Best Day Hike

THE M TRAIL

Readers' Pick

Also, BEST VIEW

In 1908, some extraordinarily motivated members of the Forestry Club chopped a set of switchbacks into Mount Sentinel and hauled rocks up its face to form Missoula's most notable landmark—and our best view. It may be popular, but that's because hiking the M trail is so rewarding. After only a few switchbacks, you can see the whole Missoula Valley clear to Smurfit Stone. And if you haven't hiked the M, you're in the minority. In the summer, the trail reportedly bears the burden of more than 1,000 pairs of feet per day.

FINALISTS:

2. Rattlesnake

3. Blue Mountain