Land Agency
Five Valleys Land Trust
406.549.0755
Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
406.542.4300
Mount Dean Stone is a 4,200-acre open space on the southern edge of Missoula, offering miles of trails and expansive views from its 6,200-foot ridgeline. Popular with hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers, the area provides year-round opportunities to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys. Some trails require travel on gravel roads and may be closed during winter to support wildlife conservation efforts.
Trail Tip: A Montana Conservation License is required for anyone using the Skyline to Barmeyer Trail, as portions of the route cross Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) lands. Licenses are available online through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) and should be obtained before your visit.
This scenic point-to-point route offers expansive views of the Missoula Valley. It starts with a brisk climb from the Skyline Ridge trailhead before a long descent down the House of Sky Trail to the Barmeyer trailhead in lower Pattee Canyon. A great choice either on foot or on wheels.
Note: For the Skyline to Barmeyer Trail, users will need a state conservation license, available from FWP.
Length: 10 miles round trip
Elevation: 920 ft. elevation gain
Time: 3-3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
A nice and easy loop trail in the Mount Dean Stone Community Forest by way of Miller Creek. Wind through the ponderosas, arrowleaf balsamroot and antelope bitterbrush while keeping an eye out for mule deer, elk and bears.
Note: Dogs are not allowed above the Woodsy property (directly above the South Hills Spur) from Dec. 1 – May 15 each year. Signs are posted where this closure area begins. The entire House of Sky Trail is under a winter closure from Dec. 1 – May 15
Length: 1.2 miles round trip
Elevation: 290 ft. elevation gain
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
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.
