Lolo Peak

If you’re looking for an alpine adventure close to Missoula, the hike up Lolo Peak will fit the bill. It starts off by switchbacking through dense lodgepole pine forest for several miles, before transitioning into stands of western larch. Eventually, the canopy opens up enough to provide expansive views over the Missoula Valley and into the Bitterroot Mountains. You can turn around here or, if you’re up for an adventure, hike along the open ridge past Carlton Lake and scramble to the top of Lolo Peak. Photo by Tamra Winchell