Trailhead · Trail

Waterworks Hill Trailhead

The new and improved Waterworks Trailhead opened to the public on August 25, 2022. Parks and Recreation partnered with Missoula Water and the Public Works and Mobility Department to expand and improve the Waterworks Hill Trailhead, the most popular and heavily used access point to Missoula’s trail system.

Listed under Hiking trails · Bike trails · Walking & running paths · Horseback riding trails

Open official page

A group of children and adults participate in a ceremonial ribbon-cutting event outdoors. — Photo from missoulacurrent.com

About this place

Constructed a ½-mile packed-gravel universal trail providing access to a scenic overlook of downtown Missoula and the Missoula Valley. Reconstructed the access road with a dedicated sidewalk to provide safe pedestrian access. Improved trailhead facilities: information kiosk, native species demonstration garden, seasonal restroom.

Practical information

Town: Missoula
Parking: Expanded the existing parking lot to a 40-car lot with two dedicated handicapped-accessible spaces.
Route surface: Packed-gravel
Fees: Free entry
Hours: Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Dogs: Leash your dog in the parking lot and for the first 1/2 mile of trail to protect wildlife, other trail users and native vegetation.
Use rules: Please park ONLY in designated parking areas. Vehicles illegally parked along the road may be ticketed. Leash your dog in the parking lot and for the first 1/2 mile of trail to protect wildlife, other trail users and native vegetation. Pick up your pet's waste and dispose of it properly. Please do not use the Waterworks or Froelich trailhead lots (Orange and I-90) as park-and-ride lots.
Managed by: City
Phone: 406-552-6253
Email: parksoperations@ci.missoula.mt.us