Pet-Friendly Missoula: Restaurants, Hikes, Breweries & More

Live in Montana’s university city with a canine companion, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Missoula? You’re in the right place — below, find the ultimate guide to pet-friendly Missoula. We’ll explore the dog-friendly restaurants Missoula has to offer, along with hikes, parks, breweries and more.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Missoula

Missoula is known for its hearty Montana cuisine that celebrates local ingredients and farm-to-table approach. Below, we’ll explore some local favorites — just be sure to book ahead to make sure your pup is welcome.

Biga Pizza

Grab one of the four dog-friendly tables outside Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza for a taste of Italy. Serving up both traditional and modern pizza, this spot is loved for their locally-sourced, seasonal menu.

Location: 241 W Main St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ

For a celebration of local BBQ culture, check out The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ, where the cooks learned their techniques and recipes from the world-famous pitmasters of Saint Louis.

Location: 247 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Five on Black

Tried the local favorites and want something from a little further afield? Check out Five on Black — a Brazilian restaurant where you can build your own feijoada.

Location: 325 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Pangea Bar & Restaurant

Find a table at the outdoor area of Pangea Bar & Restaurant to choose from a menu that celebrates flavors from around the world.

Location: 223 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Sweet Peaks Ice Cream

Grab a bench outdoors for a sweet treat at this locally-loved ice cream shop — pick the huckleberry flavor for a true taste of Montana.

Location: 223 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Iron Horse Brew Pub

If you want the chance to choose from Missoula's eclectic beer selection, look no further than Iron Horse Brew Pub in Downtown Missoula. Visitors can enjoy a local brew, as well as a please-all menu of salads, burgers and snacks.

Location: 501 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Dog-friendly hikes in Missoula

Missoula is hiker’s paradise — known as ‘the hub of five valleys’, the city is surrounded by key mountain ranges including the Bitterroot Mountains. To find out more about where to explore near Missoula with your furry friend, start with our list below. And remember, always check local regulations (these can change), and follow any signage.

Blue Mountain Trailhead

Just a few miles southwest of Downtown Missoula, you’ll find Blue Mountain Trailhead. Popular with dog walkers, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders, it’s home to an extensive trail network, diverse wildlife and 360 views of Missoula Valley.

Location: Forest Hill Lane, Missoula, MT 59804, United States

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area

Pack a hiking bag and explore the 27-mile trail system of Pattee Canyon Recreation Area that’s home to a stunning coniferous forest. Pick wild strawberries and huckleberries along the way, and take necessary precautions as the canyon is home to black bears and mountain lions. Note that dogs are generally prohibited from cross-country ski trails during the winter months.

Location: Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, Missoula, MT 59803, United States

Crazy Canyon

Within Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, you’ll find Crazy Canyon — a popular hiking area with locals and visitors. It’s just over 7 miles to summit Mount Sentinel, where you’ll pass wildflower displays and various bird species including house finches and red-tailed hawks.

Location: Crazy Canyon, Missoula, MT 59803, United States

Maclay Flat Nature Trail

If you’ve got a slightly older pup or you prefer flatter walks, head to the Bitterfoot River for the Maclay Flat Nature Trail. It’s generally considered an easy walk, and is home to all kinds of wildlife, including bald eagles, osprey and white-tailed deer.

Location: Forest Rd 19155, Missoula, MT 59804, United States

Barmeyer Trail

On the slopes of Mount Dean Stone, you’ll find Barmeyer Trail — it’s 3 miles long, and is loved by hikers for the views of Mount Sentinel and Missoula Valley.

Location: Barmeyer Trail, Missoula, MT 59803, United States

Lincolnwood Trailhead

This popular entrance to Rattlesnake Recreation Area welcomes visitors and leashed dogs, and is popular for its wide dirt path that makes for easy access. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk and red squirrels.

Location: Timberlane, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Kim Williams Nature Trail

For an easy walk, stroll along the Clark Fork River for views across Mount Sentinel with your dog on a leash.

Location: Kim Williams Trail, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

Mount Jumbo Trailhead

Just outside of Downtown Missoula is Mount Jumbo Trailhead — a single track trail through open fields, where you can enjoy stunning views across Missoula valley.

Location: Mount Jumbo L Hike, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Waterworks Hill

For incredible views of Missoula without going far from the city, hike Waterworks Hill with your furry friend. The track starts from the parking lot off Greenough Drive, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the city. Be warned — the hike is known for being especially windy!

Location: Missoula, MT 59802, United States

Lolo National Forest

If you live in Missoula, you’ll know all about Lolo National Forest. But if you’re house sitting, it’s a site well worth mentioning. Home to various hikes and dog-friendly trails, Lolo National Forest is a local treasure known for riverside walks, backcountry adventure and old-growth forests.

Location: Lolo National Forest, Montana 59874, USA

Lolo National Park, Missoula

Dog parks in Missoula

Want somewhere you can let your furry friend off-leash to socialize with their own kind? Find your local dog park — starting with our list below. And naturally, always check that you’re in a designated off-leash area before letting your dog run free.

Sgt. Bozo Dog Park

With two separate fenced areas — one for small dogs and one for large, Sgt. Bozo Dog Park is a convenient space for locals to let their dogs off the leash.

Location: 12 Capt. Shattuck Ln., Missoula, MT 59804, United States

Rail Link Dog Park B.C.

This wood chip dog park is a popular spot for pet parents in the neighborhood who like to have somewhere fenced for a game of fetch.

Location: Missoula, MT 59801, United States

Fort Missoula Canine Campus

Not far from Sgt. Bozo Dog Park is Fort Missoula Canine Campus — a nice open space where furry friends can meet up, and run off-leash.

Location: Missoula, MT 59804, United States

Clark Fork River, Missoula

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Missoula

After exploring the trails, you might want a little downtime with your furry friend! Find a few of the dog-friendly cafes Missoula has to offer below, and be sure to check with a staff member before finding a seat.

Clyde Coffee

Find an outdoor table at Clyde Coffee after a walk along Clark Fort River for barista-made coffee and an eclectic brunch menu of everything from avocado toast to biscuits and gravy.

Location: 741 S Higgins Ave Unit a, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

Lighthouse Espresso

North of the river you’ll find Lighthouse Espresso — a local favorite for sandwiches, soups, pastries and coffee.

Location: 1925 Sherwood St, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

Nitro Coffee

If you’re serious about your coffee but you’d rather take it on a walk or home with you, drive through Nitro Coffee — this pet-loving coffee shop is sure to greet both you and your pup with a friendly face.

Location: 1460 S Russell St, Missoula, MT 59801, United States

Downtown Missoula

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Missoula

Get to know Missoula County regulations. Bringing dogs to restaurants, breweries and eateries is restricted in Missoula, so get to know local rules and regulations when planning your pet-friendly day out.
Book ahead. Local rules can change, and some businesses may no longer allow dogs that once did. So to avoid any disappointment, always call ahead to ensure your pup is allowed, and ensure you’re following local regulations.
Be aware of local wildlife. Hiking areas local to Missoula are home to black bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and unpredictable large animals like moose and elk, so prepare accordingly and follow local regulations. Keep your dog on a leash around local wildlife to avoid any disturbance.
Plan ahead for your vacation. So, you’re all set for a dog-friendly day exploring Missoula and its surrounding areas. But what about when the time comes to go on vacation? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to keep your pup calm and content while you’re away. Click below to learn how it works.

Connecting with pet sitters in Missoula

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Take pet parent recommendations. While bringing dogs to restaurants and other eateries might be limited in Missoula, you can still have a great time with your new furry friend! Explore the outdoors and make the most of the places where dogs are welcome.
Get into the wilderness. If you’re looking after an energetic pup and you’ve got permission from the pet parents, plan a hike or two in the mountains that surround Missoula — you won’t run out of panoramic views, birdwatching opportunities or stunning coniferous forests.
Explore Missoula through house sitting. So, ready to get your hiking boots on and meet a new furry friend in Missoula? Sounds like it’s time to get your house sitting adventure started! To find out how it works, click below.

House sitting in Missoula

How it works

More dog-friendly travel guides near Missoula

Thinking about house sitting near Missoula, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

Dog-friendly Missoula: FAQs

Are dogs allowed on public transport in Missoula?

No, dogs aren’t generally allowed on public transport in Missoula, but check with the local service provider just in case.

Are dogs allowed in Missoula’s restaurants and breweries?

No, dogs are generally not allowed inside Missoula’s restaurants and breweries, or at their patio areas unless stated otherwise. Always check if your pup is welcome by calling ahead of your arrival.

Where can I hike with my dog in Missoula?

Popular dog-friendly hikes include Blue Mountain Trailhead, Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, Crazy Canyon, Maclay Flat Nature Trail, Barmeyer Trail, Lincolnwood Trailhead, Kim Williams Nature Trail, Mount Jumbo Trailhead, and Waterworks Hill. Always check local regulations and bring everything you and your pup need to stay safe for the weather conditions.

Are there off-leash dog parks in Missoula?

Yes, Missoula has several off-leash dog parks including Sgt. Bozo Dog Park (with separate areas for small and large dogs), Rail Link Dog Park, and Fort Missoula Canine Campus — among others.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking with my dog near Missoula?

Hiking areas around Missoula are home to black bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, moose, and elk. Keep your dog on a leash around wildlife, prepare accordingly, and follow local regulations to avoid disturbances.

Can dogs visit Pattee Canyon Recreation Area year-round?

Dogs are generally prohibited from cross-country ski trails during winter months, but the area's 27-mile trail system is otherwise dog-friendly. Always check current regulations and follow posted signage.