Montana
Sam Braxton Trail
Named after a well known Missoula skier, bicyclist and outdoorsman, this trail loops around the southeast portion of Pattee Canyon Recreation Area.
Loop Trail? No
Type: Backcountry
Agency: USDA Forest Service
Entry Fee? No
Parking Fee? No Allowed Uses:
Bicycling (off pavement)
Equestrian - Riding
Pedestrian - Walking/Hiking/Running
Snow - Cross-country Skiing
Wildlife Observation
Location: In Lolo NF, 5 mi. SW of Missoula on Pattee Canyon Road.
State(s): Montana
Counties: Missoula
Longitude: -113.9216
Latitude: 46.82414
Driving Directions
The trail begins 4 miles up Patte Canyon Road, just off the south side parking area. Bear to the right beyond the gate in the parking area and follow the roadway to the trailhead.
Description
You might want to pick up one of Lolo National Forest's Pattee Canyon brochures before exploring this trail. While the trail is signed, you can be confused easily by old horse-logging skid trails and other paths that crisscross the area.
Look for giant old-growth western larch and ponderosa pine, Montana's state tree, near the beginning of the trail. Careful observers will discover remnants of Missoula homesteads along the trail. Savor your journey into the past, but remember these artifacts are parts of archaeological sites protected by law. Leave for others to enjoy and study.
The trail begins four miles up Pattee Canyon Road, just off the south side parking area. Bear to the right beyond the gate in the parking area and follow the roadway to the trailhead.
Additional Details
Width: 18 inches.
Primary Surface: Soil, compacted
Secondary Surface: None
Average Grade: 12%
Maximum Grade: 16%
Elevation Low Point: 4,500
Elevation High Point: 4,500
Elevation Gain (cumulative): Not Available
Year Designated: 1980
Supporting Webpages and Documents
Website: State of MontanaContact Information
For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails.
Trail management:
Gene Thompson
Missoula Ranger District
Missoula, MT
59804
(406) 329-3984
[email protected]
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