North Loop Trail

The North Loop Trail is a fun after-work or anytime trail in Missoula's North Hills, located between Mount Jumbo and the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Abundant trails weave in and out of this beautiful area within easy reach of downtown, offering a great mix of hiking trails -- all with great views.

For the well-signed North Hills Trail, head to the Lincoln Hills / North Loop Trailhead tucked into the neighborhoods of the North Hills. Head either way on this looped trail, although be aware that if you want to head counter-clockwise, you'll need to start heading east on the Jumbo Saddle Road for 1/10 of a mile. To go clockwise, a clear trailhead marks the beginning of the North Loop Trail.

Much of the route is a double-wide retired Forest Service road with very moderate elevation gain. This, combined with the fact that cut-offs exist to reduce the four-mile hike nearly in half, makes the North Loop Trail a great family-friendly and beginner-friendly hike. The views of the Missoula Valley also don't disappoint, and the route navigates deep into the forest to really get a feeling of being out of the city. 

Several trails intersect with the North Loop Trail, but abundant signage makes it pretty easy to navigate. Still, a map or GPS can help if it's your first time visiting. The North Loop Trail doesn't fully connect, and the last eastern section uses a small portion of the Jumbo Saddle Road to connect back to the parking lot.