Land Agency
Missoula County
406.258.4657
Just a short drive east of Missoula, Marshall Mountain is a historic recreation area that has been part of the community for nearly a century. Once a beloved local ski hill where generations of Missoulians learned to ski, the mountain has since transformed into a year-round outdoor destination. Marshall Mountain is a mountain biker’s dream featuring the area’s only purpose-built, directional mountain bike trails, including the adaptive-friendly downhill trail “Mission to MARS” and the Missoula Valley’s first sanctioned double-black diamond trail, “Marshall Arts.” Although the mountain hosts competitive bike racing throughout the spring and into the summer, Marshall is open to more than just biking, with trails for hiking, running and backcountry winter recreation. With open slopes, scenic views and a rich history tied to Missoula’s outdoor culture, visitors of all skill levels will find adventure just minutes from town. Bring plenty of water, stay on designated trails and enjoy this unique public recreation area responsibly. No dogs or e-bikes are allowed. Open during daylight hours.
Trail Tip: Mountain Line offers free weekend shuttles to Marshall Mountain park from June – Oct. The bus departs from the downtown transfer center in Missoula.
When the snow flies in Missoula, Marshall Mountain Park provides convenient public access for backcountry skiers and snowboarders. From the base area parking lot, climb the left side of the Challenger run to the old mid-mountain lift terminal (0.5 miles, 850 feet of climbing) or continue up the old T-Bar line to USFS land and the top of the historic ski cuts. When transitioning for the downhill, you’ll find three legacy ski runs and can choose to carve the open country or flow between trees in the glades.
Note: Winter recreation is at your own risk. All users are strongly encouraged to carry avalanche safety gear and know how to use it when backcountry skiing and snowboarding at Marshall Mountain Park and on surrounding public lands. There is no ski patrol on duty or lift service. Snow conditions can change rapidly, and winter terrain is not maintained.
Length: 2.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 1,400 ft. elevation gain
Time: 1.5-2hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Enjoy interstellar travel and defy gravity on a circuit of rolling jumps and perfectly packed berms. Ascend on the dedicated climbing trail, Izzy Up, then take the adaptive-friendly Mission to MARS down to the base area.
Note: This trail is accessible with an adaptive bike, not a wheelchair.
Length: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 600 ft. elevation gain
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy- Moderate
For more experienced riders, travel Izzy Up and race through Hello Kitty before an enjoyable descent down the Mission to MARS trail.
Length: 6.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 1,200 ft. elevation gain
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Let loose on a meandering woodland loop with a stunning view from the Hot Sauce knoll. A steady ascent from Marshall’s base rewards you with a swooping, flowy descent, with a chance of wildlife sightings around every turn. Time it right in May, you’ll find yourself running, walking, or biking in a wildflower dream.
Note: This trail this is accessible with an adaptive bike, not a wheelchair.
Length: 5.8 miles round trip
Elevation: 1,200 ft. elevation gain
Time: 1.5-2 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.
