The best running trails in Missoula County

Missoula County offers a wide selection of jogging routes, with over 70 different tours available on komoot. These routes cater to various fitness levels, from easy riverside paths to challenging mountain ascents.

The jogging routes in Missoula County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners frequently praise the diverse terrain, from scenic riverfront paths along the Clark Fork River to challenging trails with panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Yes, Missoula County has several easy running paths perfect for beginners or a relaxed jog. The Beartracks Bridge loop from Missoula is a great option, offering a relatively flat 3.3-mile path through riverfront areas. The Kim Williams Trail, which runs parallel to the Clark Fork River, also provides accessible and gentle terrain.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain. Missoula County features flat, paved paths along the Clark Fork River, wide dirt trails like the Kim Williams Trail, and challenging single-track ascents in areas like Mount Sentinel and the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. The landscape includes river bottoms, forested areas, and mountain slopes.

Missoula County is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails welcoming leashed dogs. Greenough Park offers a paved trail and shorter single-track options where dogs are often seen. Additionally, Jacobs Island is a 6-acre dog park on the banks of the Clark Fork River, and many of the wider, shared-use paths are suitable for running with your canine companion. Always check local regulations for specific trail rules.

Absolutely. Many of Missoula's city trails, such as sections of the Clark Fork Riverfront Trails and the Milwaukee Trail, are paved and relatively flat, making them ideal for families. Greenough Park also offers an easy, paved loop. These routes provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.

For a challenging workout with significant elevation gain, consider routes like The M Trail on Mount Sentinel – Mount Sentinel loop from Missoula. This difficult 4.3-mile route features over 550 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Mount Sentinel loop from University of Montana, which covers 10.5 km with over 600 meters of climbing.

For stunning views, the trails on Mount Sentinel are unparalleled. The The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop from Missoula offers panoramic vistas of the city and valley. The Bitterroot Trail, stretching for over 50 miles, also provides wide-open views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Bitterroot Mountains and Sapphire Range.

Yes, many of the best running routes in Missoula County are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular loop options include the Clark Fork River – Kim Williams Trail loop from Orchard Homes, a moderate 6.9-mile path, and the North Hills Ridge Summit – Cherry Gulch Trail loop from Missoula, a moderate 7.1-km route.

While jogging in Missoula County, you can encounter several natural landmarks. The iconic The M Trail on Mount Sentinel offers not only a great workout but also incredible views. The Kim Williams Trail runs alongside the scenic Clark Fork River. You might also explore areas near the Lolo National Forest or Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, known for their pristine wilderness.

Missoula County offers excellent jogging opportunities year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases stunning autumn colors. Summer is also great, especially in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat, and winter offers unique snow running experiences on groomed trails.

Yes, winter running is possible and popular in Missoula County. Many of the city's paved trails, like sections of the Clark Fork Riverfront Trails, are often cleared or packed down, making them suitable for winter jogs. Some areas, like the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, may also have trails suitable for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, which can be adapted for winter running with appropriate gear.

Many jogging routes in Missoula County offer convenient parking. Trails accessible from within Missoula city often have nearby street parking or designated lots. For example, routes along the Clark Fork River, such as the Running loop from Missoula, typically have good access. Larger parks and recreation areas like Blue Mountain Recreation Area also provide ample parking facilities at their trailheads.