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The M
4.8 ★★★★★ 444 Google reviews · Running trail in Missoula, Montana · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from The M's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about The M
“It’s worth taking a little more time to explore the trail a bit higher than The M vantage point, as you get a great view of mountains to the east of Missoula.”
“Moderately challenging hike for me but the path was an easy walk.”
INCREDIBLE VIEW, SCENERY, And Relaxing! Highly recommend this for anyone. The exercise, the air, the sense of freedom, and you get a great view of the Montana Grizzlies stadium. So , come on what are you waiting for? Get off the couch , put down the Game system and treat yourself to a experience you will never forget!
Excellent hike to hit while in town. Steep so if you have knee issues bring poles. About 30 min up and 30 min down. Pleat of benches through our hike to rest as needed. Bathrooms available before hike begins😉
Each switchback is a different length and can be strenuous, but enjoyable with lots of benches to take breaks. I would recommend parking in Phyllis Washington park. it only takes three switchbacks to get a pretty view and even if you don't finish the hike, it is still very worth it.
Moderately challenging hike for me but the path was an easy walk. Mount Sentinel has 11 switchbacks to the M and plenty of benches if needed. The views are beautiful of the valley and University of Montana.
Trail conditions & character
“It’s worth taking a little more time to explore the trail a bit higher than The M vantage point, as you get a great view of mountains to the east of Missoula.”
“Good workout to the “M” up the hill with outstanding views overlooking the city, especially the campus and right into the football stadium.”
“Dogs did great on the trail, have to hike poop bags back out to the trail head, permitless parking available at university after 4 pm on weekdays.”
“Very accessible from parking lot and some bathrooms with the water fountain at the bottom where the trail starts.”
“Very accessible from parking lot and some bathrooms with the water fountain at the bottom where the trail starts.”
Plan your run at The M
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- Distance4 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- Websiteci.missoula.mt.us
- Phone(406) 721-7275
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Missoula
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
