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.
Year round, the trails through town and in the surrounding mountains are visited by hikers, bikers and equestrians, and our rivers are enjoyed by anglers, boaters, floaters, surfers and many more looking to spend a perfect day on our world-class waterways. One of the reasons outdoor lovers return to the mountains and rivers of Missoula to recreate time and time again is thanks to the pristine condition of our beloved outdoor spaces—and we believe that it is the responsibility of us all to make sure Missoula’s wild spaces stay wild, clean and safe for all to enjoy for generations to come. 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.
Trail Etiquette
Rolling hills, sweeping vistas, snowpeaked mountains in the distance, miles of uninterrupted nature and the comforting feeling of taking a deep breath of fresh air—Missoula’s trail systems never disappoint. Whether you are taking a short walk near town or setting off on an all-day adventure, always do your part to keep Missoula’s trail systems pristine and to follow trail etiquette rules.
Stay on the path: Wandering off trail can lead to erosion and harm fragile ecosystems. Stick to the trail (even when muddy) to best preserve our recreational spaces.
Know seasonal closures: For your safety and the safety of the animals who call this place home, do your research on seasonal and trail closures before heading out on your adventure.
Take photos, not petals: Wildflowers do more than add to the beautiful landscapes—every bloom plays a role in keeping Missoula’s ecosystems healthy. Take all the photos you want, but please do not pick the wildflowers.
Follow the signs: Respecting and following posted signage is a simple way to show you care for this place while you explore.
Be a good trail buddy: Pick up after your dog, respect areas where dogs are not allowed and adhere to local leash laws to keep the trails safe and enjoyable for all.
Give wildlife space: Marvel and observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed them, including leaving food unattended—for your safety and theirs, wild is exactly how they should stay.
Share the trail: Know who has the right-of-way and be courteous to hikers, bikers and equestrians alike.
Let nature be your soundtrack: Be mindful of noise so everyone can enjoy the peaceful sounds of the natural world—stick to headphones and avoid the use of speakers while on trails.
River Etiquette
In Missoula, a river really does run through it! The Clark Fork River runs straight through the heart of town, connecting to the historic and scenic Blackfoot and Bitterroot rivers on the eastern and western ends of the city, so river recreation comes with the territory. Whether you are choosing to cast a line in the blue-ribbon waters, trying your hand at river surfing on Brennan’s Wave or spending a leisurely day floating, be sure to practice both river safety and etiquette to keep our waterways healthy and flowing freely.
Ditch the glass: Glass can break and create harmful situations for both wildlife and people recreating on the water. Opt for river-friendly containers instead.
Leave no trace: Pack out all trash, secure your belongings and pick up any litter if you see it. Small actions make a big difference in keeping our rivers clean.
Pack your personal protective equipment: Life jackets and sun protection are musts for river recreating. Conditions can change quickly and ensuring you are protected from the elements is the simplest way of staying safe for a fun day on the water.
Know before you go: Always consult with local river conditions and weather forecasts before recreating on the water. Prepare your route ahead of time, including your chosen river access points and transportation needs. Be aware of hoot owl restrictions during warmer months to help protect fish populations.
Respect fellow river users: Anglers, boaters, floaters, surfers and swimmers all share these waterways. Give others space and be mindful of where and how you recreate.
Explore responsibly: Adhere to all posted signage along the river and avoid entering private lands. Only use designated access points and be sure to stay on established riverbank paths to protect habitats for local wildlife.
Together, we can do our part to keep Missoula wild, wonderful and welcoming for all. Check out our Destination Stewardship Plan for more information on how to take care of this place.
