CAN’T-MISS HIKES

ZIP LINING For the dry-land thrill seeker, or anyone who craves the sensation of flying, Montana Snowbowl ski area boasts a dizzying collection of zip lines in the summer that will pump your adrenaline into overdrive.

RUNNING The Missoula Marathon was ranked the #1 marathon in the U.S. by BibRave and The Runner’s Edge in downtown Missoula was named the Best Running Store in the U.S. It’s safe to say, Missoula loves to run. And with all the trails and wide-open spaces, it’s no wonder. As many as 40 organized races are held here each year, where Run Wild Missoula is a way of life.

 THE “M” TRAIL (MOUNT SENTINEL). TAYLAR ROBBINS

Hiking in Missoula is one of those activities almost anyone can appreciate. From stunning steep peaks to peaceful, leisurely strolls, it’s one of Missoula’s most popular pastimes.

THE “M” (MOUNT SENTINEL) A quick hike that’s all about the incline and the fresh air, ascending the “M” offers the quintessential snapshot of Missoula Valley.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: 1.5 MILES

WATERWORKS HILL Multiple trails encourage exploration and every bend shares something new. Hike to the ever-evolving rock and stone community-made peace sign.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: 0.7 MILES

THE “L” (MOUNT JUMBO) A system of trails spreads out in all directions, and in the spring the arrowleaf balsamroot flower paints the entire face of the mountain yellow.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: 1 MILE

BLUE MOUNTAIN Succumbing to the wilderness surrounding Missoula, these trails deliver sweeping views and a sense of out-of-town adventure among their many twists and turns.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: 6.2 MILES

PATTEE CANYON Several trails crisscross acres of a thickly wooded wonderland where getting lost is as easy as finding your way back.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: 1.5 MILES

RATTLESNAKE NATIONAL RECREATION AREA AND WILDERNESS Five miles from downtown, you’ll find this spectacular area with 60,000 acres and a system of trails that open up new pockets of nature for all who venture in.

DISTANCE FROM DOWNTOWN: RATTLESNAKE TRAILHEAD - 5 MILES

MOUNT DEAN STONE New trails continue to open on this 4,200 acre complex, including the Barmeyer Trail, the single-track Inez Creek Trail, and the House of Sky Trail—Mount Dean Stone’s latest addition.