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TRAIL USE SYMBOLSThe symbols that appear with trail descriptions in this guide indicate the trail uses that are permitted and special features of the trails, such as accessibility to people in wheelchairs and opportunities for scenic views.
Please be courteous on the trail Show respect for the land, too. After all, Missoula's natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. Trails are one of the best ways to get out and experience our city and its surroundings. Don't let misuse of trails diminish the quality of this opportunity for you and others in the future. Here are a few simple "rules" of trail etiquette: Make your contacts with others pleasant, no matter how brief. Tread lightly and leave no trace. Don't litter. Stay on the trail; you can damage vegetation and contribute to erosion by leaving the trail. Don't cut corners at switchbacks. Always be willing to yield the right of way. This is a matter of safety, as well as courtesy. Hikers and bicyclists: this is especially true when you encounter equestrians or people with llamas or other livestock. Bicyclists, speak up or ring your bell. Try not to startle people or livestock. When you approach oncoming livestock on narrow trails, speak, slow down and don't make sudden motions or loud noises. If possible, move off the trail to the downhill side. When approaching livestock from the rear, speak out and ask for instructions. If you smoke, do so only where you can be sure there is no chance of starting a fire – and don't litter the ground with cigarette or cigar butts. Observe rules posted at trailheads regarding permitted use of trails. Respect private property and route closures. Don't trespass! Try not to disturb wildlife.
Many national forest trails at Blue Mountaian and other areas are marked with this "blaze." If you're using a trail that doesn't have signs, watch for this symbol carved into trees to mark the route. Other Sources of Missoula Area Trail Information Missoula Area Visitor Information Services, M.A.V.I.S. offices include the Lolo National Forest Supervisor's Office and Missoula Ranger District located at Building 24, Fort Missoula, the Northern Region Visitor's Office located in the Federal Building in downtown Missoula, and The Smokejumper Visitor Center located at the Aerial Fire Depot west of Missoula. M.A.V.I.S. coordinates regional, forest, and district recreation and visitor information for the greater Missoula Area. Information on campgrounds, cabin and lookout rentals, maps, firewood permits, Christmas tree permits, employment, hiking trails and other Forest Service information is provided at the Lolo National Forest and Missoula Ranger District Offices and the Northern Region Visitor's Office. For more information please call (406) 329-3750 or (406) 329-3511 or on the Web at www.fs.fed.us/rl/lolo SmokeJumper Visitor Center tour information, (406) 329-4934. Missoula Chamber of Commerce, Visitor Information Center, Van Buren and Front streets, Missoula, Montana 59802; (406) 543-6623; out-of-state: (800) 526-3465. Free city maps, historic tour maps, Lolo National Forest brochures and other local information. Adventure Cycling, 150 E. Pine St., Missoula, Montana 59802; (406) 721-8719. Mountain Biking, Missoula Area map, $3.95. Delineates 10 routes near Missoula. Also available from Lolo National Forest. Bicycle-Pedestrian Office, City of Missoula, 435 Ryman St., Missoula, Montana 59802; (406) 523-4626. Missoula bicycle map. For more on city trails and regulations governing their use, call Missoula Parks and Recreation, (406) 721-7275. Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Missoula area, 3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana 59801; (406) 542-5500. U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, 3255 Fort Missoula Road, Missoula, Montana 59801; (406) 329-3914.. |
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Trail "blaze" marks