Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail

The Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail can be accessed from several points. Common starting points include the Sousa Trailhead and the Barmeyer Trailhead. These trailheads provide the first safe, legal public access from the valley floor up to the Mount Dean Stone ridge.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users. Be aware of seasonal closures in some areas for wildlife conservation.

The trail is enjoyable for much of the year, but some areas have seasonal closures from January 1 to May 15 to protect elk and other wildlife habitats. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail. The preserve was established to provide public access and recreational opportunities.

The terrain is diverse, featuring manageable grades with an average 8% incline, which is less steep than some other local trails. You'll encounter banked switchbacks and generally low climb gradients designed for sustainability. Expect some uneven sections with rocks and roots, especially on longer routes. The trail winds through forests of Douglas Fir, Western Larch, and Ponderosa Pine, opening into scenic subalpine meadows at higher elevations.

As you ascend, you'll be treated to beautiful views of the Missoula Valley, the northern Bitterroot Valley, and Pattee Canyon. Notable points of interest include the View of Mount Dean Stone and the Barmeyer Loop and Scenic Overlook. Depending on the season, you might also spot wildflowers and various wildlife like small mammals, birds, and deer.

While the trail features manageable grades, its overall length and elevation gain classify it as difficult. It involves a fair amount of climbing. Beginners might find shorter sections or out-and-back options more suitable, but the full route requires a good level of fitness. It's considered intermediate to difficult.

Yes, the Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail is an extension of existing routes and integrates with other paths. The route passes through sections of the High Wide and Handsome trail and the Barmeyer Trail, including the Barmeyer Trail - Overlook. It represents the first time safe, legal public access from the valley floor up to the Mount Dean Stone ridge has been available, connecting to these established routes.

You might spot small mammals, various bird species, and deer. Given the natural habitat, it's also possible to encounter larger wildlife. Hikers are advised to carry bear spray as a precaution and be aware of their surroundings, especially during dawn and dusk.

The Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail itself can be hiked as part of various routes. While it connects to form longer circuits, the primary access from trailheads like Sousa or Barmeyer often involves out-and-back sections to reach the highest points. For example, from the Sousa Trailhead, reaching the highest point is a 4.52-mile hike one way.

For longer routes, such as those extending from the Sousa or Barmeyer Trailheads, be prepared for significant elevation gain (up to 2,340 feet from Barmeyer). Starting early is advisable, especially in warmer months, to avoid the heat and allow ample time. Given the multi-use nature, be mindful of mountain bikers, and consider carrying bear spray due to wildlife presence.