Blue Mountain Equestrian Trail

Beautiful mountain vistas loom in the distance of the Blue Mountain Equestrian Trail near Missoula, Montana. If you are looking for a great outdoor adventure to hike with your fur-ever friend, this is it.

Located in the Lobo National Forest on over 2 million acres of land, this trail is where you and Fido can hike for 9.10 miles in the backcountry of the state. Pick up this trail on Blue Mountain Road, just a mile north of Hwy 93 South. There are spectacular views of Bitterroot River and the Missoula Valley to enjoy and photograph. If you follow the trail to the end, you'll reach the Blue Mountain Lookout Tower. You will have to travel back to get to your car, so plan your hike accordingly. 

The path is made up of dirt and stone and is maintained quite well by the Backcountry Horsemen. The best seasons to hike are during the spring, summer and fall and anytime during the winter when there is no snow on the ground. The temperatures in the summer months remain quite moderate most of the year, and there is plenty of opportunity to rest alongside the path under the shade of trees.

The grade on average is about 12% and the entire hike gains over 3000 feet in elevation. Be advised to take only those pups that are in great shape. Newbies to hiking should proceed with caution and work up gradually to completing this hike. Be sure to take plenty of water and snacks for this adventure. There are no restrooms along the way so plan accordingly.

This shared-use trail offers fun for horseback riders, bicyclists and hikers so it is important to keep your fur-ever friend on leash at all times, for everyone’s safety. However, there are some water sources where you can let your pup cool his paws or take a swim off leash.

You won’t be disappointed by the Blue Mountain Equestrian Trail in the Big Sky country!