Visitor Information

Open Space Rules

  • Open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • No overnight camping
  • No motorized use
  • No fires or fireworks
  • No tree cutting
  • Pack-it-in, pack-it-out; Pick up all your litter and dog waste
  • No plant or rock collecting
  • Dogs must be managed according to posted regulations
  • Fire danger may cause temporary closure
  • Seasonal closures may be made on behalf of wildlife, native flora, or for land management activities such as weed control or tree thinning
  • Up to $500 fine for violating conservation lands closures

Other Resources

Sharing Missoula's Open Space: Trail Etiquette

Trail etiquette allows hikers, bikers, runners, walkers, pet owners and equestrians to share the trails and avoid conflicts. Remember, people of all ages and abilities use local trails to enjoy the outdoors and each other. 

By respecting a few simple rules, you can have a great day in the outdoors, you’ll help preserve the trails and surrounding environment, and you’ll help ensure the trails remain accessible for everyone.

  • Be aware of other trail users.
  • Stay to the right of the trail (except when passing.)
  • Move off the trail when letting others pass; yield to other trail users when entering and crossing trail.
  • Wheels yield to heels: bikes always yield to hikers and equestrians. Cyclists should slow down on narrow or congested trails, especially near residential areas.
  • Obey all trail rules.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Stay on the trail.
  • Leave no trace, don’t litter.
  • Obey all posted signs. 
  • Hikers and bikers: When meeting someone riding a horse, step off the trail and speak calmly.

Pet Owners

  • Keep pets on a leash where required, and under strict voice control at all times. 
  • Dogs must be leashed within 200 feet of trailheads.
  • Control your pet—do not assume others want to interact with your dog.
  • Pick up pet waste and carry the bag with you—dispose of in a trash receptacle.
  • Do not allow pets to chase wildlife.
  • Keep pets on the trail.

Cyclists

  • Wheels yield to heels: bikes must always yield to hikers and equestrians.
  • Move off the trail for less-mobile users.
  • Slow down on narrow or heavily-used trails, especially near residential areas.
  • Give a clear warning signal when passing: call out “passing on your left.”
  • Always look ahead and behind when passing.
  • Travel at reasonable speed; slow down at corners.
  • Make your presence known at corners or blind spots.
  • Know your ability, equipment and the area.
  • Do not ride under conditions where you leave evidence of passing, i.e. after rain.
  • Stay on the trail.
  • Do not ride through streams.
  • Control your bicycle.

Adapted from US Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov


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