Land Agency
City of Missoula
406.552.6000
The Grant Creek Trail and Bluebird Preserve together offer one of Missoula’s most accessible outdoor recreation areas on the valley’s north side. The paved Grant Creek Trail winds through the scenic Grant Creek corridor, connecting neighborhoods and open space along a peaceful creekside route. The Bluebird Preserve expands the experience with rolling grasslands, native wildflowers, natural wildlife habitat and breathtaking views of the Missoula and Bitterroot valleys. Together, these adjacent areas provide a unique blend of easy walking and biking opportunities, conservation land and scenic open space, making them a popular destination for recreation close to town.
Choose your own challenge on the Grant Creek Trail. This smooth, paved trail is accessible for all users and travels up the Grant Creek Valley. Listen for birds as you pass the Charlotte Reed Marbut Nature Reserve or stop and say hello to the cattle herd at the Grant Creek Ranch. Adventurers looking for a challenge can continue past the Grant Creek Trail to Snowbowl Road or the Ravine Creek Trail in the Lolo National Forest.
Length: 6.7 mile round trip
Elevation: 488 ft. elevation gain
Time: 2.5-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
See another side of the North Hills at the Bluebird Preserve. Start at the Bluebird trailhead. Climb up the Bluebird Trail, then enjoy the rolling terrain of the Red Tail Trail. Turn onto the Overlook Trail to take a break and enjoy the view of the Missoula Valley and Lolo Peak. Follow the Bluebird Trail back to the trailhead.
Length: 2.3 miles round trip
Elevation: 433 ft. elevation gain
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
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.
