Attractions and Places To See in Missoula County - Top 20

Missoula County is rich in natural beauty. The Clark Fork River is central to the region, offering opportunities for walking, surfing at Brennan's Wave, rafting, and fly fishing. You can also explore the vast Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, known for its glacial landscapes, trails, and alpine lakes, or the extensive Lolo National Forest for camping and wilderness exploration. Other notable areas include Blue Mountain Recreation Area and Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.

Yes, Missoula County has a rich history. You can visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, which preserves the original fort from 1877 and showcases local history. Travelers' Rest State Park is a significant National Historic Landmark where the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped. The Missoula County Courthouse, The Wilma Theatre, and the Northern Pacific Railroad Depot are also notable architectural and historical landmarks. Don't miss the well-preserved 1890s mining town of Garnet Ghost Town for a glimpse into Montana's past.

Families will find plenty to enjoy. A unique attraction is A Carousel for Missoula, a hand-crafted carousel built by volunteers. The SpectrUM Discovery Area at the University of Montana offers hands-on science exhibits. McCormick Park provides a family-friendly space with river access. Additionally, the Montana Natural History Center features exhibits on the local ecosystem, and the Missoula Children's Theatre offers engaging performances.

For panoramic views, hike up to The M Trail on Mount Sentinel. This iconic landmark offers stunning vistas of Missoula and the entire valley. Many trails within the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Lolo National Forest also provide excellent viewpoints after a climb.

Yes, the Bitterroot Trail is noted for being wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive option for enjoying the outdoors. While not all trails are fully accessible, many parks and paved sections along the Clark Fork River, such as parts of the Kim Williams Trail, offer smoother surfaces suitable for strollers.

Missoula County boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Missoula Art Museum exhibits contemporary art with a focus on Native American artwork. The University of Montana campus hosts various public events, including concerts and lectures, and is home to the Montana Museum of Art & Culture. The KettleHouse Amphitheater is a popular outdoor concert venue, and local Farmers' Markets offer a taste of community culture.

Beyond exploring the attractions themselves, Missoula County offers extensive outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, including the scenic University Mountain loop via Kim Williams Trail. For hiking, popular options include Mount Sentinel and Blue Mountain. There are also dedicated running trails like The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop. Many trails are also suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding.

Absolutely. The Rattlesnake Trail is a popular choice within the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, known for its mountain peaks and alpine lakes. For a challenging hike with rewards, consider the Mount Sentinel via Kim Williams and Hellgate Canyon Loop. The Blue Mountain Recreation Area also offers over 41 miles of trails for various skill levels.

Missoula County is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. The Kim Williams Trail offers a popular route along the river, with sections suitable for touring bikes. For mountain biking, the Deer Creek Sneak Trail and Petty Creek Road provide intermediate options within forested areas. You can explore more routes in the Cycling in Missoula County guide.

Many outdoor areas in Missoula County are dog-friendly. For instance, dogs are welcome on The M Trail on Mount Sentinel, provided they are on a leash. It's always best to check specific regulations for each park or trail, but generally, the region embraces pet owners on its extensive trail networks.

The best time to visit Missoula County for outdoor activities largely depends on your preferred activity. Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking, cycling, rafting, and enjoying the rivers, though trails like The M Trail can be exposed to sun. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and beautiful scenery for hiking and biking, with fewer crowds. Winter provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in areas like Lolo National Forest.

Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Smokejumpers Museum to learn about aerial firefighting, or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for educational experiences on elk conservation. The Missoula Downtown Historic District, with its nearly 400 preserved buildings, offers a charming walk through history and architecture that is often overlooked.