Jeff Schmerker
Missoula's first hike
If you only take one hike while in Missoula, this will probably be it – and if you've just moved here, chances are you’ll be on this trail before your bags are unpacked. The “M” Trail climbs a series of switchbacks from the campus of the University of Montana to the M – the white painted concrete insignia of the university. The trail climbs nearly 700 vertical feet and has been the scene of much huffing and puffing, but all the same don’t be surprised at how many people pass you while they are jogging. The “M” itself has a storied local history, and plaques at the base of the trail describe it and also tell you how many calories you can expect to burn.
You can continue past the M to climb Mt. Sentinel; note that just above the M is the high-water mark of Lake Missoula, which filled the valley and much of the Inland Northwest during the last ice age.
Read more
