Lubrecht Experimental Forest

Recent Trail Grooming Reports:

Grooming reports are user-submitted by skiers like you. If you use these pages to check conditions before you head out on the trails, please help other skiers by posting an update on conditions when you return. Thanks!

Description:
The 29 km of rolling nordic trails at Lubrecht Experimental Forest are groomed by the Missoula Nordic Ski Club under a use agreement with the University of Montana College of Forestry. All questions and comments regarding nordic trails should be directed towards MNSC (not Lubrecht staff). As a research forest first, trails may be closed on short notice for research or management.

For the 2023-24 season, trails will be groomed Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday as snow permits. Each week we will focus on buffing out a specific trail- the rest of the trails will also be groomed, but not with as much attention.  The buffed trails will be noted at the trailhead and in groomer updates. 

There are 29 km of rolling terrain for both classic and skate skiing through forest glades and open meadows. The E loop is open and is a long 15 km loop high above Lubrecht with steep climbs and descents along with panoramic views of the Swan Range and provides one of the longest dedicated XC ski trails in the region. The inner loops are family friendly.

Well-behaved dogs are allowed. Dogs must be leashed at the parking area and on voice control on the trails. All dog waste must be picked up and disposed of.

20+km of skiing is also possible on the groomed multi-use Garnet Ghost Town road adjacent to Lubrecht. This road is open to motor vehicles (cars, trucks) until Jan. 1. After this date, it is groomed by the Missoula SnowGoers. In this area, be aware of snowmobiles, and the descent can be treacherous when icy.

Links:
Link to a map of the trails
Link to updated trail map
MT DOT webcam on Greenough Hill
Lubrecht Flume Snotel (Weather Station)

Location:
Approximately 30 miles east of Missoula along Highway 200.

Dogs:
Allowed under voice control. Please clean up after your dogs to maintain this privilege.

Cost: 
Free. Your trail head donations support grooming at Lubrecht.

Land Ownership:
University of Montana

Additional Notes: 
Lubrecht Experimental Forest offers lodging all winter long, either for groups in the main lodge or in one of the rustic heated cabins. For more information on the facilities and rates please see http://www.cfc.umt.edu/lubrecht/  or call 406-880-7059.