Missoula: Best Experiences

Montana, located in the Mountain West, is the 4th largest state in the US by area but the 8th least populated state. The western half of Montana contains numerous mountain ranges, while the eastern half is characterized by western prairie terrain and badlands, with smaller mountain ranges found throughout the state. There are a total of 77 named ranges that are part of the Rocky Mountains. Today, we will be focusing on the best experiences in Missoula.

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You should expect great weather in the Late Spring, Summer, and Fall for Montana. Summers are short, warm, and mostly clear and the winters are freezing, snowy, and partly cloudy. The warm season lasts for 2.8 months, from June 16 to September 11, with an average daily high temperature above 74°F. The hottest month of the year in Montana City is July, with an average high of 83°F and low of 54°F. The cold season lasts for 3.2 months, from November 18 to February 25, with an average daily high temperature below 40°F. The coldest month of the year in Montana City is December, with an average low of 14°F and high of 31°F. When planning your trip, be sure to check the local weather as some of the adventures depend on the weather.

Visit The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

Explore the rich history of western Montana found throughout The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula 32 acre Historic Park. Some of the most fascinating history you will discover includes. Immerse yourself in early Fort history dating from its establishment in 1877 in the midst of the Indian Wars, the exploits of the all African American 25th Infantry Bicycle Corps, the century or more of the forest products industry’s culture and innovations, and the World War II internment camp that once held over 2200 Italian and Japanese nationals.

Explore the only Museum of Mountain Flying, Missoula

Photo by Metin Ozer on Unsplash

Montana is the birthplace of mountain flying and what better way to celebrate that then the Museum of Mountain Flying. Located next to Missoula International Airport, this museum seeks to preserve the history of mountain flying in Montana and the Northern Rockies. There are aircrafts on display as well as various interactive history displays. Make sure to plan accordingly, their season runs from Memorial Day to Mid September.

Learn about the History of Smokejumpers and firefighting procedures

Photo by Fabian Jones on Unsplash

The Smokejumper Visitor Center is located right next to The Museum of Mountain Flying. The Visitor Center showcases many displays explaining the firefighting procedures, smokejumping history, and other fire related events. In addition to the Visitor Center, there are several short educational videos and an actual fire lookout from 1937. Another unique feature are Guided tours of the jump base are given 6 times daily at the following times: 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. The tour is 45 minutes to an hour long and takes visitors through the working facility of the smokejumpers. It takes an in-depth look at the profession of smokejumping and allows visitors to learn about jump gear, parachutes, cargo and aircraft.

Watch A Game At The Historic University of Montana

Photo by Steven Cordes on Unsplash

This scenic University campus spans 200 acres at the base of a mountain and borders the Clark Fork River. Founded in 1893, Montana’s leading liberal arts institution enrolls 13,000 students. The sports teams for University of Montana are a highlight to the city of Missoula. Whether it is Football, Basketball or Hockey, the town shows up. Tailgating before the games are also a staple to the city of Missoula.

Grab a bite at The Missoula Club –  a local favorite

Photo by Edward Franklin on Unsplash

Open since 1890, Missoula Club is THE local hot spot on Game days. When you’re hungry for a hearty burger, thirsty for beer on tap, or want to watch the Grizzlies game on a big TV, Missoula Club is the place to be. Bill F had this to say about The Missoula Club, “This is a great place to grab a bite in downtown. They’re great because they focus on one kind of meal here, burgers and beers. They have cheap mix drinks as well but beer will go better with your burger. Open late, good staff.”

If the best experiences in Missoula have sparked your interest, why not check  out Western Montana: The Best Adventures

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