Just a few minutes north of Missoula, the Rattlesnake Wilderness and National Recreation Area is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, runners, horseback riders, and in the winter, x-country skiers, snowshoers, and even sledders. Its backcountry lakes are quite remote and well worth the effort it takes to reach them. Trailheads are located in Grant Creek, the Rattlesnake valley, and along Gold Creek road.
| Trail Name | Rating | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stuart Peak / Twin Lakes | 4 | 9.0 | 3900 | Strenuous |
| Boulder Lake | 3 | 5.0 | 1500 | Moderate |
| Sanders Lake | 3 | 11.0 | 2100 | Strenuous |
| Bull Lake | 3 | 2.0 | 400 | Moderate |
| Spring Gulch Loop | 2 | 4.0 | 500 | Easy |
No fires, shooting, or camping in the South Zone. No bikes in the Wilderness. Fishing in Rattlesnake Creek north of Beeskove Creek only. Separate trailhead for stock. No dogs December - February, December - May 15 in Spring Gulch. Dogs on leash first 1.7 miles of main corridor, 1.3 miles of Spring Gulch. No dogs in Sawmill or Curry Gulches.