BEST MISSOULA TRAILS FOR THOSE RECOVERING FROM INJURY - BRENT DODGE, DPT

Fall is upon us, but there is still time for numerous adventures and sites to explore. For those recovering from injury or suffering from pain,  it can be  hard to find a hike that fits your fitness capabilities. The last thing you need is to get there and realize that this outing is doing more harm then good. Fortunately for Missoulians, we have access to a wide variety of trails ranging from short trails with minimal  inclines to long steep hikes up nearby mountains. Here are a few trails to check out.

Bolle Birdwatching Trail – Greenough Park
This is the prefect trail for those who are recovering from injury and need a hike with very little elevation gain. This trail is located in the Rattlesnake area and is a loop design. Since this trail is only one mile, it takes about 30 min to do.

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Blue Mountain Saddle to Blue Mountain Lookout
This trail is a there-and-back hike with  a 660 foot elevation gain over the 2.2 miles. Thus, it is an easy hike for those who want to ease into hiking. The full hike takes about 1.5 hours, but due to its design you can turn back at anytime to make the trial fit your time requirement.

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Main Rattlesnake Trail
This is another great trail in the Rattlesnake area. This trail has a little elevation change, so it’s a good hike if you are looking for a longer hike. This one is a there-and-back hike of up to 4.8 miles. So you can make it as long as you’d like.

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Hiking is a great way to get in your daily exercise while exploring the outdoors. Capitalize on the great weather by exploring some of these easier trails. They are great for beginners and those faced with the challenges of knee and back pain.