Mount Sentinel is one of the most iconic hikes in Missoula. The “M” Trail on the west face of the mountain is considered a rite of passage for University of Montana students. It’s a steep series of switchbacks, but the 1 mile trail is smooth gravel — great for hill work! It’s a serious climb — 620 over 3/4 mile! We’ve mapped a route up to the “M” and then looping back through the Kim Williams Natural Trail Area.
Other runnable trails on Mount Sentinel include the less-steep Hellgate Canyon Trail on the north side of the mountain, and the Fire Road which leads south to Pattee Canyon. There are a number of trails running through this gorge in the Lolo National Forest — the most popular options are the relatively flat Crooked Canyon Trail and the 3.4 mile Sam Braxton Trail loop.
Mount Sentinel is one of the most iconic hikes in Missoula. The “M” Trail on the west face of the mountain is considered a rite of passage for University of Montana students. It’s a steep series of switchbacks, but the 1 mile trail is smooth gravel — great for hill work! It’s a serious climb — 620 over 3/4 mile! We’ve mapped a route up to the “M” and then looping back through the Kim Williams Natural Trail Area.
Other runnable trails on Mount Sentinel include the less-steep Hellgate Canyon Trail on the north side of the mountain, and the Fire Road which leads south to Pattee Canyon. There are a number of trails running through this gorge in the Lolo National Forest — the most popular options are the relatively flat Crooked Canyon Trail and the 3.4 mile Sam Braxton Trail loop.
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