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The Rattlesnake Mountains, located four miles north of Missoula, Montana, form a rugged and scenic vista for the Missoula Valley. The Rattlesnake Wilderness receives its name from Rattlesnake Creek which originates from within the Wilderness and is also part of the City of Missoula's municipal watershed. The rolling hills of the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area (NRA) lie to the south and adjacent to the Wilderness. The mountains and ridges along the northern boundary of the Wilderness form the border with the South Fork Jocko Tribal Primitive Area. The Rattlesnake Wilderness is characterized by scenic lakes, forested ridges, open cliff-banded slopes, and mountain peaks. Elevations in the Wilderness range from 4200 feet at the southern boundary to 8,620 feet at McLeod Peak. Ponderosa Pine, Lodgepole Pine, Larch, Fir, and Spruce can be found throughout the Wilderness depending on elevation and slope aspect. The area is also home to Deer, elk, coyotes, wolves, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, black bears, grizzly bears, moose, and mountain lions. Approximately 33 miles of trail and 1000's of acres of untrailed terrain allow visitors to explore this area.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Rules & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Date: October 19, 1980
Acreage: 33,000 acres
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness Act of 1980 - Public law 96-476 (10/19/1980) To establish the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness in the State of Montana
For more information (To download or see all affected Wilderness areas) visit our law library for 96-476 or special provisions for 96-476 or legislative history for 96-476 for this law.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.