A cultural hub and paradise for aspiring writers attending University of Montana's prestigious creative writing program, Missoula has many attractions. The downtown area has several properties listed in the National Historic Registry. A historic walking tour takes visitors past 19th- and early 20th-century buildings: a map is available at the local tourism office.
Nature lovers may prefer a walk along the Missoula Riverfront Walking Trail. And if you want to do what the locals do, hike to the top of Mount Sentinel, an extremely popular family activity.
MOUNT SENTINEL
This small mountain rising over Missoula and the University of Montana officially belongs to the University. The mountain's most popular hiking trail is the one leading to the white 'M', a Missoula landmark since 1908 and part of the university's history.
A short 1.2-km hike leads to the famous 'M', while another 2.8 km will take you to the top of the mountain. It will take about 2 hours to reach the top.
A CAROUSEL FOR MISSOULA
With its majestic hand-carved wooden horses and antique frame, Missoula's carousel turns a great many heads. Built by volunteers in the 1990s, the carousel is much-loved by the local community, who work together to look after it and keep it in tip top condition. Young visitors from around the world come to take a ride on the wooden ponies.
NEARBY
GARNET GHOST TOWN
Once a thriving town that was home to hundreds of gold miners and their families in the late 19th century, Garnet is now a ghost town. A short tour of this abandoned town provides real insight into the reality of prospectors and fortune-seekers hoping to find gold, quartz and other precious stones. Today, income from tourism helps protect, preserve and interpret Garnet Ghost Town. The entry fee is just about $3 per visitor (over 16 years of age).
Festivals calendar
River City Roots Fest
Dates: late August
Music festival offering many family activities.