Sam Braxton Trail

The Sam Braxton Trail is a pawsitively amazing trail that provides stunning views of forests and mountains. This beautiful loop trail is 3.4 miles long, and dogs are welcome to join you both on and off-leash as long as they’re under voice control.

The trail begins at the Pattee Canyon Main Trailhead. Here, parking and restrooms are available so you can take a quick pit stop before heading out onto the trail. As you trek along the forest trail, you’ll see a wide variety of huge old-growth trees, including ponderosa pines and western larches. You’ll also see the remnants of old Missoula homesteads throughout the trail — keep your eyes peeled for these historical artifacts!

As you go up the trail’s easy inclines, you’ll get some great views of the mountains surrounding the trail. You’ll also see beautiful wildflowers, and you might get to see some native wildlife, including coyotes, deer, elk, mountain lions, and bears. There are also many songbirds and birds of prey that live in the forest. As you walk along the 3.4-mile trail, you’ll get to see all these pawesome sights and more! If all this walking makes you hungry, there’s a picnic area just down the road from the Pattee Canyon Main Trailhead.

Some parts of the Sam Braxton Trail can be confusing because the trail is crisscrossed by a lot of old horse-logging skid paths and ski trails. Because of that, it’s a good idea to pick up a map at the Lolo National Forest Visitor Center before you head out on your hike.

The Sam Braxton Trail is a lovely trail that takes you through the forest and by scenic vistas that provide stunning views of the surrounding area. Bring some doggy bags so you can clean up after your pup while you’re hiking, and have a fun-filled day out on the trail!