It’s hard to find a place in
Montana that isn’t visually attractive, so it goes without
saying that Missoula is a looker. It’s also got a touch
cultural sophistication, thanks in large part to the presence
of the University of Montana (go Grizzlies!). But at least half
the fun of visiting Missoula is the seemingly endless variety
of and effortless access to Montana-style outdoor adventure.
If whitewater is what you wish, then Missoula’s got you
covered. There are numerous raftable rivers in an around Missoula
Montana. The Blackfoot and the Lochsa are top-notch, but nothing
beats Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River. There are plenty
of place to rent your raft, so don’t sweat it if you forgot
your gear.
All that water around Missoula means excellent action for all
you anglers out there. You can cast your lines where the Clark
meets Big Blackfoot, or try your luck in the Missouri’s
headwaters. Rock Creek is a blue-ribbon trout stream.
Hikers in Missoula Montana don’t have to look far for trails
to climb. The Rattlesnake Recreation Area begins right on the
edge of town, as does the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness. Both are
great places for backpacking in the warmer months and cross-country
skiing in the winter.
Speaking of winter sports, Missoula’s great outdoors becomes
even greater when the snow starts to fall. The nearby mountains
are chock-a-block with spots for skiing, be it alpine, telemark
or cross-country, and snowboarding too. Sleigh rides, ice-skating
and fishing, even dogsledding and ski joring opportunities are
easy to find. Try the Big Mountain, Discovery Basin or the Snowbowl
resorts to get started.
Glacier National Park is 3 hours away from
Missoula Montana by car. Ski Joring is the practice of being pulled
by a horse of dog(s) while on skis.
