The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Missoula

There are 7 dog-friendly hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Missoula area, offering a range of experiences from easy riverside strolls to more challenging mountain ascents. These trails are perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Northern Rockies with your canine companion.

Yes, Missoula offers several easy dog-friendly hikes. For a gentle riverside walk, consider the Milwaukee to Kim Williams Trail, which follows the scenic Clark Fork River. Another excellent option is the Clark Fork River – McCormick Park loop, offering a pleasant stroll through McCormick Park and along the river.

For stunning panoramic views, the trails around Mount Sentinel are highly recommended. The Jacob's Island – The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop offers rewarding vistas of Missoula, the Clark Fork River, and surrounding mountains. While challenging, the views from The M Trail on Mount Sentinel are iconic.

Yes, several dog-friendly circular routes are available. The Clark Fork River – McCormick Park loop is an easy option. For a moderate challenge with great views, try the Jacob's Island – The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop, which provides a complete circuit around a prominent Missoula landmark.

Missoula's dog-friendly trails offer varied terrain. You'll find paved paths along the Kim Williams Trail, well-maintained dirt trails with switchbacks on Mount Sentinel, and more rugged, natural surfaces in areas like the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Many trails wind through forests, alongside rivers, and up hillsides, providing a mix of experiences.

Many trails in Missoula follow the Clark Fork River, providing opportunities for your dog to cool off. The Milwaukee to Kim Williams Trail and the Clark Fork River – McCormick Park loop both run alongside the river, offering easy access points for dogs to splash and drink.

Along Missoula's dog-friendly trails, you can encounter several notable landmarks. The iconic The M Trail on Mount Sentinel offers a direct path to the large 'M' overlooking the city. The Kim Williams Trail provides scenic views of the Clark Fork River, and McCormick Park is a pleasant green space along the river.

The Missoula area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of trails directly from the city, the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking with dogs enjoyable.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the The M Trail on Mount Sentinel – Mount Sentinel loop from Mount Jumbo is a difficult 17 km route with significant elevation gain. This trail offers an extensive workout and expansive views, connecting two of Missoula's prominent peaks.

Spring and fall are generally ideal for hiking with dogs in Missoula, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are best, and always ensure your dog has plenty of water. Winter hiking is also possible on many trails, but be prepared for snow and ice.

Yes, the Missoula area provides excellent access to the Lolo National Forest. While specific routes within this guide might not directly enter the forest, the Trailhead - Lolo National Forest highlight indicates a starting point for exploring the vast network of trails available in this region, many of which are dog-friendly.