#ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION MISSOULA FREE#

The Rattlesnake Corridor Trail was once a functioning forest service road and is now the main hiking route. It offers a surplus of hiking and mountain biking trails, along with many equestrian routes. The Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is a four-mile drive north of Missoula and part of the much larger Lolo National Forest. Explore the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area Trail through the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane This massive and magical playground underwent recent renovations to ensure universal access. It's an adventurous dream come true when it comes to playground equipment, as this massive structure stretches high into the sky. Next door to the carousel, the expansive Dragon Hollow Playground also attracts a lot of adolescent interest. The carousel is within a covered arena with sliding doors, ensuring comfortable rides throughout the year. Adults often also enjoy a spin on this hand-carved contraption, with their admission bumped up to $2 a ride. It's $1 per ride for children to ride the carousel, always with a chance at the golden brass ring. This volunteer-driven carousel became a reality in 1995 and has been a magnet for kids and carousel enthusiasts ever since. It's connected to Caras Park and the heart of downtown, easily accessible from the Clark Fork River Trail. A Carousel for Missoula A Carousel for Missoula | Brett Welcher / Ī Carousel for Missoula is a popular family attraction consisting of hand-carved horses, chariots, and gargoyles. And be sure to take some time to enjoy the scenic settings along the Riverfront Trail, which is made easy at places like the Clark Fork River Natural Area. Several river access points are also along the route, offering a spot for a quick dip in the summer.Įxpect to pass other walkers, joggers, strollers, and bicyclists utilizing this popular path. Users can also reach the base of Mount Sentinel and Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, home to the Missoula PaddleHeads minor league baseball team, on the opposite ends of the trail. Clark Fork River Trail | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane The trail connects to several other attractions along its route, including Caras Park, the Montana Natural History Center, and the University of Montana campus. Users access the Riverfront Trail on either the north or south bank from downtown or the Hip Strip, with Higgins Street, Orange Street, and the Madison Street pedestrian bridge linking both sides. This Riverfront Trail is the city's main pedestrian corridor and a great introduction to Missoula's natural beauty. The Clark Fork River runs right through Missoula, and the city's paved Clark Fork River Trail spans both banks in either direction from downtown. Walk or Bike the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail Clark Fork Riverfront Trail | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Missoulaġ.

Catch a Show at the Historic Wilma Theater Visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula Learn about Native Species at the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Explore the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area Walk or Bike the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail Summer is also the time when all of Missoula's best hiking trails open up all over the mountainsides.Įxperience the allure of Montana with these top things to do in Missoula: Expect hot temperatures and extra daylight for adventures all over town this time of year. While every month of the year offers new adventures to explore, summer is arguably the best time to visit Missoula.

Missoula's history is also readily on display at places like the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

#ROCKY MOUNTAIN ELK FOUNDATION MISSOULA FREE#

Alongside a vibrant downtown filled with historic architecture, the city offers several places to visit, like free museums, landmark carousels, and grandiose theaters.

Missoula Cityscape seen from Mount Sentinel Summit | Photo Copyright: Brad Laneīeyond the outdoors, Missoula has a distinct cultural appeal that's fun to experience. Much of this access occurs in Lolo National Forest, bordering all sides of the city. Easy access to the outdoors is a defining tourist attraction of Missoula, including a wide array of activities like fly fishing, hiking, and winter sports. It's at the junction of great trout rivers and several things to do surrounded by nature. Missoula is a university city in Western Montana with major mountain appeal. Author Brad Lane lived in Missoula between 20.

Rocky mountain elk foundation missoula