If you live in Missoula, it’s likely that you have or want a pet. Recent statistics indicate there is one resident dog in Missoula per every two humans. Perhaps it’s because Missoula is such a pet and dog-friendly city.
Pet-Friendly Parks
Not only do most parks allow dogs on leash, butseveral public recreation areas allow canine companions to accompany their human friends on outdoor adventures.
Several of these off-leash, dog-friendly areas include:
Blue Mountain Recreation Area
Blue Mountain Rd., off Highway 93 S.
Open 6 a.m. until 10 p.m.
This 4,900-acre recreational area is well-suited for hiking, biking, and exercising with dogs on voice restraint.
Fort Missoula Canine Campus
Fort Missoula Rd.
Open dawn until dusk
A fenced area just west of the horseshoe pits in Fort Missoula Park offers a great area for obedience and agility training.
Jacobs Island Bark Park
Van Buren St., just over the walking bridge
Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
On the river near UM, the east end of the island is a six-acre fenced park for dogs to explore, leash-free.
Pattee Canyon Recreation Area
Pattee Canyon Dr.
Open dawn until dusk
There are no dog restrictions from the Crazy Canyon area to City of Missoula property. Elsewhere in this wooded, year-round recreation area, dogs are generally allowed, except for on groomed ski trails in winter months.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
Sawmill Gulch Rd. Trailhead
Open dawn until dusk
Dogs on leashes are welcome in almost all areas of this vast, 33,000-acre wilderness and recreation area. The Woods Gulch trail loop has no dog restrictions.
