Visiting Missoula with Your Dog

You want to take a trip and explore beautiful Missoula, Montana, but you don’t want to leave your furry friend behind. They are your sidekick, after all, and an adventure isn’t the same without them there. Here at Comfort Inn University in Missoula, we get that, and that’s why we have an open-door pet policy. No additional fees, no pesky fine print. Your pet is allowed, and we’re here to make your visit to Missoula as carefree as possible. And we know that it can be really tricky to decide where your buddy is allowed, or not allowed, to be. Here are a few tips and tricks of the trade for visiting Missoula with your pup.

Dog Friendly Hiking Trails

Here in Missoula, we know that hiking and dogs go hand in hand. Almost every single trail in Missoula and the surrounding areas allows dogs. Make sure to have your leash and some doggy bags in tow. Some of our favorite hiking trails are listed below.

The “M” Trail: Gain 620 feet in .75 miles as you hike to the famous “M” on Mount Sentinel. As you climb, you will get stunning views of Missoula and the surrounding valleys. There is no tree cover and it gets hot in the summer, so bring lots of water for you and your pet!

The Rattlesnake Trail: Located up Rattlesnake Canyon just 5 miles north of town, the Rattlesnake Trail is perfect for hikers of all skill level. Following Rattlesnake Creek, the trail extends 34 miles into the wilderness. Nestled in the trees, you will get to see stunning views of the mountains and walk along the comforting sound of the water while taking in the smells of the forest. If you are lucky, you might see some critters too!

Waterworks Hill: Located right at the northern end of downtown Missoula, hiking up to the viewpoint at Waterworks is a quick and easy trip with amazing and rewarding views from the top. This is a very popular spot for dogs, so your furry friend will have a ball! Speaking of ball, fetch is an option here since dogs can be off leash for most of the hike –  a dog’s paradise!

While not technically a hike, no dog can visit Missoula without checking out Jacob’s Island Bark Park. This 6 acres of fenced-in fun borders the Clark Fork River, so your dog can run freely and swim in the river. Perfect for a hot summer day in Missoula.

Dining with Your Dog

It is a challenge to find spots to dine with your dog when you travel, but there are a few spots in Missoula to check out with dog friendly patios. Iron Horse Brew Pub, Notorious P.I.G., and Hob Nob on Higgins are a few of our favorite choices for pet friendly dining. You can also check out Tamarack Brewing Company, which has craft beer and a full bar and menu. You cannot technically have your pup on their patio, but they can hang out on the outside side of the railing. Or you can always grab some take out from the Good Food Store’s hot bar or from The Bridge and create a nice little picnic along the riverfront.

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed at most breweries, even those without outdoor patios. At the KettleHouse Southside spot, you can sit outside the tasting room with your pup, though not officially within the tap house. You can also head into the beautiful Rattlesnake area and bring your dog to Ten Spoon Winery during their tasting hours Thursday-Sunday evenings. Here you can take in a beautiful sunset over the mountains and your pup can play in the large, far-away-from-traffic tasting yard.

Local policies and regulations are subject to change, so always call to confirm that you can bring your furry friend with your before setting out.

The Comfort Inn- You’re Dog’s New Favorite Place

Of course, there will come times when you might need to leave your buddy behind and hit the town on your own. At Comfort Inn, we get that, and that is why we allow your animal to stay in your comfortable room however they prefer. If your pet loves their crate and feels that it’s their home, perfect. If your pal is more of a roam free kind-of animal, that is fine, too. And there is no need to stress about your animal getting distressed- we love pets here, and if we feel that your dog is unhappy or uncomfortable, we will happily bring them behind the desk with us! We have treats ready for your pet, and think of them during special occasions and holidays, too. Check out the happy waggy travelers who have stayed with us before on our Facebook or Twitter.

Written by Kathleen Goodwin