House of Sky Trail

The House of Sky Trail is located on Mount Dean Stone near Missoula, Montana. It connects to a larger network of trails, including the Mount Dean Stone Preserve Trail, Barmeyer, and Sousa trails. You can access it from various trailheads within the Mount Dean Stone area. Parking is available at these trailheads.

The trail is best enjoyed from late spring through fall. During the summer months, you'll find hillsides adorned with an abundance of wildflowers. However, please note that the trail has a seasonal closure from December 1st to May 15th each year to protect critical wildlife habitat, particularly for the Northern Sapphire elk herd.

The route primarily follows a singletrack trail that ascends and traverses Mitten Mountain. It features a relatively gentle average gradient of 8%, making it less steep than many older trails in the Missoula area. You'll pass through varied forests of Douglas Fir, Western Larch, and Ponderosa Pine, eventually reaching a scenic subalpine meadow. Portions of the trail also follow an old fire line.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, always ensure your dog is under control, preferably on a leash, and remember to pack out any waste. Be mindful of the seasonal closure from December 1st to May 15th, during which the trail is inaccessible to everyone, including pets.

Currently, there are no specific permits required or entrance fees to access the House of Sky Trail or the broader Mount Dean Stone trail network. The area is managed for public access and conservation.

Hikers are treated to incredible views of the surrounding valleys, including the Missoula Valley, the northern Bitterroot Valley, and Pattee Canyon. From higher elevations, you can see snow-covered peaks in all directions. A specific highlight along the route is the View of Mount Dean Stone.

The full Komoot tour, which includes the House of Sky Trail, is approximately 15.25 km (9.5 miles) long and typically takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes to complete for an average hiker.

Yes, the House of Sky Trail is a key component of a larger trail network. The Komoot route also passes through sections of the official trails named House of Sky, High Wide and Handsome, Upper Deer Creek 17121, Lower Skyline 19075, and Skyline Drive (North) - 2127-1.

The area is home to various wildlife. The seasonal closure from December 1st to May 15th is specifically in place to protect critical habitat for the Northern Sapphire elk herd, so you might spot elk outside of this period. Always observe wildlife from a distance and do not disturb them.

With its moderate 8% average gradient, the trail is designed to be more accessible than many older, steeper trails in the area. It's generally rated as having a 'Green' difficulty and an 'Easy' physical rating for hiking, making it suitable for a wider range of abilities, including families looking for a rewarding outdoor experience.

Given its moderate length and elevation gain, it's advisable to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate layers for changing weather conditions, sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes. While there are no specific water sources on the trail, you'll want to be prepared for a few hours of hiking.