Mt. Jumbo South Zone Reopens to Missoula Hikers

Part of the popular hiking destination reopens after winter closure to protect wildlife.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:52pm

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The South Zone of Mt. Jumbo in Missoula, Montana, which includes the Saddle Trail and all points south, will reopen to the public on Friday, March 13 after being closed since December 1 to protect wintering wildlife such as elk. The North Zone will remain closed until May 1.

Why it matters

Mt. Jumbo is a popular hiking destination for Missoula residents, but the city closes off sections of the mountain each winter to provide critical habitat and food sources for the approximately 120 elk and other wildlife that rely on the lower elevations. The reopening of the South Zone signals the start of the spring and summer hiking season.

The details

The South Zone of Mt. Jumbo, which includes the Saddle Trail and all points south, will reopen to the public at 6 a.m. on Friday, March 13. However, the North Zone will remain closed until May 1 to continue protecting wintering wildlife. The city takes the closure seriously, warning that violations can be reported by calling 911.

  • Mt. Jumbo's South Zone will reopen on Friday, March 13, 2026.
  • The North Zone of Mt. Jumbo will remain closed until May 1, 2026.

The players

Lori Hart

A representative from Missoula Parks & Recreation who provided details about the Mt. Jumbo reopening.

Missoula Police

The local law enforcement agency that has warned hikers about trespassing on closed sections of Mt. Jumbo in the past.

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What they’re saying

“Mount Jumbo's South Zone, which includes the Saddle Trail and all points south, will reopen to the public at 6 a.m. on Friday, March 13.”

— Lori Hart, Missoula Parks & Recreation

What’s next

The city will continue to monitor the reopened South Zone of Mt. Jumbo to ensure hikers are respecting the wildlife closure in the North Zone until May 1.

The takeaway

The seasonal reopening of Mt. Jumbo's South Zone is an important event for the Missoula community, as it signals the return of hiking season while also highlighting the city's commitment to protecting the local wildlife that relies on the mountain's lower elevations during the winter months.