a hand.

Swimming is a workout for human and canine alike! Because your furry friend could be expending a lot of energy, make sure they’re getting necessary rest and fresh water.

It’s difficult, but try to keep the dogs in your party from drinking straight from the lake or river, as bacteria and parasites can be common. If you wouldn’t lap it up, try to keep your pooch from doing the same.

Creepy crawlers

Just as not every person loves Make sure your pets are up to sleeping in a tent, not every dog date with their prescriptions to will either. Try setting up your protect them against fleas, ticks, tent in the backyard to test out mosquitoes and other parasites.

These are especially active in the summer months, and since your pup might be out and about more, it’s even more important.

Do regular tick checks, especially if you’ve been out hiking in areas where they are likely. Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever can both be transmitted from ticks to dogs as well, so be sure to thoroughly check yourself and your pooch especially if they have longer fur.

Check between the toes, under the collar, under the front legs, in and around the eyelids, between the back legs and around the tail.

Heat

Make sure your pooch has plenty of shade and water available, especially on hot days. If you’re out on a walk or a hike and you stop for a break, make sure there’s a shady spot for your dog to rest too. When selecting a campsite, keep shade in mind too if you’ve got a fourlegged (or less) companion along.

Watch for possible symptoms of overheating such as heavy panting, dry or bright red gums, vomiting, thick drool, diarrhea or wobbly legs. If your pooch begins to show signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place with fresh water, put a damp towel on their body and get them to a vet.

Placing your furry friend in cold water can put them into shock.

Missoulian staffers’ top picks for pooches

Blue Mountain—A top pick for its plethora of trails. If you’d like to stay away from the other furry friends, go a little higher up.

The Sunlight Trail on the North Hills off Duncan Drive— Doggos can go offleash, but should be on voice control because deer love the area too. It’s wide open so you can see what’s coming your way (deer and dog alike).

Waterworks Hill—At just over 2 miles out and back, the trail isn’t too long but you still get a good workout in.

Silver Park—With plenty of criss-crossing trails, you and your pup have plenty to explore. Plus if they get too warm, they can take a dip in the river.

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You-powered

watercraft

PARKER SEIBOLD, MISSOULIAN

Andrew Nau uses his paddle to push his kayak off of ice lining the bank of the Clark Fork River near the Higgins Avenue Bridge earlier this year.

F

or some people, there’s nothing like the thrill of taking on rapids on a kayak that skims the top of the water or powering a canoe through a river.

Kayaks and canoes are less expensive to rent, own and maintain, and work in rivers large and small as well as lakes.

All boaters should wear life jackets. Be aware of safety hazards and water depths and pay attention to the weather; big winds can produce waves that can swamp a small watercraft.

Recreational kayaks

Kayaks are lighter, smaller and easier to maneuver than other types of boats. They can hold one to two passengers, depending on size.

According to The Active Times, recreational kayaks are great for beginners or for people going boating on fairly calm waters and for short trips. These boats, usually 10 to 12 feet long, provide extra stability and are lighter in weight, making transporting them easier.

They’re also the most affordable of boats. Recreational kayaks are not good for long trips, as they

than recreational kayaks and are made for more efficient paddling, The Active Times says. They’re longer — between 12 and 16 feet — and have lifted hulls, which makes them quicker and better in rapids. Many also have a rudder or skeg; the rudder makes the kayak easier to maneuver, and the skeg helps it stay on course.

Canoes

According to Canoe & Kayak, canoes range from solo whitewater canoes that are less than 10 feet long and a four-person craft that stretches to 23 feet in length, which can carry a lot of gear but isn’t going to be as easy to maneuver, either on the waTOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN ter or getting into or out of your Experienced kayaker Austin Cantrell rolls his boat on one of the slower vehicle. Canoes are typically 33portions of the Clark Fork. “Everything involved in any sort of water 40 inches wide; wider canoes sports is a little overwhelming. If you roll your kayak, do you know are more stable but less efficient. how to get back over? Would you know what to do if somebody has an Many recreational waterways ofaccident or incident? This gave me the confidence to be willing to try fer canoe rentals, which let you and do it. I knew I’d have experienced kayakers with me to guide me test out your canoeing skills. If through this little adventure,” said Zach Ford, another kayaker. you want to buy your own, consider how and where you’re most don’t have much room for sup- are stable, wider and good for likely to use it, keeping in mind plies, nor are they good in fast- children. that you’re more likely to use a boat in waterways that are an moving rivers.

You can also get inflatable kay- Sea kayaks hour or two from your home, exaks or sit-on-top kayaks, which Sea kayaks have more room perts told Canoe & Kayak.

MISSOULIAN, 2019| 17

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Take a Hike

(really)

‌It’s a beautiful day to go outside. With trails right out your door, you’re sure to find a wonderful excuse to get some exercise in.

People of all abilities can go hiking. Go at your own pace and find a trail that matches your physical fitness. Local, state and national parks have mostly flat nature trails that allow you to go at your own pace. For those who are inclined, you can find mountains to climb, canyons to descend and tricky trails that require more navigation and rock scrambling.

However you choose to hike, Recreation.gov offers ways to take full advantage of the trails while keeping yourself safe and preserving nature. Plus, look at the end of this publication for a compilation of local area trails.

Don’t litter

will keep hikers away from dangers like cliff edges, uneven terrain and animal homes, while allowing the natural ecosystem to grow and thrive. Leave wildlife alone. No matter how cute, they are wild animals. While we’re on the subject, don’t feed the animals.

Watch the weather

Even in the summer, mountaintops can be chilly and a rainstorm can leave you wet and unhappy.

KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN‌ You should also be aware of the possibility of flash floods or light- Hikers on the short trail above Rogers Pass enjoy blooms of Indian ning strikes. paintbrush in the forested portion before reaching the windswept ridgeline.

Wear good shoes

Some trails are paved and can be traversed in street shoes. The more technical a trail is, the more supportive hiking footwear you should have. Your local sporting goods store will have a variety of trail-ready shoes for you to try on.

Beautiful trails throughout the world are marred with granola bar Be prepared wrappers and empty water botHave enough food and water tles. Be sure to throw trash into (about two liters a person) to get receptacles or pack it out. This in- through the hike. Have a first aid cludes biodegradable food waste. kit and a map and let someone who is not hiking know where Stay on the trail you’re going and about how long This protects both you and the you’ll be gone. Bring a poncho and environment. Staying on the trail a headlamp or small flashlight.

The Original Comfort Sandal

DOWNTOWN MISSOULA SINCE 1972 MICHAEL GALLACHER, MISSOULIAN‌

A bluebird appears to get directions from a trail sign at the Blue Mountain National Recreation Area on the south edge of Missoula.

543-1128 www.hideandsole.com | 236 N. Higgins

18 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Mark your

calendars Summer in Western Montana means endless things to do.

Mark your calendar with these highlights to make sure you don’t miss out on the fun!

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 19

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

LEFT PAGE PHOTOS: TOP: Big Mountain Ranch, located a mile from Whitefish city limits, will host the inaugural Under the Big Sky Arts and Music Festival in July.

CARRIE ANN PHOTOGRAPHY‌

BOTTOM LEFT TOP: Lyle Lovett and his Large Band will play the KettleHouse Amphitheater on Tuesday, June 25. Lovett is seen here playing the first show at the Bonner venue in July 2017.

REBEKAH WELCH, MISSOULIAN‌

BOTTOM LEFT BOTTOM: Prairie Wolfe, left, owner of Frank’s Little Farm, has her husband work their booth at the Missoula Farmers Market near the XXXXs on Higgins Avenue while she plays in the grass with her daughter Orlagh and her friend Rilla Mohler, right.

PARKER SEIBOLD, MISSOULIAN‌

BOTTOM RIGHT: The Mission Mountain NRA Rodeo will be at the Polson Fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday, June 28-29..

STEVE PICKEL, PICKEL PHOTOGRAPHY‌

ONGOING‌ Out to Lunch, Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Caras Park. Live music, food vendors and children’s activities. 5434238, missouladowntown.com.

Downtown Tonight, Thursdays, 5:308:30 p.m., Caras Park. Live music, food and drink vendors. 543-4238, missouladowntown.com.

Clark Fork Farmers Market, Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., 225 S. Pattee St. (Riverside Parking Lot). Over 100 vendors with everything from farm direct products to breakfast and lunch food and drink and children’s activities. Call 396-0593 or visit clarkforkmarket.com.

Missoula Farmers Market, Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and Tuesdays, 5-7 p.m., north end of Higgins Avenue by the XXXXs. Fresh local produce, flowers, baked goods from over 100 vendors. Call 274-3042 or visit missoulafarmersmarket. com.

Missoula Peoples Market, Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Higgins and Pine Street.

Local art and handcrafted goods. Visit missoulapeoplesmarket.org.

JUNE‌ June 20-23‌

Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous.

Ronan Fairgrounds. Three days of carving with nightly Quick Carve Auctions, daily

REBEKAH WELCH, MISSOULIAN‌

Ben Prez (left) and Beau Baker, “the chapati boys” of the Masala food cart, hurry to plate food for a long line of customers during Out to Lunch. demonstrations and all day carving! Large item auction on Sunday afternoon. Visit ronanchamber.com.

June 21‌

Missoula Osprey home opener vs.

Great Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com / missoula /.

June 21-22‌

Garden City River Rod Run. Hundreds of classic cars join the festivities located in Missoula’s Caras Park, including the Friday night Cruisin’ Parade on Higgins Avenue and two day Show and Shine. This year the River Rod Run will be put on by the Five Valley Ford Club. Visit fivevalleyfordclub.com or call 728-0324 for more information.

June 22‌

Circus and Carnival sponsored by Safe Harbor, Lake County Fairgrounds, Ronan.

The Carnival is free admission, with game tickets costing 50 cents. Circus performances of 2 and 4:30 p.m. Tickets $15 adults, $8 kids. Visit Ronanchamber.com.

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 6:35 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 5433300 or visit milb.com /missoula /.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS‌

Seven-time nominated Grammy Award-winning Patty Griffin will perform at this year’s Red Ants Pants Music Festival.

Jim James plus The Claypool Lennon Delirium, 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheater. $32.-50-$39.50, available at logjampresents.com.

Locksaw Cartel, 10:15 p.m., The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. Free; ages 21 and over.

June 23‌

Patty Griffin in concert, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. The Grammy award winner — and seven-time nominee — has crafted nine classic studio albums and two live collections. $35-$42.50, available at Logjampresents.com.

20 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

REBEKAH WELCH, MISSOULIAN‌

Spectators fill the KettleHouse Amphitheater for the Lyle Lovett concert, the venue’s first show, on Thursday, July 13, 2017.

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 5:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

June 23-24‌

June 26‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring the UM Music Camp faculty, 8 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

Jamestown Revival, 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $18 in advance, $20 day of show, available at logjampresents.com. All ages.

Garden City River Rod Run. Hundreds of classic cars join the festivities located in Missoula’s Caras Park, including the Friday night Cruisin’ Parade on Higgins Avenue and two day Show and Shine. This year the River Rod Run will be put on by the Five Valley Ford Club. Visit fivevalleyfordclub.com or call 406-728-0324.

Bob Marshall Music Festival. Three days of music, trail runs, yoga on the lake, group hikes, beer garden, on-site camping, food and market vendors, kids activities and more. Visit thebobmusic.com.

June 23‌

June 28‌

Summer MADE fair, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Caras Park. A modern art and handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists and makers. Visit handmademontana.com.

June 24-26‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Billings, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

June 25‌

Whiskey Myers, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $30. logjampresents.com.

An evening with Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheater. $35-$50. Logjampresents.com.

“Catch Me If You Can” opens at Bigfork Summer Playhouse. 406-837-4886, http:// bigforksummerplayhouse.com/.

June 27-29‌

Greensky Bluegrass with the Lil’ Smokies, 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheater. $40, available at logjampresents.com.

Annual Chamber Blast, Big Sky Sporting Clays, 42295 Irvine Flats Road, Polson.

Team registration includes shells, door prizes, lunch and an awards ceremony. Call 406-883-5969 or visit polsonchamber.com.

June 28-29‌

Bitterroot 50 Mile Garage Sale, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Darby to Lolo. Call 207-6054 or visit bitterroot50milegaragesale.com.

Mission Mountain NRA Rodeo.

7:30 p.m. each night at the Polson Fairgrounds. Live music after Friday night rodeo.

Call 406-261-2861 or 406-883-1100.

June 28-30‌

Missoula Marathon. A weekend celebration had evolved around the Sunday

marathon and attracts runners from across the U.S. Featuring the full marathon, half marathon, 5K, kids marathon. Visit missoulamarathon.org.

June 29‌

Turkuaz, 9:30 p.m. doors, 10 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $18 in advance, $20 day of show, available at logjampresents.com. All ages.

Wub Fest. Missoula Winery and Event Center, 5646 W. Harrier Suite B. Wub Fest will bring some of the best and most advanced production alongside groundbreaking artists and talent. Lineup: Rettchit Chayboss Raskl AyZiM DC CHI3F VitaminV JCKSN Nerdskull Subvasive Wardo 0neup Name: Illektrik Dragonfly Sweet Island Reed Feldman PRICERIGHT. Ages 18+. Tickets on sale at wubfest.brownpapertickets.com.

June 29-30‌

Western Heritage Days. Downtown Stevensville. Authentic chuck wagons and an 1800s-style chuck wagon dinner, free horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, street dances, beer garden, food court, arts and crafts fair, re-enactors, Salish Indian music, dancing and Native kids’ games and much more. Visit visitbitterrootvalley.com.

June 30‌

Rebelution, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. California reggae, hip-hop and rap Tickets $32.50$37.50, available at logjampresents.com.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 21

JULY‌ July 1‌

American Aquarium, 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $15.50 in advance, available at logjampresents.com. All ages.

July 1-2‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Idaho Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane.

Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

July 3‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Idaho Falls, 6:35 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane.

Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

Missoula City Band Concert featuring a patriotic prelude, 8 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

July 3-7‌

121st Arlee Esyapqenyi (Celebration). Includes dance and singing contests, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a parade, powwow, food and more. Visit arleepowwow.com for more information.

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN‌

Missoula Osprey shortstop Geraldo Perdomo hangs in mid-air after launching a ball to first base during a game last year against the Idaho Falls Chukars at Ogren-Allegiance Park.

Perdomo has made a big splash in his first week with the O’s, boasting a four-game hitting streak and a batting average over .400.

ON ONE OF THE FASTEST CAROUSELS IN THE WORLD A community-built carousel with beautiful horses hand-carved by local volunteers.

Dig up souvenirs in the gift shop and learn about our story in our museum!

Missoula’s #1 Attraction on Travelocity and Yelp!

tame a dragon A play area featuring a 3-headed dragon guarding a castle!

Visit our Museum!

CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS Until mid July

MISSOULA, MT carouselformissoula.com • Caras Park on the Clark Fork River • 406-549-8382 June–August: At least 11am–7pm • September - May: 11am–5:30pm

Check out our

Montana Food Section every Wednesday In the

For local content and recipes

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Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 23

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Wishing you a Happy Summer 10% off with a Griz Card Check us out on Social media Facebook and Instragram

201 BROADWAY, MISSOULA, MT theimportmarket.net 406-728-2175

24 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

July 4‌

Grateful Nation Montana’s Freedom 5K Run/Walk, 9 a.m., 191 Mill St., Bigfork.

Visit Gratefulnationmontana.com.

Bigfork’s Fourth of July Parade, noon, downtown Bigfork.

Ovando’s Fourth of July Celebration.

Called “The Biggest Taste of Old Time Americana, by the Smallest Old Town.”

Ovando stands proud decorated in red, white and blue with flags flying everywhere. Including a Fourth of July Parade whose theme every year is “Everybody participates! Nobody watches;” with more horse entries than humans; patriotic speeches in front of the museum and lunch where the town’s volunteer fire department serves up a slab of beef so tender you don’t even need a knife. Visit ovandomontana.net.

July 5-7‌

Whitefish Arts Festival. Artists from across the country are represented in the 40th annual Whitefish Arts Festival. Metal sculptures, paintings and photography, woodworking, pottery, jewelry, clothing and home decorations are just some of the featured fine arts. All of the art is handmade.

Visit whitefishartsfestival.org/.

July 6‌

The Glacier Challenge and Whitefish Lake Run, 8 a.m., City Beach, Whitefish. 3.1 miles, 8.1 miles. 32.3 miles, 47.1 miles. Visit 406running.com.

July 9‌

Northern Rockies Heritage Center presents “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?

Laughin’ to Keep from Cryin,” presented

by Bill Rossiter, retired instructor of Literature and Humanities at Flathead Valley Community College, 7 p.m., Heritage Hall, Fort Missoula. Call 728-3662 or visit NRHC. org.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

July 10‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring the Sweet Adelines, 8 p.m., Bonner Park.

Visit missoulacityband.org.

The Struts Young and Dangerous Tour with The Glorious Sons, 6:30 p.m. doors, 7:30 p.m. show, The Wilma. $25, available at logjampresents.com.

July 10-13‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Orem, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

July 11‌

Slightly Stoopid How I Spent My Summer Vacation 2019 Tour, 5:30 p.m. doors, 6:30 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheater, Bonner. $350-$39.50, available at logjampresents.com.

July 12‌

Rodrigo Y Gabriela Mettavolution Tour, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $37.79-$47.79, available at logjapresents.com.

July 12-13‌

Dead Fervor and DEvon Waide, gates open 5 p.m., show goes 6 p.m.-1 a.m., J. Neils Memorial Park, Libby. $25 in advance, $35 at the gate. Benefits the Center for Asbestos Related Disease. Visit http://donatecardfoundation. org/big-sky-bash.

July 14‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Ogden, 5:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

July 15-17‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Ogden, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/missoula/.

July 16‌

The Robert Cray Band, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $42-$47.50, available at logjampresents.com.

July 17‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring the International Choral Festival, 7 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

Arts in the Park, Depot Park, Kalispell.

Flathead Valley’s premier arts, crafts and music festival held in Kalispell’s historic downtown Depot Park. Over 100 local and visiting artists and craftsmen offer their unique and quality works for sale. Food and beverage vendors from around the valley provide delicious treats. Live musical entertainment.

Visit hockadaymuseum.org.

International Choral Festival. A noncompetitive event produced by volunteers in a beautiful mountain setting that connects musicians from diverse cultural traditions with regional audiences and local community hosts. For details, visit choralfestival.org.

July 13‌

July 19‌

Philipsburg 46, 46 mile bike race, 8 a.m., 106 E. Stockton, Philipsburg. Visit mtbmissoula.org/philipsburg-46/.

Ninth annual Big Sky Bash Concert featuring Great White with Shauney Fisher,

July 17-20‌

Cowboy Bob and Gypsy Dust, 10:15 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. Free. All ages.

July 19-20‌

Artists in Paradise. The Paradise Center.

Visit Sanderscountyarts.org.

July 19-21‌

Darby Logger Days. A family event featuring expert competitors performing skills of days gone by. Contact the Darby Loggers at loggers@darbyloggerdays.com. Visit darbyloggerdays.com for more information.

July 20‌

Darby Strawberry Festival. 79th annual old-fashioned ice-cream social with music by local musicians, vendors and raffles. Contact 406-381-5114.

July 20-21‌ Slightly Stoopid are bringing Matisyahu, Tribal Seeds and HIRIE to the KettleHouse Amphitheater on Thursday, July 11.

Miracle of America Museum’s Annual Live History Days. The museum is open each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in Polson. Visit miracleofamericamuseum.org or call Gil at 406-883-6264 for details.

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 25

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

July 26-27‌

Daly Days Festival. Music, food, fun, crafts and more as a celebration of Hamilton founder Marcus Daly. Visit hamiltondowntownassociation.org for more information.

July 27‌

Lake Como Triathlon, 8 a.m. A challenging XTerra style race with .9 miles open water swim, 12.6 mile mountain bike and 7.7 miles trail run at Lake Como in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley.

Visit lakecomotri.com for more information.

Trampled by Turtles, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner Tickets $35-$40, available at logjampresents.com.

25th annual Bitter Root Brewfest, 3-10 p.m., downtown Hamilton.

July 27-28‌

KURT WILSON PHOTOS, MISSOULIAN

Daniel Adams takes center stage with his “three-string guitar,” Saturday surrounded by a group of young musicians during the “Kids in Bluegrass” set at the Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival south of Hamilton. Adams was born in an RV at a bluegrass fiddle camp in Washington when he made an earlier-than-planned appearance to join the rest of his family camped there. Adams and four of his five siblings played in the festival last year.

Flathead Lake 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament. Montana’s longest running 3-on-3 basketball tournament. theflatheadlake3on3. com.

Fifth annual Flathead Lake Festival of Art. On the shores of Flathead Lake at Sacajawea Park in Polson from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Visit sandpiperartgallery.com for more information.

July 28‌

Polson Main Street Cherry Festival.

More than 100 vendors converge on downtown Polson, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday. Visit flatheadcherryfestival.com.

Missoula Osprey vs. Billings, 5:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb. com/missoula/.

July 21‌

Windermere SUP Cup, 4.2 miles standup paddleboard competition on the Clark Fork River. 200 S. Pattee St. Visit supcupmt.com.

July 29‌

July 22-24‌

Lord Huron & Shakey Graves with Julia Jacklin, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. $35-$50, available at logjampresents. com.

Missoula Osprey vs. Idaho Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 5433300 or visit milb.com /missoula /.

July 24‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring blasts from the past, 8 p.m., Bonner Park.

Visit missoulacityband.org.

July 25-27‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Billings, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com /missoula /.

July 26‌

Melissa Etheridge, the Medicine Show, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $52$63, available at logjampresents.com.

Jeff Austin Band with Dead Winter Carpenters, 9:30 p.m. doors, 10 p.m. show,

Pop Evil, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $22, available at logjampresents.com.

July 30‌

Lord Huron and Shakey Graves are playing the KettleHouse Amphitheater on Tuesday, July 30.

The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $15 in advance, available at logjampresents.com.

All ages.

July 26-28‌

Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival, 163 Forest Hill Road, Hamilton. Weekend pass $20 adults, $10 ages 12 and under; single day fee $15 adults, $7 ages 12 and under; Sunday only $10 adults, $5 kids. Celebrate the sounds of traditional bluegrass music with concerts, contests, a Kids in Bluegrass performance, Bluegrass Gospel on Sunday morning and lots of jamming. Camping is available and food vendors are on site. Call 821-3777 or visit hardtimesbluegrass.com.

July 31‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring Caitlin and Jesse, 8 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

AUGUST‌ Aug. 1‌

Blitzen Trapper with Wrinkles, 8:30 p.m. doors, 9 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $18 in advance, available at logjampresents. com. All ages.

Aug. 1-2‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or milb.com/ missoula/.

Fourth Annual

MONTANA

STATE

Hemp & Cannabis

September 6th, 7th, & 8th Lolo Hot Springs Montana Camping Presented by:

Festival Day Pass $20 Sunday Free

www.montanastatehempfest.com

Available LIVE MUSIC ALL WEEKEND!

Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 27

4 x 1.5; Black; I; header

Stay up to date

FITNESS

Physical Therapy

Brenda Mahlum, DPT, SCS Kristen Bade, DPT

New clinic in Old Sawmill District!

Love your pet, Love your park!

• Leash your pet in parks and on commuter trails. • Scoop the poop. • Help keep parks clean and safe for all!

(406) 541-7387 missoulaanimalcontrol.com

on local Montana sports

28 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXLPORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Aug. 2‌

Jackson Brown, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, Big Sky Brewing Company Amphitheater, 5417 Trumpeter Way. $53.50, available at ticketweb.com.

doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $35-$45, available at logjampresents.com.

Missoula City Band Concert featuring Gary Herbig, 8 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

Aug. 3‌

Aug. 7-11

Umphrey’s McGee, 5:30 p.m. doors, 6:30 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. $30$35, available at logjampresents.com.

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 6:35 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 5433300 or visit milb.com /missoula /.

Snowbowl 15K. 8:30 a.m. 1700 Snowbowl Road. Visit 406runniung.com.

YFC Seeley Lake Challenge Triathlon/Duathlon, 9 a.m., 3000 Boy Scout Road, Seeley Lake. Duathlon, team long swim, solo long swim, solo short swim, kids triathlon, team short swim, team duathlon.

Visit 406running.com.

39th Annual Mission Mountain Classic Race, 8 a.m. Ronan City Park. 5K and 10K. Visit 406running.com.

Casey Donahew, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $18.50-$22.50, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 3-4‌

The influential 1980s group The B-52s are bringing synth-pop acts OMD, aka Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, and Berlin, to the KettleHouse Amphitheater on Thursday, Aug. 8.

Aug. 5-11‌

Festival Amadeus. Established in 2008, Festival Amadeus is Montana’s only weeklong summer classical music festival. Centered in the scenic resort town of Whitefish, the festival centers on the music of Mozart and other classical era composers. Each year an engaging lineup of highly acclaimed musicians perform with the Festival Amadeus Orchestra and in more intimate chamber concerts. Visit glaciersymphony.org.

Bigfork Festival of the Arts. Includes 150 vendors from all over the country. Wood work, pottery, paintings, jewelry and more.

Visit bigfork.org/event/bigfork-festivalof-the-arts/2019-08-03/.

Aug. 6‌

Aug. 4‌

Town Mountain with Laney Lou & The bird Dogs, 7:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $15 in advance, available at logjampresents.com. All ages.

Ani DiFranco with Pieta Brown, 7 p.m.

Whitefish Lake Triathlon, 9 a.m., Whitefish City Beach. Solo and team triathlon, sprint distance 1/2 mile swim, 20K bike, 5K run. Visit 406running.com.

Nahko and Medicine for the People, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m show, The Wilma. $27-$30, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 7‌

Western Montana Fair. Missoula County Fairgrounds. Visit Missoulafairgrounds.com.

Made Fair marketplace at the Western Montana Fair. A modern art and handcrafted market featuring local and regional artists and makers. Western Montana Fairgrounds Commercial Building. Visit handmademontana. com.

Aug. 8‌

The B-52s 40th anniversary tour with OMD Berlin, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. $42.50-$50, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 8-10‌

Rockin’ The Rivers, Montana’s original three day rockfest, Twin Bridges. Featuring Cheap Trick, Warrant, Zakk Sabbath, Saliva, Dokken, The Guess Who, Hinder and more. Call 406-285-0099 or visit rockintherivers.com.

Aug. 8-11‌

164th Hamilton County Fair. Visit hamiltoncountyfair.com.

Aug. 9-11‌

Trout Creek Huckleberry Festival. More than 100 arts and crafts vendors display and sell wares at Trout Creek Community Park. Events include entertainment on stage, a parade, a 5K run and much more. Visit huckleberryfestival. com.

Huckleberry Days Arts Festival. Depot Park, Whitefish. Art festival with more than 100

CHARLES SYKES/INVISION/AP‌

Members of Cheap Trick from right Robin Zander, Bun E. Carlos and Rick AP‌ Nielsen perform during an induction ceremony at the 31st Annual Rock Jackson Browne is playing a full-band show at Big Sky Brewing Company and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016. The band is performing during Rockin’ The Amphitheater on Friday, Aug. 2.

Rivers near Three Forks in August.

P‌

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Aug. 20‌

artists and food vendors, local live entertainment, a mobile climbing wall for kids and adults and a huckleberry dessert bake-off contest. Call 406-862-3501 for more information.

Shinedown, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. $39.50-$49.50, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 9‌

Aug. 23-24‌

Tommy Emmanuel, CGP with guest Jerry Douglas, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $39.50-$49.50, available at logjampresents. com.

Aug. 10‌

37th annual Swan Lake Huckleberry Festival Arts & Crafts Fair, 9 a.m. Swan Lake Day Park, Highway 83. Visit swanlakemontana. org/huckleberry-festival.

48th Annual Sandpiper Art Festival.

10 a.m.-5 p.m., Lake County Courthouse lawn, Polson. Visit sandpiperartgallery.com or call 406-883-5956.

Aug. 14‌

Missoula City Band Concert featuring Maggie Schuberg, 8 p.m., Bonner Park. Visit missoulacityband.org.

Flying Lotus in 3D, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m show, The Wilma. $29.50-$32.50, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 14-18‌

Northwest Montana Fair, Kalispell. Visit Nwmtfair.com.

Aug. 15‌

Uncle Kracker, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $27.50-$32.50, available at logjampresents.com.

Aug. 16‌

Iration – Love from Paradise! With Pepper, Fortunate Youth and Katastro, 5:30 p.m. doors, 6:30 p.m. show, Big Sky Brewing Company Amphitheater, 5417 Trumpeter Way. $35$119, available at ticketweb.com.

The War and Treaty, 8:30 p.m. doors, 9 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $15 in advance, available at logjampresents.com.

All ages.

Aug. 16-17‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane.

Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/ missoula/.

Flathead Lake Blues Festival. Held at the Regatta Shoreline Amphitheater, Polson Fairgrounds. Visit flatheadlakebluesfestival.com for more information.

Aug. 17 Flathead Lake 5K, 10 a.m. 7225 US Highway 93, Lakeside. Visit 406running.com.

Philipsburg 10th annual charity concert and auction, noon-7 p.m., Winninghoff Park Arena, 210 W. Stockton St., Philipsburg. Gates open at 11 a.m.; concert starts at noon with Ryan Chrys and the Rough Cuts from Denver kicking

REBEKAH WELCH, MISSOULIAN‌

The Ghost of Paul Revere’s banjo player sings into the microphone during the group’s set at the River City Roots Festival, a two-day celebration of Missoula culture with music, food trucks and art. off the show; followed by Missoula’s Shakewell and then Home Cookin.’ Auction items sold between band intermissions and Bozeman’s Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs, recently featured on PBS, will close the show from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tickets $25 in advance, $35 day of the event, children 12 and under free. Food and beverages available on site all day. Outdoor seating (bring a chair or blanket). No pets or outside food. Griztix.com or philipsburgrotary.org.

Steve Miller Band and Marty Stuart, 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show, Big Sky Brewing Company Amphitheater, 5417 Trumpeter Way. $55-$75, available at ticketweb.com.

Aug. 17-18‌

24 Hours of Flathead, Herron Park, Kalispell. Several options including 8 miles, 2 miles, solo 24 or 12 hours, duo 24 or 12 hours, team 24 or 12 hours, solo 24 or 12 hours handcycle and more. Visit 24hrsofflathead.org.

10th annual Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Daly Mansion, Hamilton. Highland & Irish Dance, pipe bands, herd dog demos, Scotch & Mead tastings, food and local, beers, Celtic wares, kid’s activities, Highland athletic competition, live music, Clans and more. Visit Bcg.org.

Aug. 18‌

John Butler Trio, 6:30 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, KettleHouse Amphitheatre, 605 Coldsmoke Lane, Bonner. $30-$40, available at logjampresents.com.

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 5:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane.

Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb.com/ missoula/.

Aug. 19-21‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Great Falls, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300 or visit milb. com/missoula/.

River City Roots Fest. Missoula’s signature celebration of the city, Roots Fest attracts more than 10,000 individuals to the heart of the community for a variety of fun activities and was named the 2009 Montana Tourism Event of the Year. This event features quality live performances on a big stage on West Main Street, a juried art show, entertainment for children and families and a 4-mile run.

This admission-free festival takes place annually the last weekend in August. Visit rivercityrootsfestival.com for more information and line up.

Aug. 23-25‌

Lost Trail Bike Fest & Shuttle Extravaganza. Lost Trail Powder Mountain Ski Area.

Shuttled mountain biking, camping, live music, food and beverages. 6 trails to choose from, ranging from intermediate to expert.

Visit Ltbikefest.com.

Aug. 24‌

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $35-$45, available at Logjampresents.com.

River City Roots Run, 8:30 a.m., Main Street and Higgins Avenue. 4 miles. Visit runwildmissoula.org/runwild /index.php/ ID/cd95084a/race/river-city-roots-4-milefun-run/fuseaction/rwm.clubRaces.htm.

Aug. 27-31‌

Missoula Osprey vs. Billings, 7:05 p.m., Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, 700 Cregg Lane. Main Office/Team Store, MSO Hub, 140 N. Higgins Ave. Call 543-3300, or visit milb. com/missoula/.

Aug. 29‌

David Crosby & Friends Sky Trails Tour, 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show, The Wilma. $59.50-$69.50, available at logjampresents. com.

Aug. 29-Sept. 1‌

Sanders County Fair and Rodeo. Plains.

Visit rmaf.net/events/2019/sanders-countyfair—rodeo.

Aug. 31-Sept. 1‌

Rumble in the Bay Car Show, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., downtown Bigfork. bigforkrumble.com or call 406-260-8385.

Aug. 31‌

The Mountain Goats with Lydia Loveless, 8:30 p.m. doors, 9 p.m. show, The Top Hat, 134 W. Front St. $26 in advance, available at logjampresents.com. All ages.

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Walk a trail through history at Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo, Montana

Summer 2019 Events June 29-30: Expedition Days Hands-On History Weekend July 8: Demonstration Day: Rope & Ponies July 13: Movie Under the Stars with Doc & Marty July 17: Demonstration Day: Skin Boats July 25: Demonstration Day: Traditional Salish Crafts

25

July 27, Aug. 10 & 24: Trekker Kids Family Fun -11 am FREE—donations gratefully accepted! www.travelersrest.org  406-273-4253

45

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Microbrews & Selected Wines and Ciders from Montana & the Northwest $

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| MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Milltown State Park’s many entrances Cl

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Fork River

KIM BRIGGEMAN

kbriggeman@missoulian.com

Milltown State Park trails Dee r Milltown State Park

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Milltown State Park trails Overlook Trail Bluff Trail Floodplain Trail Bench Trail Milwaukee Road Trail Milltown State Park boundary

Milltown State Park has 1.5 miles of new trail leading from the Overlook picnic and interpretative area down to the restored floodplain along the Clark Fork River. Completed in 2015, the trail meanders past wetlands filled with ducks, geese and other riparian bird species.

The 500-acre park also features places to fish, boat and learn about Native American culture related to buffalo hunts, bull trout migrations and river confluences.

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Milltown is the newest of seven state parks in Missoula County and the closest one to Missoula.

Park workshops, walks and programs are planned for both the Confluence and Overlook areas this summer. It’s good to have in mind what it is you want to see and do before you go.

Overlook Area, 1353 Deer Creek Road: Construction began on the first unit of the park in the summer of 2011. Adding to the directional confusion is the fact that what was once called Highway 10 East through East Missoula is now Highway 200 East.

Go through East Missoula on 200.

At the bottom of Brickyard Hill is Sha-Ron Fishing Access and the right-hand turn to Canyon River Golf. Take it on Speedway Avenue and turn left on Deer Creek Road a couple hundred yards later.

Cross Deer Creek Bridge and pass the golf course. Nearly 2½ miles later you’ve climbed the hill to the Overlook Area parking lot.

“It’s just a great view of the two rivers coming together. That alone is worth coming out for,” Kustudia said. “Especially in early summer when everything is green, it’s just spectacular.”

A paved trail on a gentle slope leads to the overlook itself, where interpretive signs describe the Salish presence in the area, the building of the dam by Sen. William A. Clark and the effects of the 1908 flood on it, and the Superfund process that removed Milltown Dam in 2008 and restored the rivers. Trails down a fairly steep path to the river bottom are the most extensive walking paths in all of Milltown State Park, if that’s what you’re looking for.

The trail drops almost to the mouth of Tunnel 16½, which the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad added to its new line after the Flood of 1908. Eventually the tunnel will be open to foot traffic. The longest trail follows the old railroad grade upriver, passes through a grove of pine trees and ends at what used to be Bonner Junction, where a spur line of the Big Blackfoot Railway

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Co. crossed the Milltown Reservoir on a wooden bridge.

Confluence Area, 7363 Juniper Drive: Again take Highway 200 through East Missoula, this time a couple of miles past the Canyon River/Overlook Area turnoff. Turn right on Tamarack Lane, which passes under I-90 at the river. Somewhere in there it’s renamed Juniper Drive. Look for the sign at the entrance to the gated park. This is the place to go to get on the river. There’s no boat ramp, but a trail leads to the

Blackfoot just above the confluence and below the eastbound I-90 bridge. Tubers, rafters, canoeists and kayakers use that.

Here too is a close-up and contemplative view of the confluence, with interpretive signs, benches and a pavilion.

Gateway Area, Anaconda Street, West Riverside: From Missoula take either I-90 to the Bonner Exit and the stoplight in front of Town Pump, or continue on Highway 200 through East Missoula to West Riverside. An-

aconda Street crosses the black county pedestrian bridge to and from Milltown.

Gateway, Kustudia said, is “kind of a work in progress.”

It’s the best way to walk along the Blackfoot. The upstream trail isn’t built yet. The downstream path passes under five bridges and connects with the Confluence Area a half-mile below.

But that’s closed at I-90 this year for Bonner Bridges reconstruction that will remove huge midstream piers.

Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 33

REAL ESTATE In the market?

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Missoulian.com/homes to see homes and open houses in the area

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34 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Missoula and surrounding areas 4 – Missoulian, Sunday, June 7, 2015

HIKE BIKE RUN

Trail use symbols The symbols that appear with trail descriptions in this guide indicate the trail uses that are permitted and special features of trails, such as accessibility to people in wheelchairs and opportunities for scenic views.

Walking and jogging

Hiking

Bicycle

Horseback riding

Cross-country skiing

Handicap accessible

Motorcycle

4-wheel ATV

4-wheel vehicle

Snowmobile

Wildlife viewing

Scenic views

Missoula and surrounding areas

Mapping symbols Symbols that appear on maps in this guide indicating special features of trails

Trailhead

Parking

Restroom

Picnic area

Interpretive trail

Point of interest

Trails Missoula

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 35

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in and around

Please be courteous on the trail‌

When you’re out on Missoula’s trails, whether in town or in the national forest, remember that you are one of many traveling these pathways. If you meet other people on the trail, be considerate and courteous.

It will make everyone’s outing safer and more enjoyable.

Show respect for the land, too. After all, Missoula’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. Trails are one of the best ways to get out and experience our city and its surroundings. Don’t let misuse of trails diminish the quality of this opportunity for you and others in the future.

Here are a few simple “rules” of trail etiquette: Make your contacts with others pleasant, no matter how brief.

Tread lightly and leave no trace.

Don’t litter.

Stay on the trail; you can damage vegetation and contribute to erosion by leaving the trail. Don’t cut corners at switchbacks.

City regulations require that dogs be leashed on city trails and in city parks, unless otherwise posted, and that owners remove their pet’s waste. A few areas on conservation lands are designated as “voice restraint” areas — please observe all regulations and respect wildlife and other park users. Visit missoulaparks.org for more information.

Missoula City/County Animal Control is responsible for enforcement regulations

regarding dogs. Report violations at 406-541-7387.

Dogs must be leashed when encountering grazing livestock on city conservation lands.

Always be willing to yield the right of way. This is a matter of safety, as well as courtesy. Hikers and bicyclists: This is especially true when you encounter equestrians or people with llamas or other livestock.

Bicyclists, speak up or ring your bell. Try not to startle people or livestock.

When you approach oncoming livestock on narrow trails, speak, slow down and don’t make sudden motions or loud noises. If possible, move off the trail to the downhill side.

When approaching livestock from the rear, speak out and ask any nearby people for instructions.

If you smoke, do so only where you can be sure there is no chance of starting a fire — and don’t litter the ground with cigarette or cigar butts.

Observe rules posted at trailheads regarding permitted use of trails.

Respect private property and route closures. Don’t trespass.

Try not to disturb wildlife.

Other sources for Missoula-area trail information The Lolo National Forest and the Missoula Ranger District Visitor Information Office is located in Building 24 at Fort Missoula Road.

This office provides information on Forest Service campgrounds, cabin and lookout rentals, maps, firewood permits, Christmas tree permits,

hiking trails, and other Forest Service information. Please call the Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 406329-3750, or the Missoula Ranger District Office at 406329-3814 or visit fs.fed.us/r1/ lolo.

Smokejumper Visitor Center is located at the Aerial Fire Depot west of Missoula.

The visitor center is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For tour information, call 406-329-4934.

Missoula Convention and Visitors Bureau, 101 E. Main St., Missoula, MT 59802; 406-532-3250. Free city maps, historic tour maps, Lolo National Forest brochures and other local information.

Adventure Cycling, 150 E. Pine St., Missoula, MT 59802; 406-721-8719. Mountain biking, Missoula-area map, $3.95.

Delineates 10 routes near Missoula. Also available from Lolo National Forest.

Bicycle-Pedestrian Office, City of Missoula, 435 Ryman St., Missoula, MT 59802; 406-523-4626. Missoula bicycle map.

Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Missoula area, 3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula, MT 59801; 406-542-5500.

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, 3255 Fort Missoula Road, Missoula, MT 59801; 406-329-3914.

Missoula Parks and Recreation, 300 Cregg Lane, Missoula, MT 59801. Call 406-721-7275 or go to missoulaparks.org for more information about city bicycle/ pedestrian trails and trails on city conservation lands.

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| MISSOULIAN, 2019

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Ron’s River trail system level, with virtually no change in elevation. You’ll find some nice views of the mountains surrounding Missoula. Dogs are allowed on these trails, but please keep them on a leash and clean up after them.

The riverfront is a favorite place to take a midday break or an evening stroll after dining out. If you’re a visitor to Missoula, go to the riverfront to stretch your legs and clear your mind after a day on the road.

You’ll get a look at Missoula and a feel for its unique character.

Southside

Orange Street to University of Montana Miles: 1.5 Elevation gain: None Dogs: On leash Thanks to combined efforts of the city of Missoula, the Missoula Redevelopment Agency, the University of Montana and the Missoulian, this stretch of riverfront has been transformed

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acre city park. The east end of the island has the Bark Park, a designated area for dogs to play offleash.

Another city park, the Clark Fork Nature Park, has been developed just east of McCormick Park and the Orange Street Bridge.

Enjoy the natural vegetation along the trail, but please remember not to trample plants along the river’s edge; they receive a yearly beating during high water. This vegetation is wildlife habitat, so keep your eyes and ears open for beavers, songbirds, great blue herons, and, if you’re fortunate, a bald eagle.

Just east of Jacobs Island, the trail becomes the Kim Williams Nature Trail. You can follow this trail east of town through Hellgate Canyon, cross the Van Buren Street footbridge to get on the northside riverfront trail or travel a short distance to the “M” trail.

To get to the “M” trail, follow the sidewalk south from the

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from a railroad and power line right of way to an attractive open-space corridor.

The trail on the south side of the Clark Fork connects some popular community parks and recreation areas.

McCormick Park, at the western end of the trail, is a 26-acre city park with a public swimming pool, children’s fishing pond, tennis courts, playground and ball fields. In winter, ice skating is available.

John C. Toole Park, a 12-acre city park west of the Madison Street Bridge, has a 400-meter running track and a large grassy area that’s a favorite spot for tossing Frisbees. You’ll find restrooms in this park. Along the river, look for several large rocks on which to perch and watch the water flow.

Jacobs Island, just south and east of the Van Buren Street footbridge, is a popular place to picnic or simply lounge. Warm, sunny spring and fall days draw University of Montana students to the grassy banks of this nine-

nge St.

Paths along the downtown riverfront are at the heart of Missoula’s trail network. Walking, bicycling and, in some places, horseback-riding paths along the Clark Fork River connect city parks and open space, neighborhoods, businesses and the University of Montana. Routes branching off this central corridor link urban Missoula with its surroundings and provide far-reaching access to the great Montana outdoors.

Riverfront trails extend from west of downtown Missoula into Hellgate Canyon, east of town.

You can cross the river on any one of the three street bridges across the Clark Fork within this zone — Orange Street, Higgins Avenue and Madison Street bridges. There’s also a footbridge off Van Buren Street, just north of the University of Montana campus, and another off California Street, and under the Madison Street Bridge.

Missoulians of all ages enjoy these trails from sunrise to sunset. All the trails are wide and

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EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN‌

Ron’s River Trail extends in either direction from Caras Park along the north side of the Clark Fork River.

Van Buren Street footbridge for a block to Campus Drive and turn left; the trailhead is on your left about a half-mile up Campus Drive.

Northside‌

Old Fox site to the Van Buren Street Footbridge Miles: 2 Elevation gain: None Dogs: On leash Caras Park, a 15-acre city park downtown along the Clark Fork River, is considered the hub of the Missoula trails network.

Here, you’ll find ample parking, restrooms, picnic tables, benches and an outdoor amphitheater for community events — plus ready access to downtown

shopping, restaurants and other points of interest.

In the summer, be sure to join the Out to Lunch program held every Wednesday in Caras Park.

It’s a weekly Missoula celebration with free music and other entertainment, and a variety of food options available for purchase from vendors.

On the west side of Caras Park, check out A Carousel for Missoula, a hand-carved carousel that was created through the effort of Missoula volunteers, and its companion Dragon Hollow play area.

From Caras Park east to Bess Reed Park, the trail is paved and readily accessible to wheelchairs and people who need a smooth, level surface for walking. Enjoy the close-up view you have of

the river along this stretch and, in spring and summer, notice the wildflowers that bloom along the riverbank.

Just east of the Higgins Avenue Bridge, look for the sculpture “Returning” by Montana artist Jeffrey Funk. Children love to touch and climb on Funk’s trio of trout.

There’s a short gap in the riverfront trail just east of Bess Reed Park, but you can easily follow city streets to get back on the trail at Kiwanis Park. From Bess Reed, turn left (north) on Washington Street, then right (east) on Kiwanis Street. This street dead-ends at Kiwanis Park, where you can pick up the pathway on the levee next to the river. You’ll find a picnic area, a baseball field and tennis courts

in the park.

The trail follows the levee through Kiwanis Park to a residential area next to the Madison Street Bridge. At this point, you’ll need to make another detour onto city streets to continue east. Go left (north) on Parsons Street to East Front Street. Turn right (east) on Front, continue across Madison Street and pick up the trail near the Van Buren Street Footbridge.

At the footbridge, you can cross the river to the Southside Trail or continue north to access trails in the Rattlesnake Valley and the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness. Note that the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is just north of the bridge; inquire there if you need more information.

| MISSOULIAN, 2019

Mount Dean Stone Trail Lands open for public use Trailheads

Mount Dean Stone connects open space and trails across a 4,200 acre complex from Pattee Canyon across the ridge of Mount Dean Stone and down into Miller Creek. Mount Dean Stone North is managed

by City of Missoula Parks and Recreation.

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Barmeyer trailhead

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Mount Dean Stone South Skyline Ridge Access

Mount Dean Stone

Route to Skyline Ridge Access

Route to Little Park Creek Area

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Barmeyer Trail 3.6 mile loop, 898 feet elevation gain Inez Creek and Little Park Creek trails are currently under development.

Little Park Creek trail connects to the Pattee Canyon Recreation Area via a 9.6 mile loop up to Skyline Ridge Dogs are allowed on the trails, but should be kept on leash close to trailheads and under voice control.

Legacy Point

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TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN

Erin Boggs and Joe Dixie hike with their dog Kenai up the Barmeyer Loop Trail on Mount Dean Stone recently.

maps4news.com/©HERE, Lee Enterprises graphics maps4news.com/©HERE, Lee Enterprises graphic

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 39

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South Missoula Trails

South Missoula Trails

Tower Complex Loops‌

a 2,500-foot gap in the trail between North Avenue and Livingston Street. It provides access between Southgate Mall and the Sunday, June 4, 2017 — 9of Safeway grocery store as part the Missoula Commuter Bike NetThe city is working to acquire work.

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Playfair Park has a series of This trail loops through the looping trails, 1.75 miles in total, Tower Street open space area, that offer a variety of options for passing through a rich riparian trail users. The perimeter trail is zone and along the banks of the 1.4 miles. The east and west loops Clark Fork. Trail users can get are 0.6 miles each. The south loop out on a rocky terrace on a bend is 0.5 miles. The trails are all relain the river and watch many dif- tively flat except for short lengths ferent birds that liveMiles: in the 1.75 area. where the trail climbs up or down total Access the trail from the parking the park’s stormwater levees. Dogs — varies depending area at the north on end of Tower are welcome on the trails but must route.

Street. To help protect the abun- be leashed, and owners must regain: Little move their pet’s waste. The trails dant wildlife in theElevation area, dogs are great for walking, jogging and must be under voice and sight Surface: Gravel control.

Dogs: On leasheasy bicycling. Access the trails from parking lots on Bancroft and a series of looping Big Sky Trail‌ Playfair Park has Pattee Creek Drive. trails, 1.75 miles in total, that offer a variety of options for HIKE RUN FLOAT unday, JuneMiles: 4, 2017 1 trail users.BIKE The perimeter trail isBranch 1.4 miles.Trail‌ The Bitterroot Elevation gain: None east and west loops are 0.6 miles each. The south Miles: McDonald to Livingston is 0.5 miles. The trails are all relatively flat Dogs: Under voice loop control except for short lengths where the trail climbs up or down the park’s stormwater levees. Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be leashed, and N On-street bike route Pedestrian only trail W E owners must their pet’s City open spacewaste. and parks The trails Multi-useremove trail S Conservation easement – public access bike lane are greatOn-street for walking, jogging and easy bicycling.

Access the trails from parkingTower Bancroft atlots Forton Missoula r Fork Rive Street and Pattee Creek Drive. rk

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Running between Tower Street and North Avenue, this trail proMiles: 2 vides many entrances to Big Sky Elevation gain: None open space, Missoula’s biggest HIKE Dogs: Under voice control expanse of open space on the valley floor. It ties in with the Connects Fort Missoula to Equestrian Park, and is popular Maclay Bridge and the Bitter- with horse riders. root River. The trail is a smooth asphalt surface.

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Rattlesnake Valley‌ u ill G wm Sa

‌The Rattlesnake Valley, extending north from Missoula, is a pleasant and popular area for walking, jogging and bicycling. Rattlesnake Creek, which originates in the Rattlesnake Mountains, runs through the valley on the way to its confluence with the Clark Fork River.

Passing through lush vegetation along the creek, you have a sense of being far away from it all, when in reality you’re still within or just outside town. The northern portion of the valley offers views of Mount Jumbo, on the eastern side of the valley, and the Rattlesnake Mountains to the north.

You can follow a variety of trails and streets to make loop trips within the valley, passing through city parks, natural areas and neighborhoods. Trails and streets will also take you to the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness in the Lolo National Forest. There’s a very gradual but consistent gain in elevation as you head north into the valley.

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Rattlesnake Valley trails‌ To access more Rattlesnake Valley parks and open space, follow city streets and county roads north of Greenough Park. Several popular loop routes, delineated on the map, take you through the Bugbee Nature Preserve, Tom Green Memorial Park and Pineview Park. You can cross Rattlesnake Creek on the Lolo Street Bridge, on a footbridge in Pineview Park and at the north end of Duncan Drive.

To get to the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness from the riverfront, take Van Buren Street/ Rattlesnake Drive to Sawmill Gulch Road and turn left (west). Or follow the mapped routes north of Greenough Park.

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Greenough Park trails‌ Forty-two-acre Greenough Park, along Rattlesnake Creek, was donated to the city of Missoula by the Greenough family with the understanding that the area would be maintained in its natural state.

The main trail, a 1-mile paved walking and bicycling path, circles the park, following the creek for part of the way. Footbridges cross the creek at either end of the park.

Several unpaved trails branch off the main loop to take you through the woods and along the creek. Bicycles aren’t allowed on the unpaved trails.

Thick, riparian vegetation makes Greenough Park a great place to watch birds within city limits. You can see common resident birds such as the downy woodpecker, dipper and mountain chickadee as well as red-tailed hawks, black-chinned hummingbirds, green-winged teal and other summer residents. Occasionally, you’ll see great blue herons and screech owls.

To the west of the footbridge in the southern part of the park, you’ll find picnic tables and benches along the creek. There’s a group picnic area on the east side of the park off Monroe Street.

Rattlesnake T National H Recreation Area

Hellgate Park

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 41

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Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness ‌Few communities enjoy a place quite like the 60,000-acre Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness just north of Missoula.

Here, you’ll find a variety of hiking, backpacking, horseback riding and bicycling opportunities a few miles from town. A well-developed trail network in the Rattlesnake’s lower reaches gives you a variety of options for day trips — or you can pack overnight gear and venture farther into the high-country wilderness.

You can camp anywhere beyond a three-mile radius from the Rattlesnake’s main trailhead, known as the “South Zone” (off Sawmill Gulch Road just west of Rattlesnake Drive). But remember: No motorized vehicles are allowed, and bicycles are prohibited within the wilderness boundary.

Despite its name, there have been no verified sightings of rattlesnakes in this area. You will, however, find ample opportunities to view many other wildlife species, including beavers, deer, elk, mountain goats and black bears. During spring and fall, you can see more than 40 bird species.

1. Main Rattlesnake Travel Corridor 2. Spring Gulch/Stuart Peak Trail 3. Woods Gulch/Sheep Mountain Trail

must be leashed from March 1 to Nov. 30.

If you’re looking for easy access to the Rattlesnake, this is an excellent choice. The route has no official trail name but is commonly referred to as the “main travel corridor.” It’s actually an old farmaccess and logging road (Forest Road No. 99) that has been closed to public travel by cars and other motor vehicles since 1984.

Expect to encounter other people along the corridor: It’s a favorite of hikers, bicyclists, runners, equestrians and others. Many other Rattlesnake trails connect with this main artery, so there are plenty of opportunities for exploration and loop hikes.

The trail is on a wide, gentle grade that runs parallel to Rattlesnake Creek. Although the water quality in the creek looks good, beware: It’s a source for the Giardia parasite, so don’t drink it unless you boil it first. The creek is a reserve source of municipal water for Missoula, so it is especially important to protect water quality.

Use the toilets near the trailhead or bury human waste and tissue well away from the stream.

Throughout the main valley and Spring Gulch, you can see evidence of homesites established more than a century ago and vacated in the 1930s. Look for building foundaMain Rattlesnake Travel tions and old orchards with a few scraggly apple trees remaining.

Corridor‌ You have a good chance of seeing Miles: 15 mountain goats on cliffs above RatElevation gain: 1,248 feet (from tlesnake Creek at Franklin Bridge, 3,850 feet to 5,098 feet) about eight miles up the trail. Elk Meadows, at the 12-mile point, is a Dogs: From the southern national forest boundary north past the main popular destination for horseback riders. There’s forage here, and you trailhead to milepost 1.7 and on can easily make day trips into the Ravine Trail 34, there are seasonal wilderness. restrictions on pets: Dogs are not The road ends at about the 15allowed from Dec. 1 to Feb. 28; dogs

mile point, but several connecting trails will take you farther into the Rattlesnake Wilderness. Remember that bicycles are prohibited in the wilderness.

The travel corridor begins at the main Rattlesnake trailhead, on Sawmill Gulch Road just west of Rattlesnake Drive. To get there, go four miles north of the intersection of Interstate 90 and Van Buren Street/Rattlesnake Drive.

Spring Gulch/Stuart Peak Trail‌ Miles: 16 miles round trip (7 miles to wilderness boundary) Elevation gain: 3,838 feet (from 3,700 feet to 7,538 feet) Dogs: No dogs are allowed in the area Dec. 1-May 15. During the remaining months, dogs must be on a leash from the confluence of Spring Creek and Rattlesnake Creek to milepost 1.3.

Another popular Rattlesnake route, Stuart Peak Trail branches off the main travel corridor at about the half-mile mark. For the next three miles, you follow an old farm lane along Spring Gulch. After a winding, steep climb for another

four miles, you reach the wilderness boundary, near Stuart Peak.

At 7,960 feet, Stuart Peak is one of the Rattlesnake’s highest points, offering great views of adjacent peaks and the Missoula Valley. There’s no designated trail to the peak, but you can reach it by traveling cross-country for about a mile. From this vantage point, you can drop down to Twin Lakes or get back on the trail and head farther into the high country.

The trail continues northward past the Lake Creek drainage, which contains six lakes, and then descends past three more lakes into the Wrangle Creek drainage, where it joins the main travel corridor 15 miles from the trailhead.

Most of the high-country lakes have been stocked with cutthroat trout. However, there are no fish in Twin Lakes or Farmer’s Lakes.

You’d be wise to carry plenty of water on this hike. It’s demanding, and you can’t always count on finding water along the way. If you do drink surface water, the Forest Service recommends that you boil or filter it first.

And please, tread lightly in this unique area. Because of its proximity to town, the Rattlensake

42 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

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Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness

tain and follow the East Fork Trail (No. 1531), which intersects the main travel corridor near Franklin Bridge. From the bridge, it’s eight miles back to the main Rattlesnake trailhead.

Sawmill/Curry trail system‌ Miles: 10

Elevation gain: 995 feet (from 3,920 feet to 4,915 feet) receives a lot of use. Try to camp where there are established fire rings, pack out all that you carry in and be courteous to others you might encounter on the trail.

Woods Gulch/Sheep Mountain Trail‌

Miles: 11 miles to Sheep Mountain Elevation gain: 3,846 feet (from 3,800 feet to 7,646 feet) Dogs: No restrictions To explore one of the less-traveled portions of the Rattlesnake, try Sheep Mountain Trail, on the recreation area’s southern boundary. Start at the trailhead on Woods

Gulch Road, east of Rattlesnake Drive.

The trail rises steeply through Woods Gulch for the first two miles, then ascends the ridge on a gentler grade for nine more miles.

The main attraction is the continuous panorama of surrounding mountains and valleys.

Blue Point, just a short distance off the trail about four miles before Sheep Mountain, is a good stopping-off point for scenic views.

There’s no trail to Blue Point, but cross-country access is easy.

Sheep Mountain Trail is high — and dry — so carry plenty of water.

For an overnight trip, you can continue north from Sheep Moun-

Dogs: Prohibited year-round The Sawmill Gulch-Curry Gulch area was acquired by the Lolo National Forest in 1986 by exchanging land with a private landowner.

A network of trails that has developed over more than a century crisscrosses the area. Some pathways were made by prospectors, settlers and their livestock in the late 1800s. Others are steep skid roads left by woodcutters salvaging timber after a fire early in the 1900s. Gentler, wider roads were left through timber-harvest areas in the 1960s and 1970s.

You can select a number of routes through this part of the Rattle-

snake, depending on your interests, available time and stamina. Just up from the Sawmill Gulch trailhead, you can follow a short loop past an old ranch site. The old Curry Cabin is near a trail farther to the north.

Just south of the Curry Cabin, a trail down Curry Gulch connects with one of two trails that run parallel to Spring Gulch. Either of these Spring Gulch trails will take you to the main travel corridor.

The trail farthest to the north in the Sawmill-Curry System joins Stuart Peak Trail about three miles south of the wilderness boundary.

From this intersection, you can continue north toward Stuart Peak or head back down through Spring Gulch.

Depending on what trail you’re on, you can enjoy some great views into the Grant Creek area, other parts of the Rattlesnake or the Missoula Valley.

The Sawmill-Curry trailhead is small and has no turn-around space for vehicles with trailers. To get there, go 1.2 miles past the main Rattlesnake trailhead parking area on Sawmill Gulch Road.

Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 43

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44 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 45

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area ‌Pattee Canyon has been a favorite Missoula recreation spot since the 1930s, when Civilian Conservation Corps members constructed the first picnic facilities. A downhill ski area was also in operation in the 1930s.

The Nez Perce and Salish once traveled through this area to avoid Blackfeet attacks in nearby Hellgate Canyon. Pattee Canyon was named for David Pattee, an early Bitterroot Valley settler and Missoula businessman. Through the years, the area has been a military timber reserve and target range, then part of the Missoula National Forest (today’s Lolo National Forest). It is now the Pattee Canyon Recreation Area.

The recreation area has pleasant picnic grounds shaded by large ponderosa pines and a well-developed network of foot, horse, bicycle and cross-country ski trails.

Where dogs are allowed, owners

are expected to pack out their pets’ wastes.

Crazy Canyon Trail‌ Miles: 2.9

Elevation gain: 1,258 feet (from 3,900 feet to 5,158 feet) Dogs: No restrictions west to city of Missoula land For a spectacular bird’s-eye view of Missoula and surrounding mountains and river valleys, don’t miss this Lolo Forest trail to the top of Mount Sentinel. It’s a great alternative to the “M” trail up the

mountain, which rises above the city just east of the University of Montana.

Crazy Canyon Trail is actually a road that’s gated at the trailhead. Motorized traffic isn’t allowed beyond this point without a special-use permit from the Missoula Ranger District. You might encounter some hang gliders who have permits to transport their craft.

You’ll climb steadily on the road for the first 2.6 miles, passing the edge of the 1985 Hellgate Canyon fire. The last stretch is a steep climb to Sentinel’s 5,158-foot summit.

The climb is well worth the view of Hellgate Canyon and the Rattlesnake Mountains to the north, Lolo Peak and the Bitterroot Valley and mountains to the south, and the city of Missoula below you to the west.

Only foot and horse travel are recommended the last quarter-

mile because the terrain is so steep.

Hikers who want to continue down the west face of Sentinel can follow one of two pathways that connect with the “M” trail. But remember, for safety and to prevent soil erosion, mountain bikes are prohibited on the west face of Mount Sentinel.

The Hellgate Canyon Trail branches off Crazy Canyon Trail about a quarter-mile below the top of Sentinel. It traverses Sentinel’s north face and connects with Kim Williams Trail in Hellgate Canyon.

You might also want to explore several unmarked trails that branch off the lower reaches of Crazy Canyon Trail to connect with the Pattee Canyon Picnic Area.

If you travel 3.1 miles up Pattee Canyon Road from its intersection with Southwest Higgins Avenue, you’ll see the trailhead on the left (north) side of the road. Parking space is available for 12 cars and two horse trailers.

NOW CARE

Open 7 Days A Week • No Appointment Needed Southgate Mall / 2901 S Brooks • Downtown / 500 W Broadway

46 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area Sam Braxton National Recreation Trail‌ Miles: 3.4

Elevation gain: 350 feet (from 4,100 feet to 4,450 feet) Dogs: No restrictions Named after a well-known Missoula skier, bicyclist and outdoorsman, this trail loops around the southeast portion of Pattee Canyon Recreation Area.

You might want to pick up one of the Lolo National Forest’s Pattee Canyon brochures before exploring this trail. While the trail is signed, you can be confused easily by old horse-logging skid trails and other paths that crisscross the area.

Look for giant old-growth western larch and ponderosa pine, Montana’s state tree, near the beginning of the trail. Careful observers will discover remnants of Missoula homesteads along the trail.

Savor your journey into the past, but remember these artifacts are parts of archaeological sites protected by law. Leave for others to enjoy and study.

The trail begins four miles up

Pattee Canyon Road, just off the south side parking area. Bear to the right beyond the gate in the parking area and follow the roadway to the trailhead.

Northside trails‌

Miles: Variable, less than 1 mile to more than 3 miles Elevation gain: 100 feet (from 4,100 feet to 4,200 feet) For an easygoing outing on relatively level terrain, try the area just north of Pattee Canyon Picnic Area. Here, a network of unsigned trails traverses meadow and forest land, all close to the picnic area.

History lovers may take special interest in the meadow. From the early 1920s until 1940, it was the site of an Army firing range for soldiers at Fort Missoula. You can still see earthen-mound firing lines that run north-south through the meadow. At the meadow’s west end, there’s a larger earthen mound backed by a wood retaining wall — the target butt. Look for soldiers’ names carved on this wall.

Meadow Loop Trail, one of the most popular routes, skirts the

meadow’s southern edge and continues north through the woods, a 2.2-mile loop hike or bike ride.

In winter, Meadow Loop Trail is a 3.2-mile cross-country ski trail, the extra distance added by the need to ski in from the locked gate to the picnic area. Missoula’s Nordic Ski Club maintains this trail and others that run through the picnic area. Dogs and bikes are not allowed on the groomed ski trails in winter.

For a shorter trip, winter or summer, follow one of the pathways through and around the meadow. For a longer trip, look for an unmarked trail at the meadow’s northwest corner. It connects with Crazy Canyon Trail to the top of Mount Sentinel.

The Picnic Area is just off Pattee Canyon Road, 3.6 miles up from its intersection with Southwest Higgins Avenue. In summer, park at one of the group picnic sites (open from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.). The road into the Picnic Area is closed in winter, but you can park at the Pattee Canyon main trailhead.

Small groups may use any of the area’s 22 family picnic sites free of

charge. If you have a party of more than 10 people, you must reserve one of the three group picnic sites (fee required). Phone the Missoula Ranger District at 406-329-3814 to reserve a group site.

Southside ski trails‌ Miles: 2.4

Elevation gain: 100 feet (from 4,100 feet to 4,200 feet) Dogs: Not allowed during ski season Designed specifically for crosscountry skiing and groomed by the Missoula Nordic Ski Club, these are some of Missoula’s best ski trails.

The main loop is 2.4 miles long, but three cut-off routes allow you to ski a shorter distance. For a more challenging outing, try one of the ungroomed trails that connects with the main loop.

Dog owners take note: To maintain a good skiing surface, your pet and bike isn’t allowed on these groomed trails during ski season.

Because they gain only 100 feet in elevation, these are also good trails for an easy summer or fall hike, horseback ride or bike ride.

Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 47

art. music.

Fairs & rodeos. summer theater.

HUCKLEBERRY FESTIVAL AUGUST 9-11, 2019 Trout Creek, Montana 5pm Friday to 4pm Sunday 120 + Arts & Craft Booths www.huckleberryfestival.com FREE ADMISSION

Family Friendly: Alcohol & Tobacco FREE Dogs Welcome, On Leash Only

Summer Entertainment Guide Look for Corridor this Summer.

FRIDAY: Talents of D & D Music.

DanceXplosion!. Dog Dancing.

Miss Huck/Mr. Huck Finn Talent Contest.

Trout Creek Country Music Show.

SATURDAY:

Pancake Breakfast.

5K Run for Fun. Huckleberry Parade.

Dog Agility Demonstration.

Homesteaders Pentathlon.

Albeni Falls Pipes & Drums.

Swing Street Big Band.

Festival Auction.

Pie-Eating Contest.

SUNDAY:

Pancake Breakfast.

Worship Service.

Music TBA. Kid’s Games.

Horseshoes. Dog Agility Competition.

Kids Dog Agility Fun Match.

Jam, Jelly and Dessert Contest and More!!

48 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

North Hills trails

‌ iles: Ridge Trail – 1.8 miles (from M Waterworks trailhead to Duncan Drive 3 miles); Cherry Gulch Trail – 1.1 miles; Fire Line Trail – 1.7 miles; Froelich Trail – 1.4 miles; Mountainview Trail to Ridge Trail – 1.1 miles Elevation gain: Varies Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private property, and where posted

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

Hikers must cross private land to reach the public acreage on the hills that form Missoula’s northern backdrop. The main access points are a Missoula Water utility road off Greenough Drive and a path opposite Mountain View Drive, farther up Duncan Drive.

The hillsides feature rare communities of cushion plants, including the Missoula phlox and bitterroots.

They also provide birds’-eye views of the city’s railroad yards, downtown and into the Bitterroot Valley.

Hikers are asked to stay on established trails and obey landowner signs and fences. Because of the sensitive ecology of the area, bikers are asked to not use these trails.

Sunday, June 23, 2019 | 49

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50 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

South Hills trail system

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‌The South Hills area enjoys a well-connected series of trails and sidewalks that make it easier for people to get around without a car. The main off-street trail connections are featured here.

There are other smaller neighborhood and park connections that help create a web of bicycle/ pedestrian connections throughout the area. The neighborhoods have also developed undeveloped street rights of way and alleys as some of the main north-south trail connections.

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The Meadow Hill Trail connects a string of parks in the South Hills via paved and natural surfaces. These trails are open to all forms of nonmotorized transportation. The main trail connects Wapikiya and Honeysuckle parks. This trail was recently expanded and paved to provide a better bicycle/pedestrian connection to Meadow Hill Middle School and parks. The trail is relatively flat except in areas where it deviates from the top Peery Park, Moose Can of stormwater levees. The other Gully trails‌ natural surface trail heads uphill and through Homestead Park and Miles: 0.92 connects to neighborhoods and Elevation gain: Peery Park Trail – very slight. Moose Can Gully Trail – trails to the south. about 60 feet Surface: Earth Ravenwood Park Trail‌ Miles: 3/4 mile Dogs: On leash Elevation gain: Unknown The trails through Peery Park Dogs: On leash and Moose Can Gully take trail The trail winds through a ra- users through two different natuvine and meadow between Ghar- ral areas in the South Hills. The rett Street and Meadowood Lane 0.33-mile trail in Peery Park takes in Missoula’s South Hills. It fea- users through an undeveloped hilltures giant ponderosa pine trees side prairie. A parking area can be and natural understory growth. found on the west end of the trail

off Peery Park Drive. The east end of the trail connects to the Moose Can Gully Trail. Moose Can Gully is a natural drainage that remains amid the developed hillsides. This trail is a 0.58-mile earth surface for pedestrians only. It climbs about 60 feet in elevation, taking hikers along the small stream that runs down the gully. The north end of the gully is developed into a traditional park, but as the trail heads up the hill to the south it enters an area rich in plant and animal life.

The forested hillsides and riparian areas provide ample habitat for birds and animals. The north end of the trail can be found in Garland

Park at the corner of Garland Drive and 23rd Street. The trail ends at Hillview Way just north of Chief Charlo School.

High Park Loop‌

Miles: 1/3 mile Elevation gain: Moderate Surface: Dirt Dogs: On leash Looking north from the slopes of the South Hills, High Park Loop offers an amazing view of the Missoula Valley. The park itself is an undeveloped natural area between residential blocks. Deer frequent the park in the early morning.

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 51

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North Hills Moon-Randolph Homestead Moon-Randolph Homestead

Landfill

u Sp

ck rlo

Road

al Co E S

ad Ro

N W

Homestead parking 0.3 mile walk in.

Parking on-site for those with limited mobility or by prior arrangement

Mine

90

Otis Street et Rodgers Stre

Scott Street

The historic Moon-Randolph Homestead, part of Missoula’s open space system, is open every Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., from May to the end of October (fire danger and weather permitting).

Visitors are welcome to picnic in the apple orchard, tour the historic farm buildings with one of the trained volunteers, or just nap under the black locust trees. During the rest of the week, the homestead is open for research, youth programs and artistic pursuits. The North Missoula Community Development Corp. works with Missoula Parks and Recreation to manage the homestead for the public. Call 406-7289269 or email moonrandolph@gmail.com to inquire about volunteer opportunities and programs.

Access: You can reach the homestead on foot from trailheads on Greenough/Duncan Drive. If you bike or drive, follow Scott Street north over the bridge, take a left onto Rodgers Street, then turn right on Shakespeare Street (which becomes Coal Mine Road). Turn right immediately after you go under the interstate and then turn right again after the second cattle guard. The homestead discourages car visitors, but if you do drive please park on the right side of the road before the cattle guard.

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

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Mount Sentinel trails T H

“M” Trail

University of Montana

Fo rk Ri v er m Wi llia ms N atu

Ki

Arthur Avenue

Pedestrian only trail Multi-use trail On-street bike lane On-street bike route

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Sixth Street

City open space and parks Conservation easement – public access Conservation easement – no public access U.S. Forest Service – public access N W

re Trail

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Beckwith Ave.

South Avenue

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Mount Sentinel

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Woodworth Ave.

Maurice Avenue

Higgins Avenue

Evans Ave.

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Mo Z Trail

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No bikes

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

Kim Williams Nature Trail‌

Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and where posted

tee Canyon to the top of Mount Sentinel.

Bicyclists should note that the Hellgate Canyon Trail, like other routes on the west face of Sentinel, is not open to bicycles.

Hellgate Canyon Trail‌

‘M’ Trail‌

Miles: 2.5

Elevation gain: None

Miles: 2.1

Elevation gain: 1,600 feet (from 3,200 to 4,800 feet) Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and where posted This route on the north face of Mount Sentinel offers hiking opportunities on the periphery of Missoula. The trail links the Kim Williams Nature Trail in Hellgate Canyon with the Crazy Canyon Trail, which extends from Pat-

trailhead and private property, and where posted

Mount Sentinel Fire Road‌

Access is at the south end of Maurice Avenue near the University Villages Community Center or from a trailhead located adjacent to a utility substation about three-quarters of a mile up Pattee Canyon Drive from South Higgins Avenue.

The Fire Road joins the Mo Z and Pengelly Ridge trails for steep climbs to Sentinel’s summit. For a less strenuous hike, continue south and then east on the Fire Road to the Crooked Trail to Pattee Canyon.

Elevation gain: Level

Mo Z Trail‌

Miles: 3/4 mile to “M”; 1 3/4 miles to top of Mount Sentinel Elevation gain: 620 feet to “M” (from 3,200 feet to 3,820 feet).

1,958 feet to top of Mount Sentinel (3,200 feet to 5,158 feet) Dogs: On leash Length: 1.79 miles

Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of

Length: 1.16 miles to Sentinel Fire Road.

Elevation gain: 600 feet (from 3,280 feet to 3,880 feet) Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private property, and where posted Access the Mo Z trail from the south end of the Sentinel Fire Road.

Pengelly Ridge Trail Length: 1.76 miles

Elevation gain: 1,050 feet (from 4,000 feet to 5,050 feet) Dogs: On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private property, and where posted Access the Pengelly Ridge Trail from the south end of the Sentinel Fire Road.

L MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 53

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Kim Williams Trail connector to Canyon River Loop The Kim Wil‌ neath some railroad and freeway bridges liams Trail extends Missoula’s riverover to Bandmann Flats and the Canfront trail network from the University yon River Golf of Montana camCourse. From there, pus along the base travelers can follow of Mount Sentinel Deer Creek Road up to East Missoula and beyond. to Milltown State Park OverA 1,250-foot connector trail look or cross Bandmann Bridge makes it safer to get under- to head up Marshall Canyon.

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN‌

Evan Eck rides near the Kim WIlliams trail during the 2016 Grizzly Triathalon on the University of Montana campus in April.

TOMMY MARTINO MISSOULIAN‌

A family runs along the Kim Williams Trail and crosses the finish line of the Riverbank Run before the racers arrive.

54 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

Blue Mountain Recreation Area

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Blue Mountain Recreation Area See Page 20 for Blue Mountain Recreation Area information.

Gate No. 3 Road 2137 closed to vehicles beyond this point.

‌The 5,500-acre Blue Mountain Recreation Area, just two miles southwest of Missoula, is another close-to-town area to explore.

The Lolo National Forest worked closely with Missoula-area recreation groups to establish this area’s trail system and other recreational facilities.

Blue Mountain is one of the few peaks around Missoula that can be reached by road, and you’ll find breathtaking views and a forest-fire lookout at road’s end. The area also features off-road trails for hikers, equestrians, bicyclists, people in wheelchairs and ATV enthusiasts.

To accommodate this diversity of uses, recreationists helped develop trail “classes” that specify which type of use is permitted on each trail. Because of the variety of trail users at Blue Mountain, it’s especially important to follow the rules of trail courtesy.

Dogs area allowed in the area, but pet owners must pack out their waste.

Maclay Flat Interpretive Trail‌ Miles: 1.25 mile and 1.8 mile loops Elevation gain: None Dogs: Leash required; pack out waste For an easygoing outing beyond the city limits, try the trail at Maclay Flat. The path is wide, level and surfaced to accommodate wheelchairs. It takes you along the Bitterroot River and through adjacent meadows, with some great views of mountains around Missoula.

You can learn a lot along the way: 16 interpretive signs describe the river system, wildlife, vegetation and archaeology of this area.

A cut-off trail gives you the option to go 1.25 or 1.8 miles. Traveling in a clockwise

direction, you pass huge cottonwood and ponderosa pine trees. Be observant and you may see evidence of porcupine and beaver.

Also look for wood duck nesting boxes attached to trees and for bluebird boxes on fence posts.

About a third of a mile down the trail, you’ll come to a flat grassy area along the river — a good picnicking spot. There are also some fishing spots along this stretch of the river.

You have an excellent chance of seeing bald eagles, osprey, blue herons, mallards, red-tailed hawks and white-tailed deer at Maclay Flat. At the southern edge of the meadow, along the irrigation ditch, listen for the songs of meadowlarks and look for red-winged blackbirds. Depending on the time of year, you can see a variety of wildflowers and other plants.

The parking area and trailhead are a short distance west of the road up Blue Mountain.

To get there, go about two miles south of Reserve Street on Highway 93, turn right at Blue Mountain Road (County Road No. 30)

for about 1.5 miles. You’ll see the parking area on the right.

You can also approach from the north on Blue Mountain Road. From this direction, the trailhead is about two miles south of Maclay Bridge. The parking area is on the left.

You’ll find accessible restrooms at the parking area. There’s also a river access that leads to the Bitterroot River. Note that horses and bicycles aren’t allowed on this trail, and you must keep dogs on a leash.

Blue Mountain Nature Trail‌ Miles: 1/4 mile loop

Elevation gain: 50 feet (from 3,650 feet to 3,700 feet) Dogs: No restrictions This popular trail is a stopping-off point on your way up Forest Road No. 365 to the Blue Mountain lookout. One of the few Missoula-area trails with interpretive information on-site, it’s also a popular destination for individuals, families, school classes and

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through some fine country with occasional views of the Missoula Valley and Bitterroot River. In fact, it’s a favorite of local equestrians. Backcountry Horsemen of Missoula sponsors an annual trail ride and clearing to help with maintenance. This group also helped develop the trail.

Hikers often take a one-way trip up or down the trail by arranging a shuttle.

You can camp and build a campfire west of Forest Road No. 365 above milepost 4.5 on Road No. 365.

The trailhead (also called the “horse-loading facility”) is on Blue Mountain Road, just one mile north of its intersection with U.S. Highway 93.

Motorized trails‌ Miles: 14.5

Elevation gain: 2,460 feet (from 4,000 feet to 6,460 feet) Dogs: No restrictions

other groups interested in environmental education.

The path is on a fairly level grade, making it quite accessible to young children and people not interested in or able to take more strenuous hikes.

Numbered wooden posts along the trail mark points of interest, and a pocket-sized brochure furnishes corresponding interpretive information. You can learn about prescribed fire, Glacial Lake Missoula, forest “recycling,” Montana’s state tree, and about lichen, kinnickinnick, ninebark, serviceberry and many other plants.

Midway down the trail, you’ll come upon a rock outcrop where there’s a vista of distant mountains, the Missoula Valley and the Bitterroot River winding toward its confluence with the Clark Fork. There is wheelchair access from the trailhead to this viewing area.

Be sure to stop at the sign showing a photographic panorama of this view — it identifies all the peaks in your range of sight.

The trail starts about two miles up Forest Road No. 365.

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail‌ Miles: 7

Elevation gain: 3,260 feet (from 3,200 feet to 6,460 feet) Dogs: No restrictions There’s opportunity for both day and overnight trips on this trail from the base of Blue Mountain to the lookout. You can start from the trailhead on Blue Mountain Road or go up Forest Road No. 365 to points where the road intersects or passes near the trail.

Remember, this trail is closed to mountain bike use.

Signs are scarce, but the route has been marked with “blazes” on trees. Be sure to look for these blazes — numerous old logging roads and skid trails crisscross Blue Mountain, and this can be a difficult trail to follow.

You won’t find water along the way, so take enough to last your entire trip.

Don’t let these words of caution discourage you from trying this trail. It passes

Blue Mountain is one of the few places near Missoula that has motorcycle and four-wheeled ATV trails. The motorcycle/ ATV trailhead is three miles up Forest Road No. 365 on the left (south) side of the road.

An extensive network of trails originates at this trailhead, providing access to the southern portion of the recreation area. Like other Blue Mountain trails, those in this network are classified to accommodate different trail uses. ATV-ers can use four miles of trail here.

Motorcyclists can use the ATV trails as well as another eight miles of trails.

Bicyclists, equestrians and hikers can use all of the trails in this network, but many prefer other Blue Mountain routes where motorized vehicles are not allowed. One such trail begins at the motorcycle-ATV trailhead and continues east for about two miles to the National Recreation Trail trailhead at the base of Blue Mountain.

Several of the motor-vehicle trails pass over or near Hayes Creek, where you’ll find stands of western red cedar. Hayes Point is a popular destination in this part of the recreation area, and it can be accessed by both motorcycle and ATV. Deadman Ridge Trail to Blue Mountain lookout is another favorite, but because of its difficulty, it should be used only by expert motorcyclists. ATVs are not permitted on this trail.

If you’re planning to try these trails, pick up a Blue Mountain Recreation Area brochure from the Missoula Ranger Station, or online at fs.usda.gov/lolo. The brochure provides more detailed information on what uses are permitted on different trails in this system.

There’s ample parking and a loading ramp at the trailhead. Remember that if your vehicle isn’t licensed for street use, you must transport it to the trailhead with a licensed vehicle.

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Mount Jumbo trails ‌ iles: North Loop Trail — 3.8 miles; Saddle Trail — 1.1 miles; Backbone M Trail — 1-2.5 miles; “L” Trail — 2/3 mile

ds oo W

T H

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Dogs: Following are the restrictions on dogs on the trails:

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ch

Rattlesnake Street

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Elevation gain: Varies. The Saddle and North Loop are easiest, at logging-road grade, while others can be very steep.

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Cherry Jacobs Island Van Buren Street Footbridge T H

University of Montana

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

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Hellgate Park

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Rattlesnake Street

0.35

5 0.8

0.40

0.4

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1.72 6 North of Saddle – closed to dogs and people Dec. 1-April 30.

0.8 ch On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private property, and ul 8 .2 0 G N ort where posted May 1-Nov. 30.

Elk Ridge South side of Saddle – closed to dogs and people Dec. Loop 4 0.5 1-March 15. On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private Tamarack property, and where posted March 16-Nov. 30.

Street TH Lands below Upper Lincoln Hills Drive, trail to “L” but not beyond, and U.S. West easement above Interstate 90 — Tamarack TH dogs must be leashed Dec. 1-April 30. On leash within 300 0.64 p 0. s o e e 3 o r 2 yards of trailhead and private property, and where posted 1 Three T 0.1 May 1-Nov. 30.

0 9 .

0 At all times, dog owners must pick up and pack out your Mount Lower pets’ waste.

Lincoln Missoula voters passed a bond issue to buy most of the Jumbo M t.

Jum Hills 0.4 southwestern face of Mount Jumbo as public open space 5 0.46 in 1995. Large herds of elk and deer winter on the steep 0.3 hillsides, and paragliders like to launch from its sumTH Lincoln Hills 3 mit. Elk feeding activity limits public access during 0.12 the winter. Loyola Sacred Heart High School has its “L” initial overlooking the city, and the trail to 0.16 0.14 it is one of the more popular exercise routes.

0.41 0.36 Access points include Lincoln Hills Road; Poplar, Cherry and Locust streets; MarTivoli shall Mountain Road and Woods Gulch.

0.54 Bikes are not allowed at the Poplar Glacial Lake Missoula and Locust street entrances, as well high water mark as parts of the Backbone (Ridge) 4,200 feet Trail.

Loop Call 406-721-PARK 4,425 feet ver i R 2 for more information 2.2 about bike access on Sha-Ron Mount Jumbo.

T H

200

East Missoula Pedestrian only trail Multi-use trail North Zone closed Dec. 1-May 1 South Zone closed Dec. 1-March 15 On-street bike lane On-street bike route City open space and parks Conservation easement – public access Conservation easement – no public access U.S. Forest Service – public access

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 57

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Cha-paa-qn Miles: 3.5 miles on Reservation Divide Trail; 2.2 miles on Sleeping Woman Trail Elevation gain: Reservation Divide Trail, 1,836 feet (from 6,158 to 7,994 feet); Sleeping Woman Trail, 2,296 feet (from 5,698 to 7,994 feet) On Missoula’s western horizon, a lone mountain rises to a delicate, symmetrical point. This is Cha-paa-qn (it’s Salish for treeless peak or shining peak), on the boundary of Lolo National Forest’s Ninemile Ranger District and the Flathead Indian Reservation. The area’s many interesting features make it a prime destination for a day trip.

It’s less than a one-hour drive from Missoula to the historic Ninemile Ranger Station and Remount Depot. Here, you can learn about a fascinating chapter of Forest Service history: How mules were used, and continue to be used, to fight forest fires and accomplish backcountry work.

Be sure to stop at the ranger station’s visitor center and historic buildings. You can take a self-guided tour with a brochure/ map available at the visitor center.

From the ranger station, you can drive 10 miles up Edith Peak Road (Forest Road No. 476) to the Reservation Divide trailhead. This trail is only 3.5 miles long, and it’s a relatively easy hike.

The trail does not climb directly to the summit of Cha-paa-qn, but you can scramble over rocks and boulders to the top. You’ll enjoy a great view in all directions from this pinnacle. The Mission Mountains and Flathead Reservation are to the north and west, and you can see east and south into the Frenchtown, Missoula and Bitterroot valleys.

You have a good chance of seeing wildlife. Red-tailed hawks, golden eagles and other birds of prey are common along the divide, as are pikas, small mammals that inhabit the talus slopes above timberline (listen for their peculiar squeaks). Depending on the time of year, you can also see beargrass and a variety of wild-

flowers — and pick some huckleberries.

Sleeping Woman Trail (No. 707) is a shorter but steeper route to Cha-paa-qn. The trailhead is on Forest Road No. 2178, about 11 miles from the Ranger Station.

This 2.8-mile-long trail connects with the Reservation Divide Trail.

A third route, up Kennedy Creek Trail (No. 746), is about eight miles long. The Kennedy Creek trailhead is about 14 miles from the ranger station on Road No. 5507.

Other points of interest in the vicinity include Lolo Forest’s Grand Menard picnic area and

disabled-accessible interpretive trail, an old Civilian Conservation Corps campsite and Kreis Pond, a good swimming hole on a hot day.

From Missoula, the ranger station is about 23 miles west on Interstate 90, then 4.5 miles north on Highway 10 and Remount Road.

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Lolo Peak/North Summit

Miles: 5.5 miles to North Summit; 6.5 miles to Lolo Peak

Elevation gain: North Summit, 2,894 feet (from 5,800 to 8,694 feet); Lolo Peak, 3,296 feet (from 5,800 to 9,096 feet) Dogs: No restrictions North Summit is the magnificent mountain towering above the Missoula Valley to the southwest. It’s often mistaken for Lolo Peak, which is behind it but not visible from some parts of the valley.

Either of these peaks is a good destination if you want to get into the high country around Missoula. Plan for a strenuous, all-day trip. Depending on whether you head for North Summit or Lolo Peak, it’s a 2,900- or 3,300-foot climb. The trail is steep, with an average grade of 23 percent and 30 percent to 40 percent grades along some sections.

You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view into the adjacent Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the Missoula Valley. Carlton Lake, below the two peaks, is a good place to take a rest or set up camp for the night.

Start at the Mormon saddle on Mormon Peak Road, 8.5 miles from Highway 12. Follow Lolo Peak Trail (No. 1311). As you gain elevation, notice that the vegetation is changing from lodgepole pine and alpine fir to alpine larch. This species of larch is unique to high elevations in the Northwest, and this is the only place you’ll find it in the Lolo Forest’s Missoula Ranger District.

After about four miles, you’ll come to Carlton Ridge, elevation 8,252 feet.

Carlton Lake, North Summit and Lolo Peak are visible from here, but there are no developed trails to either peak.

However, the country is quite open and it won’t be difficult to find your way.

Depending on your route, it’s about 1.5 miles to North Summit and 2.5 miles to Lolo Peak. You’ll be scrambling over rocks for much of this distance.

You may notice a primitive road ending at Carlton Lake.

Mormon Peak Road ends about one mile beyond the Mormon saddle at the summit of Mormon Peak. This road is closed to motor-vehicle traffic from Dec. 1-May 15 to reduce disturbance of elk on winter range. Usually, the trail isn’t clear of snow until early July.

Mormon Peak Road

Mormon Peak Road

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 59

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Fort Missoula Regional Park trails ‌ iles: Fort Loop – 2.5 miles; GuardsM men Lane Loop – 1.3 miles; Bowl Loop – 1 mile; RX Trail – 1 mile; CCC Trail – 1/2 mile Sgt Bozo’s Loop – 2/5 mile; Mac’s Loop – 1/3 mile Elevation gain: Mostly flat Dogs: Leash required; pack out waste The western portion of the park is home to multi-use sport fields, trails, shelters, restrooms and more. The open trails mostly loop outside of the fields, and have restrooms and waste receptacles throughout the park.

Missoula Parks and Recreation Director Donna Gaukler, left, and Missoula County Parks and Trails Program Director Lisa Moisey try out the exercise equipment in the outdoor workout station at Phase 2 of the new Fort Missoula Regional Park in 2018. The 156acre park includes playgrounds, softball fields, fitness trails, tennis and pickleball courts, shelters and other amenities.

Check out our outdoor section

MONTANA UNTAMED

Every Thursday in the

60 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 EXPLORE:

HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Public fishing access sites on Clark Fork, Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers

TOM BAUER, MISSOULIAN‌

Whether fishing, floating or sightseeing, the Blackfoot River attracts thousands of visitors with its scenic beauty, clear water and easy access from Missoula.

Bitterroot River

93

Chief Looking Glass FLORENCE

Florence Bridge Poker Joe

Bass Creek

Bu rnt

STEVENSVILLE

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k

VICTOR Fred Burr C reek

Demmons

B itterroot River

Angler’s Roost

Rock Creek

Bell Crossing Tucker Crossing

Woodside Bridge Blodgett Creek

Lake Como

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Big

Fo rk

DARBY Darby Bridge

HAMILTON

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Wally Crawford

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Hannon Memorial Rye Creek

W.W. White Memorial

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Forest Cooper

CORVALLIS

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Directions: 3.7 miles north of Darby (Brown trout, mountain whitefish, on U.S. Highway 93, turn east on Old rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat Darby Road, 0.25 miles. trout) Angler’s Roost – Forest Cooper – River left, mile 82 River right, mile 62 Day use only; concrete boat Day use only. Undeveloped. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons launch. This site is privately owned, but open to public use. Check in at prohibited.

Directions: 4 miles south of Darby the Angler’s Roost store office prior where U.S. Highway 93 meets West to using. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Fork Road.

Directions: 2.5 miles south of HamHannon Memorial – River right, ilton on U.S. Highway 93. mile 82 Five campsites – fee charged; hand Demmons – River right, mile 57 Day use only; no boat launch. Huntlaunch only; latrine. This site is split into two areas – a day use area and a ing and/or discharge of weapons procamping area. The day use area has a hibited.

Directions: In Hamilton, from U.S. concrete boat launch; latrine; no fee.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons Highway 93, travel 1.0 miles west on Main Street. prohibited.

Directions: 3.7 miles south of Darby, turn east on Rocky Mountain Woodside Bridge – Road, travel 0.2 miles to day use site. River right, mile 52 Day use only; concrete boat launch; Campsites are 0.2 miles farther south latrine. ADA fishing platform; adjoinoff of U.S. Highway 93. ing private land trail system open to Darby Bridge – River left, mile 78 the public at no cost.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapDay use only; concrete boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of ons prohibited.

Directions: From U.S. Highway 93, weapons prohibited.

Directions: 0.5 miles south of take Highway 373 (Woodside Cutoff Darby, turn east on Water Street for Road) 0.5 miles east toward Corvallis.

0.5 miles to FAS sign, turn east, 0.2 Tucker Crossing – miles.

River left, mile 47 Day use only; concrete boat launch Wally Crawford – River left, mile 72 Day use only; concrete boat launch; at West Tucker; latrine. The majority latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of of the site lies east of the river and is known as East Tucker. Access to East weapons prohibited.

Bitterroot River‌

E S

93

0

5 Miles

0

Blackfoot River fishing access sites

Sheep Flats

Ninemile Prairie Roundup Clearwater f k o Bridge c o a t l B Riv Daigles er Sunset Eddy Hill

River Brown’s Lake

Nevada Cedar Meadow HELMVILLE

Ninemile Prairie Road (Blackfoot Corridor Road)

Thibodeau

Red Rocks

Russell Gates Memorial – River right, mile 40 11 campsites – fee charged; gravel boat launch; latrine. Potable water.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 34 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200.

Clearwater Bridge – River right, mile 34 Day use only; hand launch. Parking limited to six vehicles; no parking on Sunset Hill Road (parking restricted to designated parking areas only).

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 30 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn south on Sunset Hill Road for 2.4 miles.

Corrick’s River Bend

Dou

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s

Co

Creek

Whitaker Bridge

CLINTON

is very rough. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 38 miles east of Bonner (Brown trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat on Highway 200, turn southeast on an unmarked county road (FAS sign trout) at the junction) for 9 rough miles, folW.W. White Memorial (see Bitter- low the signs. root River map) – River left, mile 2 Day use only; hand launch only. Scotty Brown Bridge – Hunting and/or discharge of weapons River right, mile 45 Day use only; hand launch only. prohibited.

Directions: 4 miles south of Darby Parking limited to four vehicles. No on U.S. Highway 93, turn southwest parking on county road within 300 on West Fork Road for 3.5 miles. yards of Scotty Brown Bridge. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Blackfoot River Directions: 38 miles east of Bonner (Bull trout, brown trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, westslope on Highway 200, turn southeast on an cutthroat trout) unmarked county road for 0.8 miles.

Belmont Creek

ood nw tto

iver

90

Cr ee k

Thibodeau Rapids

Fo rk R

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C reek

Poker Joe – River left, mile 28 Day use only; no boat launch; latrine. Walk-in access (0.25 miles to river) only. Discharge of weapons  Non-motorized watercraft only restricted as posted on-site. for the Blackfoot River and its Directions: 3.0 miles south of Flortributaries. ence to Luby Lane, east 0.5 miles to  Special recreation rules apply to Simpson Lane, follow signs for 0.6 the Blackfoot River and all sites miles. in the Blackfoot Recreation Corridor.

Florence Bridge –  Glass containers are prohibited River left, mile 23 on the Blackfoot River.

Day use only; gravel bar boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or dis- Cedar Meadow – charge of weapons prohibited.

River right, mile 64 Directions: From Florence, 1 mile Day use only; hand launch only. east on Eastside Highway.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Chief Looking Glass – Directions: From Helmville (startRiver left, mile 21 ing from the post office), take the 17 campsites – fee charged; hand Ovando-Helmville Road northwest launch only; latrine. Free day use. for 4 miles.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

River Junction – Directions: 6.5 miles south of Lolo River right, mile 52 on U.S. Highway 93 to Chief Looking Six campsites – fee charged; PrimiGlass Road, east 1.0 miles. tive boat launch; latrine. Road to site

West Fork Bitterroot River

Harry Morgan

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Monture Creek 200 Russell Scotty OVANDO Gates River Brown rt Memorial Junction N o Bridge t oo ckf Bla

Johnsrud Marco Angevine Park Flats 200 K. Ross Toole Weigh BONNER Station

Harpers Lake

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Crossing

See detail below

Creek

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Blackfoot River Recreation Corridor Clearwater

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Bass Creek – River left, mile 30 Day use only; no boat launch. Walkin access only. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 4.5 miles north of Stevensville on U.S. Highway 93.

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Bell Crossing – River left, mile 41 Day use only; gravel bar boat launch. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 1.5 miles north of Victor on U.S. Highway 93, then 0.5 miles east on Route 370 (Bell Crossing Road).

Blackfoot River

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Tucker is gained off of the Eastside Highway. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 3 miles south of Victor off U.S. Highway 93.

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Ninemile Prairie – River right, mile 25 Three campsites – fee charged; no boat launch; latrine. Access to water is difficult. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 25.5 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn west (just before mile marker 27) on Ninemile Prairie Road for 4.2 miles.

Corrick’s River Bend – River right, mile 23 12 campsites – fee charged; gravel bar boat launch; latrine. Potable water. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 25.5 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, then 6 miles west on Ninemile Prairie Road.

Belmont Creek – River right, mile 21 Day use only; no boat launch.

Walk-in access only. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north on Johnsrud Park Road for 9.5 miles.

Sunset Hill – River left, mile 32 Day use only; hand launch only.

Parking limited to three vehicles; no parking on Sunset Hill Road (parking restricted to designated parking areas only). Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 30 miles east of Bonner Whitaker Bridge – on Highway 200, turn south on Sunset River right, mile 19 Day use only; concrete boat launch; Hill Road for 4.6 miles. latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Roundup – River right, mile 29 Directions: 10.3 miles east of BonDay use only; slide launch for rafts; ner on Highway 200, turn north on latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of Johnsrud Park Road for 6 miles. weapons prohibited.

Directions: 25.5 miles east of Bon- Red Rocks – River right, mile 19 ner on Highway 200, turn west (just Day use only; no boat launch. Walkbefore Mile Marker 27) on Ninemile in access only; the Red Rocks parkPrairie Road for 0.1 mile. ing lot is within 75 yards of Whitaker

62 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 Bridge; Red Rocks beach is about 0.5 mile upstream of the parking area.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north on Johnsrud Park Road for 6.1 miles.

Thibodeau – River left, mile 18 Eight campsites – fee charged; latrine. Potable water; no day use parking. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north of Johnsrud Park Road for 5.5 miles.

Thibodeau Rapids – River left, mile 17 Day use only; no boat launch.

Walk-in access only. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north on Johnsrud Park Road for 5 miles.

Sheep Flats – River left, mile 17 Day use only; no boat ramp. Walkin access only; access to river is difficult. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north on Johnsrud Park Road for 4 miles.

Blackfoot River and adjacent areas‌ Daigles Eddy – River left, mile 16 Day use only; no boat launch; latrine. Walk-in access only; access to river is difficult. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 10.3 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, turn north on Johnsrud Park Road for 3 miles.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Angevine – River right, mile 7 Day use only; hand launch only; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 5 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200.

Marco Flats – River left, mile 3 Day use only; hand launch only (150 feet from parking lot to river).

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 2 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200.

Weigh Station – River left, mile 2 Day use only; improved concrete boat launch. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited. River between Weigh Station and the confluence of the Clark Fork River is open to boating and shoreline use except during high water runoff, when the Interstate 90 bridge piers above the confluence form a serious boating hazard.

Directions: 0.5 mile east of Bonner on Highway 200.

Browns Lake (Rainbow trout) 12 campsites – fee charged; concrete boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: From Ovando, east for 7 miles on Highway 200, turn south on an unmarked county road (FAS sign on highway) for 3.5 miles.

on Highway 200, turn north on Highway 83 for 2 miles.

Monture Creek (Brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, mountain whitefish) – River right, mile 2 Five campsites – fee charged; no boat launch; latrine. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 39 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200.

Upsata Lake (Rainbow trout, northern pike, yellow perch, large mouth bass) Upsata Lake 6 campsites – fee charged; gravel boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 37 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200 to milepost 38, then 4 miles north on Woodworth Road.

(Brown trout, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, mountain whitefish, northern pike, yellow perch)

Johnsrud Park – River left, mile 13 Day use only; gravel bar boat launch and concrete boat launch; latrine. Potable water; group use picnic shelter for reservations, call (406) 677-6804.

Hunting and/or discharge of weap- Harpers Lake ons prohibited.

(Rainbow trout, westslope cutDirections: 10.3 miles east of Bon- throat trout, yellow perch) ner on Highway 200, turn north on 14 campsites – fee charged; hand Johnsrud Park Road for 0.4 mile. launch only on Clearwater River (nonmotorized boats only); latrine. There K. Ross Toole – River left, mile 9 is a day use only area on Harpers Lake Day use only; no boat launch. (no fee) which has a latrine, gravel Walk-in access only. Hunting and/or boat launch and ADA fishing platform. discharge of weapons prohibited.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons Directions: 7 miles east of Bonner prohibited. on Highway 200.

Directions: 31 miles east of Bonner

(Brown trout, bull trout, mountain whitefish, northern pike, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, westslope cutthroat trout, yellow perch)

Bess Reed Park – River right Day use only; no boat launch.

Walk-in access only. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: In downtown Missoula, follow South Pattee Street until the North Fork Blackfoot end. Walk in to site from Riverfront River‌ (Brook trout, brown trout, bull Trail. trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow Brennan’s Wave—River right trout, westslope cutthroat trout) Day use only; no boat launch.

Harry Morgan – River right, mile 2 Walk-in access only. Hunting and/or Four campsites – fee charged; discharge of weapons prohibited. gravel boat launch; latrine. Hunting Directions: In downtown Missoula, and/or discharge of weapons pro- follow South Ryman Street to Carouhibited. sel Drive. Walk in to site from RiverDirections: 3.5 miles south of front Trail.

Ovando on the Ovando-Helmville Road.

Silver Park—River left

Clearwater River‌

Clearwater Crossing – River left, mile 3 Six campsites – fee charged; no boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 30 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200, or 0.5 mile west of Clearwater Junction.

Lower Clark Fork River and adjacent areas‌

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Day use only; concrete boat ramp and latrine; access for trailers. There are three access points to Kelly Island.

Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: In downtown Missoula, take Orange Street south to Cregg Lane, turn right. Follow Cregg Lane to Silver Park, which will be on your right.

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Flatiron Ridge

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Kona Bridge – River left, mile 205 Day use only; concrete boat launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 4.9 miles west of Missoula on Mullan Road to Kona Ranch Road, west 0.9 mile to site.

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Kelly Island – River left, mile 209 Day use only; concrete boat ramp and latrine (at Spurgin Road Access); access for trailers. There are three access points to Kelly Island. Discharge of weapons restricted as posted onsite.

Directions: (1) Spurgin Road Access – Interstate 90 and Reserve Street (Exit 101) in Missoula south on Reserve Street to Spurgin Road, turn right on Spurgin Road, right on Clements Road, left on Spurgin Road to site. (2) Mullan Road Access – Reserve Street to Mullan Road, west on Mullan Road 3.5 miles to Cote Lane, follow signs. (3) Seventh Street Access – Reserve Street to Spurgin Road, right on Clements Road, left on Spurgin Road, right on Humble Ave.

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Petty Creek – River left, mile 178 Day use only; concrete boat ramp; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 24 miles west of Missoula on Interstate 90 to Exit 77, then 0.25 mile south.

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Hunting and/or discharge of weapUpper Clark Fork River ons prohibited. and adjacent areas‌ Directions: From Interstate 90 and (Brown trout, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout, mountain white- Highway 1 junction, take Highway 1 for 0.8 mile toward Philipsburg and fish, northern pike) turn left at the FAS sign (mile marker 63), go 0.5 mile turn into entrance of Beavertail Pond (Rainbow trout, westslope cut- Drummond City Park. throat trout, largemouth bass) Day use only; gravel boat launch; Bearmouth – River right, mile 254 Day use only; no boat launch. No lalatrine. Manually operated or electritrine.

Discharge of weapons restricted cally operated boat motors only. ADA accessible fishing platform. Hunting as posted on-site.

Directions: 33 miles east of Misand/or discharge of weapons prohibsoula on Interstate 90 to Exit 138 ited.

Directions: 26 miles east of Mis- (Bearmouth Exit), then north for 0.1 soula on Interstate 90 to Exit 130 miles.

(Beavertail Hill), 0.25 mile north.

Schwartz Creek – Kohrs Bend – River right, mile 304 River right, mile 236 Day use only; gravel bar boat Day use only; hand launch only.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons launch; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited. prohibited.

Directions: 15 miles east of MisDirections: North of Deer Lodge off Interstate 90 at Beck Hill Exit 179 soula to Exit 120 (Clinton), turn south, (Beck Hill), then west on gravel road. east on Frontage Road for 1.7 miles to Schwartz Creek Road, 0.5 miles to site.

Drummond – River left, mile 273 Day use only; concrete boat launch. Turah – River left, mile 228 Day use only; gravel bar boat Site maintained and managed by the city of Drummond; latrine available at launch; latrine. Hunting and/or dis-

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Erskine – River right, mile 190 Day use only; no boat launch (0.5 mile walk to river). Discharge of weapons restricted as posted on-site.

Directions: In Frenchtown, turn south onto Ducharme Street, then west on Mullan Road for 2.2 miles to FAS sign, then south 0.7 miles.

Upper Clark Fork River

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Harper’s Bridge – River right, mile 200 Day use only; proposed improvements for this undeveloped site include a gravel boat ramp. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 8.1 miles west of Missoula on Mullan Road to Harper’s Bridge Road, 1.5 miles to site.

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Deep Creek – River left, mile 200 Day use only; gravel bar boat launch. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 4.9 miles west of Missoula on Mullan Road, turn onto Kona Ranch Road and follow signs for about 6 miles.

HIKE, BIKE, RUN

WARM SPRINGS

Stuart Mill Bay ANACONDA

Little Blackfoot River (Brown Trout, Brook Trout, Westslope Cutthroat Trout, Mountain Whitefish) – River left, mile 10 Day use only; hand launch only; latrine. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: From Garrison (junction Sha-Ron – River right, mile 219 of Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 12) Day use only; gravel bar boat travel east on U.S. Highway 12 for launch. No latrine. Hunting and/or about 12.5 miles. discharge of weapons prohibited.

Directions: 2 miles east of Missoula Rock Creek on Interstate 90 to Exit 107 (East Mis(Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Bull soula), northeast (left) on Old Highway Trout, Mountain Whitefish, Rainbow 10 (main road through East Missoula) Trout, Westslope Cutthroat Trout) for 1 mile, right on Speedway Avenue, Gillies Bridge – River right, mile 43 then an immediate left into site.

Day use only; hand launch only.

Hunting and/or discharge of weapons Georgetown Lake (Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout, Ko- prohibited. Undeveloped.

Directions: 14 miles west of Philipskanee Salmon) burg on County Road 348.

Stuart Mill Bay; 15 campsites – Tamarack Creek – River left, mile 6 fee charged; gravel shallow water Day use only; hand launch only. Unboat launches for small craft; three latrines. Discharge of weapons re- developed. Hunting and/or discharge of weapons prohibited. stricted as posted on-site.

Directions: 21 miles east of MisDirections: 13 miles west of Anaconda on Highway 1, turn onto Den- soula on Interstate 90 to Exit 126 (Rock Creek), travel south ton’s Point Road and travel southwest for 4 miles. about 1.5 mile. charge of weapons prohibited. Floating allowed between Turah and ShaRon FAS but banks closed 2 miles above Blackfoot confluence.

Directions: 8 miles east of Missoula on Interstate 90 to Exit 113 (Turah), south then east for 2 miles.

MISSOULIAN, 2019 | 65

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TOMMY MARTINO‌

Charlie Wolter, 6, leans out over the Clark Fork River to adjust his fly fishing pole during some late-season fishing.

the dish

. . . e c n e Experi

the freshness of Summer. and Looks, feekles,Montana! tastes li

66 | MISSOULIAN, 2019

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the dish

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