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 is your ultimate guide to enjoying Missoula with your furry friend, featuring dog-friendly restaurants, scenic hikes, welcoming breweries, and beloved local parks—all curated for pet lovers who trust FurPetVo (furpetvo.com) for reliable, compassionate pet care connections.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Missoula
Missoula’s food scene celebrates hearty Montana flavors and a strong farm-to-table ethos—many spots warmly welcome four-legged guests on their outdoor patios. Always call ahead to confirm pup-friendly seating and seasonal availability.
- Biga Pizza: Grab one of the four dog-friendly tables outside Bob Marshall’s Biga Pizza for a taste of Italy. Their menu features both traditional and modern pizzas made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Location: 241 W Main St, Missoula, MT 59802 - The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ: Savor authentic Montana-style barbecue inspired by Saint Louis pitmasters. Dogs are welcome at select outdoor tables.
Location: 247 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802 - Five on Black: Craving something vibrant and international? This Brazilian-inspired eatery lets you build your own feijoada—and pups love the shaded patio.
Location: 325 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802 - Pangea Bar & Restaurant: Enjoy globally inspired dishes at their inviting outdoor area—perfect for relaxed meals with your companion.
Location: 223 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802 - Sweet Peaks Ice Cream: Treat your pup (and yourself) to a huckleberry scoop—the quintessential Montana flavor—at this beloved local shop. Benches are available just outside.
Location: 223 W Front St, Missoula, MT 59802 - Iron Horse Brew Pub: Sample Missoula’s eclectic craft beer lineup alongside burgers, salads, and snacks—all while your dog lounges beside you on the dog-friendly patio.
Location: 501 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802
Dog-friendly hikes in Missoula
Known as “the hub of five valleys,” Missoula is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges—including the Bitterroots—and offers trails for every energy level and experience. Remember: keep dogs leashed where required, pack water and waste bags, and check current regulations before heading out.
- Blue Mountain Trailhead: Just minutes southwest of downtown, this popular trailhead serves hikers, bikers, and dog walkers alike—with sweeping 360° views of the Missoula Valley.
Location: Forest Hill Lane, Missoula, MT 59804 - Pattee Canyon Recreation Area: Explore 27 miles of well-maintained trails through stunning coniferous forest. Pick wild strawberries and huckleberries—but stay alert for black bears and mountain lions. Note: dogs are not permitted on cross-country ski trails in winter.
Location: Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, Missoula, MT 59803 - Crazy Canyon: A favorite within Pattee Canyon, this route leads toward Mount Sentinel—passing vibrant wildflowers and offering sightings of red-tailed hawks and house finches.
Location: Crazy Canyon, Missoula, MT 59803 - Maclay Flat Nature Trail: Ideal for older or low-energy dogs, this easy riverside walk along the Bitterroot River hosts bald eagles, osprey, and white-tailed deer.
Location: Forest Rd 19155, Missoula, MT 59804 - Barmeyer Trail: A moderately challenging 3-mile climb on Mount Dean Stone with rewarding vistas of Mount Sentinel and the valley below.
Location: Barmeyer Trail, Missoula, MT 59803 - Lincolnwood Trailhead: The main entrance to Rattlesnake Recreation Area welcomes leashed dogs on its wide, accessible dirt path—great for spotting elk, deer, and red squirrels.
Location: Timberlane, Missoula, MT 59802 - Kim Williams Nature Trail: A gentle, riverfront stroll along the Clark Fork with scenic views of Mount Sentinel—perfect for a peaceful leash walk.
Location: Kim Williams Trail, Missoula, MT 59801 - Mount Jumbo Trailhead: A single-track trail through open fields just outside downtown—ideal for sunrise or sunset views across the valley.
Location: Mount Jumbo L Hike, Missoula, MT 59802 - Waterworks Hill: A short but steep hike starting from Greenough Drive—rewarded with panoramic city views. Be prepared: it’s famously windy!
Location: Off Greenough Drive, Missoula, MT 59802 - Lolo National Forest: A must-visit for residents and visiting pet sitters alike. With riverside paths, backcountry adventures, and ancient forests, it’s a true Montana treasure—and many trails welcome leashed dogs.
Location: Lolo National Forest, Montana 59874
Dog parks in Missoula
When your pup needs off-leash socialization and playtime, Missoula delivers with thoughtfully designed, secure spaces. Always verify current rules and ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations before visiting.
- Sgt. Bozo Dog Park: Features two separate, fully fenced areas—one for small dogs and another for larger breeds—making it ideal for safe, stress-free play.
Location: 3100 S Russell St, Missoula, MT 59801
