What’s in Missoula, Montana?

Endless outdoor adventure, that’s what. 

Every now and again, you need to drop everything you’re doing and recharge your internal batteries. Ditch the city (and technology) and dive into the great outdoors! Missoula is just what the doctor ordered. 

If it’s hiking, skiing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, or fishing you’re after, this is where you want to plan your next vacation. In this post, take a look at some of the best-rated places to get outside and have fun! 

Caras Park 

This 12-year-old park is located in the heart of downtown Missoula, near the Clark Fork River. It’s the perfect spot for concerts, private parties, family bbq’s, or someplace to go by yourself.

Clark Fork River

Clark Fork River in Missoula, Montana

If it’s a hot day in Missoula, grab your inner tube, and an ice-cold beverage- and head to the Clark Fork River. You will find a bunch of other people doing the same, relaxing and floating along. Also, it’s great for paddle boarding.
  

Lolo National Forest

You can’t get anymore outdoors than Lolo National Forest. Thousands of acres and nature surround it. During your trek, do some mushroom and huckleberry picking, or bird watching. Sightings may include bald eagles, blue herons, osprey, yellow warblers, and more.  
 

Lolo Peak 

This frequently climbed mountain is open to visitors year-round. With several other visible mountain ranges that can be seen from the very top, it’s quite the view! You can go hiking, climbing, skiing, and scrambling (which is something between hiking and rock climbing).

 

Missoula’s Farmer’s Market 

Fresh and organic vegetables at farmers market

 
Walk around the local Farmer’s Market to find a variety of fresh vegetables and handmade crafts. There are over nearly 100 vendors to choose from. All with high-quality goods and fair prices. Devote an entire day to hopping markets and head to two other ones close by. The Clark Fork River Market and Missoula Saturday Market. 

 

Montana Natural History Center

 
See all of Montana’s flora and fauna up close and personal. Here, adults are able to take interactive classes. And kids will appreciate the Nature Adventure Garden. They can run and jump on natural hills and boulders instead of a typical playground. The idea is to promote and encourage growth through unstructured playtime. 
 

Montana Snowbowl

Male and female hiker riding a chairlift

 
The Snowbowl is an alpine ski area located about 12 miles away from Missoula. There are two sessions, one during Summer and one for Winter. During Summer, visitors can expect pizza, chairlift rides, hiking, mountain biking, and zip lining. There is something for the entire family.

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness

This recreation area has 60,000+ acres of straight nature and beauty to take in. There are tons of crystal clear creeks, and waterfalls along the paths. Visitors like to go fishing, backpacking, horseback riding, and biking here.
 
 

Don’t forget

A map, your camera, maybe a journal- and also, just to have a great time! 
 
 
For more adventure ideas, check out these other posts, about tips for traveling, and places to go. Be sure to check out our sister site, HotelCoupons.com, for the best hotel deals.