MISSOULA & THE BITTERROOT

from Pure Montana 2023-24

ARTHUR AVENUE, BILLINGS

If you like your connection to nature served alongside the energy of a college town, look no further than Missoula, the biggest city in Western Montana. This city of 74,800 is known for being the home of the University of Montana, with a passion-driven, forwardthinking personality to match. As Outside Magazine put it, Missoula is “a place where people who could live anywhere choose to live.” Rich in the arts, Missoula also offers local and world-class theatre, film, festivals, ballet, and opera. There is a thriving restaurant scene, as well as accessibility to great adventures like climbing, skiing, and rafting in the Bitterroot and Mission Mountains. Nature here isn’t always rugged—a number of natural hot springs are within close range, for those seeking relaxation and restoration.

Take Route 90 to follow the Bitterroot River south into the sage-carpeted Bitterroot Valley. Eight charming small towns line this scenic stretch of highway, from Stevensville down to Hamilton, the region’s anchor at the head of the valley. Sandwiched between the Selway Bitterroot and Anaconda-Pintler Wildernesses, these towns offer quiet living with quick access to steep-walled granite canyons, remote peaks, and blue-ribbon rivers. The well-preserved western character belies the fact that the Bitterroot is one of Montana’s fastest-developing regions. Over the last few decades, this quaint ranching and agricultural valley has managed to evolve without losing its original charm.

Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley offer a unique blend of urban energy and outdoor beauty. This region is perfect for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle, with opportunities for students, artists, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.