Frequently asked questions
Is Marshall Mountain open to the public?
Yes! On Aug. 12, 2021, the base area of Marshall Mountain opened again for the first time in almost 20 years. Following years of public input, Missoula County used open space bonds to purchase the full 480-acre park in 2024. Marshall Mountain is free and open to the public during daylight hours year-round.
Can I camp overnight?
Can I bring my dog(s)?
Due to the intense recreational use and the design of the trail system, dogs are not allowed on-site. Please enjoy recreating with your pooch pals on the hundreds of miles of shared-use, dog-accessible trails elsewhere within the Missoula Valley.
Do I need a permit for special events?
Yes. Please contact marshallmountain[at]missoulacounty.us for more information about the permit process for public events like races.
What kind of trails are available?
There are more than 12 miles of trails at the park. Several single-track trails are designated shared use (hiking/cycling), and several are designated as bike-specific, one-way travel due to narrow construction, specialized trail features and history of use as a competitive mountain bike course. Double-track trails are shared-use (hiking/cycling), two-way travel due to wide construction and moderate grades. A new easy-up trail for bikers and hikers opened in fall 2024. Check out TrailForks for a detailed map.
Please stay on existing trails and follow posted rules and trail signs to keep yourself and others safe and ensure continued public access. All buildings are closed. The lift is not operational and cannot be used to shuttle to the top of the mountain with your gear.
What other rules do I need to follow?
- Open daylight hours only — sunrise to sunset.
- Overnight camping and parking are not permitted.
- Recreate at your own risk.
- Motorized use is not permitted, including e-bikes.
- Dogs are not allowed at any time.
- Pick up litter.
- No hunting.
- Stay on existing trails. Follow signs and trail use designations.
- For your safety and the safety of others: do not make any modifications to existing trails, including jumps, ramps, obstacles, etc.
- Observe trail etiquette, respect other users and neighbors.
- Leave vegetation, including wildflowers.
- OTHER PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: campfires, fireworks, drones, and discharging firearms
Can I rent out the lodge and base building for a private event?
The lodge and base buildings are closed to the public and not suitable for private events. Missoula County staff are currently prioritizing legacy public events like youth programs, races and outdoor camps.
Due to extremely limited infrastructure (no indoor spaces or running water), private events like wedding are limited to very basic and analog accommodations. Please also note that due to the public ownership of the park, it is not entirely possible to close the area to non-attendees. We are working on a plan to accommodate private events in the near future – stay tuned!
Can I ski at Marshall Mountain? Are the lifts running?
Uphill and backcountry skiing are permitted at Marshall Mountain. There is no charge to ski at the park. The lift chairs were removed in 2023 and the lift is not operational. Snowpack at Marshall varies – be sure to check our Instagram page at @marshall_mountain_park for current conditions.
Can I go sledding at Marshall Mountain?
Yes! The hills around the base building are good for sledding with small kiddos. Snowpack at Marshall varies – be sure to check our Instagram page at @marshall_mountain_park for current conditions.
How do I get to the park? Is there a bus from town?
The address of the base is 5250 Marshall Canyon Road, east of Missoula off of Highway 200. There is no shuttle or public transportation from Missoula. Due to the limited parking available, we recommend carpooling with your pals when you can.
Can I ride my e-bike?
E-bikes of any class are not allowed on the trails at Marshall Mountain. Missoula County is studying e-bike use and may consider allowing certain classes of bikes in the future at the park.
Can I hunt on Marshall Mountain? Can I walk through the park to hunt on forest service land?
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Marshall Mountain is not open to hunting but is surrounded by U.S. Forest Service land, including popular places like Sheep Mountain and Woody Mountain. Hunters may pass through the park area to access USFS land. Please visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks website for current hunting regulations and information.