3/25/24 Parks and Recreation News 

Mount Jumbo South Zone opens March 26

Mount Jumbo’s South Zone, which includes the Saddle Road and all points south, will reopen to the public at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26. The North Zone, including all points north of the Saddle Road, remains closed until May 1 or later. 

Most of Mount Jumbo is closed each year starting December 1 to protect wintering wildlife. The closure provides critical habitat for the approximately 100 elk and other animals that rely on the lower elevations of Mount Jumbo for food and cover during the winter and early spring. The "L" and US West trails are open all year, however dogs must be leashed during the closure.

The winter closure accommodates the elk herd's natural movements, allowing them to migrate from lower elevations in early spring to higher elevations as the weather warms and food becomes more plentiful. When warmer temperatures stimulate vegetation growth on Jumbo's upper slopes, the elk naturally migrate into the still-protected North Zone, and the South Zone is opened to the public. 

The City of Missoula thanks residents for their support in protecting Mount Jumbo's unique natural resources. During the winter closure, visitors must stay on the "L" and US West trails and leash their pets to protect wildlife. Report wildlife closure violations by calling 911. For real-time updates and more information, residents can visit the Parks and Recreation’s Conservation Lands Closures webpage and look for signs at trailheads.