Rattlesnake Recreation Area / Rattlesnake Wilderness / Patti Canyon
Rattlesnake is an intimidating name, but according to local U.S. Forest Service officials, no rattlesnakes shimmy along the route. The name, it seems, dates back to the early days of Missoula when someone found a rattler, yet the source of the anecdote eludes local historians. Closest to Missoula is the Rattlesnake Recreation Area, 5 miles north of downtown Missoula. Three miles north into the Recreation Area is the boundary of the 33,000-acre Rattlesnake Wilderness. Camping is prohibited within 3 miles of the trailhead. Spring Gulch Trail is an easy 7-mile round trip in the very popular Rattlesnake Recreation Area. Surface quality: Skier-tracked but often walked on by hikers and joggers, especially within the first 3 kilometers from the trailhead.
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Directions to: Rattlesnake Recreation Area / Rattlesnake Wilderness / Patti Canyon
print directionsTrail Statistics & Information
| Activity | Snowshoeing |
|---|---|
| Nearby City | Missoula |
| Length | 20 mi |
| Skill Level | Easy to very difficult |
| Duration | Day use |
| Trailhead Elevation | 3,860 ft |
| Top Elevation | 7,960 ft |
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