The best walks and hikes in the Mission Range

The Mission Range offers a wide variety of hiking experiences with over 50 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks, catering to different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, the Mission Range has 17 easy trails perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is The "M" Trail — Missoula, which is 1.7 miles long and offers great views. Another family-friendly choice is North Hills Ridge & Cherry Gulch Trail loop — Missoula, a 2.2-mile path through hills and gulches.

The Mission Range is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, often called the 'American Alps.' You'll encounter rugged, snowcapped peaks, numerous alpine lakes, and abundant waterfalls like the impressive Elizabeth and Mission Falls. The terrain varies from timbered slopes to open meadows and vertical cliffs. Highlights include The M Trail on Mount Sentinel, Swan River Trail, and various pristine lakes such as Cold Lake and Lake Dinah.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. For a moderate challenge, consider the Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula, a 4.4-mile path with varied terrain. Another option is the Spring Gulch, Wallman and Rattlesnake Trails Loop, a longer moderate route. For a more difficult, extensive loop, explore the Turquoise Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness.

The best time to hike in the Mission Range is generally from late spring through early autumn. During these months, trails are typically free of snow, and the weather is more favorable. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Higher elevations may retain snow longer, so always check conditions before heading out.

The Mission Range is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's stunning natural beauty, the sense of solitude, and the diverse terrain that offers something for every skill level. The abundance of alpine lakes and dramatic peaks are often highlighted as favorite features.

A significant portion of the Mission Range is protected within the Mission Mountain Wilderness Area and the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness. For access to the Tribal Wilderness, managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes, non-tribal members typically need a recreation permit. It's advisable to check with the relevant authorities for current permit requirements before your trip.

Absolutely. The Mission Range is known for its rugged character, offering many trails with substantial elevation gain. For example, the Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula involves over 1,300 feet of elevation gain. More difficult routes like the Turquoise Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness feature over 2,300 feet of ascent, providing a strenuous workout and rewarding views.

The Mission Range is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Hikers might spot grizzly bears, mountain goats, black bears, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer. More elusive creatures like mountain lions, martens, and wolverines also inhabit the area. Birdwatchers can look for bald and golden eagles, common loons, and various woodpeckers.

Yes, the Mission Range is dotted with countless alpine lakes. While specific routes to all lakes aren't listed, trails often lead to or pass by these beautiful bodies of water. The Turquoise Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness is a prime example of a route centered around a stunning lake. You can also find highlights for Cold Lake, Lake Dinah, and Piper Lake.

While many trails can be adapted for day hikes, the rugged and extensive nature of the Mission Range lends itself to multi-day backpacking. Routes like the Turquoise Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness (over 12 miles) or the Heart and Crescent Lake Loop — Mission Mountains Wilderness (over 8 miles) offer the distance and wilderness experience suitable for overnight trips, allowing you to explore deeper into the range's solitude.

The Mission Range features 24 moderate trails, offering a good balance of challenge and accessibility. The Mount Jumbo South Face Trail loop — Missoula is a popular moderate choice, providing varied terrain and scenic views. Another excellent option is the Rattlesnake Trail to Wallman Trail — Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, which is about 5.4 miles long.