Explore Hike Bike Run 2022 by Missoulian

Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022

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explore Hike, Bike, Run, Float

YOUR 2022 GUIDE TO TRAILS & RIVERS IN AND AROUND MISSOULA

adventure awaits...

The Trail Head + Trail Head Gear Exchange 221 E Front Street | trailheadmontana.com Trail Head River Sports 2505 S Garfield | trailheadriversports.com | 406.543.6966

Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022

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TOM BAUER, Missoulian

Missoula trails beckon

Stand somewhere in Missoula, close your eyes, spin around and point. Chances are, when you open your eyes and follow your finger, you’ll be looking in the direction of a great place to hike, bike or run. To the southeast, you have the Pattee Canyon area, where hiking and crosscountry skiing trails are plentiful. The Barmeyer Trail opened recently, and the 3.6-mile lollipop-jaunt gives you a decent workout on the way up and then lovely views of the valley at the top. On the southwest side of town, check out Maclay Flats or the Blue Mountain Recreation Area. Blue Mountain is a favorite for dog lovers, and if you feel joy watching a tail-wagging Missoula mutt bound across a hill, these trails are for you (just remember the poop pickup). True to

its name, the figure-eight trail at Maclay Flats is relatively flat, but the views along the 1.7-mile loop are rewarding. You’ll see an aspen grove, McCauley Butte, maybe a fawn curled in tall grasses or moose drinking in the Bitterroot River. In early June, the flowers burst on Waterworks and the North Hills. The fuchsia clarkia sparkle close to the ground, the bright yellow balsamroot cheer on the rest of the blooms. The lupine wave their purple majesty, and the bitterroot splash all shades of pink across the hills, their petals unfurling like sea anemone. Through town, join the fitness crowd pedaling or running along the Kim Williams Trail or hoofing it up the M – believe it or not, some people, gluttons for punishment, perhaps, walk up to the M multiple times as

a workout. It’s just three-quarters of a mile up, but it’s a healthy chunk of elevation gain, some 620 feet. In recent years, the Bitterroot Trail has been gaining popularity, and it’s a sure way to catch fantastic glimpses of the Bitterroot River and explore the valley south of Missoula. Cyclists of all abilities roll down this path. On the northern end of town, wander to the main trailhead of the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, and pick a loop. Then, breathe deeply for the clean air, keep your eyes open for buttercup or a trotting fox, and dip your toes in the rushing creek. As always, follow trail etiquette. Missoulian Staff

Dave Worstell Publisher • Rob Chaney Editor For advertising call 523-5223 or email advertising@missoulian.com No part of the publication may be reprinted or reproduced without permission. ©2022 Missoulian/Lee Enterprises

34 6 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 Page

Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022

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 Trails Missoula Trails Missoula TrailsMissoula Missoula Trails rails Missoula EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

EXPLORE: HIKE, RUN BIKE, RUN EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE,

RUN

in and around Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022 in and around in and around andaround around ininand MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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MISSOULIAN, MISSOULIAN, 2019 |2019 35 |

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FREE for enforcement regulations mits, treeInformapermits, Complete a mission and earn a play information owners remove their District “voice restraint” areas —pet’s please Complete a mission and app earn spect wildlife and other park inginformation 24 at Christmas Fort Visitor Missoula Road. tte: where you can be sure there owners remove their pet’s onarequire your mobile device doesn’t WiFi enter to more prizes! Made possible by funding thewin USDA Forest Service and mission partners. waste. few areas on conserThe Lolo National Forest observe all regulations and re-The Office is located in Buildusers. Visit missoulaparks.org Thistion office provides informathenthen enter tofrom win more prizes! ur contacts with is chance of conserstarting a fire waste. 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Visit missoulaparks.org This office provides informaMade possible by funding from the USDA Forest Service regarding dogs. Report viola- hiking trails, and other Forest augmented Delineates reality 10 routesto near Misadults & FAMILIES! after initial download and mission partners. after initial download get kids for more information. tion on Forest Service campfor enforcement regulations mits, Christmas tree permits, he trail; you can Respect private property fortions moreat information. tion on Forest Service camp406-541-7387. Service information. Please soula. Also available fromGreat Lolo for kids for kids Missoula City/County Anigrounds, cabin lookout &Great tation and con-Missoula and route closures. Don’t tresMadeForest. possibleMOVING by funding from the USDA Forest Service and mission partners. City/County Anigrounds, and and lookout Dogs must be leashed when call thecabin Lolo National Forest OUTDOORS, National 4th grade and older, 4th grade and older, rentals, maps, firewood permal Control is responsible osion by leaving pass. maps, firewood mal Control isgrazing responsible LEARNING!adults Supervisor’s Office atper406encountering livestock rentals, Bicycle-Pedestrian Ofadults & FAMILIES! & FAMILIES! for enforcement regulations mits, Christmas tree permits, ’t cut cornersfor atonenforcement Try not to disturb wildregulations mits, Christmas tree permits, 329-3750, orJOIN the Agent Missoula city conservation lands. fice, City of Missoula, 435 RyJOIN Ma Mallard llard atMade Lake Como, by funding from the USDA Service and mission partners. regarding dogs.beReport Delineates 10 routes near trails, and other Forest Made possible by funding fromMisthe USDA ForestForest Service and mission partners. life. Always willingviolato yield hiking Ranger District at 406man St.,possible Missoula, MT 59802; Ye-Ye Park Hamilton Agent Office It’se Y e-Y e at River P ark in Hamilt on ulations require tions 406-541-7387. information. Please soula. Also availableMissoula from Lolobitheat right of way. This is a mat- Service 329-3814 or visit fs.fed.us/r1/ 406-523-4626. Agent T omaso at S t. Mary’s Miss ion in S tevi & Tomaso St. Mission Stevi on cityDogs Other sources for must be leashed when the Lolo National Forest National Forest. utleashed on Missouter of safety, as well as cour- call lolo. cycleRes map. Agent Seaman at T ravelers’ tS tate P ark Travelers’ Rest State Park ity parks, unless Supervisor’s Office at 406encountering grazing livestock Bicycle-Pedestrian Of-of r in town or in tesy. Hikers and bicyclists: Smokejumper Visitor Montana Department Missoula-area trail osted, and that 329-3750, or the Missoula on city conservation lands. fice, City of Missoula, 435Parks, Ryis especially true when Center is located at the Aerial Fish, Wildlife and st, remember Thisinformation Complete a mission and man earnSt., a Missoula, MT 59802; ove their pet’s be willing to yield or Ranger District Office at 406of many travMissoula area, 3201 Spurgin youAlways encounter equestrians Fire Depot west of Missoula. then enter to win more prizes! areas Lolo National Forest rightThe ofwith way. This is aormat329-3814 or visit fs.fed.us/r1/ Missoula biRoad, Missoula, MT 59801; ways.on If conseryou thepeople llamas other The visitor center is open from 406-523-4626. are designated aslivestock. the Ranger on Missouof and safety, as Missoula well as courlolo. cycle map. of Discovery e on the trail, ter Memorial Day through Labor the 406-542-5500. Download Agents Visitor Informant” areas n town or— inplease tesy. District Hikers and bicyclists: Visitor Montana Department nd courteous. Bicyclists, speak up or Smokejumper Day. For tour information, call U.S. Department of of the app on your mobile device gulations and retion Office istrue located in BuildThis especially remember is located at the Aerial FREE Fish, Wildlife and Parks, yone’s outing ringis your bell. Try when not to Center Interior, Bureau of Land 406-329-4934. to play emany and travother park ing 24 at equestrians FortorMissoula Missoula area, Spurgin you encounter orRoad. Fire Missoula Depot west ofConvention Missoula.doesn’t njoyable. startle people livestock. Management, Fort require WiFi32013255 issoulaparks.org office provides informaays. If you peopleThis with llamas or other The visitor center is open from Road, Missoula, MT 59801;

be us trail

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| MISSOULIAN, 2019

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EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

| MISSOULIAN, 2019

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Ron’s River trail system Ron’s River trail system

Paths along the downtown riverfront are at the heart of Missoula’s trail network. Walking, Paths along the downtown rivbicycling inheart someofplaces, erfront areand, at the Mishorseback-riding paths along soula’s trail network. Walking, the Clark Fork connect city bicycling and,River in some places, parks and open space, horseback-riding paths neighalong borhoods, businesses andcity the the Clark Fork River connect University of Montana. Routes parks and open space, neighbranching businesses off this central borhoods, and corthe ridor link urban Missoula with University of Montana. Routes its surroundings and provide branching off this central corfar-reaching access to the with great ridor link urban Missoula Montana outdoors. its surroundings and provide Riverfrontaccess trails extend from far-reaching to the great west of downtown Missoula into Montana outdoors. Hellgate Canyon, of town. Riverfront trails east extend from You of can cross theMissoula river oninto any west downtown one of the three street bridges Hellgate Canyon, east of town. across Clark Fork on within You can the cross the river any thisof zone Orange Street, Higone the—three street bridges gins Avenue and Madison Street across the Clark Fork within bridges. There’s a Higfootthis zone — Orangealso Street, bridge off Van Buren Street, just gins Avenue and Madison Street north of the University of Monbridges. There’s also a foottana campus, and another off bridge off Van Buren Street, just California and under the north of theStreet, University of MonMadison Streetand Bridge. tana campus, another off Missoulians of all ages enjoy California Street, and under the these trails fromBridge. sunrise to sunMadison Street set. All the trails are wide and Missoulians of all ages enjoy

level, with virtually no change in elevation. You’ll find some nice the mountains surlevel,views with of virtually no change rounding Missoula. alin elevation. You’ll Dogs find are some lowed on these but please nice views of thetrails, mountains surkeep them on a leash and clean rounding Missoula. Dogs are alup after lowed onthem. these trails, but please The riverfront is a favorite keep them on a leash and clean place tothem. take a midday break or up after anThe evening strollisafter dining riverfront a favorite out. If visitorbreak to Misplace toyou’re take a amidday or soula, go tostroll the riverfront to an evening after dining stretch your legs and clear your out. If you’re a visitor to Mismind after day riverfront on the road. soula, go toa the to You’ll get a look Missoula and stretch your legsat and clear your a feel after for itsaunique mind day oncharacter. the road. You’ll get a look at Missoula and aSouthside feel for its unique character. Orange Street to University of Montana Southside

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

from a railroad and power line right of way to an attractive open-space corridor. from a railroad and power line Theoftrail on to thean south side of right way attractive the Clark Fork connects some open-space corridor. popular community parks The trail on the south sideand of recreation areas.connects some the Clark Fork McCormick Park, at the westpopular community parks and ern end ofareas. the trail, is a 26-acre recreation city park with aPark, public McCormick at swimming the westpool, fishing pond, ern endchildren’s of the trail, is a 26-acre tennis courts, playground and city park with a public swimming ball fields. In winter, ice skating pool, children’s fishing pond, is available. tennis courts, playground and C. In Toole Park, 12-acre ballJohn fields. winter, icea skating city park west of the Madison is available. Street a 400-meter John Bridge, C. Toolehas Park, a 12-acre running a large grassy city parktrack westand of the Madison area that’s a favorite spot for Street Bridge, has a 400-meter tossing Frisbees. rerunning track andYou’ll a largefind grassy strooms in this park. Along the area that’s a favorite spot for river, look for several large rocks tossing Frisbees. You’ll find reon whichintothis perch andAlong watchthe the strooms park. waterlook flow. river, for several large rocks Island, south the and on Jacobs which to perch just and watch east of the Van Buren Street water flow. footbridge, is a popular place to Jacobs Island, just south and picnic simply Warm, east oforthe Van lounge. Buren Street sunny spring fall days draw footbridge, is aand popular place to University of Montana picnic or simply lounge.students Warm, to the grassy banks of this ninesunny spring and fall days draw

acre city park. The east end of the island has the Bark Park, a designated areaThe for east dogs end to play acre city park. of offleash. the island has the Bark Park, a Another city park, the Clark designated area for dogs to play Fork Nature Park, has been deoffleash. veloped just east of McCormick Another city park, the Clark ParkNature and the Street Fork Park,Orange has been deBridge. veloped just east of McCormick Enjoy natural vegetation Park andthethe Orange Street along the trail, but please reBridge. member notnatural to trample plants Enjoy the vegetation along the the river’s edge; theyrerealong trail, but please ceive a yearly beating plants during member not to trample high water. Thisedge; vegetation along the river’s they re-is wildlife habitat, so keep your ceive a yearly beating during eyes water. and ears open for beavers, high This vegetation is songbirds, great so blue herons, wildlife habitat, keep your and,and if you’re fortunate, a bald eyes ears open for beavers, eagle. songbirds, great blue herons, Just of Jacobs Island, the and, if east you’re fortunate, a bald trail becomes the Kim Williams eagle. Nature Trail. You Island, can follow Just east of Jacobs the this becomes trail eastthe of Kim townWilliams through trail HellgateTrail. Canyon, Van Nature Youcross can the follow Buren Street footbridge to get this trail east of town through on the northside trail Hellgate Canyon, riverfront cross the Van or travel a short distanceto to get the Buren Street footbridge “M” trail. on the northside riverfront trail getato the distance “M” trail, or To travel short to folthe low the sidewalk south from the “M” trail.

Phillips St.

Phillips St. Toole Ave.

r ve Ri

Toole Ave.

River Road Milwaukee Traill

Cregg Lane

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St ep he ns sA Av Br v B e oo e. ro . ok ks sS St . t.

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Riverfront Trail Riverfront Trail

Beckwith Ave.

St ep h

Mount Ave.

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Greenough Park . St Greenough en r Park Bu n . Va St n re u B n Va Jacobs

Arthur Ave. Arthur Ave.

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

Higgins Higgins St. St.

Russell St. Russell St.

Kemp St.Kemp St.

ReserveReserve St. St.

14th St.

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

Bro adw ay S t

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Bitterroot Trail 14th St.

Bro adw ay S t

Clark Fork Natural Area

Bitterroot Trail

Bike/ pedestrian bridge/tunnel Bike/ pedestrian bridge/tunnel On street bike lane Multi-use trail On street bike route On street bike lane Pedestrian only trail Multi-use trail On street bike route Pedestrian only trail

Northside Greenway

Clark ForkLane Cregg Natural Area

Milwaukee Traill 3rd St. 3rd St.

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Ron’s River Trail Ron’s River Trail

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these trails from sunrise to sun- the Missoulian, this stretch of University of Montana students To get to the “M” trail, folset. All the trails are wide and riverfront has been transformed to the grassy banks of this nine- low the sidewalk south from the

Jacobs Island Park

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University of Montana

Beckwith Ave. maps4news.com/©HERE, Lee Enterprises graphic

maps4news.com/©HERE, Lee Enterprises graphic

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Explore Montana

F L O AT T H E R I V E R N O W

Historical Museum at Fort Missoula 32 Walkable Acres * 20+ Historic Structures Stories of Missoula and Western Montana

FortMissoulaMuseum.org 406-728-3476

@CLARKFORKYACHTCLUB WWW.CLARKFORKYACHTCLUB.COM

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Rocky Mountain Rocky MountainElk ElkFoundation Foundation headquarters Snow Bowl Bowl Road headquarters totoSnow Road

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Miles: 3.3

Dogs: On leash

The Grant Creek Trail is a paved commuter

along Grant Creek Road. The trail begins Thetrail Grant Creek Trail is a paved commuter near the headquarters of the Rocky Mountain trail along Grant Creek The Road) trail begins Elk Foundation (5705 Road. Grant Creek and ends at the intersection of Grant Creek and near the headquarters of the Rocky Mountain Snow Bowl roads. Elk Foundation (5705 Grant Creek Road) and ends at the intersection of Grant Creek and Snow Bowl roads.

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KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN

Bicyclists negotiate the tight turns on the portion of the Grant Creek Trail that opened in 2015 near the Creekside neighborhood.

KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN

Bicyclists negotiate the tight turns on the portion of the Grant Creek Trail that opened in 2015 near theN Creekside neighborhood.

S Scale 0 500

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MilltownState StatePark ParkGrant trails Milltown trails

west seven est ofof seven oulaCounty County ula to Missoula. o Missoula. Milltown State Park Milltown State Park alks andproproks and r r has miles new has 1.51.5 miles ofof new forboth boththe the or iRveive R t Milltown to trail leading from Milltown trail leading from verlook areas rlook areas Mo fcokofo M k the Overlook picnic the Overlook picnic on nt ood have DeDeee d toto have inin l alca tanan BB and interpretative r r and interpretative uwant wanttotosee see aR aR area down to the area down to the ailail o. LinLin restored floodplain floodplain ,1353 1353Deer Deer Milltown Milltown k k restored 9090 along the Clark Fork along the Clark Fork ruction began ction began State State River. Completed River. Completed inin park the ehe park inin the Park Park 2015, the trail mean2015, the trail meanddingtotothe the ding ders past wetlands Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation ders past wetlands thefact fact nonisisthe filled with ducks, filled with ducks, headquarters to Snow Bowl Road called Highalled Highgeese and other geese and other ri-riEastMisMishghEast Miles: 3.3 R R Milltown parian bird species. Milltown iveive parian bird species. way 200East. East. y 200 r Dogs: On leash r StatePark Parktrails trails The 500-acre park State The 500-acre park ssoula 200. oula onon 200. also features places The Grant Creek Trail is afeatures paved commuter also places ckyard Hill kyard Hill isis OverlookTrail Trail Overlook trail along Grant Creekto Road. The trail begins to fish, boat and fish, boat and ccess andthe the ess and BluffTrail Trail near the headquarters oflearn the Rocky Mountain Bluff about Native learn about Native NN Canyon River anyon River Elk Foundation (5705 Grant Creek Road) and FloodplainTrail Trail Floodplain American culture American dway Avenue ends at the intersection of Grantculture Creek and way Avenue BenchTrail Trail Bench related buff WW EE related toto buff aloalo Snow Bowl roads. er Creek Road Creek Road Milwaukee Road Trail hunts, bull trout Milwaukee Road Trail hunts, bull trout yardslater. later. yards migrations and river MilltownState StatePark Parkboundary boundary migrations and river SS Milltown idge and pass dge and pass confl uences. confl uences. arly 2½ miles y 2½ miles the hill the he hill toto the ing lot. g lot. viewofofthe the view ogether. That gether. That Milltown State Park has three Milltown State Park has three ming out for,” ng out for,” entrances, with more proposed. with more proposed. Especially pecially inin entrances, neverything everything Town Town ectacular.” tacular.” Pump Pump Gateway Area Gateway Area a gentleslope slope gentle Area detail ktself, itself, where Area of of detail where v ei vr er BlaBclakcfokofot oRtiR 200 200 describethe the escribe Confluence Area East Confluence Area East 200 thearea, area,the the 200 he Missoula DeDeer eCrreCree Missoula Cl Cla MIlltown ek Rk Ro MIlltown ar r k Sen. Wiloadad yby Sen. WilBonner Bonner k FoFrkork 90 90 the ectsofof e effeff ects 200 , and the Su200 and the Su9090 hatremoved removed 9090 Overlook Area at Overlook Area 008and andrere08 Trails downa a ails down the river botmaps4news.com/©HERE, Enterprises graphic e river botmaps4news.com/©HERE, LeeLee Enterprises graphic tensive walknsive walkCo. crossed the Milltown ReserMilltown State Blackfoot just above the confl uaconda Street crosses the black ltown State Co. crossed the Milltown Reser- Blackfoot just above the conflu- aconda Street crosses the black voir a wooden bridge. you’re looking voir enceand andbelow belowthe theeastbound eastbound county countypedestrian pedestrianbridge bridgetotoand and onon a wooden bridge. u’re looking ence KURT WILSON, MISSOULIAN Confl uenceArea, Area,7363 7363JuJu- I-90 I-90bridge. bridge. Tubers, rafters, ca- from from Milltown. Confl uence Tubers, rafters, caMilltown. Bicyclists negotiate the tight turns on the portion of niperDrive: Drive:Again Againtake takeHighHigh- noeists lmosttotothe the niper noeists and kayakers use that. Gateway,Kustudia Kustudiasaid, said,isis most and kayakers use that. Gateway, the Grant Creek Trail that opened in 2015 near the 16½,which which way way200 200through throughEast EastMissoula, Missoula, Here Heretoo tooisisa aclose-up close-up and “kind a work progress.” 6½, and “kind ofof a work inin progress.” Creekside neighborhood. contemplativeview viewofofthe theconcon- It’s It’s the best way walk along aukee andSt. St. this thistime timea acouple coupleofofmiles milespast past contemplative the best way toto walk along kee and to new line the the Canyon River/Overlook Area fluence, fluence, withinterpretive interpretivesigns, signs, the the Blackfoot. The upstream trail itsits new line Canyon River/Overlook Area with Blackfoot. The upstream trail 908. Eventu- turnoff turnoff . Turnright rightononTamarack Tamarack benches benches and a pavilion. isn’tbuilt builtyet. yet. Thedownstream downstream 08. Eventu. Turn and a pavilion. isn’t The pathpasses passesunder underfive fivebridges bridges e open foot Lane, Lane,which whichpasses passesunder underI-90 I-90 Gateway GatewayArea, Area,Anaconda Anaconda path open toto foot andconnects connectswith withthe theConfl Confl Street,West WestRiverside: Riverside:From From and trailfollows follows atatthe theriver. river. Somewhereininthere there Street, u-urail Somewhere enceArea Areaa ahalf-mile half-milebelow. below. rade upriver, it’s it’s renamed Juniper Drive. Look Missoula Missoulatake takeeither eitherI-90 I-90totothe the ence de upriver, renamed Juniper Drive. Look But that’s closed at I-90 this grove of pine for the sign at the entrance to the Bonner Exit and the stoplight in ove of pine for the sign at the entrance to the Bonner Exit and the stoplight in But that’s closed at I-90 this yearfor forBonner BonnerBridges Bridgesreconreconhat used gatedpark. park.This Thisisisthe theplace placetoto front front Town Pump, continue year t used toto bebe gated ofof Town Pump, oror continue

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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

Dogs: On leash

Elevation gain: None

Prospect Drive

Miles: 2

ve S t.

Old Fox site to the Van Buren Street Footbridge

ser

Northside

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 EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN if you need more information.

te ail

shopping, restaurants and other the river along this stretch and, points of interest. in spring and summer, notice the In the summer, be sure to join wildflowers that bloom along the Out to Lunch program held the riverbank. every Wednesday in Caras Park. Just east of the Higgins AvIt’s a weekly Missoula celebra- enue Bridge, look for the sculption with free music and other ture “Returning” by Montana entertainment, and a variety of artist Jeffrey Funk. Children love food options available for pur- to touch and climb on Funk’s trio chase from vendors. of trout. There’s a short gap in the rivOn the west side of Caras Park, check out A Carousel for Mis- erfront trail just east of Bess soula, a hand-carved carousel Reed Park, but you can easily that was created through the follow city streets to get back on effort of Missoula volunteers, the trail at Kiwanis Park. From and its companion Dragon Hol- Bess Reed, turn left (north) on low play area. Washington Street, then right From Caras Park east to Bess (east) on Kiwanis Street. This 30 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN HIKE, BIKE, RUN street dead-ends at Kiwanis Reed Park, the trail is paved andEXPLORE: readily accessible to wheelchairs Park, where you can pick up the and people who need a smooth, pathway on the levee next to the 30 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 area, a level surface for walking. Enjoy river. You’ll find a picnic 30 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 the close-up view you have of baseball field and tennis courts

r e ek

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.

TOMMY MARTINO, MISSOULIAN

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

1,500 Feet

2,500

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RUN WILD WITH US www.runwildmissoula.org

Page 11

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

TRAIL RACES

First Saturday in June PENGELLY DOUBLE & SINGLE DIPS First Saturday in November MOUNT JUMBO ELK RAMBLE

CLASSES

Spring, Summer & Fall TRAIL RUNNING CLASSES 100, 101, 201 & 301 options for all levels & abilities!

STEWARDSHIP

(406) 541-7387

missoulaanimalcontrol.com

Trail maintenance, clean up & open space advocacy

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Page 12

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

ds oo W

T H

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

Rattlesnake Street

Gu l

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

0.19

North

0.11

0.48

Saddle bo

0.18

Ba ck b

Str

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Ju m

Woo ds

4,768 feet

T H

1.01

T H

S ou th Fa ce

Ar thur Avenue

Cherry Jacobs Island Van Buren Street Footbridge T H

University of Montana

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

r ail U.S. West T

1.29

Creekside kF 0.95 ork R i ve r

Hellgate Park

Kim Williams

1.1

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0.77

“L” Trail

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1 .4 7

0.3

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0.3

0.41

Rattlesnake Street

0.35

5 0.8

0.40

0.4 5

1.72 6 North of Saddle – closed to dogs and people Dec. 1-April 30. 0.8 On leash within 300 yards of trailhead and private property, and lch 0.28 Gu Nort 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 0. op es 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.

1.85

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

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Page 1351

MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

North Hills Moon-Randolph Homestead Moon-Randolph Homestead

Landfill

u Sp

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Road

Homestead parking 0.3 mile walk in. Parking on-site for those with limited mobility or by prior arrangement

al Co E S

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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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14 2019 38Page | MISSOULIAN,

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.

. Ave

Missoula

Highlands Golf Club

Barmeyer trailhead

P a t t ee Canyon D riv e

Sousa trailhead

er C reek Roa d

Bancroft St.

Spanish Peak Drive

Mount Dean Stone North

Mount Dean Stone South Skyline Ridge Access

Mount Dean Stone

Route to Skyline Ridge Access

Route to Little Park Creek Area

Ro ad

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

Inez G

Russell St.

ins ig g .H W . S

Mount Dean Stone

South Ave.

S. Higgins Ave.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Ru ar Inez Creek Be trail Mill er C ree kR o

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Route to Skyline Ridge Area

ad Little Park Creek trail

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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

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MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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. Pedestrian only trail N W E Multi-use trail S On-street bike lane On-street bike route City open space and parks Conservation easement – public access Conservation easement – no public access C Service – public access U.S. Forest

Miles: 1.75 total — varies depending on route. Elevation gain: Little Surface: Gravel Dogs: On leash

r la

F rk Cla

Miles: 1.6 miles Elevation gain: None Surface: Gravel and earth Dogs: Under voice control

streets — two-thirds of a mile; Milwaukee Road right-of-way to North Avenue — two miles Elevation gain:FLOAT None BIKE RUN Dogs: On leash

Bike/pedestrian bridge

Playfair jogging trails

Milwaukee Trail

Reserve Street

Third Street

Dogs: On leash Big Skyto acquire The city is working a 2,500-foot gap Bitterroot Trail North Avenue West 93 TrailNorth Avenue continues Lolo in the trail between and to Livingston ay hw (See Page 27) g i Street. It provides access between Southgate . HMall U.S and the Safeway grocery store as part of South Avenue Oldthe Missoula Commuter Bike Network. 93

Big Sky Trail

Tower Complex Loops

Miles: 1

Miles: 1.6 miles

Elevation gain: None

Dogs: Under voice control

Running between Tower Street and North Avenue, this rail provides many entrances to Big Sky open space, Mis-

Surface: Gravel and earth Dogs: Under voice control

roo Tra

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

e tre

rro tte Bi

Larchmont Trail

Spurgin Street

Reserve Street

Hiberta Street

Tower Street

B it

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Elevation gain: None

Larchmont Golf Course

Mount Avenue

South Avenue

Livingston Ave.

Humble Rd.

ve r

Maclay Bridge

Clements Road

Trail

Grove Street

Bitterroot Branch Trail

Russell Street

Kemp St.

Kensington Ave.

a Cl

Miles: McDonald to Third Street Livingston streets — two-thirds of a mile; South Seventh Steet Milwaukee Road rightto North Avenue — two miles Spurof-way gin

Johnson Street

14th Street

Tunnel

e nu ve A ns ve

ter Bit

SOUTH MISSOULA TRAILS

trails

Toole Avenue

k or

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 must be under voice and sight Surface: Gravel great for walking, jogging and 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 BIKE RUN FLOAT 10 — Sunday, JuneMiles: 4, 2017 1 trail users. 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

Playfair jogging trails

S ks

oo Br

South Reserve Crossing pedestrian bridge 39th Street

Bancroft Street

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. Playfair jogging trails

California St.

South Avenue Trail

.H S.W

ns ggi

nue

Ave

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North Hills trails

Miles: Ridge Trail – 1.8 miles (from 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.

| MISSOULIAN, 2019

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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.

Powerline Easement East Lower Lincoln Hills

Old Dunc

Tom Green Park T H

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ulch ry G

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Bugbee Nature Preserve

No bikes

Greenough . Park t S

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4,425 feet

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oa d

Jacobs ay Island Van Buren Street Footbridge University of Montana

Mount Jumbo

Pedestrian only trail Multi-use trail City open space and parks T H Conservation easement – public access Conservation easement a–il no public access U.S. West Tr U.S. Forest Service – public access

T H

t Br

T H

Street

Glacial Lake Missoula high water mark 4,200 feet

Eas

Missoula Street

Lolo

Dogs: On leash

T H

Lincoln Hil l Mountain View Pedestrian Bridge

Pineview Park

North Hills

s Dr.

Mountainview Tr.

Creekside Trail

Source: Missoula Parks and Recreation

rai l

Powerline Easement West

Rattlesnake Drive

Du nc an

an 1.00

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. Dogs must be leashed and are not allowed in Bugbee Nature Preserve.

Dr ive Ra ttle

Dogs: On leash

Cree k 1. 1 5

ree sna ke C

Sunlight Tra il

Rattle snak e

Duncan Bridge

North Hills (Sunlight)

T H

oa d

Rattlesnake Valley

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

North Hills

Hellgate Park

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Photos by Ben Allan Smith, Missoulian

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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

MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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

Rob Chaney, Missoulian

| MISSOULIAN, 2019

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Rattlesnake Rattlesnake National Recreation National Recreation Area and Wilderness

Area and Wilderness

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

trailhead. Sawmill/Curry trail system

Miles: 10

Sawmill/Curry trail system

Miles: 10gain: 995 feet (from Elevation 3,920 feet to gain: 4,915995 feet)feet (from Elevation

3,920 feet to 4,915 feet) Prohibited year-round receives a lot of use. Try to camp Gulch Road, east of Rattlesnake Dogs: where there are aestablished fireto camp Drive. Gulch Road, east of Rattlesnake Dogs: Prohibited year-round receives lot of use. Try rings, pack out all thatare you carry The Drive. trail rises steeply through The Sawmill Gulch-Curry Gulch where there established fire Woods Gulch thesteeply first through two area was in and be courteous acquired by the LoloGulch Narings, pack to outothers all thatyou you carry The trailfor rises The Sawmill Gulch-Curry might encounter oncourteous the trail.to othersmiles, then ascends on atwo tional in 1986by bythe exchanging Gulch the for ridge the first in and be you Woods areaForest was acquired Lolo Namight encounter on the trail. gentlermiles, the miles. ridge on land a tional in 1986 by exchanging gradethen for ascends nine more withForest a private landowner. gentler grade for nine more miles. Aland with a of private network trailslandowner. that has deWoods Gulch/Sheep The main attraction is the conA network of trails that has deWoods main attraction is the conveloped over more than a century panorama of surrounding Mountain TrailGulch/Sheep tinuousThe veloped over more than a century tinuous panorama of surrounding mountains and valleys. crisscrosses the area. Some pathMountain Trail Miles: 11 miles to Sheep Mountain valleys. crisscrosses the area. Some pathPoint, justand a short distance ways were made by prospectors, Miles: 11 miles to Sheep MountainBluemountains Blue Point, justmiles a short distance ways and weretheir madelivestock by prospectors, Elevation gain: 3,846 feet (from settlers in the off the trail about four before gain: 3,846 feet (from their livestock the the trail about miles before 3,800 feet Elevation to 7,646 feet) latesettlers 1800s.and Others are steepinskid Sheep off Mountain, is a four good stop3,800 feet to 7,646 feet) late 1800s. Others are steep skid Sheep Mountain, is a good stopping-off point for scenic views. roads left by woodcutters salvagDogs: No restrictions ping-off point for scenic views. roads left by woodcutters salvagDogs: No restrictions There’s no trail to Blue Point, but ing timber after a fire early in the There’s no trail to Blue Point, but ing timber after a fire early in the To exploreToone of the less-travcross-country access is easy. 1900s. Gentler, explore one of the less-travcross-country access is easy. 1900s. Gentler,wider widerroads roads were were Sheep Sheep Mountain TrailTrail is high — — eled portions the Rattlesnake, leftleft through timber-harvest Mountain is high eled of portions of the Rattlesnake, through timber-harvest areas areas — dry so carry plenty of water. try Sheeptry Mountain Trail, onTrail, the onand in the 1960s and 1970s. and — so carry plenty of water. Sheep Mountain thedry in the 1960s and 1970s. recreationrecreation area’s southern bound-boundFor anFor overnight trip,trip, you you cancan YouYou cancan select a number area’s southern an overnight select a numberof ofroutes routes ary. Start at the trailhead on Woods continue northnorth from from Sheep Mounthrough this ary. Start at the trailhead on Woods continue Sheep Mounthrough thispart partofofthe the RattleRattle-

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snake, depending on your interests, available time and stamina. Just up snake, depending on your interests, from the Sawmill Gulch trailhead, available anda stamina. Justpast up an you can time follow short loop from the Sawmill Gulch old ranch site. The old trailhead, Curry Cabin you can follow short loop past an is near a trail afarther to the north. oldJust ranch site. The old Curry Curry Cabin south of the Cabin, a is neardown a trail Curry farther Gulch to the north. trail connects Just south of the Curry Cabin, a with one of two trails that run trail down Curry Gulch connects parallel to Spring Gulch. Either of with one of two trails that run these Spring Gulch trails willoftake parallel to Spring Gulch. Either you to the main travel corridor. these Spring Gulch trails will take trail farthest to the north in youThe to the main travel corridor. the System joins TheSawmill-Curry trail farthest to the north in Stuart Peak Trail about three miles the Sawmill-Curry System joins southPeak of the wilderness boundary. Stuart Trail about three miles Fromofthis intersection, you can south the wilderness boundary. From this north intersection, you can continue toward Stuart Peak continue northdown towardthrough Stuart Peak or head back Spring or head back down through Spring Gulch. Gulch. Depending on what trail you’re Depending on what trail you’re on, you can enjoy some great views on, you canGrant enjoy some great views into the Creek area, other into Grant Creek area, partsthe of the Rattlesnake orother the Misparts the Rattlesnake or the MissoulaofValley. soula Valley. The Sawmill-Curry trailhead The Sawmill-Curry trailhead issmall smalland andhas has turn-around is nono turn-around spacefor forvehicles vehicles with trailers. space with trailers. To To getthere, there,gogo miles past main get 1.21.2 miles past thethe main Rattlesnaketrailhead trailhead parking Rattlesnake parking areaarea onSawmill SawmillGulch Gulch Road. on Road.

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Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

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Page 25 45

MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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-devel46 | MISSOULIAN, 2019 oped 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 EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN (north) side of the road. Parking space is available for 12 cars and two horse trailers.

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

NOW CARE

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.

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

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South Hills trail system

High Park

Pattee Canyon Road

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Way

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24th Street

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High Park Loop

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Whitaker Drive

Russell Street

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Briggs Street

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Miles: 0.93 Elevation gain: Little Surface: 0.7 Asphalt, 0.23 gravel/ earth Dogs: On leash

Miloler

Meadow Hill Trail

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Bro

City open space and parks S Conservation easement – public access Conservation easement – no public acce

39th Street

Upper

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.

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

Reserve Street

Larchmont Golf Course

d Trail

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.

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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

Arthur Avenue

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

k ar Cl

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

E S

rai

Beckwith Ave.

South Avenue

any on T He llga te C

Mount Sentinel

Woodworth Ave.

Maurice Avenue

Higgins Avenue

Evans Ave.

tine

l Fir

e Ro

any

eC Roa

Penge l ly

te Pat

Mo Z Trail

Ridg eT ra il

Sen

University Golf Course

Croo

ked

T H

Trai

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.

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MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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

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hbrmap

Blue Mountain Recreation Area

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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Page 31

MISSOULIAN, 2019 |

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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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

Chief Looking Glass FLORENCE

Florence Bridge Poker Joe

Bass Creek

Bu rnt

STEVENSVILLE

Cree

VICTOR Fred Burr Cr ee

Woodside Bridge Blodgett Creek Demmons

B itterroot River

Angler’s Roost

Rock Creek

Bell Crossing

Bi t

Tucker Crossing

Lake Como

Fo rk

er Riv ot ro ter

Big

DARBY Darby Bridge

HAMILTON

Sk alk ah o

Cre

Wally Crawford

il d

Cr eek

Hannon Memorial Rye Creek

W.W. White Memorial

itterroot River ork B st F Ea N

rro

ver

Forest Cooper

CORVALLIS

ng epi Sle

tte

Bi Fo rk We st

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

5 Miles

C reek

River

M ont

Harry Morgan

Brown’s Lake

Nevada Cedar Meadow HELMVILLE

Ninemile Prairie Road (Blackfoot Corridor Road)

Thibodeau Rapids

Fo rk R

Thibodeau

is very rough. Discharge of weapons West Fork Bitterroot River 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.

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

gl a

Creek

Whitaker Bridge

CLINTON

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

Belmont Creek

ood nw tto

eek Cr

C reek

Cr ee k

o kf o lac

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

t oo ckf Bla

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

See detail below

Monture Creek 200 Russell Scotty OVANDO Gates River Brown rt Memorial Junction N o Bridge

For kB

Crossing

Sheep Flats

Harpers Lake

ur e

Blackfoot River Recreation Corridor Clearwater

Upsata Lake

Creek

w Cotto n

rwa ea t e r River Cl

oo d

ek Cre ld Go

N W

iver

ver

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.

Blackfoot River

la.

Blackfoot River fishing access sites

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. 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).

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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

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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.

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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.

Clearwater River

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.

Lower Clark Fork River and adjacent areas

(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 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.

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.

No tubes? No wheels? No problem! Launched Summer 2021, Clark Fork Yacht

(Brown trout, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, Club is Missoula’s new way to float the river. An inspired and fun solution to the mountain whitefish, northern pike, slog of car transport and the drudgery of tube wrangling, the Yacht Club provides everything you need to float the river, minus the hassle. From flamingo 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

pink tubes complete with a butt hammock to a quick shuttle trip in a flashy painted van. The Yacht Club is conveniently headquartered steps from the river in an alley on the Hip Strip and also provides storage of your stuff while you join the flotilla of tubers on Missoula’s river. Find us on Instagram, Facebook M i s s o u l a’ s C o M M u n i t y and easily book float R i v ae R s hat o pclarkforkyachtclub.com SUP, SURF, RAFT, KAYAK, TUBE AND DRY SUIT RENTALS

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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.

Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022

Flatiron Ridge

THOMPSON FALLS

POLSON

200 Clark Fork Riv er

HOT SPRINGS PABLO

McKay Landing

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Tarkio Ralph’s Takout

ALBERTON

Big Pine

Fo est

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Cyr Bridge St. John’s Natural Pier

ARLEE

FRENCHTOWN

Erskine Petty Deep Upper Creek Creek Harper’s Bridge Osprey Lower Kona Bridge MISSOULA Osprey Kelly Island ek

Fis h C r e

Lower Clark Fork River

ST. IGNATIUS

DIXON

Dry Creek

Kookoosint

135 ST. REGIS

RONAN

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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.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

BONNER

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RENTALS~SALES~SERVICE

Rafts, Packrafts, Kayaks, SUPs, River Surf, Tubes, & More!

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Photo by Ben Allan Smith, Missoulian

We have EXPANDED! Raft & Climbing Gear

Page 36

Explore: Hike Bike Run Float 2022

| MISSOULIAN, 2019

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MISSOULA

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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Brennan’s Wave

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Bess Reed Turah

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Schwartz Creek

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Bearmouth

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fairgrounds. 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 electrically operated boat motors only. ADA trine. Discharge of weapons restricted 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.

EXPLORE: HIKE, BIKE, RUN

Bitterroo

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) Stuart Mill Bay; 15 campsites – burg on County Road 348. 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.

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