The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in the Mission Range
4.9
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878
hikers
10
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Dog friendly hiking trails in the Mission Range traverse a landscape characterized by rugged, glaciated peaks that rise abruptly from the valley floor, with many summits exceeding 9,000 feet. The region features abundant alpine lakes, numerous waterfalls, and varied terrain including timbered slopes, open meadows, and vertical cliffs. Dense forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover lower elevations, giving way to alpine larch higher up.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in the Mission Range
- The most popular dog friendly…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
3.64km
00:56
20m
10m
The Kim Williams Trail, following the old Milwaukee Railroad grade, offers a delightful and accessible hike along the Clark Fork River in Missoula. You'll experience continuous river views, passing through…
18.0km
05:49
740m
740m
Embark on the Moon Lake Trail, a difficult 11.2-mile (18.0 km) hiking route that winds through the rugged terrain of Flathead National Forest. You will encounter varied landscapes and the…
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27
hikers
5.57km
01:49
240m
240m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
22
hikers
6.63km
01:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
4.19km
01:05
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Mission Range
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Tips from the Community
Near Bigfork the river becomes a traveling mountain river with wild rapids
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Jacob's Island is a dog park on the banks of Clark Fork River. The park is 6-acres and the river works as a beautiful natural barrier for the dogs. It also offers a series of paved and unpaved trails, benches, picnic tables and dog-waste bags.
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Jacob's Island is a dog park on the banks of Clark Fork River. The park is 6 acres and the river works as a beautiful natural barrier for the dogs. It also offers a series of paved and unpaved trails, benches, picnic tables and dog-waste bags.
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Swan River Trail, nestled in beautiful Bigfork, is a 4.2-mile trail that follows the meandering Swan River. This path offers year-round enjoyment, perfect for biking, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and leisurely walks with your furry friend. Enjoy the views of the river and the picturesque surroundings as you explore this scenic gem.
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McCormic Park marks the western terminus of the Kim Williams Trail and the eastern terminus of the Milwaukee Trail. The park has some playing fields, open space, picnic areas, and is nestled up right next to the river.
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The "M" on the west face of Mount Sentinel has been a Missoula landmark since 1908, when Forestry Club members forged a zigzag trail up the mountain and students carried up stones to shape the symbol of the University of Montana. The "M" Trail is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. There are great views of Missoula and the entire valley from the trail, but should be noted that there is no shade, so try and get there early! Being that this trail can get crowded, there are two alternative trails back down the mountain, one in the north towards the tree-line, and a slightly longer detour trail in the south if you continue on Evan's Trail.
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A park with sports fields, trails, a fishing pond & pool. Lots of water fountains, benches and grassy areas.
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McDonald Lake is easily accessible by car. Numerous hikes to beautiful lakes - including Moon Lake - and high peaks start from here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in the Mission Range?
There are 9 dog-friendly hiking trails in the Mission Range featured in this guide, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion.
What types of dog-friendly trails can I find in the Mission Range?
The Mission Range offers a diverse selection of dog-friendly trails. You'll find 5 easy routes perfect for a leisurely stroll, 2 moderate trails for a bit more challenge, and 2 difficult options for experienced hikers and their well-conditioned dogs.
Are there any easy, shorter dog-friendly hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, for an easy and relatively short outing, consider the Milwaukee to Kim Williams Trail. It's just over 3.6 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed walk with your dog.
What is the best time of year to hike with my dog in the Mission Range?
The best time to hike with your dog in the Mission Range is generally between July 1st and October 1st. During this period, the weather is most favorable, and trails are typically free of snow, offering the most enjoyable and safest conditions for outdoor activities.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that offer scenic views or lead to lakes?
Absolutely! The Mission Range is known for its abundant alpine lakes. While hiking, you might encounter stunning views and reach beautiful spots like Cold Lake, Lake Dinah, or Piper Lake. For a challenging hike to a high-alpine lake, the Moon Lake Trail is a difficult but rewarding option.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on dog-friendly trails, and what precautions should I take?
The Mission Range is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and mountain goats. It's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, carry bear spray, and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals, and always secure food properly to prevent attracting wildlife.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in the Mission Range?
Yes, there are dog-friendly loop options. For example, the Swan River Trail loop from Bigfork Diversion Dam offers an easy 6.6 km circular route, perfect for a pleasant outing with your dog.
What are the regulations for dogs in the Mission Mountain Wilderness Area or Tribal Wilderness?
A significant portion of the Mission Range falls within protected wilderness areas, including the Mission Mountain Wilderness Area and the Tribal Wilderness managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. It's essential to check specific permit requirements and regulations for dogs in these areas before your visit, as rules can vary and are in place to protect both wildlife and visitors. You may need a tribal recreation permit for certain areas.
Are there any trails near Missoula that are dog-friendly and offer good views?
Yes, near Missoula, the Jacob's Island – The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop is an easy, dog-friendly option that provides panoramic city views. Another more challenging option that includes The M Trail on Mount Sentinel is the Mount Sentinel loop from Mount Jumbo.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in the Mission Range?
The dog-friendly trails in the Mission Range are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the sense of solitude, and the opportunity to explore rugged landscapes with their dogs.
Are there any specific trails where I might see waterfalls?
The Mission Range is known for its abundant waterfalls, with impressive plunges like Elizabeth and Mission Falls. While specific dog-friendly trails leading directly to these might require research, many routes traverse areas where smaller cascades and streams are common, especially during spring and early summer runoff.
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