Land Agency
U.S. Forest Service
406.329.3814
Blue Mountain Recreation Area boasts 4,900 acres and includes 41 miles of scenic trails that can be enjoyed year-round. The area’s wide open spaces are popular with off-leash dog walkers. Along with endless ways to wander, Blue Mountain is also home to an 18-hole disc golf course and snowmobile trails that open up in the wintertime. While there is year-round access to all kinds of recreation, keep in mind that many of these trails are only accessible by gravel road.
Trail Tip: Blue Mountain’s extensive network of interconnected trails makes it easy to customize your hike, but it can also be easy to take a wrong turn. Bring a map of the area or download a trail map before you head out so you can explore with confidence.
This nature trail hugs the Bitterroot River and offers a relaxing walk along the water’s edge. Popular with birders and families, the trail features interpretive signs, benches and access to the river.
Note: Biking and motorized use—including e-bikes—are not permitted.
Length: 1.8 miles round trip
Elevation: 13 ft. elevation gain
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Start at the Blue Mountain trailhead, where the trail leads from open grasslands into shaded pine woods before climbing to the Rocky Top viewpoint and sweeping views of the valley below.
Note: No motorized use—including e-bikes—is permitted
Length: 4.4 miles round trip
Elevation: 803 ft. elevation gain
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
This route is perfect for a day on foot—or on horseback. Start at the Blue Mountain trailhead and follow Trail #3.01 all the way to Blue Mountain Lookout. Along the way, there are sections of exposed grassland, shaded pine woods and multiple sets of switchbacks to assist in your ascent and descent.
Note: Bikes and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trail
Length: 9.7 miles round trip
Elevation: 3,478 ft. elevation gain
Time: 5-7 hours
Difficulty: Hard
To access the motorized trailhead, take Forest Service Road #365 for about 3 miles. The motorized trailhead will be on the south side of the road. There are many trails to explore in this area of Blue Mountain. These trails are technical and challenging; please be prepared and know your limits when exploring this area.
Note: Off-road vehicle permit required (can be purchased at Missoula County Courthouse); season open May 1 – Dec. 1. An off-highway vehicle (OHV) decal—available at the Missoula County Courthouse—is required to ride these trails. Montana law also requires that motorcycles and ATVs driven on public roads be street-legal and registered with the Montana Department of Motor Vehicles.
Length: 3.8 miles of ATV access 14.5 miles of motorcycle access
Time: Variable Time
Difficulty: Hard
Situated in the heart of five mountain valleys and at the confluence of three rivers, Missoula, Montana, is a haven for outdoor recreation and nature enthusiasts, as well as an important habitat and migration corridor for many animal species critical to the intermountain west’s vibrant wilderness. Whether you are just passing through or if you call Missoula home, here are some ways you can do your part to keep Missoula beautiful from peak to paddle.
