O’Brien Trail is a 12.4 kilometer lightly trafficked loop trail located near Missoula, Montana that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and mountain biking and is accessible year-round.
Note: This trail is closed Nov 15-May 15 to help preserve the local elk habitat.
November 6, 2020Off trail much of the way. Spectacular views & highly recommend summit of Black Mountain!
August 27, 2020
July 31, 2020July 31, 2020June 11, 2020Nice trail with lots of wildflowers. Some exposed sections, but also plenty of places to find shade. First half mile is pretty steep. We went clockwise, which puts the steeper grade at the beginning of the loop and the more mellow grade at the end. Stream across from parking area to soak your feet after the hike.
June 10, 2020We were here 16 days ago. Much has changed: new flowers; trails narrower because of shrub growth; and quieter than ever. We pleasant trail for a quiet couple of hours. At about mile 4.7 (hiking counter-clockwise) the trail goes down to the creek. It is another world where the damp and shade encourages a whole different set of flora.
May 27, 2020The first half mile from the THD to the loop is alone worth the trip for the wildflowers. The trail is easy, quiet, and if it offered more views would rate 5 stars.
May 1, 2020Trail is in great shape: dry, no snow. The creek is running full. Really nice, mostly open loop with great views.
May 1, 2020This loop is CLOSED Nov 15-May 15 for elk habitat. This is poorly marked at the trailhead and requires reading the fine print, but only specific parts of the trail are open during the off-season. Please be respectful of this area during that time.
April 18, 2020April 13, 2020I love this trail; can't believe I didn't know about it sooner. Took me something like 2-3 hours at a pretty steady clip, but I wouldn't call it strenuous at all - little uphill sections followed by long flat chunks. Nice views and nice variation in terrain. I never see anyone else once I get past the first section either. Definitely recommend!
September 28, 2019one of my favorite hikes all year. If you do the full loop I wouldn't call it easy, more intermediate. bring water. beautiful!!
September 11, 2019
First to ReviewBeautiful views of Missoula, gently sloping hills. Great for a trail run!
November 14, 2020August 31, 2020July 31, 2020July 23, 2020July 17, 2020July 16, 2020July 11, 2020July 7, 2020July 3, 2020July 1, 2020June 27, 2020June 21, 2020May 29, 2020May 25, 2020May 25, 2020
