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Hiking trails & Routes

North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop

Easy

4.6

(2703)

11,822

hikers

North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop

Q: Where can I park to access the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

The trail is easily accessible within Missoula city limits. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, which is a common starting point for this popular loop.

Q: Is the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, this trail is very dog-friendly and welcomes furry companions. Please ensure your dog is leashed and that you clean up after them to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is accessible year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, spring, summer, and fall are ideal. During colder months, the Cherry Gulch section can become icy and treacherous, so exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike in the North Hills?

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop. It's freely accessible to the public.

Q: How long does it typically take to hike the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

This loop is approximately 3.3 kilometers (2.2 miles) long and generally takes about 55-60 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Q: What is the terrain like on the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

The trail offers diverse terrain. You'll experience a gentle initial climb onto an open ridge with exposed benches and rocky outcrops, followed by a descent into the shaded, pine-fringed folds of Cherry Gulch Trail . Expect rolling singletrack and switchbacks to navigate the elevation changes.

Q: Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for casual hikers, beginners, and families. The total elevation gain is manageable, providing a mild workout without being overly strenuous.

Q: What kind of views can I expect along the route?

From the open ridge, you'll be treated to 'big views' of the Rattlesnake Mountains, the city of Missoula, and the surrounding foothills. The Cherry Gulch Trail portion offers a contrasting, more secluded experience with its shady, pine-fringed draw and grassland surroundings.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the Cherry Gulch and North Hills Ridge trails. It also briefly intersects with sections of the City View and Waterworks Universal Trail.

Q: What's an insider tip for hiking the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

To make the most of your hike, consider starting early in the morning. This allows you to enjoy the beautiful golden light over the Rattlesnake Mountains and avoid the midday heat on the more exposed ridge sections.

00:59

3.30km

100m

Hiking

The North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop offers a delightful contrast of scenery within a short distance. You'll traverse an open ridge with sweeping views of Missoula before dipping into the shaded, pine-fringed Cherry Gulch. This easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hiking route, with its 338 feet (103 metres) of…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

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608 m

Cherry Gulch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Cherry Gulch Trail, found on Waterworks Hill, is a nontechnical path surrounded by grassland. There are panoramic views of the city and surrounding foothills.

Tip by

3.30 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.76 km

1.47 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.76 km

1.47 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 7 July

31°C

13°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

The trail is easily accessible within Missoula city limits. Parking is typically available at the trailhead, which is a common starting point for this popular loop.

Is the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, this trail is very dog-friendly and welcomes furry companions. Please ensure your dog is leashed and that you clean up after them to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is accessible year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, spring, summer, and fall are ideal. During colder months, the Cherry Gulch section can become icy and treacherous, so exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike in the North Hills?

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to access the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop. It's freely accessible to the public.

How long does it typically take to hike the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

This loop is approximately 3.3 kilometers (2.2 miles) long and generally takes about 55-60 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

What is the terrain like on the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

The trail offers diverse terrain. You'll experience a gentle initial climb onto an open ridge with exposed benches and rocky outcrops, followed by a descent into the shaded, pine-fringed folds of Cherry Gulch Trail. Expect rolling singletrack and switchbacks to navigate the elevation changes.

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop is considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for casual hikers, beginners, and families. The total elevation gain is manageable, providing a mild workout without being overly strenuous.

What kind of views can I expect along the route?

From the open ridge, you'll be treated to 'big views' of the Rattlesnake Mountains, the city of Missoula, and the surrounding foothills. The Cherry Gulch Trail portion offers a contrasting, more secluded experience with its shady, pine-fringed draw and grassland surroundings.

Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the Cherry Gulch and North Hills Ridge trails. It also briefly intersects with sections of the City View and Waterworks Universal Trail.

What's an insider tip for hiking the North Hills Ridge to Cherry Gulch Loop?

To make the most of your hike, consider starting early in the morning. This allows you to enjoy the beautiful golden light over the Rattlesnake Mountains and avoid the midday heat on the more exposed ridge sections.

Are there any coffee shops or amenities nearby?

Given its location within Missoula city limits, there are numerous coffee shops, cafes, and other amenities just a short drive from the trailhead, offering convenient options before or after your hike.