Overview
Big Creek Trail runs north of Missoula into one of the quieter drainages in the Lolo National Forest, offering a 7-mile out-and-back through old-growth cedar-hemlock forest that feels more like the Pacific Northwest than the typically drier Montana interior. The lower drainage holds some of the most impressive old-growth trees in the forest: western redcedars with deeply furrowed bark and canopies that close over the canyon floor in a cathedral effect.
Located in Montana north of Missoula, this trail sees a fraction of the traffic of the Rattlesnake or Pattee Canyon routes despite being within the same general geography. The forest atmosphere is distinctly moist and cool, sustained by the north-facing drainage orientation and the organic moisture retention of the old-growth understory.
The Route
Trailhead to Cedar-Hemlock Zone (0 to 1.5 miles)
The trail enters Big Creek drainage through a mixed forest that transitions to old-growth cedar within the first mile. The large-diameter trees become dominant in the lower canyon, with trunks measuring 3 to 5 feet across in the old-growth sections. The trail surface is soft and the canyon floor is carpeted with moss and fern.
Mid-Canyon (1.5 to 2.8 miles)
The trail continues through the main cedar-hemlock zone, climbing moderately alongside Big Creek. The creek is accessible at several points and supports native cutthroat trout visible in the clear pools. The forest floor is notably darker and moister than most Lolo trails, creating a distinctive microclimate. Moose tracks are frequently present in the muddy margins.
Upper Canyon (2.8 to 3.5 miles)
The canyon steepens and the cedar transitions to Engelmann spruce and Douglas fir at higher elevation. The trail reaches a natural turnaround point at a meadow bench near a distinctive creek cascade. The upper drainage continues into more remote terrain for those with backpacking gear.
When to Hike
May through October is the full season. The low-elevation cedar zone opens early in spring, often accessible by mid-May. The moist forest stays green and pleasant through the driest summer stretches.
Summer mornings offer the best wildlife encounter opportunities and the most pleasant conditions in the cool cedar zone. The drainage is shaded for most of the day.
September and October bring fall color to the western larch at higher elevations in the drainage and to the maples along the creek. Moose activity increases in fall.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry a liter of water with a filter for creek supplementation on this route. Rain gear or a packable jacket is useful since the moist canyon can feel cool even on warm days. Waterproof or water-resistant footwear is helpful when the trail is wet from recent rain.
Bear spray is advisable given the active black bear population in this drainage. Keep food properly stored and be attentive near the creek where visibility is limited.
Trailhead Access
Big Creek Trailhead is on Big Creek Road north of Missoula, reached via Highway 93 and local forest roads. The road is gravel and typically suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles. No fee or permit is required (as of 2026). No restroom is present. The small parking area holds 10 to 12 vehicles.
Dogs are permitted and the low-traffic trail is well-suited to dogs.
Nearby
Big Creek is in the northern section of the Lolo, less visited than the Missoula front-range trails. Rattlesnake Creek Trail is the comparable creek-side walk from the city. Fish Creek Trail to the west shares similar cedar-dominant forest character. For a full understanding of the Lolo's range, pair a Big Creek visit with an outing on Stuart Peak for the contrasting high-elevation perspective.
Check current conditions at the USFS guide and practice Leave No Trace principles in this fragile old-growth ecosystem.