Blue Mountain Trail #3.01

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Be alert for mountain bikers in the first ~1.5 mi of this trail. Keep in mind much of the middle of this section of this trail is in a regrowing burned section- wear sunscreen. This is black bear and mountain lion territory- always carry bear spray!

The one that started it all. This is the original trail leading from the main Blue Mountain parking area all the way to the summit of Blue Mountain. Too long for one trek? No problem! There are multiple access points to different sections of this trail along forest road 365.

For those interested in completing the whole route, camping is permitted in the West Area of the Recreation Area (anywhere along the trail about 1.5 mi beyond the trailhead). Keep in mind that there are few suitable campsites through the middle 50% of this trail, though. There are spectacular views of the Missoula valley at multiple points along this trail which courses through a variety of ecological systems.

Wildflowers abound through the spring and summer. Deer, small mammals, birds.