Missoula Travel Guide

It can get very windy in the valley, where the airport and city are located.
The day I took off (1/2008), the pilot said that you could do chinups on the windsock at the end of the runway. Judging by my drive to the airport, getting pushed around on the road, I believed his joke. It made the takeoff rough, but not bad enough to shake us around in our seats, just vibrations.

Wildlife is very abundant, and is often seen in town. Please discourage the animals from making human/food associations and becomming trouble. Don't feed the wildlife!!! Predators like bears and mountain lions are around in addition to the ever-present deer. They are awesome to see and watch, but once fed, can pose a tough problem for tourists, residents, and wildlife managers. Do your part to leave them both wild and alive. :)

Luggage and bags: If you are just going to do the city thing, a light puse, or pack is fine. But the mountains and trails around here have so much to offer, I would recomend a sturdy pack for hiking and camping.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: In the winter: for in town, bring winter wear. For in the mountians, boots, hat, heavy coat, winter rec gear. In the summer: shorts, hat, light clothes, rain gear, and for the mountians cold weather gear.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: basic first aid kit, basic toiletries, more if going hiking. In town we have many stores to by things if needed and two hospitals, and many now care locations if needed.

Photo Equipment: lots and lots of film! and a decent camera. There is always something beautiful to take a picture of here, from the mountains, to the rivers, and lots of wildlife.

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: skis, snowshoes, hiking boots, tents, sturdy packs, binochulars, spotting scope, mountain bike. We have lots of options just outside of town for outdoor rec.

Miscellaneous: a sence of humor, and appreciation for laid-back living and the libral people of Missoula

Take a side trip from Missoula to enjoy the immense beauty this area has to offer.Travel the east side of Flathead Lake (85 miles N of Msla)& drive thru the home of the famous Flathead Cherry.Stop at O'Farrell's orchard (mm19) & pick your own.Check in at Teresa's house on Flathead Lake (mm19.5)(406)546-0404 & drop your bags.Kick back on one of the 3 decks to enjoy a view of Flathead Lake that can't be beat or enjoy a soak in the outdoor hot-tub.Bring your boat & experience the lake first hand.Launch from this property & enjoy world class fishing,water-sports or dock-side dining at several establishments in nearby Wood's Bay.Continue your explorations w/ an evening excursion into the quaint village of Bigfork & enjoy a fantastic meal at La Provence on Bridge St.A French-Med. cuisine prepared by Chef Marc Guizol.Enjoy a play at the Bigfork Theater,returning to Teresa's for an evening campfire on the beach.Day 2:Travel north & then west from Teresa's to Somers and visit The Flathead Gallery.Owner,Donald Baughman has a collection of vintage & contemporary art & furniture from the Northwest & Montana that is well worth the stop.Native American bead-work,photos & paintings by well known western artists are for sale here.After a day of exploring,return to Bigfork for the best burger in town.The Garden's owner,"Mister"is generally on hand to dish out a warm welcome. Most evenings in summer will find everyone dancing to the tunes of local bands in the outdoor garden.Day 3:Glacier National Park.Many roads lead to Glacier,but take the back road (Hywy 83) along the base of the Swan mountains & enter Glacier from the west side. Glacier is about 1.5 hr's from Teresa's.

Montana offers the best opportunities for winter recreation. Snowshoeing, and cross country skiing are popular in the back country. But be sure you have the right gear and knowledge before trecking into the wilderness.

But the absolute best in winter sports can be found at the numerous ski areas in Western Montana, most just a short drive from Missoula. Snow Bowl, Discovery Basin, Lookout Pass, and especially Big Mountain and Big Sky resorts. They all get awesome amounts of snow each year, which usually remains until mid April. It's a fantastic experience, with breathtaking views from the summits of these mountains. I would recommend any skiier from extreme to beginner to ski Montana. You'll never forget it. :)

Equipment: Gear can be bought at any sporting goods or outdoor supply shop. It doesn't always have to be the exremely expensive kind or brands, but it does have to be reliable and sturdy. Gear shops will have knowledgable people who can help you buy the right stuff.

Often you can also rent gear, allowing you to get a feel for the sport with out putting you out of too much money. This is especially good for skis and snowboards. Decide what you like, then purchase it.