The “M” that adorns Mount Sentinel in Missoula is not the only such letter attached to a hill in a college town in Montana, but it is one of the most iconic symbols in the state. That’s due to the location immediately east of the University of Montana campus, and the coincidence that both Montana and Missoula start with “M.” The 3/4-mile hike to the letter is often described as a good workout because the 620-foot elevation gain is fairly steep. The tradeoff is that even a short walk up the trail provides a good vantage point of the campus and the town, and the views get better as you go.

The "M" appears to be rather small from the ground level of the campus, but it is actually 125 feet long.
Lisa Kaul/alltrails
Part of the attraction of the "M" Trail is the way that even a short ascent creates some great views.
Brett Davis/flickr
Partway up the trail, all of Missoula becomes visible.
Robert Chenoweth/alltrails
The campus map posted along the trail identifies the buildings that come into view.
Larry Ernst/alltrails

Related Stories

8 Bucket-List-Worthy Trails At Montana's Glacier National Park

8 Bucket-List-Worthy Trails At Montana's Glacier National Park

 Take A Virtual Tour Of Nature Trails And Stunning Lakes At Glacier National Park In Montana

Take A Virtual Tour Of Nature Trails And Stunning Lakes At Glacier National Park In Montana

 The Creepiest Hike In Montana Takes You Through The Ruins Of An Abandoned Mining Town

The Creepiest Hike In Montana Takes You Through The Ruins Of An Abandoned Mining Town
Washington-Grizzly Stadium is usually filled with more than 25,000 fans on Saturdays when the Montana Grizzlies play football games.
Robert Chenoweth/alltrails
The trail provides views of the Bitterroot Mountains to the south and Mount Jumbo and the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area to the north
James Wall/alltrails
The hiker's perspective changes amid the 13 switchbacks along the trail to the "M." By hiking another mile, visitors can reach the top of Mount Sentinel.
Allie Smith/alltrails
The concrete "M" was installed in 1968. The original 1909 structure consisted of rocks that were whitewashed annually by freshman students.
William Clendenen/Alltrails

Parking is available at the trailhead for a fee in a lot on Campus Drive across from Aber Hall. Benches are provided at various points along the trail. So while some college students and recreational athletes use the trail for running, visitors of all ages can make an ascent of any length, at their own pace.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Montana

Featured Addresses
University of Montana, 32 Campus Dr, Missoula, MT 59812, USA