The Bitterroot Trail is a traffic-free 50-mile (80 km) paved path in the Bitterroot Valley linking Missoula to Hamilton, Montana. This picturesque trail parallels the Bitterroot Mountains and the Bitterroot River, offering scenic views as you wind your way southbound.
Description
Situated in Western Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, the Bitterroot Trail is relatively flat and suitable for new dogpackers and seasoned pros alike.
Navigating on the spider-web of trails in bike-friendly Missoula, you’ll start at the northern-most end of the Bitterroot Trail and pedal through the quaint towns of Lolo, Florence, Stevensville, Victor and Corvallis to finish in the historic town of Hamilton.
Camping and lodging
Near the midpoint of the trail is the Bass Creek campsite. The Adventure Cycling Association lists additional lodging opportunities along the trail. Missoula and Hamilton also offer dog-friendly accommodation (we stayed in Downtown Missoula’s Holiday Inn and noted several other doggy guests during our stay).
Other local activities to check out
Missoula is a very bike-friendly and dog-friendly town with great food, running and mountain bike trails, and paddling opportunities. The Bitterroot Valley may also be of particular interest to history buffs.
If you’re looking for a beautiful weekend bikepacking trip to do with your dog, add Missoula and the Bitterroot Trail to the top of your list.
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