Licenses & Permits. Steepish climb up switchbacks, friendly trail-goers and pups and lots of nice views and benches to stop and take a breather along the way. This trail was a bit of a challenge for us senior citizens. If you would like to support UM’s efforts to work with the broader Missoula community in providing stewardship and maintenance of Mt Sentinel’s much-loved and much-used trails, please consider making a donation in any amount to the Friends of the ‘M’ Trail. A series of assaults shut down Missoula's popular M Trail on Friday and sent two people to the hospital. Miles: 3/4 mile to “M”; 1 3/4 miles to top of Mount Sentinel. The parking lot is located on the University of Montana's campus and requires a small parking fee. After just a few minutes on the trail, you begin to get a birds'-eye view of the University of Montana. It is 125' feet long and 100' feet wide. I measured 1.2mi total, but it is definitely challenging. :). Jobs. If you’re looking for an uphill hike with great views of Missoula, you have your choice of two letters: L and M. The M is on a hill above the University of Montana. No excuses. gorgeous views, but if you're not used to much of an incline you'll be needing to take a breather now and then. Payments. In 1912, a wooden letter replaced the one made of stone. The "M" Trail is a switchback trail that runs from the base of Mount Sentinel at the University of Montana campus up to the famous "M". Rising a little over 600 feet from the valley floor, the M towers over all of Missoula. The view of the university, town and surrounding mountains is fantastic. Climbing 620 feet, 3/4 mile to the "M" and 1 3/4 miles to the top of Mount Sentinel. Soon after, the trail begins an intense series of about 14 switchbacks that lead you to the "M," about 750 vertical feet above you. Definitely not a trail you can bring a stroller or bikes on. Friends of the ‘M’ Trail: The Sentinel Hill Climb is conducted solely on University of Montana property. The M trail in Missoula is an iconic landmark in town offering spectacular views of the city and a relatively quick source of strenuous exercise. There are bathrooms in the parking lot. This short, but steep switch-back up the mountain can be a bit strenuous, but not unmanageable depending on your pace. ⁠ Right behind the Carousel for Missoula you’ll see glimpses of the river that … With a river carving through and at the convergence of five mountain ranges, Missoula is a vibrant university town featuring spectacular scenery. I was in Missoula, and gosh darnit, I was going to hike to the Big “M”. Home » Hike Montana: The M Trail Missoula Hike Montana: The M Trail Missoula By Sarah Jane Parker on June 24, 2016 Modified on July 5, 2019 - Leave a Comment If you have little ones keep them close since the side of the mountain is very steep and it would be easy to slip off the trail. The moments we live for in Montana. The trail is rated as moderate and is primarily used for hiking and running. This is a personal favorite of our family; all of us young and … The "M" Trail is a 1.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Missoula, Montana that offers scenic views. Did you even go to Missoula if you didn’t hike the M? But trust us, the view from the "M" is worth the trek. Mount Sentinel: The "M" Trail. 2. The M Trail was established in 1908 when UM students built the original M out of whitewashed rocks. 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. Elevation … The M Trail is one of Missoula's most popular trails, if not the most popular. https://t.co/dtwnhsT9Y1 https://t.co/dtwnhsT9Y1. Bring bug spray - got a few bites. There was a sign on the lock saying it would be closed at night Nov 2-4 though so maybe this is just a temporary thing? 435 Ryman St. Missoula, MT 59802 Phone: 406-552-6000 | TTY: 406-552-6131 Quick Links. but again, beautiful views from the top, and not an incredibly long hike overall. Overall, a good challenge for us. The M Trail is a steep, zigzagging path with many switchbacks and a lot of gain in elevation.From the main trailhead, follow the trail as it straightlines across the base of the meadow. Our message is simple: Unless we act now to curb carbon pollution, our favorite past times are in jeopardy. Jogging Trail Other Facilities. This was a very nice trail, close to town. We’re all looking for that perfect meal, that to-die-for cappuccino, that little slice of something that says, “Hey, I was here, and I fully experienced all things Missoula.”, Order your free travel guide Time brought several transformations to the 'M.'. Went at 8am and the temperature was comfortable. Mission Falls. I took the switchbacks all the way up and the steeper path down which provided its own challenge. A sort of big brother to the L Trail, the M Trail is marked by a giant concrete M, the symbol of the University of Montana. It’s a great short switchback hike right on the outskirts of Missoula and close to the university if you’re looking to take in some great views. Was closed at night on November 4. There are plenty of benches to catch one’s breath and the views are stunning. There are bathrooms in the parking lot. Contact Us. The parking lot is located on the University of Montana's campus and requires a small parking fee. Licenses & Permits. The switch backs down were wonderful. University of Montana: Hike the M - See 240 traveler reviews, 81 candid photos, and great deals for Missoula, MT, at Tripadvisor. Natural area Multiple use trails Back to top. Public Safety. The "M" Trail is a 1.9 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Missoula, Montana that offers scenic views. MISSOULA — Jared Robert Kuntz is facing four felony counts for two incidents that happened on Friday at the M trail on the University of Montana campus. MISSOULA — Jared Robert Kuntz is facing four felony counts for two incidents that happened on Friday at the M trail on the University of Montana campus. The best known symbol of both UM and the City of Missoula is the giant concrete “M” on Mt Sentinel. Great workout...great views...pretty straight up at points. The M trail is a short one, just about 3/4 mile long, but it’s a steep hike and strenuous. Formally known as the Mount Sentinel M Trail, it is only about a mile long with an elevation gain of 620 feet and starts at the east side of the University of Montana campus. Payments. 435 Ryman St. Missoula, MT 59802 Phone: 406-552-6000 | TTY: 406-552-6131 Quick Links. It is the most used trail in Missoula. #VisitMissoula #Missoula #TheresThisPlace⁠ It was originally created in 1908 by the school’s Forestry Club. On the University of Missoula Campus, is a hiking trail known as the M. Its a pretty steep hike, but well worth it. Jobs. loved it! Time your ascent to coincide with sunset and you will thank yourself after! Missoula is located at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and US 93. The M Hike Grace Sievert. A local favorite, the short scramble up Mount Sentinel takes you, courtesy of 11 switchbacks, 620 feet above the valley floor in less than half a mile, giving you a bird's-eye view of the entire Missoula valley and surrounding mountains. Benches are provided every couple of switch-backs. The L is on Mount Jumbo, just to the north. A series of assaults shut down Missoula's popular M Trail on Friday and sent two people to the hospital. 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. Admit it. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Haystack Pass is a great area to rest and enjoy some views before turning back. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment you feel having climbed all the way to the top. Originally constructed in 1908 out of whitewashed rocks and later concreted in place, the M is a landmark worth the trek. Pattee Canyon Took us about 30-35 mins up, 25 mins down. Rising a little over 600 feet from the valley floor, the M towers over all of Missoula. The Sentinel Fire Road is also a popular trail for hikers and walkers. Public Safety. The trailhead is located on the University of Montana campus. hike to the M and an additional 40 min. that was HARD! Mount Sentinel (The "M" Hike) One of Missoula's most popular trails, this hike packs a punch with quick elevation gain up a set of switchbacks. as someone from Illinois, this was pretty difficult, but so worth it! Beehive Basin Trail, Big SkyNot far from the chairlifts of Big Sky Resort—one of the best ski resorts … The Mount Sentinel Trail, often referred to as the “M” trail, sits behind the University of Montana on its namesake, Mount Sentinel. 5. Check out the latest Montana updates on COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Here in Missoula, we’ve talked with folks in local parks and at Rattlesnake, Waterworks Hill, the M Trail, Snow Bowl and even Brennan’s Wave. "M" Trail, Missoula, MT. I highly recommend taking the difficult path to loop all the way to the summit, past the M. Great view and not too hard! You’ll hike 2/3 of a mile up to the “L” on a trail that is less … The L is on Mount Jumbo, just to the north. Jogging Trail Other Facilities. One of the famous landmarks in Missoula, the M can be seen even from an airplane flying in. :) After the hike, stop by the bookstore. The story behind the "M" The "M" is 620 feet above the Missoula Valley floor. to the top makes for an awesome workout. Great short trail if you want something quick easy and right in town. It is 3/4 mile to the "M" and 1 3/4 miles to the very top of Mount Sentinel. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The M Trail is a steep, zigzagging path with many switchbacks and a lot of gain in elevation.From the main trailhead, follow the trail as it straightlines across the base of the meadow. MISSOULA — UPDATE: April 11, 2020 - 7:50 a.m. A series of assaults shut down Missoula's popular M Trail on Friday and sent two people to the hospital. Soon after, the trail begins an intense series of about 14 switchbacks that lead you to the "M… Lots of runners dogs and walkers - it’s nice to see so many people out enjoying the trail. Both yield similar views of the city, both require an uphill effort, and both reward you with an up-close look at the letter. M Trail Missoula. Meetings. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment you feel having climbed all the way to the top. The views of the campus and the rest of the town are amazing. Great trail offering both an easy and difficult route. The trail is straightforward, and eventually climbs up and over Haystack Pass. The M Trail is one of Missoula's most popular trails, if not the most popular. lovely views at the top, particularly at sunset. Reports of a … West face of Mount Sentinel landmark since 1908. Parks & Recreation. Contact Us. What to do in Missoula on a budget Hiking to the M. The M trail is a very nice hike located just on the outskirts of the city right next to the Football stadium and the university. University of Montana forestry students cut the switchbacks into the side of the hill in the early 1900's. Riverfront Walking Trail. My mom is not in the greatest of shape and she managed to get all the way to the top. Hike The M. A local favorite, the short scramble up Mount Sentinel takes you, courtesy of 11 switchbacks, 620 feet above the valley floor in less than half a mile, giving you a bird's-eye view of the entire Missoula valley and surrounding mountains. Top Missoula Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in Missoula, Montana on Tripadvisor. The trail is steep and narrow with lots of rocks, and where there were wooden steps, they were high for a shorter person (me). Both yield similar views of the city, both require an uphill effort, and both reward you with an up-close look at the letter. The views of the campus and the rest of the town are amazing. A deer at the top of the mountain was the cherry on the top for this hike! A four … It sits above 13 switchbacks and provides a panoramic view of the entire Missoula Valley. Parks & Recreation. Mount Jumbo is also known as “the L trail”. I ran into an old copper mine after the M and a beautiful grove of spruce that provided sun relief. Distance: 1.2 miles Elevation Gain: 643 feet Trail Type: Out & Back Directions. If you’re looking for an uphill hike with great views of Missoula, you have your choice of two letters: L and M. The M is on a hill above the University of Montana. A hike to the "M" is a favorite Missoula outing for people of all ages. Great 20 min. M Trail. The trail is rated as moderate and is primarily used for hiking and running. MISSOULA — UPDATE: April 11, 2020 - 7:50 a.m. A series of assaults shut down Missoula's popular M Trail on Friday and sent two people to the hospital. Carousel for Missoula & Dragon Hollow. Took the straight up on the way up - do not recommend. Originally made of whitewashed rocks and only measuring 25 feet by 25 feet, the very first ““M”” was poorly constructed and ultimately replaced by a wooden “M” in 1912. But I don't live here so I guess I won't find out. Mount Sentinel via Kim Williams and Hellgate Canyon Loop, Mount Sentinel via Hellgate Ridgeline Loop. A hike to the "M" is a favorite Missoula outing for people of all ages. Owned by the city of Missoula and open to the public, this road runs from the end of the Mo Z Trail up to the "M… Natural area Multiple use trails Back to top. Nothing special in way of nature but a great bit of exercise and a lovely view of a sweet little valley community. First constructed in 1908 by university students, Missoula’s hillside “M” has evolved over the years to become what many consider to be the most recognizable landmark in Missoula. The Sentinel Fire Road is also a popular trail for hikers and walkers. Owned by the city of Missoula and open to the public, this road runs from the end of the Mo Z Trail up to the "M… On the University of Missoula Campus, is a hiking trail known as the M. Its a pretty steep hike, but well worth it. 411 likes. The Big “M” is easy to … Get our newsletter for must-see adventures, exclusive deals, upcoming events and much more. Start planning your vacation. Length 1.2 miElevation gain 643 ftRoute type Out & back. Distance: 3/4 mile to 'M' and 1 and 3/4 miles to top of Mount Sentinel Elevation: 690 feet to ‘M’ and 1,958 feet to the top of Mount Sentinel Experience Level: Intermediate to Experienced but Beginners encouraged Dogs: Leashed only Strollers: No The M is a Missoula favorite, frequented by locals and visitors alike it will take your breath away… literally! Today was warm so it wasn’t too slick but slightly cooler and I imagine it’s quite slick so micro spikes would help. Meetings. Order Now. If you’re looking for the perfect intermediate hike around Missoula, this is it. If you’re looking for even more of a challenge, then head to Mount Sentinel for the M Trail. 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