Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in Missoula, Montana.

(Feature photo by iStock.com/​​Ultima_Gaina)

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The Missoula City Guide is developed in partnership with The Runner’s Edge. Read more about The Runner’s Edge in the Running Stores section below!

If you’re looking for a quaint downtown with quick access to the trails, Missoula is your spot. On popular running routes, you’ll take in gorgeous views of the Missoula valley and the Clark Fork River. Afterward, stop in one of many local eateries along Higgins Avenue.

Run Wild Missoula hosts several weekly group runs and annual races worth the visit, including the Missoula Marathon and the City to Sky 50K and 25K. And The Runner’s Edge is not only your destination for all your running gear needs, but also the organizer behind unique trail races located just outside of Missoula, in Lolo and Paradise.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to the Missoula area. Rather than researching where to go, you can spend more time on the trails and enjoying a post-run bite to eat.

Planning your upcoming running vacations?
Find more destination running guides.

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Running in Missoula, Montana

Missoula’s trail systems are easily accessible, from door to dirt. If you start your run from downtown, you can run to at least nine different trailheads. Not to mention, Missoula boasts a path alongside the Clark Fork River. You can find runners, walkers, and cyclists using this path as either a means of transportation or exercise.

Missoula’s running community is endurance-minded. You’ll find most runners also skate, cross-country ski, bike, swim, hike — you name it.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Missoula, Montana?

Each season in Missoula has a different beauty to it. You’ll find wildflowers and green grass in the spring, an abundance of trail running in the summer, leaves changing color in the fall, and a snowy blanket covering the town in the winter. Most visitors enjoy the summer with access to places like Glacier National Park and Yellowstone.

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Where to Stay in Missoula, Montana

Running Lifestyle is pleased to be partnered with TravelRunner, your go-to source for running-friendly accommodations. Read recent hotel reviews from fellow runners and athletes, and book your perfect stay. Become a part of a community created by and for travel runners!

Use code GUIDE for 2.5% off your bookings on TravelRunner.com.

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Where to Run in Missoula, Montana

Barmeyer Loop
Begin at the Barmeyer Trail Trailhead. The trail starts wide and packed, then narrows to singletrack. After approximately 1 mile of climbing, you’ll reach the overlook, which offers gorgeous views of the Missoula valley. Continue along the Barmeyer Trail on switchbacks through diverse terrain, showcasing the Missoula foothills. At the 5-mile mark, stay left to complete the loop back to where you started. The total distance of this route is 11.76 miles, with 2,600 feet in elevation gain. Please note: Parking is limited at the trailhead.

Fort Missoula and Orchard Homes Loop
This is a fun 4.3-mile loop that incorporates sections of a few iconic Missoula race courses, including Light the Way 5K, Heart Throb 5K, and the Missoula Marathon. From the Fort Missoula Regional Park soccer complex parking lot, head west on South Avenue along the footpath. After about a mile, turn right onto Clements and continue on the footpath. Keep straight as you pass the famous Trough cow — you’re now following a portion of the Missoula Marathon route. Your next right turn is on 7th Avenue, where you’ll find a wide mixed-use lane on a quiet road. As you near 3 miles, turn right onto Tower Street. This road takes you past Big Sky Park and Big Sky High School. Cross South Avenue to return to the soccer fields.

Not up for road running? Check out the 1.7-mile perimeter loop at Missoula County Big Sky Park instead!

Mount Sentinel Tour via The “M” Trail
This route begins at The “M” Trail trailhead and zigzags 1.6 miles above the University of Montana campus to the famous “M,” a prominent Missoula landmark that’s visible from nearly anywhere in the valley. Once you’ve made it to the “M,” continue for another mile and 1,300 feet of elevation gain to the summit of Mount Sentinel via the Hellgate Ridge Trail. Here, you’re rewarded with spectacular views. From the summit, you have several options: Turn around and descend the way you came, continue east into the Pattee Canyon National Recreation Area, or follow the ridge south along the Pengelly Ridge Trail.

If taking the Pengelly Ridge Trail, this route is flowy and mostly downhill, offering panoramic views from both sides of the ridge. When your descent finishes, take a right onto the Sentinel Fire Road for a rolling traverse across the mountain’s western face. After a couple of miles, you’ll spot the “M” below. Descend the familiar switchbacks back to your car. This loop will get you just about 6.5 miles.

It’s worth noting that The “M” Trailhead is the only location with bathrooms and water, so plan accordingly. Visit this map for more details.

North Hills Trails via Orange Street
Starting just beyond the I-90 overpass at the parking lot for North Hills Froehlich Trailhead, follow the path northwest. This trail climbs up to the backbone of the North Hills, and you’ll run up switchbacks to a picturesque view of the entire Missoula valley. From Froehlich, consider running the connecting trails — Homestead to North Hills Ridge to City View — for a 4.2-mile loop. Find the trail map here, and more trails in the North Hills here.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Read more in 11 Running Safety Tips Every Runner Should Follow.

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Running Stores in Missoula, Montana

The Runner’s Edge
The Runner’s Edge staff prides itself on great customer service. Expect to be asked your name, what you’re looking for, and if you have any questions. Measuring your feet; getting your running, hiking, and walking history; and tying up your shoes are all non-negotiables. This run specialty store carries Tracksmith, Rabbit, Skida, and many other top running brands.
304 North Higgins, Missoula, Montana; 406-728-9297

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Run Clubs in Missoula, Montana

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a run club on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Missoula Run Club
When: Mondays at 7 a.m. (May-October)
Distance: 3 or 5 miles
Starting Point: Clyde Coffee at 741 South Higgins Avenue, Missoula

Run Wild Missoula’s Tuesday Track
When: Tuesdays at 6 p.m. (5:30 p.m. during winter months)
Distance: Track workouts (led by Olympian Courtney Babcock)
Starting Point: University of Montana’s Dornblaser Track, at the corner of Higgins and South avenues; the winter season starts and ends at The Runner’s Edge basement

Run Wild Missoula’s Wild Miles
When: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 4-6 miles
Starting Point: Varies; check the schedule

Run Wild Missoula’s Saturday Breakfast Run
When: Saturdays at 8 a.m.
Distance: Any distance, typically starting around 3 miles
Starting Point: The Runner’s Edge basement

For additional run clubs, please visit Run Wild Missoula’s listings.

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Destination Races in Missoula, Montana

Bitterroot Runoff
April | Lolo, Montana | 10 Mile, 5 Mile, 5K
All race distances follow trails on the Rossignol Ranch and are welcoming to both beginner and veteran trail runners. The longer the distance, the more climbing you’ll do! After you cross the finish line, enjoy a post-race brunch. This event is managed by The Runner’s Edge.

Mountain to Meadow
June | Lolo, Montana | Half Marathon, 10K
Running along the Idaho-Montana border along gravel Forest Service roads, you’ll pass flowering meadows and quiet forests, with views of the Bitterroot Mountains. Enjoy post-race BBQ and beer afterward! This event is managed by The Runner’s Edge.

Missoula Marathon
June | Missoula, Montana | Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Beer Run
This scenic, point-to-point course travels through the countryside and finishes in downtown Missoula. It’s also a Boston-qualifier! The half marathon distance starts at the marathon’s halfway point. Participate in the Big 3 Race Challenge by running the Beer Run (5K) on Friday, the 5K on Saturday, and the half or full marathon on Sunday.

The Rut Mountain Runs
September | Big Sky, Montana | 84K, 50K, 28K, 21K, 11K, 4.6K, 1K
Three days of mountain running on Lone Peak, The Rut Mountain Runs invite ultrarunners and shorter-distance trail runners looking for a challenge. Expect spectacular views and steep ascents!

11 Miles to Paradise
October | Paradise, Montana | 10.6 Miles
Run along a singletrack trail through Lolo National Forest and next to the Clark Fork River. After finishing the point-to-point course, relax in the hot springs at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort (additional fee required). This event is managed by The Runner’s Edge.

City to Sky Trail Races
October | Missoula, Montana | 50K, 25K
Singletrack trails take you through Missoula’s conservation lands and open spaces. Summit several mountains along the 50K course, with more than 8,000 feet in elevation gain. The 25K follows the second half of the 50K course.

Mount Jumbo Elk Ramble 15K
November | Missoula, Montana | 15K
This 15K is the only organized trail race on Mount Jumbo, which is home to an elk herd. Take in the stunning landscapes of Missoula’s open lands with a small field of fellow trail runners.

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After a Run: Where to Eat in Missoula, Montana

Basal — Relaxed cafe serving breakfast bowls, oatmeal bowls, and healthy smoothies. For lunch, you’ll find plenty of tasty salads to choose from: Basil Cobb, Brussel Sprouts Caesar, Pulled Pork and Potato, and others. Vegan options are available.
114 North Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana; 406-540-4098

Big Dipper Ice Cream — An iconic, handcrafted ice cream shop that opened in 1995. Big Dipper Ice Cream has been featured on Good Morning America and in publications such as Food & Wine and Budget Travel, among other publications. Stop by for an ice cream cone, sundae, or float after your run. The Higgins location is just south of the Higgins Bridge.
631 South Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana; 406-543-5722
2700 Paxson Street, Missoula, Montana; 406-543-5722

Big Sky Brewing — One of Missoula’s most popular taprooms, you’ll find Big Sky Brewing just off of 1-90, near the Missoula Montana Airport. This brewery features well-liked beers, such as the Powder Hound and Moose Drool, and hosts a variety of events, including music festivals, bike races, and the Missoula Marathon registration party.
5417 Trumpeter Way, Missoula, Montana; 406-549-2777

Black Coffee Roasting Co. — Cozy coffee shop roasting and selling its own organic beans, plus baked goods and espresso drinks. Located on Spruce Street, a few blocks from Higgins.
525 East Spruce Street, Missoula, Montana; 406-541-3700

Clyde Coffee — This coffee shop has hipster vibes in all the best ways. Find great coffee, PB&J, avocado toast, and a relaxing atmosphere. Hang out on the patio or inside the shop after your run.
741 South Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana; 406-540-4481

Green Source — Easygoing cafe, perfect for a quick bite to eat after a mid-morning run. You’ll find healthy smoothies, cold-pressed juices, salads, grain bowls, and coffee. Located just south of the Higgins Bridge.
617 South Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana; 406-239-5272

Le Petit Bakehouse — Spacious, modern bakeshop featuring housemade breads and pastries, such as croissants and brioche, to pair with an espresso.
529 South Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana; 406-543-3311

Market on Front — Urban market with breakfast burritos, gourmet sandwiches and salads, a coffee bar, specialty food products, and bottles of wine. Enjoy a bite on the patio or take your food to go. This is a must-stop if you’re in town for a few days and need to load up your kitchen fridge with goodies.
201 East Front Street, Missoula, Montana; 406-541-0246

​​The Dram Shop — While nothing is brewed at this establishment, you’ll find a variety of local beers as well as wine, kombucha, non-alcoholic beer, and root beer. Order food from a neighboring eatery to enjoy with a drink outside on the patio.
229 East Front Street, Missoula, Montana; 406-540-4303

More travel plans? Check out our other City Guides.

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