Lyon Gulch

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

If you want to ditch the crowds at the bottom of Blue Mountain and still enjoy great views of the Missoula valley, Lyon Gulch is a good option. While the road up can be a bit rough at times, it is still doable in most vehicles. This hike begins in a small gap between the wooden fences along the road. To begin, walk through the gap and turn left to get on the trail. For a short distance, this hike follows the Blue Mountain trail. After following the trail up for a few hundred yards you'll come across Lyon Gulch road and take a right. From here, follow the old road around the north side of the mountain as it gradually gains elevation. This area showcases a different side of the Blue Mountain Recreation Area than most are used to. Because of a fire in the early 2000's, this area is far more open than other trails in the recreation area. Due to this, the trail can be quite warm on summer days so get out early if you plan to hike when it is hot. As you proceed around the gulch, the views will get better and better as you gain elevation. In the spring and summer, wildflowers cover this area and create a beautiful mosaic of colors on the open hillsides. In the fall, young shrubs and larch trees decorate the mountain with beautiful red and yellow colors. Unfortunately, this hike is not accessible during the winter months as Blue Mountain road is gated near the bottom. At the top of the gulch you can enjoy great views of the Missoula and O'brien creek valleys. If it is a clear enough day, you can even see the Mission Mountains in the distance. Once you have taken in the views, head back the same way you came.