The Bitterroot Valley is one of the most scenic parts of Montana. That is particularly true in the fall when the dramatic hues of the season paint the valley and surrounding mountains in the vibrant shades of the season. The Bitterroot Valley is a short drive south of Missoula and home to exceptional hiking trails.
The Bitterroot Valley is only 96 miles long, but it’s surrounded by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain Ranges, lending itself to an incredible array of outdoor activities. Not only are there great hiking trails in the valley and surrounding mountains, but there’s exceptional biking, world-class trout fishing, skiing, breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and so much more. It’s truly a destination for the adventurous.
Our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula is located just outside downtown Missoula and a short drive from the stunning Bitterroot Valley. Just as in the rest of western Montana, we’re in a place where gorgeous scenery abounds. Within minutes, you can be in downtown Missoula, where you’ll find all the top restaurants, shops, and other things to do in Missoula, or deep in the heart of Montana’s vast wilderness, choosing your own adventure.
However you spend your time here, know our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula offers the restful escape you crave. Book your room today!
The Best Fall Hiking Trails in the Bitterroot Valley
If you’ve never experienced western Montana in the fall, consider this your call to do so. It’s truly a breathtaking paradise throughout September and October. The weather is mild and enjoyable, and the colors make the already dramatic scenery that much more magnificent. Fall is also a great time to enjoy hiking – especially in places like the Bitterroot Valley.
Though there are plenty of great hiking trails right here in the Missoula area – including in the nearby Lolo Pass and Blue Mountain Recreation Areas, hiking trails in the Bitterroot Valley offer a nice change of pace and scenery. Pick a hiking trail in the Bitterroot Valley and get started on your adventure. You’ll encounter gorgeous canyons, lush creeks, and soaring granite walls as you hike.
Below, we’ve listed five of our favorite Bitterroot Valley hiking trails to take this fall!
- The Kootenai Creek Trailhead takes you along the scenic Kootenai Creek, where you’ll encounter cascades and small waterfalls surrounded by towering granite canyon walls.
- St. Mary’s Peak Trailhead is a 7-mile trek to some of the best scenery in the Bitterroot Valley. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy some fall birding, too!
- Blodgett Overlook Trailhead is a classic hiking trail in the Bitterroot Valley. The trail leads you into a gorgeous canyon and offers spectacular vistas of dramatic cliffs and spires.
- The Bear Creek Overlook Trail is another spectacular option. At just 3 miles round trip, it’s approachable, and the views are impressive.
- Finally, head to the Lake Como Loop Trail in the Bitterroot Valley for gorgeous lake views. The trail wraps around the lake and offers stunning views of Como Peak as you go.
More Things to Do in Missoula This Fall
Whether hiking through the vistas of the Bitterroot Valley this fall or exploring the many great things to do in downtown Missoula, getaways to this beautiful town are always extraordinary. Between adventures, leave yourself plenty of time to rest and recharge and our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula, and you’ll leave feeling like a new person.
From hiking and biking to river rafting and fishing our local waterways, there are plenty of great things to do in Missoula this fall. From outdoor adventures to world-class art museums, Missoula has something for everyone. Below, we’ve listed ten of our favorite things to do in Missoula this fall.
- Hike Missoula’s famed “M,” also known as Mount Sentinel, or head to the nearby Rattlesnake Wilderness and the Pattee Canyon National Recreation Area.
- Go biking on the Bitterroot Trail and the Kim Williams Trail.
- Western Montana has some of the best trout fishing in the world. This fall, enjoy fly fishing with a local guide, such as Blackfoot River Outfitters, Missoula On The Fly, and Grizzly Hackle.
- Fall is an excellent time for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, and one of the best places to do that is the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.
- One of the best things to do in Missoula is head downtown to the Hip Strip, where you’ll find plenty of boutique shopping, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Embrace the local craft brew scene at the best Missoula breweries.
- Enjoy the vibrant art exhibits at the Missoula Art Museum, one of our favorite things to do in Missoula, especially when the weather outside turns colder and wetter.
- You don’t have to work up a sweat to enjoy the views this fall. Take one of these gorgeous scenic drives in the Missoula area!
Whether hiking in the gorgeous Bitterroot Valley or enjoying all the best things to do in Missoula, there’s no better place to stay than our Bed and Breakfast in Missoula. Book your room today!
