Summertime in and near Missoula, Montana means endless blue skies, warm sunshine, and a beckoning call to the great outdoors. It's the perfect season to lace up your hiking boots or sneakers, pack some snacks, and head out for a day of adventure. And with an abundance of pet-friendly trails to choose from, you'll never run out of new paths to explore.
In this blog post, we're diving into the treasure trove of pet-friendly hikes near Missoula. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, there's something for every hiker and their four-legged friend. So, grab your hiking boots, leash up your pup, and let's embark on a journey through the stunning landscapes of western Montana.
Kim Williams Nature Trail
( Click the title to explore this trail in AllTrails App)
Type: Easy
Length: 15.8 km (9.8 mi)
Elevation gain: 69 m ( 226 ft)
Dogs: on leash
Discover this 15.8-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 3 h 0 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Milk Thistle
deer creek loop
Type: Easy
Length: 4.5km (2.8 mi)
Elevation gain: 95m (311 ft)
Dogs: on leash
Get to know this 4.5-km loop trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 7 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through July. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Hiking with dogs near Missoula, Montana
The “L” Trail
Type: Moderate
Length: 2.7 km (1.6 mi)
Elevation gain: 190 m (623 ft)
Dogs: yes!
Get to know this 2.7-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 8 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Blue Mountain Lookout Deadman Ridge Trail
Type: Moderate
Length: 7.7 km (4.7 mi)
Elevation gain: 241 m (790 ft)
Dogs: yes!
Head out on this 7.7-km loop trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 12 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and horseback riding, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
the “M” Trail
Type: Moderate
Length: 1.9 km (1.1 mi)
Elevation Gain: 196 m (643 ft)
Dogs: on leash
Try this 1.9-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 1 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through August. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Hiking the M Trail in Missoula, Montana
waterworks hill
Type: Easy
Length: 5.6 km (3.4 mi)
Elevation gain: 216 m (708 ft)
Dogs: yes
Explore this 5.6-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 44 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
MOUNT JUMBO TRAIL
Type: Hard
Length: 10.3 km (6.4 mi)
Elevation gain: 709 m (2300 ft)
Dogs: yes
Check out this 10.3-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 17 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Dandelion
saddle trail
Type: Moderate
Length: 6.9 km (4.2 mi)
Elevation gain: 202 m (662 ft)
Dogs: yes!
Discover this 6.9-km out-and-back trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 55 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking, mountain biking, and running, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
Saddle Trail in Missoula Montana
Froehlich trail and ridge trail loop
Type: Moderate
Length: 6.8 km (4.2 mi)
Elevation gain: 234 m (767 ft)
Dogs: yes
Discover this 6.8-km loop trail near Missoula, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 0 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through June.
whitaker bridge trail
Type: Moderate
Length: 11.4 km (7.8 mi)
Elevation gain: 173 m (567 ft)
Dogs: yes
Explore this 11.4-km out-and-back trail near Bonner, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 37 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring.
Whitaker Bridge Trail
garnet ghost town and hike
Type: Easy
Length: 4.8 km ( 2.9 mi)
Elevation gain: 141 m (462 ft)
Dogs: yes
Enjoy this 4.8-km out-and-back trail near Garnet Ghosts Town (worth a visit!). Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 21 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through September.
morrell falls
Type: Moderate
Length: 8.9 km ( 5.5 mi )
Elevation gain: 139 m (456 ft)
Dogs: yes
Try this 8.9-km out-and-back trail near Seeley Lake, Montana. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 2 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
holland falls
Type: Easy
Length: 5.3 km ( 3.2 mi)
Elevation gain: 148 m ( 485 ft)
Dogs: on leash
Explore this 5.3-km out-and-back trail near Condon, Montana. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 27 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and fishing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Holland Lake Views from Holland Falls HIke
BONUS HIKE: Bluebird Trail
Type: Easy
Length: 1.6 km (0.9 mi)
Elevation gain: 121m (396 ft)
Dogs: yes!
A brand new trail in Missoula, the latest additional to our Conservation lands system. Bluebird Preserve Trail is a 124-acre parcel which due to it’s newness should be crowd-free and should add a bigger variety to seasoned hikers and locals looking to explore more with their furry best friends.
So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor to the Big Sky Country State, Missoula's pet-friendly hiking scene promises endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. From leisurely strolls to adrenaline-pumping ascents, there's a trail waiting for you and your furry friend to discover.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, leash up your pup, and embark on the ultimate summertime adventure in Missoula, Montana. Trust me – the trails are calling, and they're ready to be explored!
