Rolling hills, a glistening lake, plenty of shaded patios and friendly folk… Missoula, Montana is just as much of a dream for pups as it is for humans! Our Bernedoodle Sally swam, hiked, dined, and played with us all over this picturesque mountain town, and it’s safe to say that she loved every minute of it!
If you’re planning a trip to Missoula and are contemplating bringing your dog - DO IT! This blog is for you!
WHERE TO STAY
Comfort Inn Missoula :: Set along the Clark Fork River, the Comfort Inn Missoula is cozy, affordable, and incredibly dog friendly. There’s a big grassy field right outside the hotel that’s perfect for playful pups, and it’s walking distance to the best dog park in town (more on that later). They also have a free hot breakfast, free bike rentals, and a picturesque fire pit overlooking the Clark Fork River… it’s fun for the whole family!
Incredible sunset views of the Clark Fork River from the Comfort Inn
WHAT TO DO
Jacobs Island Bark Park :: We’ve been to a lot of dog parks during our road trips, and this one is definitely in our top 5. Jacobs Island Bark Park has over 6 acres of land for pups to explore unleashed, but the best part is - it’s right on the Clark Fork River! Our Bernedoodle Sally had the time of her life swimming in the river and chasing balls and other furry friends. She had so much fun, she was wiped out for the next two days!
Waterworks Hill :: Located on the north side of Missoula, Waterworks Hill is a 3.5 mile trail that not only has stunning views of Missoula - but is puppy approved too! We suggest hiking with your dog in the early morning or late afternoon, as there is little to no shade. And don’t forget to bring your camera!
“M” Trail :: The ‘M’ on Mount Sentinel has been a Missoula landmark since 1908, and the “M” Trail hike is now a favorite outing for people (and dogs) of all ages! It may only be less than a mile long, it’s a strenuous and steep climb to the top, so be forewarned. Make sure you bring plenty of water (For you AND your pup!), and again, we suggest going in the early morning or late afternoon. You won’t believe the views from the top!
Riverfront Trail :: Take your leashed pup on an early evening stroll along the scenic Riverfront Trail, where the Clark Fork River and Downtown Missoula come together. It’s a great place for you and your dog to catch the sunset AND get some exercise. Make sure you stop for a picture on one of the pedestrian bridges (and if you’re feeling hungry, grab a slice of pizza to-go from Bridge Pizza)!
Hard to get Sally out of the water…
She could do this all day…
Sally’s wishing she was by the water…
Sally a little tired after a hike on Waterworks Hill
Sally made it to the “M”
Hiking down from the “M”
Sally ready for some time on the Riverfront trail
DOG FRIENDLY PATIOS
Market on Front :: This restaurant/grocery store/coffee shop/deli has everything one would want (and more), including a dog-friendly patio! Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or just a cup of coffee, Market on Front has you covered. Their food is locally sourced and made to order, and their breakfast burritos may be the best in town. Need we say more?
Biga Pizza :: We’ve talked about Biga Pizza before (see our Missoula foodie guide here), and we’ll happily talk about it again. Beyond their mouth-watering wood fired pizzas, Biga has friendly service, a cozy, homey ambiance, and a quaint dog-friendly patio! If you’re anything like us, you’ll be tempted to sneak a piece of their homemade sourdough crust to your pup, and we won’t judge you if you do. ;)
Plonk Missoula :: Our food was so good at Plonk Missoula, we almost shed a tear (if they have Cashew Raclette on the menu, ORDER IT). And then, as we were leaving, we found out that their front entrance patio is indeed, dog friendly... We almost shed a tear again! Next time we’re in Missoula, we’ll be heading straight to Plonk - with Sally in tow!
Market on Front has a dog-friendly perfect patio!
We LOVED the pizza at Big, and next time we’ll bring Sally!
We left Sally in favor of a date night this time, but she’ll definitely come with us to Plonk next time we’re in Missoula!
When it comes to dog friendly activities in Missoula, this blog is just the tip of the iceberg. We can’t wait to come back with Sally and explore more of this beautiful town. If we’re missing any of your favorite puppy-approved spots, leave a comment and let us know!
Sally loved Missoula!