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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyGround

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail

Missoula, Idaho · Missoula County · 3.01

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail is a easy hiking trail near Missoula in Missoula County, Idaho.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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46.83096, -114.10078
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High81°F
Avg Low52°F
Peak Rain Chance1%
Humidity39%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality48 · Good
Today
☁️
Overcast
82°/44°
🌬 9mph
5:41 AM9:32 PM
Tue
☁️
Overcast
82°/61°
💧 1%🌬 17mph
5:41 AM9:32 PM
Wed
☁️
Overcast
75°/54°
💧 1%🌬 15mph
5:41 AM9:33 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
83°/48°
🌬 8mph
5:41 AM9:33 PM
Fri
☁️
Overcast
84°/55°
🌬 6mph
5:41 AM9:33 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail is a easy hiking trail near Missoula in Missoula County, Idaho.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 8)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Idaho

Trail conditions in Idaho change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail?

Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

Are horses allowed on Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Blue Mountain National Recreation Trail?

Idaho has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.