1.5 km away
Maclay Flat Nature Trail
Get your nature fix on this easy and scenic stroll
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 2.9 km
- Ascent
- 6 m
- Descent
- 7 m
Explore the maze of great trails at Blue Mountain
Hiking Moderate
Blue Mountain is a fabulous spot at which to enjoy a quick fix of nature. The trails feel remarkably quiet but they sit amazingly close to Missoula, and accessing them couldn't be much easier. There is ample parking at the foot of Blue Mountain and it's also not super hard to bike from Missoula, so access is simple regardless of how you do it.
The trails at Blue Mountain are well signposted, and are numbered rather than named. This slightly unromantic approach to labelling makes navigation a simple, if somewhat dry experience!
There are virtually infinite trail combinations at Blue Mountain, but the loop we've drawn here is a nice way to start your exploration. If you check FATMAP and realise you've gone off route then it really doesn't matter - just use the line here as a guide and explore as you wish. All of the trails at Blue Mountain are well maintained and simple to travel and move through, so enjoy the process of discovering them as they lead you through forests and meadows. The views from the trail are exceptional and having seen them you'll understand why Montana is referred to as "Big Sky Country".
One thing to bear in mind is that Blue Mountain is not just a hiking destination - it's also popular with bikers and ATVers, so be aware of other users on the trails at all times.
If, after enjoying this sample of what Blue Mountain has to offer you want to explore further, check out our route to the mountain's summit here.
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
1.5 km away
Get your nature fix on this easy and scenic stroll
Easy Hiking
3.8 km away
Enjoy some famous Montana "big sky" on this easy, scenic hike
Easy Hiking
4.3 km away
A long, scenic and satisfying ascent to a Missoula landmark
Difficult Hiking
7.3 km away
A beautiful hike which provides huge views across Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley
Difficult Hiking
8.3 km away
Explore the sights of downtown Missoula on this easy stroll
Easy Hiking
8.3 km away
A quick fix of nature close to Missoula
Moderate Hiking
9.1 km away
A tough climb up one of Missoula's best known peaks
Difficult Hiking
9.1 km away
The classic Missoula hike to a local landmark
Difficult Hiking
9.7 km away
Escape the city and enjoy some huge views
Moderate Hiking
9.8 km away
Short and sharp!
Moderate Hiking
5 routes · Hiking
10 routes · Hiking