Missoula Convention and Visitors Bureau Travel Guide

The Garden City and Beyond

Missoula Montana

ORIGINAL ARTWORK BY MONTE DOLACK

The Official 2009-2010 Missoula Area Visitor & Relocation Guide Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau

Atmosphere Taste. Comfort. Style. Location. We have it all.

• Located on the scenic Clark Fork River • 171 guest rooms with mountain or river views (6 suites) • Sweet Dreams® bedding by Doubletree • High-speed wireless internet throughout the hotel • 9,000 square feet of meeting & banquet space • Complete banquet and conference services • Outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub • Two blocks from University of Montana • 15 minutes from airport (complimentary shuttle) • Enjoy nearby golf, fishing, jogging trails, rafting, & skiing

www.missoulaedgewater.doubletree.com

• Enjoy upscale dining in a relaxed atmosphere • Featured items include fresh seafood, steaks and broiled chops • Missoula’s premier Sunday Brunch • Raw Oyster Bar and Gourmet Pizzas • Missoula’s finest deck–overlooking the Clark Fork River • Full-service bar including specialty martinis and 16 beers on tap • Private dining room with a river view (8-24 people) • Voted number one in five categories by the local community

www.finnandporter.com/missoula/

(406) 728-3100 (406) 542-4660 100 Madison • Missoula, MT 59802

IF MISSOULA WASN’T SO BEAUTIFUL, YOU’D SPEND ALL YOUR TIME HERE.

COMFORTABLE ROOMS

FULL SERVICE LOUNGE

INDOOR POOL

BUSINESS CENTER

DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE LOCATION BUSINESS CENTER INDOOR POOL CASINO

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• WIFI •

RESTAURANT

H E A LT H C L U B

MEETING SPACE

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SUITES AVAILABLE

ESPRESSO BAR

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GIFT SHOP

FULL SERVICE LOUNGE

CONFERENCE CENTER

SPACIOUS ATRIUM

COMPLIMENTARY AIRPORT SHUTTLE

• FREE PARKING • AAA APPROVED

TM

RESTAURANT | OUTDOOR PATIO

200 S PATTEE ST • MISSOULA, MONTANA • 406.721.8550 • HIMISSOULA.COM

Contents ­

Meet the Cover Artist. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

­

Introduction: The Garden City . . . . . . . 8 Missoula Attractions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Arts & Entertainment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Missoula Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 University of Montana. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Outdoor Recreation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Missoula Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Shopping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Day Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Missoula Area Lodging. . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 RV Parks and Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Dining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Relocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Above: A frosty hello.

Rachel neal / best shot submission

Front Cover: “Missoula Valley Study #2”.

Original artwork by Monte Dolack

The Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau 1121 E. Broadway #103 Missoula, Montana 59802 1-800-526-3465 or 406-532-3250 fax: 406-543-2304 www.missoulacvb.org e-mail: office@missoulacvb.org

Carol Sharkey-Blodgett Publisher/Advertising Sales

Published by

Barbara Neilan and Sage Grendahl Editors Lisa Mee Design & Production

Any reproduction or reprint of this guide, or portion thereof, without written permission from the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau is prohibited. Information subject to change without notification. Please call published telephone numbers to confirm details. Published by Blodgett Marketing Group LLC. Circulation 100­,000. 09/09

PO Box 16531, Missoula, MT 59808 www.blodgettmarketing.com For advertising information call (406) 241-6138

Artist Monte Dolack

W

hether you are a resident of our city or visiting, for a few hours, days or weeks, it becomes evident that Missoula is a cultural city. Our diverse and rich culture is shaped by our beautiful surroundings, drawing to us and inspiring world famous artists, authors and educators.

We are a community that blossoms from creative collaboration. In acknowledgement and honor of this fact, the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau and renowned artist, Monte Dolack, have joined together to create a new tradition of fine art gracing the cover of our Visitor Guide.

The result: Missoula Valley Study #2, the original painting created for and featured on this year’s cover.

Artist Monte Dolack

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Living in the Rattlesnake Valley on the edge of Mount Jumbo’s upper north slope, Dolack regularly witnesses breathtaking views of the Missoula Valley. He writes, “Over the past twenty years while walking daily on the mountain, I have thought many times that I wanted to make a painting of the view looking across the valley. This spring was an extraordinary year for wildflowers, with yellow bouquets of Arrow Leaf Balsamroots being particularly abundant. I went up every evening at sunset, but one evening in late May the light was extraordinary.”

From his time on the mountain and this particular evening in May, Dolack created a series of small drawings and paintings based on the valley landscape. He then began a large scale painting of a view that looked through a foreground of wildflowers and across the mountains in the evening’s warm light. The result was extraordinary and the painting is now being reproduced as a fine art poster print with its detail gracing the cover of our Guide. We are

Mark Bryant

honored that Missoula Valley Study #2 begins the tradition of juried art pieces, from photography to fine art, gracing our cover.

A native of Great Falls, Montana, Dolack studied art at Montana State University and The University of Montana.

He opened his first studio in 1974, beginning a successful internationally renowned career in fine art and graphics.

A love of the natural world, combined with his exuberant curiosity and travel experiences, has shaped the content of Monte’s imagery. His work is part of the collections of numerous museums and corporations, including the Library of Congress and the American Association of Museums. With his wife, Mary Beth Percival and staff, he operates a flourishing gallery in downtown Missoula.

ORDER YOUR “MISSOULA VALLEY” MEMORY Limited Edition Signed Prints–$125 Limited Edition Unsigned Prints–$40 + $10 Shipping & Handling

To order call 1-800-526-3465 or order online at www.missoulacvb.org/store “Missoula Valley Study #2”— 23" x 32"

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T

here are many things to love about Montana.

Add one more to your list...

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Missoula

The Garden City THE GARDEN CITY

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Hiking, biking, camping and rock climbing abound nown as the “Garden City” for its dense in Western Montana, as Missoula is within 100 miles trees and lush green landscape, Missoula is of seven wilderness areas: Bob Marshall, Mission nestled in the heart of the northern Rockies Mountains, Anaconda-Pintlars, Rattlesnake, Scapegoat, in Western Montana. A community of nearly Selway-Bitterroot and Welcome 110,000 residents, Missoula lies in Creek. Mount Sentinel, Mount a mountain forest setting where five “And there you have Jumbo, Lolo Peak and Squaw Peak, valleys converge. Missoula in addition to the Blue Mountain and is 140 miles from Glacier National Missoula, Montana, Pattee Canyon recreation areas, Park and 270 miles from Yellowstone provide hiking, biking and skiing National Park. a brilliant combination of opportunities without the drive.

The search for gold in the West Opportunities for skiing and and the completion of the Mullan urbane sophistication and snowmobiling are abundant during Road, which opened travel from Fort the winter months. Snowbowl Ski Benton, Mont., to Walla Walla, Wash., pastoral ideal.”

Area is a 20-minute drive from brought people to the valley in 1860. downtown Missoula and features Missoula began as a settlement called AAA Home & Away Magazine a continuous vertical drop of 2,600 Hell Gate and was later renamed feet, one of the steepest in the Missoula, taken from the Salish Indian country. Discovery Basin, Lookout Pass, Black Tail, and word that means “near the cold, chilling waters.”

Lost Trail are all within 100 miles of Missoula. Groomed Missoula offers an abundance of recreational cross-country trails and countless miles of snowmobiling opportunities. Three major rivers (Bitterroot, Blackfoot trails can be found within an hour’s drive. and the Clark Fork of the Columbia) run through the Missoula is also rich with golfing opportunities for both area, and Rock Creek, known for its blue ribbon trout the advanced and the novice golfer. There are eight golf fishing, is just 20 minutes from Missoula. There are courses in the area (High­lands, King Ranch, Larchmont, several The University of Montana, Missoula Country Club, Linda major lakes within an hour’s drive of Missoula, including Vista, The Ranch Club, and Canyon River).

Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the Western Montana’s most culturally diverse city, Missoula United States.

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thrives on events and attractions. Sporting events, the symphony, live theater productions, gallery events, public markets, festivals and fairs offer an abundance of entertainment. Attractions such as Missoula Children's Theatre, Garnet Ghost Town, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Smokejumper Visitor Center, in addition to many others, bring tourists to Missoula year after year.

Come play with us! Missoula was named as a 2009 Playful City. Playful City USA is a national recognition program honoring cities and towns across the nation committed to taking action for play. Missoulians prioritize healthy living each day by engaging in active fun, be it at Splash Montana, A Carousel for Missoula, a concert in a park, our wonderful museums and other attractions or even enjoying a hike on open space. We believe wellness is holistic, and play is the avenue to a healthier community and economy, as well as healthier and happier children.

Missoula serves as the center for education, medicine, retail and the arts. Its largest employers are Community Medical Center, Plum Creek Timber, St. Patrick Hospital, Southgate Mall and The University of Montana.

One of the most desirable places to live and visit in the United States, Missoula has something for everyone. For more information, visit www.missoulacvb.org.

Right: Ripples.

THE GARDEN CITY

Above: Sunset over Missoula valley.

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Dennis Webber / best shot submission

Jon kearns / best shot submission

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Missoula

Attractions ATTRACTIONS

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ultural Tourism wasn’t invented in Missoula, but the Garden City has come close to perfecting it. Even before Captains Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery visited, the rivers and mountain valleys of this region were well-traveled routes. Pioneer settlers added their ethnic mix to the Native American culture, and frontier heritage continues to be one of Missoula’s greatest attractions.

Just as intriguing is Missoula’s contemporary and cosmopolitan culture. World-famous artists appear with the symphony orchestra. Jazz, pop and country music stars appear regularly in venues ranging from large concert halls to intimate pubs and outdoor settings. In the visual arts, Missoula abounds in museums, galleries and art studios exhibiting everything from western and wildlife paintings and sculpture to contemporary art.

The literary and dramatic arts thrive here in such abundance that Missoula has an international reputation as Montana’s “Cultural Superstar.” The annual Montana Festival of the Book, International Wildlife Film Festival and International Choral Festival are among the many events with growing international appeal. The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (February), River City Roots Festival (August), and First Night Missoula (December) are among the annual Above: A Carousel for Missoula.

Taylar Robbins/Windfall, Inc.

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festivals that attract visitors to Missoula each year.

In addition, The University of Montana provides a continuous schedule of cultural activities as well as its year-round Grizzly sporting events.

But more than the high arts draw cultural tourists to the Garden City. The majestic mountains and forests that surround us shape Missoula’s culture, and the rivers inspire writers, artists and crafters. Recreation is an art form as well with visitors combining rafting, hiking and biking activities with concerts, plays or poetry readings.

Downtown is a vibrant cultural district in itself and the communities surrounding Missoula also provide a varied menu of experiences. Missoula is the “gateway city” for travel routes and loop trails throughout Western Montana; a visitor’s experience is incomplete without

“Perhaps Missoula’s greatest assets are a legacy of quiet accomplishment and citizens positively smitten with their town.”

Skywest magazine

Imagine yourself in Missoula…

Getting here is easier than you think!

Allegiant Air—Las Vegas, Phoenix Mesa, Los Angeles Delta/Northwest—Salt Lake City, Minneapolis Horizon Air—Seattle United Airlines/Sky West—Denver, Chicago

4 airlines providing non-stop service to 8 destinations and connecting flights to thousands of destinations worldwide.

www.flymissoula.com

4Best Shot As you are enjoying the amazing photography throughout this year’s Guide, please take special note of the photographs identified as Best Shot Submissions. To highlight the creativity of this community, the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau partnered with the Missoulian, our daily newspaper, in the first annual Best Shot Photo Contest, asking Missoula residents to submit their best photographs depicting the essence of Missoula.

As you can see, these every day, amateur photographers submitted some stunning photos and we are proud to share Missoula through their eyes! Please make special note of the winner of this year's contest on pages 16 & 17, Night by the River, Steve Hocking.

Tearing it up at MoBASH.

Chris Gibisch/Best Shot submission

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a nd DRAGON HOLLOW PLAYAREA A community-built play area featuring a 3-headed dragon guarding a castle. Located next to the Carousel.

The Best Way to Experience Big Sky Country.

406-549-8382

LOCATED DOWNTOWN IN CARAS PARK OFF F RONT STREET O PEN S EPTEMBER TO MAY: 11 AM - 5:30PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK • J UNE THROUGH AUGUST : 11 AM - 7PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK E XTENDED S UMMER H OURS O FFERED —C ALL F OR S PECIFIC DAYS

You’ll love our Gift Shop–Band Organ–Seasonal Concessions Stand!

goalamo.com

nationalcar.com

ON-SITE AT THESE AIRPORTS: Missoula 406-543-3131 406-543-0926 Billings 406-252-7626 406-252-3556

Group Tours Available!

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Kalispell Great Falls 406-257-7144 406-543-4386 406-727-0273 Bozeman Helena 406-388-6694 406-442-8620 406-388-4457 406-442-1765

NATIONAL CAR RENTAL Type in Contract ID # 5282856 and Save!

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traveling through the cultural corridors.

For more information visit: www.missoulacultural.org.

A Carousel for Missoula

Dragon Hollow In the spring of 2001, more than 4,000 volunteers gathered to create

Experience Missoula’s Best…

“

Be sure to visit A Carousel for Missoula & Dragon’s Hollow at Caras Park, Downtown.

You & the kids will love it!

Diane Beck DianeBeck@Realtor.com

www.HomesinMissoula.com

Aerial Fire Depot & Smokejumper Center The nation’s largest training base for smokejumpers—highly trained specialists who parachute into remote areas of national forests to fight wildfires—is located in Missoula. The depot’s visitor center offers updated displays and videos related to fire suppression. Guided tours of the parachute loft and training facilities are available. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours typically last forty-five to sixty minutes and begin at 10 a.m., 11 a.m.,

(406) 532-7927

”

2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are accepted.

Located a half-mile west of the airport at 5756 West Broadway. 406-329-4934. www.smokejumpers.com.

City Parks Missoula city parks boast facilities for virtually any sport or event imaginable.

Parks are available for picnics, family reunions, and other events. Pedestrian bridges and paved trails connect Southgate Mall and the downtown area.

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Swim. Play. Stay All Day!

SPLASH MONTANA • Outdoor Waterpark Open

Memorial Day to Labor Day

CURRENTS AQUATIC CENTER • Indoor Waterpark Open Year-round

• 3 Water Slides • Lazy River • Children’s Water

• 2 Water Slides • Children’s Water

• Olympic-size Lap &

• Lap & Leisure Pool • Wireless Internet

Playground

Leisure Pool

• Full Service Café

Playground

Access

Call 406.721.PARK or visit us on the web at www.missoulaparks.org www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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“If you will give it a home, and promise no one will ever take it apart, I will build a Carousel for Missoula.”

This was the promise Missoula cabinet-maker Chuck Kaparich made to the Missoula City Council in 1991.

Kaparich, who had spent many childhood hours on the carousel at famous Columbia Gardens in Butte, Montana, had already carved four carousel ponies and purchased an antique frame in thousands of pieces.

The council accepted his generous offer and Kaparich’s dream of “A Carousel for Missoula” became the dream of a community.

By opening day in 1995, more than 100,000 hours of volunteer time had gone into the construction of more than forty ponies, two chariots, fourteen gargoyles, gargoyle frames, and mirror frames, and the largest band organ in continuous use in the United States, all within a jewel-box building.

Community members donated time, services, materials, and encouragement.

School children collected more than one million pennies to adopt four of the ponies; stained-glass artists constructed shimmering windows; majestic horses’ heads emerged from blocks of wood; and people found lasting friendships among the woodchips. The community extended as far as Calgary, Alberta, Canada, where the Midnight Rose Carvers built a friendship horse for Missoula.

Open daily 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sept. through May, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

June through Aug. (Check for extended hours). Carousel rides are 50 cents for children and seniors and $1.50 for adults; people with physical or mental challenges are welcome to ride free.

101 Carousel Drive in Caras Park, downtown Missoula. 406-549-8382. www.carrousel.com.

Dragon Hollow Playarea in just nine days. A grassy field adjacent to Missoula’s Carousel became a magical play land with the help of the entire community and friends from around the world. Dragon Hollow is open weekdays 8 a.m. until dusk, weekends 9 a.m. until dusk. Free. 101 Carousel Drive in Caras Park, Downtown Missoula.

406-549-8382. www.carrousel.com., mslacarous@aol.com.

Parks are open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Missoula Parks and Recreation, 600 Cregg Lane. 406-721-PARK (7275). www.missoulaparks.org.

Currents Aquatics Center Located at McCormick Park, Currents Aquatics Center is an indoor water park open year-round. It features two water slides, a children’s water playground, leisure pool and resistance channel, spa, party room, and meeting rooms and is also the home of Missoula Parks and Recreation headquarters. Open daily, Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Sat. 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission: 11 & under–$3.25; 12-17– $3.75; 18+ – $5.50; seniors (58+) – $3.75. Located at 600 Cregg Lane. 406-721-PARK (7275). www.missoulaparks.org.

Splash Montana

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ATTRACTIONS

Missoula, Montana Explore • Learn • Connect

Discover Elk Country • Trophy Elk Display • Elk Country Wildlife Diorama • Hands-On Exhibits For All Ages • Wildlife Theater • Elk Country Gift Shop

Missoula, Montana

Directions: Take I-90 to Exit 101 in Missoula. Drive 1/4 mile north to 5705 Grant Creek Road. accessible with RV parking.

Open year round. For information, call 406-523-4545 or 800 CALL ELK (ext. 545) or visit www.rmef.org.

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7/23/2009 11:54:17 AM

The whole family can enjoy three water slides, the lazy river and log walk, children’s water playground, and leisure pool. The center’s on-deck lounge chairs and full service cafe make Splash Montana the place to be on a hot summer day. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission: 11 & under–$3.50; 12-17 –$4.00; Adult – $5.75; Seniors (58+) – $4.00. Located in Playfair Park at 3001 Bancroft Street. 406-542-WAVE (9283). www.missoulaparks.org.

Downtown Missoula The city’s center for arts, culture, entertainment, shopping, and dining is Downtown Missoula. Enjoy the Garden City’s public markets, Out to Lunch, Downtown ToNight, First Friday Gallery Night, the River City Roots Festival, and a host of other popular events.

Take in a live play, see an exhibit, shop in the more than 100 specialty stores and boutiques, dine at one of nearly 100 restaurants, and enjoy Missoula’s nightlife at one of more than forty bars.

Missoula Downtown Association, 218 East Main. 406-543-4238. www.missouladowntown.com.

www.meetingsnorthwest.com

ExpEriEncEd MEEting, convEntion & SpEcial EvEnt p lannErS  From Large Professional Meetings to Intimate Weddings

Call T-Free:

Above: Mountain Line trolley.

Taylar Robbins/

Windfall, Inc.

We do it all!

(866)633-8110

At some point on your vacation it dawns on you…

Facing page: Fisheye view of Missoula.

Taylar Robbins/best shot submission

Glacial Lake Missoula

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If you could have visited this area 15,000 years ago, you would have found it completely submerged under Glacial Lake Missoula. This ancient lake formed as the Cordilleran Ice Sheet pressed southward and dammed the Clark Fork River just as it entered what is now Idaho.

The valleys upstream, including today’s Bitterroot and Missoula valleys, filled with water up to an elevation of 4,200 feet.

Over the course of several centuries, the ice dam periodically weakened and burst, causing massive amounts of water to surge across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington toward the Pacific Ocean in a series of catastrophic floods.

Thundering waves and chunks of ice tore away the soil down to the bedrock, carved ripple marks into the plains, and scattered boulders along the way.

Today the Ice Age Floods Institute and its Glacial Lake Missoula Chapter are dedicated to telling the story of the cataclysmic floods that swept across the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at www.iceagefloodinstitute.org or the Montana Natural History Center, 120 Hickory. 406-327-0405. www.montananaturalist.org.

some people actually live here.

BUSINESS LOANS, CONSTRUCTION, MORTGAGES, PERSONAL 3010 American Way (main office) (406) 549-2264

MEMBER FDIC

3200 Brooks (branch) (406) 532-2299

218 E. Main St. (branch) (406) 542-7007

www.communitybankmissoula.com

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

WINNER

2009-2010

Best Shot Photo Contest

Above: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Visitors Center.

Facing page: Night by the river.

steve hocking / best shot submission

International Wildlife Media Center & Film Festivals

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Courtesy of RMEF

The International Wildlife Media Center and Film Festival works to promote awareness, knowledge and understanding of wildlife, habitat, people and nature through excellent film, television and other media. The IWMC hosts the world-renowned International Wildlife Film Festival (May 2009) and the Montana CINE (Oct 2009), the last best film fest, showcasing cultural and environmental films from around the world. Both festivals are community events for an international audience.

The Montana Film Academy, part of the Media Center, offers film workshops for students, teachers and the general public. The EarthVison archive is a video lending library featuring thousands of wildlife, cultural and environmental films.

The Post Festival World Tours take the best films of the year on the road worldwide.

IWFF/IWMC’s home is the Roxy Theater, which features special programs throughout the year and can be rented for private events. Located at 718 S. Higgins. 406-728-9380. www.wildlifefilms.org.

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Site Learn more about the Lewis & Clark Expeditions journey into the Missoula Valley in 1805 and 1806, the Explorer David Thompson’s brief visit in 1812 and the French-Canadian’s and Salish Indian’s unique names for the area… there are four large, colorful and detailed local history interpretive signs located at Caras Park along the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail in Downtown Missoula (next to the Brennan’s Wave Overlook).

Memorial Rose Garden Located on Brooks Street, the Memorial Rose Garden was created by the American Rose Society in 1946 to commemorate the memory of Missoula County residents who were killed in World War II. The garden has since become the site for memorials dedicated to the memory of veterans and casualties of America’s 20th-century conflicts, including Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, the Persian Gulf and Korea. Most recently a memorial to fallen police officers has been added to the park. Additionally, Memorial Rose Garden has been designated as a “State Veteran’s Memorial Rose Garden” and the Korean War Memorial as a “State Korean War Memorial.”

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The garden borders the Blue Star Memorial Highway (Highway 93 South), a nationwide highway network started in 1945 by the National Council of State Garden Club, which pays tribute to armed forces who have defended the U.S. www.mtkoreanmemorial.com.

MoBASH Skatepark Named one of the top five skate parks in the country by Thrasher magazine,

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MoBASH is a 15,000-sqare-foot park situated next to the Clark Fork River in Downtown Missoula. It was christened in 2006 by Tony Hawk and Bam Magera.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free. Helmets required. 500 Cregg Lane in McCormick Park. www.missoulaskatepark.org.

Montana Natural History Center The Montana Natural History Center’s mission is to promote and cultivate

an understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of nature through education.

Learn about Glacial Lake Missoula and the ecology of native insects, birds, and mammals at the visitor center. Participate in one of the many programs, including summer science camps, the Visiting Naturalist in the Schools program, the Watershed Festival, Saturday Discovery Days, and the Thursday Night Lecture Series. Located at 120 Hickory Street,

across from McCormick Park. 406-3270405. www.montananaturalist.org.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation & Elk Country Visitor Center Housed in the international headquarters of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Elk Country Visitor Center is more than just a museum.

The fun and interactive exhibits invite you to learn more about elk, elk country www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Fort Missoula, established in 1877, was one of the first military posts in Montana.

With over 25,000 artifacts and 13 historic structures, you’ll step back into the fascinating history of the American West.

Open Year Round • Accredited by the American Association of Museums Located just off Reserve & South Ave. Bldg. 322 Fort Missoula Missoula, MT 59804 • 406-728-3476 www.fortmissoulamuseum.org

and the role the Elk Foundation plays in conservation. Discover the diverse wildlife that calls elk country home, explore the role we all play in conserving habitat, and connect with the rich heritage that makes the outdoors so important to so many of us. Along the way, you’ll hear elk bugle, test your knowledge of wildlife, identify animal tracks, feel the weight of an elk antler, enjoy wildlife conservation films, and more. Wildlife films are shown regularly.

Memorial Day to Dec. 23, open Mon.Fri., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The rest of the year, open Mon.-Fri, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Tours available by appointment. Bus/RV parking. Located at 5705 Grant Creek Road just off Reserve Street, north of exit 101 on I-90. 406-523-4545. www.rmef.org.

Walking Tours – Historic & Public Art Missoula offers a number of professionally guided and self-guided walking tours for those interested in

ATTRACTIONS

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Genuine Down Comforters and Pillows …for thousands of nights of sweet dreams.

A bridge and a bump past Polson on Hwy 93. Call for our new catalog 800-DOG-DOWN (364-3696) or shop anytime at threedogdown.com

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learning about the Garden City. Missoula has nine National Historic Districts, including the Historic Downtown District.

Guided tours of Downtown last between 60 and 90 minutes. They include strolls past the historic Red Light District, Automotive Row, the courthouse, the Northern Pacific Railroad Depot, and more. The tour includes a foray into the peaceful grassy boulevards of the residential East Pine Street Historic District. Missoula Historic Walking Tours.

By Appointment. 406-728-2351. www.missoulahistorictours.com.

The Missoula Historic Preservation Office also schedules group walking tours and produces self-guided walking tours, including the Riverfront Walking Tour. Located at City Hall, 435 Ryman.

406-523-4657.

Additionally, the Missoula Downtown Association provides free, self-guided walking-tour brochures for the Public Art Walking Tour and the Downtown Historical Walking Tour. The brochure features maps, contact numbers, and descriptions of the art or architecture being highlighted. Get your copy at 218 East Main Street. 406-543-4238. www.missouladowntown.com or Missoula CVB, 1121 East Broadway.

406-532-3250. www.missoulacvb.org.

M Facing page: Downtown fall colors. vickie corday /best shot submission

TRAVEL LIKE A LOCAL. Curious about the local’s favorite things to do in Missoula?

Check out www.Missoulacvb.org

Missoula

Arts & Entertainment ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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M

issoula is rich in arts and entertainment.

Talented artists, live performances, historic theaters and countless community events offer an abundance of things to see and do in the Garden City. Ranked 37th in the nation by The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America, Missoula is Montana’s most culturally diverse community.

Performing Arts International Choral Festival The sound of choral music will fill the air in July 2012, when the ninth International Choral Festival convenes in Missoula. For two decades world-class choirs “... Missoula have gathered triennially to experience superb music and cultural exchange. Choirs have been invited from Argentina, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, Congo, Croatia, Czech Republic, Finland, Gambia, Germany, Iceland, Mexico, Poland, South Korea, Sweden, Venezuela and the United States.

Preview concerts are admission-free, as is the outdoor Finale Concert. For more information call 406-721-7985. www.choralfestival.org.

Above: MCT Community Theatre production of Bye Bye Birdie.

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

is

MCT, Inc. For the past 35 years, the Missoula Children’s Theatre and MCT Community Theatre have provided Missoula with outstanding family entertainment.

Whether you live in town or are visiting Missoula for the first time, attending an MCT production is a fantastic experience for all!

The Missoula Children’s Theatre offers several productions throughout the year, all performed by a full cast of talented young people. Children in grades K-12 may participate in one-week day camps or afterschool classes, each culminating in live performances on stage.

In many parts of the world, the Missoula Children’s Theatre is best known for their International Tour which visits nearly 1,300 communities each year. urbane, artistic, hip..”

In the summer of 2009, MCT launched a new high skywest magazine school program: Next Step Prep—The Academy for Musical Theatre, a boarding school for kids from across the country interested in pursuing intensive studies in musical theatre performance.

MCT also offers a full season of community theatre from October through May which showcases local talent in musicals, dramas and comedies. MCT, Inc. is located in downtown Missoula at 200 North Adams

Photo courtesy of MCT, Inc./Maureen Roy Photography

Street. (406) 728-1911. Box office: (406) 728-7529. www.mctinc.org.

Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale The Missoula Symphony Orchestra and Chorale features nearly 200 of the area’s finest musicians. The regular season includes four concerts of the greatest of the orchestral and choral repertoire, plus an annual Holiday Pops concert. In addition to the regular concert season, the orchestra performs a wildly popular Symphony in the Park each summer at Caras Park, an annual Family Concert, and two Youth Concerts each year for 2,000 area fourth-grade students.

The orchestra and chorale provide a variety of educational activities in Missoula schools and outlying communities. Office is located at 320 East Main Street. 406721-3194. www.missoulasymphony.org.

Montana Repertory Theatre

Montana String Orchestra of the Rockies Celebrating twenty-five years together, the Montana String Orchestra of the Rockies (SOR) is a unique fifteen-member gem of an orchestra that performs without a conductor and features many internationally acclaimed guest artists. All SOR members are successful teachers and professional musicians. 406-728-8203. www.sor-montana.org.

Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre Since 1998, the Rocky Mountain Ballet Theatre (RMBT) has provided audience members of all ages with a unique dance experience. The company performs locally, regionally and internationally. The RMBT offers classes for ages three through adult.

RMBT was honored to represent Montana on a diplomatic tour to eight Chinese cities during the 2008 Olympic Summer Games in China. 2704 Brooks Street. 406-549-5155. www.rmbt.org.

Wilma Theatre Built in 1921, the Wilma Theatre is Missoula’s entertainment hub, with movies on its large, curved, silver screen

Connecting Art, Culture and Community through Education, Advocacy and Celebration 1121 East Broadway, #106 • PO Box 7662, Missoula, MT 59807 (406) 532-3240• www.missoulacultural.org

and live local showcases in the 1,000seat auditorium. The theater features nightly movies, two world-famous film festivals, and a wide variety of concerts and other performances year-round.

131 South Higgins. 406-728-2521. www.thewilma.com.

Galleries and Museums Art Galleries

Art galleries abound in Missoula and are especially concentrated in the

H Hilarious comedy, classic musicals, c & adventure!

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Established in 1967, the Montana Repertory Theatre is one of the oldest and most respected professional touring companies in the United States. Housed in the University of Montana Department of Drama and Dance, the company tours with a cast of eight actors, a stage manager, a company manager, and a technical crew of six. Montana Rep Missoula! season October-March with performances at The Crystal Theatre,

515 S. Higgins Ave. Schedule and tickets – PARTV Box Office - 406-2434581. www.montanarep.org.

W

FA

October 23–25, 28–November 1, 2009

December 4–6, 9–13, 2009

Oct

PE

Nov January 22–24, 27–31, 2010

3

March 19–21, 24–28, 2010

April 30–May 2, 5–9, 12–16, 2010 Above: Scott Fife, “Big Trouble”—The Idaho Project, installation detail.

Courtesy Missoula Art Museum

TICKETS (406) 728-7529 • www.mctinc.org www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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(406

Exhibit at Fort Missoula. Courtesy of Historical Museum of Fort Missoula

explore imagine experience learn explore experience learn imagine experience learn imagine experience learn explore imagine explore imagine experience learn explore

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

22 missoula art museum 335 N. Pattee Street Missoula, MT 59802 406.728.0447 www.missoulaartmuseum.org Free Admission Wed - Fri, 10 am -5 pm Sat - Sun, 10 am - 3 pm Located in the heart of downtown, MAM hosts over 26 thought–provoking contemporary art exhibitions from local and international artists every year. Coming in 2009/10: Freeman Butts, Roger Shimomura, Scott Fife, Teresa Tamura, Anne Appleby, Kevin Red Star, 38th Benefit Art Auction, and more.

Image: MAM’s 2009 Montana Triennial. Photo by Charles Martin.

Historical museum at Fort missoula Building 322, Fort Missoula Missoula, MT 59804 406.728.3476 www.fortmissoulamuseum.org Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend: Mon - Sat, 10-5; Sun, 12-5 Open the rest of the year: Tues - Sun, 12-5 Established in 1975 to “Keep Missoula County’s History Alive,” the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula is located at the core of historic Fort Missoula with permanent and changing exhibits and 15 original and relocated structures on site.

montana museum of art & culture Meloy and Paxson Galleries at the PARTV Center The University of Montana 406.243.2019 www.umt.edu/montanamuseum Free Admission Sept. – May: Tues – Thurs, 11–3; Fri – Sat, 4–8:30 pm June – Aug: Wed – Sat, 11–3 The exciting MMAC Permanent Collection consists of over 10,000 works of art and artifacts, including historic, contemporary and Montana regional art as well as public art on the UM campus.

Interdisciplinary programming is at the heart of MMAC’s mission.

2009/10 Highlights: Pulitzer Prize Photographs; Josephine Hale; Speaking Volumes: Transforming Hate; Jam Session – America’s Jazz Ambassadors Embrace the World.

Image: Josephine Hale, Untitled, circa 1925-1935, pastel on paper, 12.5 x 11.25 inches, donated by Francine Bruneau Walton and Vivian Bruneau Ellis.

explore missoula’s

museums

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

downtown area. Some of Missoula’s most recognized artists include Rudy Autio, Monte Dolack, Nancy Erickson, George Gogas, Beth Lo, and Larry Pirnie. The Dana Gallery represents many of Montana’s well-known painters, photographers, sculptors, ceramicists, and jewelers. As part of the Rocky Mountain School of Photography, Gallery Saintonge specializes in fine photography. The Missoula Artists’ Shop is a cooperative gallery that showcases the work of more than twenty local artists, and there are more than twenty other galleries in the Missoula area.

In addition, the Saturday Arts and Crafts Market offers a selection of arts and crafts, both local and imported, from nearly 100 vendors.

The Gallery of Visual Arts on the UM campus showcases ten to twelve contemporary art exhibitions annually, and the UC Gallery features contemporary art from local, regional, and national artists.

Hundreds of people come out for First Friday Gallery Night to meet new and well-known artists at Missoula galleries on the first Friday of each month. It’s a not-to-be-missed, free event from 5 to 8 p.m. Be sure to pick up a Gallery Guide upon your arrival in Missoula. Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1121 East Broadway or Missoula Downtown Association, 218 East Main.

Children’s Museum Envision a place with forts and face painting, bubbles and babies, gradeschoolers with goggles digging for dinosaur fossils, a place where even adults dare to don a costume or beat a drum. Dream of a place where children can learn, play, and imagine and you may find yourself in the Children’s Museum, Missoula. The Children’s Museum provides fun, interactive, and educational exhibits and programs that promote learning through play. Open every day. Admission is $4.25 per person. 225 West Front Street. Call 406.541.PLAY (7529) for hours. www.learnplayimagine.org.

Montana Museum of Art and Culture The Montana Museum of Art and Culture’s (MMAC) permanent collection, begun in 1894, consists of more than 10,000 works, including historic, contemporary, and regional art, as well as public art on the UM campus. Through stewardship, exhibits, and interdisciplinary programs, MMAC engages the community in the appreciation of art and culture.

With more than ten exhibits annually, MMAC’s diverse programs draw from the unique strengths of the permanent collection and highlight visiting exhibitions. Summer hours May-August, open Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fall and winter hours Tues. and Thurs. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fri.-Sat., 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free. Visit MMAC’s Meloy and Paxson Galleries in the University of Montana PARTV Center. 406-243-2019. www.umt.edu/montanamuseum.

Museum of Mountain Flying Missoula Art Museum.

Courtesy of missoula art museum

Historical Museum at Fort Missoula

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Missoula Art Museum The Missoula Art Museum (MAM) is a non-profit museum that educates, Hilarious comedy, H challenges, and inspires the community classic c musicals, through contemporary art. Located in & adventure! the heart of downtown, MAM hosts more than twenty-six thought-provoking exhibitions from local and international artists every year. MAM reopened its newly remodeled and expanded facility in 2006 and offers varied events, October 23–25, 28–November 1, 2009 classes, and programs, such as film screenings, literary readings, live music, artist lectures, panel discussions, December 4–6, 9–13,receptions.

2009 exhibition tours, and social Monthly MAM programs include Second Saturday Workshops, creative and fun explorations for 22–24, kids and families, January 27–31, 2010 and Artini, an engaging, hip event featuring live performance and an art talk on the third Thursday of every month. Open March 19–21, 24–28, 2010 Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. 335 North Pattee. 406-728-0447.

April 30–May 2, 5–9, 12–16, 2010 www.missoulaartmuseum.org.

TICKETS (406) 728-7529 • www.mctinc.org

Where y ou belong!

FALL 2009

WINTER 2010 WORLD PREMIERE!

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This ad was sponsored in part by PEPSI.

(406) 728-1911

• www.mctinc.org

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula was established by a community effort in 1976 to save what was left of original Fort Missoula and to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of Missoula, Fort Missoula, and the forestry industry. The museum is located on thirty-two acres in the heart of the historic 1877 fort and has more than 25,000 artifacts, including thirteen historic structures. Exhibits are maintained in several of the restored buildings as well as in the major museum building; many educational programs are offered as well. The museum is one of only six in Montana accredited by the American Association of Museums.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for seniors, and $1 for students; members and children under 6 admitted free.

Entrance is on South Avenue, across from Big Sky High School. Call for hours. 406-728-3476. www.fortmissoulamuseum.org.

The Museum of Mountain Flying preserves the legends, lore, and

Experience Missoula’s Best…

“

Diane Beck DianeBeck@Realtor.com

www.HomesinMissoula.com

(406) 532-7927

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Missoulians LOVE our Grizzly Football! Be sure to visit the UM campus as well as Washington Grizzly Stadium– home of the 2008 Big Sky Champions.

”

historical legacy of pilots and other individuals whose pioneering aviation exploits helped bring America’s Rocky Mountain West into the Air Age. The Museum seeks to acquire and display items related to the region’s mountainflying history, including appropriate vintage aircraft, memorabilia, artifacts, historical documents, photographs, personal narratives and diaries, motionpicture footage, tape recordings, newspaper stories, magazine articles, and books.

Open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Memorial Day through Oct. Call for other times.

Located at the East end of the Missoula County Airport. 406-721-3644. www.museumofmountainflying.org.

National Museum of Forest Service History Envision a building strengthened by the tall timbers of 24 tree species, each with a story to tell. A facility that

is constructed as a model of energy efficiency. A dynamic theater and interactive exhibits tell the story of the USFS and its partners, engaging you from the moment you step inside.

Gallery areas dedicated to traveling and temporary exhibits. Classrooms, meeting rooms, and a place for volunteers inside and out. Welcome to the National Museum of Forest Service History!

The National Museum of Forest Service History, a national nonprofit organization founded in 1988, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the entire national history of the USDA Forest Service for the education and enjoyment of the general public, scholars, and historical researchers. As a showcase for its collection of more than 21,000 objects, the Museum will encourage visitors to explore the cultural, ecological, economic, political, and social history of the lands and people that have defined the nation and gave meaning to the term conservation. The Museum is now building its permanent home in Missoula. For more information visit us online at www.nmfs-history.net.

Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History The Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History promotes the commemoration and study of the U.S. armed services from the frontier period

to the present. The museum strives to impart a greater understanding of the roles played by U.S. servicemen and women through this period of dramatic global change. The U.S. Fourth Infantry Regiment and the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the museum buildings during the Great Depression.

Headquartered in Buildings T-310 and T-316 by special arrangement with the Montana National Guard, the museum exhibits a wide collection of documents and artifacts, ranging from Civil War artillery to Vietnam-era anti-tank missiles.

Open daily 12 to 5 p.m. June 1 through Labor Day; open weekends only 12 to 5 p.m. Labor Day through June 1,.

Admission free; donations accepted.

Located at Fort Missoula. 406-549-5346. www.fortmissoula.org.

Sports

Missoula may not have an NFL or an NBA team, but the Garden City is home to the NCAA 1-AA National Championship Football Team (1995 and 2001), the 2006 Pioneer League Championship Baseball Team, and the Missoula Phoenix semi-professional football team.

Grizzly Athletics The University of Montana offers 14 intercollegiate athletic programs for student-athletes competing in men’s football, women’s volleyball, soccer and golf, and men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, tennis and indoor and outdoor track and field.

The Montana Grizzlies have been extraordinarily successful in football and women’s basketball. You can find the Grizzlies in action in a variety of sports from last August through mid-May. There are also a variety of club teams to watch, including lacrosse and Frisbee golf.

Visit www.montanagrizzlies.com for sports schedules. Purchase tickets at the UM Ticket Office 406-243-4051 or 1-888-MONTANA or www.griztix.com.

Missoula Osprey The Missoula Osprey Professional Baseball Club is the Pioneer League 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Above: Missoula Osprey baseball.

Courtesy of Missoula Osprey

Facing page: Missoula hockey action.

John Sieber

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Missoula Phoenix Semiprofessional Football Team The Missoula Phoenix are a semiprofessional football team in the AAA Northern Division of the Rocky Mountain Football League. This spring football league was formed to provide the Missoula area with an affordable, family friendly sporting experience. Season runs from April – June with home

games played in the Washington-Grizzly Stadium located on the University of Montana Campus. Tickets are available at the South Entrance ticket office of Washington-Grizzly Stadium. Saturday games. General admission – $8.00; Groups/Military/Seniors – $5.00; 8th grade & under – $3.00. 406-207-1702. www.missoulaphoenix.com.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Osprey have found a home in their newly completed downtown stadium in Missoula known as Ogren Park at Allegiance Field, which is located adjacent to the Clark Fork River next to McCormick Park. The Osprey play from mid-June through early September. They play a seventy-six-game schedule with thirty-eight home games. The Osprey have been in Missoula since 1999 and have produced fourteen major leaguers, including Toronto star first-baseman Lyle Overbay and Arizona all-star pitcher Jose Valverde. Call for schedule and fees. 406543-3300. www.missoulaosprey.com.

Missoula Maulers Hockey Team/ Glacier Ice Rink Missoula is also home to the Missoula Maulers Junior A Hockey Team. Formed in 2007, the Maulers’ season runs from September through February with home games played at the Glacier Ice Rink. For schedules and ticket info. call 406-8303264. www.missoulamaulers.com.

The Glacier Ice Rink provides a venue for youth, adult and women’s hockey, figure skating, public programs, and private ice rentals. The Rink is located at the Western Montana Fairgrounds, 1101 South Avenue West. 406-728-0316. www.glaciericerink.com.

See the Major League Stars of Tomorrow Over 27 former Osprey have made it to the Major Leagues since 1999!

Call 406.543.3300 for ticket information missoulaosprey.com Pioneer League affiLiate of the arizona DiamonDbacks

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Missoula

Events

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Recurring Events

EVENTS

Artini Monthly mingling at the Missoula Art Museum featuring new art installations and martini of the month.

406-728-0447. www.missoulaartmuseum.org.

Bonner Park Concerts Free concerts on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. from late June through mid-Aug. in Bonner Park, one block east of Higgins Avenue between Evans or Beverly Avenues.

“The cultural 406-543-4238.

Clark Fork River Market Missoula’s newest outdoor farmer’s market offers a variety of locally-produced meats, vegetables, flowers, plants and baked goods. Located on the Clark Fork River near the Higgins Avenue Bridge, the market runs 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. mid-May to mid-Oct. 406-396-0593. www. clarkforkrivermarket.com.

Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to noon mid-May through midOct. at Circle Square. Nearly 100 vendors showcase produce, plants, flowers, breads and coffee. 406-5434238.

Missoula Saturday Arts & Crafts Market Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. mid-May through mid-Oct. on East Pine Street. Close to 100 vendors offer local arts and crafts and imports. 406-728-3149. www.saturdaymarket.org.

capital of Montana,

Missoula has a long-standing reputation as the state’s most progressive city. Intellectuals, East Coast transplants, international students and Russian and Tibetan immigrants join the locals to make Missoula their home.”

Farmers Market Where Missoula meets!

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Forbes Magazine

Out to Lunch Every Wednesday in June, July and Aug. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Caras Park. Live music and countless food vendors.

Montana’s largest food festival.

406-543-4238. www.missouladowntown.com.

Downtown ToNight Every Thursday night in June, July and Aug. from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Caras Park.

Live music, food vendors, beverage garden and children’s activities. Family fun and lively

entertainment! 406-543-4238. www.missouladowntown.com.

First Friday Gallery Night On the first Friday of every month, downtown galleries, museums and several businesses showcase new artists and their artwork from 5 to 8 p.m. Share cocktails and appetizers with native and regional artists. See the artist showings in the daily and weekly newspapers. 406-543-4238.

Missoula Symphony in the Park – August GermanFest –September Hempfest – September Maverick BrewFest – September Montana Festival of the Book – October CINE Festival – October Festival of the Dead – November Macy’s Parade of Lights – December First Night Missoula – December

Kids Klub Free crafts for children ages 3-12 from 4 to 7 p.m. on varying Tuesdays of each month prior to monthly holidays.

406-721-5140. www.shopsouthgate.com.

Left: Missoula Marathon.

courtesy of Run Wild

Missoula

Missoula Osprey Professional Baseball Missoula’s Pioneer League Professional Baseball Team plays midJune into Sept. 406-543-3300. www.missoulaosprey.com.

Below: Clark Fork River Market.

Taylar Robbins/

Windfall, Inc.

Facing page: International Choral Festival.

Taylar Robbins/Windfall, Inc.

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The University of Montana Collegiate Athletics

EVENTS

Fourteen different NCAA Division I programs hosting athletic competitions during the school year. 406-243-6899. www.montanagrizzlies.com.

Major Annual Events (chronological order) Big Sky Documentary Film Festival – February MaggotFest – May Garden City BrewFest – May International Wildlife Film Festival – May Garden City River Rod Run – June Independence Day Celebration at Fort Missoula - July International Choral Festival – July (every 3 years) Street Jam Basketball Tournament – July KidsFest – August Western Montana Fair – August River City Roots Festival – August

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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6 7 8 12 13-15 13-15 13 14 14-15 15 19 20 21 22 24 30-Dec 6

Griz Basketball vs. Lewis & Clark Mud Bay Jugglers Turkey Day 8K Manheim Steamroller: Christmas Music Griz Basketball Montana Tournament Santa Paws- Pet photos with Santa Grizzly Volleyball vs. Sacramento State Grizzly Football vs. Northern Colorado Missoula Children's Theatre Shambles & Fables a whiz BANG Revue!

Banff Film Festival Artini: Eight Heads Santa’s Arrival Moscow Nutcracker Ballet Lady Griz Basketball vs. Oregon Lady Griz Basketball vs. Denver Mountain Home Montana’s 11th Annual Festival of the Trees

UM Adams Center University Theatre Kim Williams Trail UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Southgate Mall UM Adams Center WAG Washington-Grizzly Stadium MCT University Theatre Missoula Art Museum Southgate Mall University Theatre UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Various Locations

NOVEMBER 2009 (CONT’D)

River City Roots Festival.

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2 First Friday Gallery Night 2 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Idaho State 3 Pepper 3 Diva Day: The Missoula All Women’s 5K

3 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Weber State 3-4 Discover the Seasons of Travelers’ Rest: Hunting 3-4 Tamarack Festival 4-10 UM Homecoming Week 6-10, 13-17 Brighton Beach Memoirs 9 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Northern Arizona 10 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Northern Colorado 10 Grizzly Football vs. Cal Poly (Homecoming) 10 Gordon Lightfoot 11 Grizzly Soccer vs. Weber State 12 UM Symphonic Wind Ensemble & UM Concert Band 13 Lowe Family Band 15-18 Fall Sidewalk Sale 16 Grizzly Soccer vs. Sacramento State 16 Artini: Minidoka on my Mind 17 Pumpkin Run

17 Grizzly Football vs. Eastern Washington 18 Grizzly Soccer vs. Portland State 21-24 Montana CINE International Film Festival 22-24 Montana Festival of the Book (10th annual) 23 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Montana State 23 David Sedaris 23-25, 28-Nov 1 MCT Community Theatre South Pacific 24 Fall Family Fest 25 Montana Natural Historic Center Dinner & Auction

26-27 Missoula Symphony Orchestra Featuring Stewart Goodyear 27-31 Eurydice 30 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Portland State 31 Grizzly Volleyball vs. Eastern Washington 31 Grizzly Football vs. Weber State 31 Halloween Boo Bash Trick-or-Treating & Costume Contest

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Downtown Missoula UM Adams Center WAG Historic Wilma Theatre Community Medical Center Campus UM Adams Center WAG Travelers’ Rest State Park Seeley Lake The University of Montana Montana Theatre UM Adams Center WAG UM Adams Center WAG Washington-Grizzly Stadium University Theatre UM South Campus Stadium University Theatre University Theatre Southgate Mall UM South Campus Stadium Missoula Art Museum Maclay Flats, Lolo National Forest Washington-Grizzly Stadium UM South Campus Stadium Roxy Theater Various UM Adams Center WAG Historic Wilma Theatre MCT McCormick Park Governor’s Ballroom at the Florence Hotel University Theatre Montana Theatre UM Adams Center WAG UM Adams Center WAG Washington-Grizzly Stadium Southgate Mall

N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 9 2 3-7 4 4 6

Day of the Dead Parade Eurydice Queensryche Cirque Dreams Illumination (Broadway Show) First Friday Gallery Night

Downtown Missoula Montana Theatre Historic Wilma Theatre Adams Center Downtown Missoula

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

1-5, 8-12 Hamlet 1-18 Holiday Music Performances 4 First Friday Gallery Night 4 Griz Basketball vs. Northern Arizona 4-6 Meeting Me in Missoula 4-6, 9-13 MCT Community Theatre A Christmas Carol 5 MRL Santa Train 5 Macy’s Parade of Lights 5 Griz Basketball vs. Northern Colorado 5-6 Missoula Symphony Orchestra “Holiday Pops” 6 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Great Falls 8-12 Dance Up Close 9 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Montana-Western 13 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Idaho 16 Griz Basketball vs. MSU Northern 17 Artini: Gifts 19 Santa’s Breakfast 19 Griz Basketball vs. UC Riverside 21 Griz Basketball vs. Fresno State 23 Griz Basketball vs. Great Falls 25 Free Christmas Carousel Rides 29 Lady Griz Basketball vs. UC Riverside 31 New Year’s Eve Run 31 First Night Hat Parade- Kids hat craft and parade 31 First Night Missoula

Montana Theatre Southgate Mall Downtown Missoula UM Adams Center Various Missoula Locations MCT Southgate Mall Downtown Missoula UM Adams Center University Theatre UM Adams Center Masquer Theatre UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Missoula Art Museum A Carousel for Missoula UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center A Carousel for Missoula UM Adams Center Peak Health & Wellness Center Southgate Mall Downtown, UM & Southgate Mall

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 0 1 First Friday Gallery Night 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Winter Storytelling Series 2 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Weber State 4 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Idaho State 8 Griz Basketball vs. Eastern Washington 9 Griz Basketball vs. Portland State 15 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Sacramento State 21 Artini 22-24, 27-31 MCT Community Theatre The Sunshine Boys 26-20 Leading Ladies 27 Jesus Christ Superstar (Broadway Show) 29 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Northern Colorado 29 Missoula Symphony Orchestra “The Family Concert” 30 Lady Griz Basketball vs. Northern Arizona

Downtown Missoula Travelers’ Rest Museum UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Missoula Art Museum MCT Montana Theatre UM Adams Center UM Adams Center University Theatre UM Adams Center

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 0 2-4, 6 5 5 6, 13, 20, 27

Leading Ladies First Friday Gallery Night Griz Basketball vs. Weber State Winter Storytelling Series

Montana Theatre Downtown Missoula UM Adams Center Travelers’ Rest Museum

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Bridal Show Griz Basketball vs. Idaho State Boat Show Lady Griz Basketball vs. Portland State Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Hooked on Art Lady Griz Basketball vs. Eastern Washington Annie (Broadway Show) Artini Bearfoot Griz Basketball vs. Sacramento State Lady Griz Basketball vs. Montana State Griz Basketball vs. Montana State Missoula Children’s Theatre The Emperor’s New Clothes Missoula Symphony Orchestra featuring Robert McDuffie

Southgate Mall UM Adams Center Southgate Mall UM Adams Center Historic Wilma Theatre Bonner School UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Missoula Art Museum University Theatre UM Adams Center UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Missoula Children’s Theatre University Theatre

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Downtown ToNight Summer Series 7, 14, 21, 28 Out to Lunch Summer Series 6, 13, 20, 27 Tuesday Night Farmers’ Markets 4 Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks 10 Hellgate Village 5K 11 Missoula Marathon, Half Marathon & Kids’ Marathon

15 Artini

FEBRUARY 2010 (CONT’D)

M A R C H 2 0 1 0 3-6 6, 13, 20, 27 13 18 16-20, 23-27 19-21, 24-28 20-21 21 24

Dance in Concert Winter Storytelling Series Kids Fair Artini Tongue of a Bird MCT Community Theatre Grease Missoula Symphony Orchestra featuring Suzanne Morales Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Montana Theatre Travelers’ Rest Museum Southgate Mall Missoula Art Museum Masquer Theatre MCT University Theatre Southgate Mall University Theatre

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J U L Y 2 0 1 0

Caras Park Caras Park Circle Square Southgate Mall Caras Park Frenchtown to Downtown Missoula Missoula Art Museum

A U G U S T 2 0 1 0 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Tuesday Night Farmers’ Markets 4, 11, 18, 25 Out to Lunch Summer Series 5, 12, 19, 26 Downtown ToNight Summer Series 6 First Friday Gallery Night 6-8 Missoula Gun & Antique Show 8 Missoula Symphony in the Park 10-15 Western Montana Fair 19 Artini 28-29 River City Roots Festival (5th annual)

Circle Square Caras Park Caras Park Downtown Missoula UM Adams Center Caras Park Missoula Fairgrounds Missoula Art Museum Downtown Missoula

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 0 10 11 12 17-19 18

Maverick Brewfest Hempfest Germanfest Art Expo Rock Against Racism

Caras Park Caras Park Caras Park Southgate Mall Caras Park

A P R I L 2 0 1 0 Grizzly (O) Track & Field Al Manuel Invitation First Friday Gallery Night Missoula Children’s Theatre The Wiz of the West Hairspray (Broadway Show) Harlem Globetrotters Artini Grizzly (O) Track & Field Montana Open Multi-Event Kyi-Yo Pow Wow Car Club Expo Grizzly (O) Track & Field Montana Open Rave On (Buddy Holly Tribute Band) Shrine Circus The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Missoula Community Theatre Peter Pan

Dornblaser Field Downtown Missoula Missoula Children’s Theatre UM Adams Center UM Adams Center Missoula Art Museum Dornblaser Field UM Adams Southgate Mall Dornblaser Field University Theatre UM Adams Center Montana Theatre MCT

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EVENTS

2-3 2 3 13 14 15 15-16 16-17 16-18 17 18 23-24 23-24, 27-30 30-May 2

M A Y 2 0 1 0 1 Garden City BrewFest (18th annual) 1, 4-8 The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee 5-9, 12-16 Missoula Community Theatre Peter Pan 7 First Friday Gallery Night 7-9 Meet Me in Missoula 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Saturday Morning Markets 8-9 Missoula Symphony Orchestra featuring Corey McKern 8-15 International Wildlife Film Festival (33rd annual) 8 Wildfest 15 UM Commencement Artini 20 22 New Zealand Days 29 Kids Day at the Carousel

Caras Park Montana Theatre MCT Downtown Missoula Various Missoula Locations Downtown Missoula University Theatre Roxy & Wilma Theatres Caras Park The University of Montana Missoula Art Museum Fort Missoula Rugby Pitch A Carousel for Missoula

J U N E 2 0 1 0 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Out to Lunch Summer Series 3, 10, 17, 24 Downtown ToNight Summer Series 4 First Friday Gallery Night 5, 12, 19, 26 Saturday Morning Markets 17 Artini 25-26 Garden City River Rod Run Classic Car Show (10th annual)

Caras Park Caras Park Downtown Missoula Downtown Missoula Missoula Art Museum Caras Park

M

Above: Missoula mascots. Courtesy of Western Montana Fair

Decisions, Decisions.

Call 1-800-526-3465 and speak to a local expert. We’ll help you make the most of your time in Missoula.

www.Missoulacvb.org

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Missoula

University of Montana

UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

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T

he University of “Defined by a prestigious faculty, Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch outside Dupuyer, and the Montana has provided Montana Island Lodge on Salmon high quality, wellred-bricked architecture and Lake. Additional holdings include rounded education for expansive lawns, the centurya 145-acre south campus on thousands of college students South and Higgins avenues, the since 1893. With a primary focus old school is often referred to as UM College of Technology at 909 on undergraduate liberal arts and South Ave. and 634 acres on science programs, the University’s the Harvard of the West.”

Mount Sentinel. professional schools and colleges UM has an increasingly diverse train students for professions Ski Magazine population and rich culture. in business, education, fine Festivals, concerts, lectures, plays, arts, forestry and conservation, art shows, athletic events and recreational activities journalism, law, and biomedical and pharmaceutical draw visitors from across the region. sciences.

For more information about UM, call The Source at UM is a major source of research, continuing 406-243-4636 or visit UM’s Web site at www.umt.edu. education, economic development and fine arts, as well as a driving force in strengthening Montana’s ties with countries throughout the world. The University’s Grizzly Athletics College of Technology prepares students for numerous The University of Montana offers 14 intercollegiate technical and professional careers. UM offers more than athletic programs for student-athletes competing 100 areas of study for nearly 14,000 students. in football, volleyball, soccer, golf, basketball, cross The University’s main campus at the base of Mount country, tennis, and track and field.

Sentinel covers 200 acres, and UM has several other The Grizzly football team has had unprecedented off-campus facilities, including the Flathead Lake success in recent years, winning the NCAA Football Biological Station at Yellow Bay, the 30,000-acre Championship Subdivision (FCS) national football Lubrecht Experimental Forest east of Missoula, the championship in 1995 and 2001, and advancing to the Bandy Experimental Cattle Ranch near Ovando, the title game in 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2008. Montana’s gridders have registered 23 consecutive winning

Above: A great day.

steve hocking / best shot submission

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

seasons and a Football Championship Subdivision record 16 straight football playoff appearances.

Men’s and women’s basketball at UM have been extremely successful over the years. The Lady Griz won the Big Sky Conference regular-season title in 2007-08 and 2008-09, and the Grizzlies advanced to the first round of the NCAA Division I Championship in the 2008-09 season.

The University of Montana has invested significant resources into upgrading all of its athletic facilities in

recent years. In 2008 UM embarked on another major addition to WashingtonGrizzly Stadium, which hosted the Rolling Stones in concert during the fall of 2006. Facilities include the Adams Events Center, Dornblaser Track & Field Complex and UM South Campus Soccer Stadium, Grizzly Pool, and UM Golf Course.

For information, contact UM Sports Information at 406-243-6899 or visit www.montanagrizzlies.com. Tickets are available at 406-243-4051, 1-888MONTANA or www.griztix.com.

Adams Center

UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA

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Missoula isn’t just the hub of Western Montana’s Five Valleys; it’s the region’s premiere entertainment center hosting a continuous run of high profile shows at The University of Montana.

There was no shortage of satisfaction in Missoula when UM hosted the Rolling Stones in Courtesy of ADAMS CEnter–University of Montana the biggest concert in the state’s history. A six-story stage rose out of Washington-Grizzly Stadium and fireworks lit the night sky as Mick, Keith and the band took the stage in front of 21,000 screaming fans. Those without tickets circled the stadium or found a seat high on Mount Sentinel in an effort to hear a bit of “Honky Tonk Woman” and witness history.

And if the Stones put UM’s venues in the national spotlight, the Rocket Man made the stage just as bright. Sir Elton John has made two appearances at UM’s Adams Center. Each time, John packed the arena and reeled off a string of hits and new music.

This year, the Adams Center is adding yet another component to its menu of events. In addition to incredible upcoming concerts, family shows, Griz and Lady Griz Basketball games, and Griz Volleyball games, the Adams Center is bringing a Broadway series to Missoula. This year’s series features Cirque Dreams, Jesus Christ Superstar, Annie and Hairspray. When you plan your trip to Missoula, be sure and check out AdamsEventCenter.com or GrizTix.com to see what is going on during your stay.

Recent UM Sellouts Include: Elton John • Blue Man Group Brad Paisley • James Taylor Elton John • Rolling Stones Prairie Home Companion • Keith Urban Pearl Jam • Alison Krauss Sting • Toby Keith 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

UM Fun Facts n UM is home to Monte, the 2003

& 2005 Capital One National Mascot of the Year. n On May 21, 2003, UM student

Jess Rosskelley became the youngest American to reach the summit of Mount Everest. n UM’s Maureen and Mike

Mansfield Library houses the earliest authorized edition of the Lewis and Clark journals. n UM has the No. 3 ranked

Easter egg hunt in the country, according to a 2002 USA Today article. n The Grizzly football team has

reached the NCAA Division I-AA national playoffs a record 16 consecutive years, winning national championship titles in 1995 and 2001. n UM was rated in the top 10

colleges nationally by Outside Magazine for combining academic quality and outdoor recreation. n Rolling Stone magazine deemed

UM’s campus the most scenic in America. n UM is ranked 17th in the

nation and fifth among public universities in producing Rhodes Scholars. n UM journalism graduates have

won eight Pulitzer Prizes. n UM’s graduate program in

creative writing tied for 10th place in U.S. News and World Report’s list of America’s best graduate programs.

The University of Montana 32 Campus Drive Missoula, Montana 59812 www.umt.edu 406-243-0211

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www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Missoula

Outdoor Recreation OUTDOOR RECREATION

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M

issoula lies in the heart of the Northern Rocky Mountains, adjacent to some of the world’s best biking, camping, fishing, hiking, skiing, and water recreation.

Seven wilderness areas, three major rivers, and countless lakes offer virtually endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Information and Resources U.S. Forest Service

Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks The regional office also has information on recreational opportunities and interpretive programs in the area. 3201 Spurgin Road. 406-542-5500. www.fwp.mt.gov.

ACTIVITIES

In every season, visitors from around the region flock to the Missoula area for its incredible outdoor recreation.

The U.S. Forest Service, Building 24, Fort Missoula, offers information on places to go and things to do in the national forests surrounding Missoula. The Missoula Ranger District can be reached at 406-3293814. During the winter, avalanche updates are available at 406-5494488 or 1-800-281-1030.

Nineties, because of the city’s

Bureau of Land Management

world-renowned trout rivers

The Bureau of Land Manage– ment has maps and information on recreation activities and road and trail conditions. 3255 Fort Missoula Road. 406-329-3914. www.mt.blm. gov.

“John Updike once called Missoula the Paris of the legendary population of

writers, but Paris lacks three and proximity to Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.”

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Outside Magazine

Bicycling

Missoula makes it easy to go green and get around by bicycle.

Downtown Missoula, the University of Montana, and the major shopping areas are connected by the city’s bicycle system, which comprises both on-street and off-street networks. Missoula has more than twenty miles of bike lanes and routes on major streets.

They are clearly marked, both on the pavement and with signage.

The Garden City also has a

Best Places to bike in town:

Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wilderness Area: north of Missoula on Van Buren until you can go no farther.

Best places to bike outside town:

Outside Missoula is the incredible Route of the Hiawatha (www. ridethehiawatha.com). This fifteen-milelong stretch of former railroad-grade snakes its way through numerous tunnels (the longest is 1.7 miles) and over many high trestles—all at a

Facing page: Missoula fly by.

through town.

Blue Mountain Recreation Area: southwest of town from Brooks Avenue (Highway 93 South) to Blue Mountain Road and up the road one mile.

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area: southeast of town from South Higgins Avenue to Pattee Canyon Road and up the canyon four miles.

Birding

Bird watching around Missoula is a rewarding adventure. There are a number of prime bird-watching sites in and around Missoula, including Kelly Island Access, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Greenough Park, Maclay Flat/Blue Mountain Road, Mount Jumbo, the Kim Williams Trail, Pattee Canyon, and along the Clark Fork River on I-90 East. For more information about these sites and the types of birds found in the area, visit Five Valleys Audubon Society’s website at www.fvamissoula.org or access the Montana Birding Hotline at 406-721-9799.

Camping

Above: Blue Mountain overlook.

Clark Fork Riverfront Trail System: meanders right

There are hundreds of miles of trails and roads on which to mountain bike in Lolo National Forest and the Garnet Range. For maps and more information contact Lolo National Forest (406-3293814) at Fort Missoula.

Matt rogers / best shot submission

Chris Gibisch / best shot submission

two-percent grade, so anyone can ride it (up or down). There is a nominal fee for using the trail, but the scenery is truly spectacular. If you’d rather just ride downhill, there is a shuttle available to haul you back up. Go west on I-90 from Missoula almost 100 miles to the Taft exit. Be sure to bring a detailed map of the area.

For those looking for a place to camp, the Missoula area has plenty of spots to stake down for a night or a week.

Urban campers are welcome at Jellystone RV Park just north of I-90 at exit 96 or at the KOA Campground just south of I-90 at exit 101. All amenities are available.

For those interested in more traditional camping, there are designated campgrounds throughout the region on lands managed by the Forest Service, the Montana Department of National Resources and Conservation (406-542-4300), and the Bureau of Land Management (406-329-3717).

Designated campsites usually charge a nominal fee per night. Disbursed camping, or camping in undesignated sites, is also available with some restrictions.

Visitors and residents can rent Forest

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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OUTDOOR RECREATION

terrific off-street trail system. Trails meander along the Clark Fork River, through the central part of Missoula, following the railroad tracks and winding through many neighborhoods. When it’s time to park, Missoula has hundreds of bike racks throughout the city.

Many of the bike shops have bikes for rent. These same shops can help with a flat tire and bike tune-ups and can offer advice on special places to ride. Call or visit the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau for a list of shops. 1121 East Broadway. 406-532-3250. www.missoulacvb.org.

Trail maps and simple bikesystem maps are available at the City of Missoula Bicycle/ Pedestrian Office at 435 Ryman. 406-552-6352. and the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1121 East Broadway. 406-532-3250. www.missoulacvb.org.

Missoula is also home to the national headquarters of the Adventure Cycling Association, America’s premier member-supported non-profit organization dedicated to bicycle travel.

Its mission is to inspire people of all ages to travel by bicycle. They create bike maps, run organized tours and publish Adventure Cyclist Magazine. 150 E. Pine St. 721-1776. www.adventurecycling.org.

Fall colors Missoula.

Ran ye / best shot submission

OUTDOOR RECREATION

36 Service cabins and lookouts throughout the year. Visit www.fs.fed.us/r1/lolo/ recreation.

Information on national forests in western Montana can be found at: www.fs.fed.us/r1. Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (406-5425500) is also a good resource for information.

For more information on camping in the area, visit these websites:

Lolo National Forest: www.fs.fed.us/r1/lolo Bitterroot National Forest: www.fs.fed.us/r1/bitterroot

Beaverhead-Deer Lodge National Forest: www.fs.fed.us/r1/bdnf Montana Bureau of Land Management: www.mt.blm.gov.

Fishing

Montana has more miles of wild trout rivers than any other state in the lower forty-eight, and the vast majority of these rivers are in the western part of

the state. Missoula, in particular, is a trout fishing mecca. Forbes Magazine recently named Missoula as one of North America’s Top Ten Trout Fishing Towns.

Within one hour’s drive of town, there are twenty-five distinct full-day floats. In addition, there are countless lakes in the area that cater to both the bait fisherman and the ice fisherman.

River Fishing Bitterroot River The Bitterroot River provides the best opportunity to catch brown trout over twenty-two inches on a dry fly.

Notorious for very heavy aquatic insect hatches, the Bitterroot is another scenic and classic Montana trout river. More than any of the other area rivers, the Bitterroot is the place to fish for big trout on dries during the spring skwala hatch.

The history of the area, the amazing scenery, and excellent fishing make the Bitterroot one of the best places to fish, whether spring, summer, or fall.

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Blackfoot River From its headwaters on the west side of the Rocky Mountain Front and Bob Marshall Wilderness to its confluence with the Clark Fork River just east of Missoula, the Blackfoot River is a Missoula favorite.

The Blackfoot is a combination of aweinspiring scenery, water diversity, wildlife, and fishing that remains unparalleled.

Running crystal-clear before and after runoff (which usually takes place in June), the Blackfoot is home to one of the largest populations of bull trout in the United States.

Clark Fork River The Clark Fork of the Columbia River is the best kept secret in Montana.

Similar in character to a large spring creek, the Clark Fork winds its way through sandy cottonwood bottoms and low-elevation pine forests, offering anglers the best opportunity in the area to cast to “pods” of rising fish. The average rainbow/cutthroat hybrid (the

predominant trout in the river) is fifteen inches.

Rock Creek Rock Creek is one of Montana’s designated Blue Ribbon trout streams.

Flowing out of the Welcome Creek Wilderness to its confluence with the Clark Fork River twenty-one miles east of Missoula, Rock Creek is internationally renowned for its spectacular June salmonfly hatch and its classic, textbook trout water.

Supporting healthy populations of browns, cutthroats, rainbows, and bull trout, this stream is easily accessible along the majority of its length and will have anglers fishing among populations of deer, elk, moose, bears, and a worldrecord producing herd of bighorn sheep.

Rock Creek is also one of the best yearround fishing streams in the area—even in very cold weather, the fish always seem willing to eat nymphs.

Lake Fishing Flathead Lake

Frenchtown Pond State Park About sixteen miles west of Missoula on I-90, the pond is open to fishing and swimming from Oct. 1-Apr. 30, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. or May 1-Sept. 30 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Daily use fee of $5 per vehicle (or $25 Parks Passport for the season). Day-use only.

Georgetown Lake South of Philipsburg, Georgetown Lake is the most heavily fished lake in western Montana. With a population of kokanee salmon and rainbow and brook trout, Georgetown is also popular for ice fishing during the winter.

Take Highway 200 east about forty miles to the Clearwater Junction. At the junction, travel north on Highway 83 and take a left-hand turn a few miles north of Salmon Lake State Park. At Placid Lake, recreationists will find forty campsites, picnic shelters, and boating and fishing opportunities. Daily use fee is $5 (or $25 for a Parks Passport for the season).

Overnight camping fee is $15. Forest Service property adjoins the lake, offering hiking and boating possibilities.

Salmon Lake State Park Travel about forty miles east on Highway 200 to Clearwater Junction. At the junction, take Highway 83 north for about ten miles. Daily use fee is $5 (or $25 for Parks Passport for the season).

Overnight camping fee is $15.

Seeley Lake Seeley Lake, with its many cottages and resorts, public beaches, water skiing opportunities, and swimming and picnicking sites, is one of the most

popular lakes in the area. Anglers can fish for perch, bass, pike, cutthroat and rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon in the lake, which has a maximum depth of 125 feet. Seeley Lake is an hour’s drive from Missoula. Travel east on Highway 200 to Clearwater Junction then north on Highway 83.

Fishing for Kids The Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks encourages families to get out and enjoy the myriad of fishing opportunities in the area. www.fwp.state.mt.us.

Suggested fishing spots for kids in west-central Montana include Frenchtown Pond; Blackfoot River Access in Bonner; St. Regis Pond in St. Regis; Harpers Lake, three miles north of Clearwater Junction; and Beavertail Hill Pond, east of Missoula, Beavertail exit on I-90.

River Adventures The Missoula area presents a wide variety of moving water for canoeing, kayaking, or whitewater rafting.

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The Happy Hippo (a 35- foot long amphibious military vehicle) will ferry you by land and sea—The Hippo takes off from Three Dog Down in Polson and SPLASHES in to Flathead Lake at Riverside Park.

Along the way, be sure to keep your eyes open as you may encounter a pirate attack!

Fun for the entire family! Discount coupons available at most downtown merchants and Three Dog Down.

(Group rates available. Splash time is at 1:00pm Wed-Sun. Memorial Day through Labor Day.)

The mosT fun you can have wiTh your cloThes on!

A bridge and a bump past Polson on Hwy 93 800-DOG-DOWN threedogdown.com www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

OUTDOOR RECREATION

The largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States is sixty-nine miles north of Missoula between Polson and Kalispell. Flathead is known for its quality lake trout, whitefish, cutthroat trout, perch, and bass fishing, as well as for the East Shore drive, bordered by the majestic Mission Mountain Range. West Shore State Park, twenty miles south of Kalispell, offers boating access and picnic sites.

Placid Lake State Park

Linda Vista, Missoula Country Club, The Ranch Club, and the University of Montana.

Golf season typically begins in March and winds down in late October.

Spectacular views of mountains, lakes, and forests complement a full range of courses for all levels of golfers. For information on area golf courses go to www.missoulacvb.org and click on “things to do.”

Hiking & Backpacking Alberton Gorge, Clark Fork River

OUTDOOR RECREATION

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Located thirty miles west of Missoula on I-90 is the Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork, Missoula’s premier whitewater rafting and kayaking run.

With its friendly Class III whitewater, “the Gorge” is a fun-filled day of roller coaster rapids, quiet pools for swimming, and the opportunity to see Montana’s abundant wildlife. The Alberton Gorge, created by Glacial Lake Missoula, is isolated from roads and has magnificent rock formations.

Experienced boaters can row this river, but a guided service offers greater safety and fun. Missoula area rafting companies offer full-day and half-day floats.

Bitterroot River The Bitterroot River, with its abundant wildlife, clear water, and majestic mountains, provides more than seventyfive miles of floatable water, which begins about six miles above Darby and ends at the convergence with the Clark Fork in Missoula.

Blackfoot River “I am haunted by waters,” wrote Norman MacLean of the Blackfoot River in his book A River Runs Through It. The Blackfoot River is an incredibly beautiful glacial stream offering more than sixtysix miles of floatable water. It provides outstanding rafting and kayaking, excellent fishing, and fantastic scenery.

Enjoy both whitewater and fun stretches of gentle water with clear, deep pools for swimming.

Brennan’s Wave, Clark Fork River Nestled in the heart of Downtown Missoula, Brennan’s Wave was completed in 2006, after 10 years of planning and $360,000 in fundraising.

Several hundred tons of Montana limestone replaced an ugly and dangerous chunk of concrete and rebar left over from an old diversion dam. The wave is named after Brennan Guth, a native Missoulian who was killed in 2001 while kayaking the Rio Palguin River in Chile. While surfers on the wave make it look easy, visitors should contact one of the local paddling shops to learn about instruction.

Lochsa River Only fifty-five miles from Downtown Missoula flows the Lochsa River—one of the country’s best whitewater runs.

Outside Magazine says, “Unlike other big western whitewater, which runs pool-and-drop, most of the Lochsa simply drops, with little respite between rapids.”

During spring runoff (May-June) the Lochsa roars over thirty-seven Class III rapids, twenty-five Class IV rapids, and two Class II adrenaline-pumping rapids.

The whitewater season on the Lochsa runs from late April to late June, with peak flows the latter half of June.

Golfing

Missoula is blessed with eight magnificent golf courses: Canyon River, Highlands, King Ranch, Larchmont,

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Novice and experienced hikers will find thousands of miles of trails for enjoyable day hikes and overnight or multi-day backpacking trips. Numerous wilderness areas offer rugged, back-country trails for backpacking.

Information on these trails can be found at any of the Forest Service headquarters listed in the Information and Resources section. Casual day hiking is popular in the following areas around Missoula:

Blue Mountain Recreation Area Two miles southwest of Missoula on U.S. Highway 93, turn right on Blue Mountain Road. Follow the road to the parking lot at the end of the pavement.

You’ll find expansive meadows and great views of the Missoula Valley, including a self-guided nature trail. Note travel and shooting restrictions. Trails are open to hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and use of ATVs and four-wheel drives; there is also a ninehole disc golf course.

Mount Jumbo Missoula voters passed a bond issue to buy most of the southwestern face of Mount Jumbo in 1995. Loyola Sacred Heart High School’s “L” initial overlooks the city, and the 0.6-mile trail to it is very popular. Other trails include the North Loop Trail (3.8 miles), the Saddle Trail (1.1 miles), and the Backbone Trail (2.5 miles). Access points include Lincoln Hills Road; Poplar, Cherry and Locust streets; Marshall Mountain Road; and Woods Gulch.

Kayaker on Brennan’s Wave.

lisa mee

Mount Sentinel

Ninemile Ranger District Reservation Divide trails, wildlife, photo opportunities, a self-guided tour, an accessible nature trail, and more await you in and near the Ninemile Ranger Station. Tour the historic

Pattee Canyon Recreation Area Follow Pattee Canyon Road for four miles from Missoula to the end of the paved parking area. Hike, ski, or bike on the loop ski trails on either side of the road. There are many old logging roads to explore in the area.

Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wilderness Area Travel north four miles on Van Buren Street and Rattlesnake Drive to the sign for the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Go 0.5 mile further to Sawmill Gulch Road. Drive 0.25 mile west on the paved road to the trailhead. The area has opportunities for both short and long hikes and cross-country skiing.

Note the varied restrictions on dogs. No shooting or camping for the first three miles. Contact the Missoula Ranger

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The University of Montana Golf Course

• 9 Hole Public Golf Course • Driving Range • Putting Green • Cart/Club Rentals • Clubhouse • 406-728-8629 • www.umt.edu/golf

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

OUTDOOR RECREATION

A hike to the “M” on Mount Sentinel is a favorite Missoula outing for people of all ages. Beginning on the UM campus, it is 0.75 mile to the “M” and an additional 1 mile to the top of the mountain. The views of the Missoula valley, the Clark Fork River, and the distant mountains are spectacular.

The trail offers a steep, zigzag path with eleven switchbacks and a gain of 620 feet in elevation. From the top of Mount Sentinel you can see Hellgate Canyon, Mount Jumbo (note the water lines of Glacier Lake Missoula), and the Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wilderness Area. From the top you can take the Crazy Canyon Trail into Pattee Canyon, which links to the Kim Williams Riverfront Trail.

Ninemile Remount Depot and Ranger Station or visit Grand Menard, Kreis Pond, Sleeping Woman Peak, or Petty Creek for hiking and other recreation.

406-626-5201.

Experience Missoula’s Best…

“ Diane Beck DianeBeck@Realtor.com

www.HomesinMissoula.com

(406) 532-7927

It’s true…a river runs through it.

While you’re in Missoula, be sure to enjoy a day of fishing, whitewater rafting or riding Brennan’s wave.

”

District office at 406-329-3814 for more information.

Horseback Riding

OUTDOOR RECREATION

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Riding across the plains or through the foothills and mountains in and around Missoula is a wonderful way to see the countryside. For those unfamiliar with the area or with riding, a number of local companies offer guided rides.

Source providers can be found through the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1121 East Broadway. 406-5323250. www.missoulacvb.org.

Hunting

A number of species of large and small game animals and birds can be found in the Missoula area. Whether

hunting with a bow, rifle, or camera, a hunter must make informed decisions about what, where, and when to hunt.

Maps of the area can be obtained from the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks at www.fwp.state. mt.us/hunting.

Local hunters and sporting good stores can give information about what areas are providing bountiful yields.

In Montana, hunting can be done on public and private lands, but different laws apply to each type of property.

For hunting licenses, information, and supplies, contact Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (406-542-5500) or a local sporting goods store.

Skiing—CrossCountry

Missoula is fortunate to offer excellent cross-country skiing within a few minutes’ drive of the city. The following areas discussed previously are excellent destinations for cross-country skiing: Blue Mountain Recreation Area, Pattee Canyon Recreation Area, and Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wilderness Area.

Lolo Pass About forty-five miles west of Missoula on U.S. Highway 12 is Lolo Pass on the Lewis and Clark Trail.

There are about four miles of groomed ski trails, plus six miles of backcountry skiing and eight miles of trail shared with snowmobiles.

There is a fee for parking. For more information, contact the Clearwater National Forest in Idaho. 208-942-3113.

Seeley Swan The Seeley Creek Nordic Ski Trails in the Seeley Swan Valley, about one hour northeast of Missoula, offer more than six miles of trails groomed for both cross-country and skate skiing.

Many of the trails are linked to others in the area, and the views of the SeeleySwan Range and the backside of the Mission Mountains are fabulous. Dogs and snowmobiles are prohibited. Maps are available at the Lolo National Forest office in Seeley Lake. 406-677-2233.

Skiing—Downhill Blacktail Mountain

On this unique “upside-down-hill,” you enjoy a top-to-bottom run before riding a chair! Views from Flathead Lake to Glacier National Park and of the Mission, Whitefish, and Cabinet ranges, more than 1,000 acres to ski, runs for all abilities, and an average 250 inches of annual snowfall make this an ideal family ski area. From Missoula, take I-90 west to exit 96. Take Highway 93 north approximately ninety-seven miles to Lakeside. 406-844-0900. www.blacktailmountain.com.

Discovery Basin A great find in the beauty of southwestern Montana, Discovery Basin boasts an extensive diversity of terrain. From a variety of beginner and intermediate slopes to the thrills of the extreme on the backside, there is something for everyone at this familyoriented ski area. From Missoula, take I-90 east to Drummond. Go south on Highway 1 through Philipsburg to Georgetown Lake. Look for signage to Discovery Basin. 406-563-2184. www.skidiscovery.com.

Snowboarding.

JUPITER IMAGES

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Lookout Pass The snow comes early, and it snows regularly at Lookout Pass on the Montana/ Idaho border.

Snow tends to be light and fun to ski, and Lookout has 540 acres and 34 runs.

Lookout offers two terrain parks with huge banks, mounds, launches, rails, and a 1,111-foot quarter pipe. From Missoula, take I-90 west to exit 0, approximately 100 miles.

208-744-1301. Snow phone 208-744-1301, ext. 3. www.skilookout.com.

Lost Trail Powder Mountain

Snowbowl Snowbowl is a tremendous ski area with runs for all abilities. Snowbowl is located just twenty minutes north of

Snowmobiling Snowmobiling opportunities abound

in the Lolo Pass, Seeley Lake, Lincoln, Ovando, and Garnet areas. Maps are available, showing groomed snowmobile areas and trails. For more information call the Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests (406-329-3814, 406-3637161), Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (406-444-2535), or the Bureau of Land Management (406-893-5000).

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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OUTDOOR RECREATION

Well known for reliable snowfall and consistently good snow conditions, Lost Trail straddles the Montana/Idaho border in Snowmobiler catches some big air. john Sieber the breathtaking Bitterroot Range of the Northern Rockies. Lost Trail is ninety miles south Missoula; take the Reserve Street exit of Missoula on U.S. Highway 93 in the off of I-90 and travel along Grant Creek Bitterroot Valley. Snow report: 406-821- Road. Turn left onto Snowbowl Road.

3211. www.losttrail.com.

406-549-9777. www.montanasnowbowl.com.

M is sMo oul a n t ana Sunflower.

Joe Gough / best shot submission

Maps courtesy of Roger Parchen/Art & Image

Missoula

Shopping

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“Best Community in the West.”

SHOPPING

sunset magazine, about missoula

M

issoula is fortunate to offer exceptional choices for both the casual and the serious shopper. With no sales tax, shopping in Missoula is made all the more enjoyable. A regional destination, the Garden City has three distinct shopping areas.

Downtown Missoula Downtown Missoula offers the most unique shopping opportunities in the area. Comprising small, individually owned boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores, Downtown has more than 100 places to visit on a shopping excursion. Macy’s department store is the biggest draw, and the surrounding shops offer everything one needs, including apparel and shoes, art, books, flowers and gifts, groceries, health and wellness products, furniture, home decor, jewelry, outdoor gear, and specialty items. For more information, contact the Missoula Downtown Association. 406-543-4238. www.missouladowntown.com.

Above: West Alder Street.

Sage grendahl/courtesy missoula

downtown association

Top: Southgate Mall.

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Courtesy of Southgate Mall

North Reserve Street The North Reserve Street corridor is Missoula’s most recent development, having sprung to life over the last decade. Reserve Street is the place to go for big box chain stores such as Barnes and Noble, Costco, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Michael’s, Old Navy, Petsmart, TJ Maxx and Super Wal-Mart.

Southgate Mall Southgate Mall is Montana’s

premier enclosed shopping and dining destination, featuring more than 100 top specialty stores and an unmatched collection of universally favorite brand names such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Aéropostale, American Eagle, Bath and Body Works, The Buckle, Chico’s, Children’s Place, Coldwater Creek, Eddie Bauer, Finish Line, Gap, Gymboree, Hollister, Oil & Vinegar, and Victoria Secret. Southgate Mall also features a great selection of anchor stores: Herberger’s, Dillard’s,

JC Penney, Sears, Bob Ward & Sons Sporting Goods, Bed, Bath and Beyond, and Ashley Furniture.

Stop by the Guest Services Center to pick up a free coupon book filled with money-saving discounts and special offers good at your favorite stores.

Open Mon. through Fri., 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 2901 Brooks Street. 406-721-5140. www.shopsouthgate.com.

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SHOPPING

10,000 brands. Zero sales tax.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER. www.Missoulacvb.org

More than 100 stores and 10,000 brands. Plus, no sales tax. A stop at Southgate Mall is worth the trip.

2901 Brooks St. Mon. – Sat. 10 am – 9 pm • Sun. 11 am – 6 pm

Happy Shopping. www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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D O WNTO WN MISSO U LA

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Missoula

SHOPPING

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Discover Missoula...Downtown Welcome to one of the most vibrant, livable Downtowns in the Rocky Mountains.

The essence of Missoula since 1972

• Dining

From robust farmers markets, art galleries and museums, fine restaurants and favorite local watering holes to riverfront trails, hiking, kayaking and skateboarding, Downtown Missoula is vibrant, relaxed and diverse. With over 150 retail stores— ranging from clothing and fine art to sporting goods and fine wine—Downtown Missoula is a wonderful shopping destination.

• Shopping

Bring the family and ride the carousel, see a concert or show, grab a book at the library or enjoy a cup of your favorite joe.

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Downtown.

Where Missoula Lives.

Learn more about the great things that Downtown Missoula has to offer at www.missouladowntown.com

232 North Higgins Avenue Missoula, Montana (406) 728-8780

river city

roots fest

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august 28-29, 2010

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with a focus on regional & international designers

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Missoula AREA

Day Trips

DAY TRIPS

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W

ith the Garden City as your home base, you can embark on a number of day excursions and be back in Missoula in time for dinner.

North

Flathead Indian Reservation One of seven reservations in Montana, the Flathead Indian Reservation is home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. It features a wealth of cultural sites on 1.2 million acres of fertile valleys and towering mountain peaks. The Flathead Reservation was established in 1855 for the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d’Oreille Indians. For more information on area tribes and the Flathead Indian Reservation, call 406-675-0160. www.cskt.org.

National Bison Range Located at Moiese, in the Mission Valley on the Flathead Indian Reservation, the National Bison Range is thirty-four miles north of Missoula. Established in 1908, the 19,000-acre big-game range is home to approximately 400 bison, many species of birds, herds of white-tailed and mule deer, pronghorns, and elk.

Don’t miss the annual bison roundup in October; it’s a must-see event that draws both locals and tourists Above: Glacier National Park.

“The No. 1 Best Small Town.” men’s journal about Missoula, in “The 50 best places to live”

each year. Visitors can enjoy the wildlife and scenery from their vehicles on a nineteen-mile driving route; the fee is $5 per car. All Golden Passes, as well as Federal Migratory Bird Stamps, are accepted. 406-644-2211. www.fws.gov/bisonrange.

Saint Ignatius Mission Established in 1854, the mission was built by Native Americans under the direction of Catholic missionaries.

Fifty-eight exquisite, original murals by Jesuit Priest Joseph Carignano adorn its walls and ceiling. The Mission Mountain Range provides a striking backdrop for this beloved mission. Open daily. Summer – 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Winter 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 406-745-2768.

Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana Established in 1998 to commemorate the history and culture of the Flathead tribe, the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana also details the human history of the area.

The museum features works by famous artists such as Charlie Russell and E. S. Paxson. It also contains tribal artifacts; examples of native dress; weaponry, spurs,

Courtesy of Glacier Country Regional Tourism / Mike Mitchell

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and saddlery; and a vast collection of Native American beadwork. Bordered by the Ninepipes Bird Refuge, the museum is located six miles south of Ronan at 40962 U.S. Highway 93. 406-44-3435. www.ninepipes.com.

The People’s Center Providing a cultural bridge from the past to the future of the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d’Oreille tribes, The People’s Center features a museum, an exhibit gallery, “Native Ed-Ventures” tours, and education programs. A gift shop showcases the work of local Indian artisans. Turn left off U.S. Highway 93 North in Pablo. 1-800-883-5344. 406675-0160. www.peoplescenter.org.

Flathead Lake

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Great Rates!

Quality Service!

Glacier National Park On May 11, 2010, Glacier National Park will mark 100 years as a national park. To honor the anniversary, the Centennial Program is focusing on the legacy of the park as well as working to promote the Centennial as a time to celebrate, inspire and engage. While the history of the park dates back more than 10,000 years, in the last 100 years people started looking differently at the land and recognized it for its spectacularly wild and scenic beauty.

For Reservations and Information Call: Avis: 1-800-331-1212 • Budget: 1-800-527-0700 u Competitive Daily, Weekend,

Weekly, Monthly Rates Missoula Airport 5225 Hwy 10 West Avis (406) 549-4711 Budget (406) 543-7001

u 3 Convenient Locations

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Kalispell Glacier International Airport (406) 257-2727

Billings 2223 First Ave. N Avis (406) 252-8007 Budget (406) 259-4168 www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

DAY TRIPS

The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi is sixty miles north of Missoula between Polson and Kalispell. This gorgeous, deep lake offers unlimited recreational opportunities and wildlife habitat. Twenty-eight miles long and up to fifteen miles wide, Flathead Lake is approximately 386 feet deep in some areas and has been rumored to have its own monster, sighted regularly since 1889. Six units of the Flathead Lake State Park offer access to the lake for boating, sailing, fishing, camping, and swimming. The south half of the lake is located on the Flathead Indian Reservation, where fishermen need a tribal fishing permit. For more information on activities in the Flathead Lake area, visit www.fcvb.org or www.fwp.state. mt.us/.

During the Centennial year, there are more than 100 events and programs taking place to help today’s generation and future generations protect and preserve the park as one of the nation’s treasures and icons.

One of our country’s greatest treasures, Glacier National Park is known for its unparalleled scenery, brilliant wildflowers, stunning forests, abundant wildlife (particularly grizzly bears), exceptional fishing, and breathtaking waterfalls. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a spectacular fifty-mile route that crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass and traverses the towering Garden Wall.

Going-to-the-Sun Road is currently undergoing restoration so expect periodic delays. Alternate means of transportation are available, including a new shuttle system providing free transportation to locations throughout the Park and guided tours on the historic Red Jammer Buses. Beautiful, historic alpine-lake lodges and numerous campgrounds are open to park visitors during summer months. The drive north,

Rock Creek.

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Nate Shepard / best shot submission

on U.S. Highway 93, then east on Highway 2, to Glacier National Park is approximately 3.5 hours. 406-888-7800. www.nps.gov/glac.

NORTHEAST Seeley Swan Valley With the dramatic Mission Mountains to the west and the spectacular Bob Marshall Wilderness Area to the east, the Seeley Swan Valley is filled with a large concentration of lakes, many formed by ancient glaciers. It gets its

name from its two largest lakes: Seeley Lake to the south and Swan Lake to the north. A great place to spend the day hiking, fishing and boating. From Missoula, take I-90 east to the Bonner turnoff, then head north on Highway 200. At Clearwater Junction, go north on Highway 83, which will take you through the Seeley Swan Valley to Bigfork.

For more information on the area’s attractions and events, contact the Seeley Lake Chamber of Commerce at 406-677-2880. www.seeleylakechamber. com.

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2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

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Jim Girard Memorial Tamaracks Grove In the middle of this 250 acre tamarack grove discover “Gus”, believed to be the largest western larch in the world. Standing 173 feet tall with a circumference of 273 inches, this majestic tree and the surrounding old growth grove were preserved as a fine example of restoration forestry. While there look for moose, elk, bears, bald eagles, and ospreys. From Highway 83, go west on Boy Scout Road at mile marker 14. Cross the Clearwater River at the outlet of Seeley Lake and pass by the Camp Paxson sign. On the left, about 100 yards past the sign, is the entrance to the Tamaracks Grove.

Morrell Falls Spectacular Morrell Falls is one of the most popular places in the area to visit.

It’s about a two-hour roundtrip hike to the falls, and the trail is easy enough for the whole family to enjoy. From Highway 83, turn onto Morrell Creek Road at mile marker 15. Follow the signs along

the well-maintained road. Bring drinking water.

Clearwater River Canoe Trail One of the area’s most unique and attractive experiences, the Clearwater River Canoe Trail offers a 3.5-mile float on the Clearwater River, which empties into Seeley Lake. The constant flow of water, along with the 1.5-mile hike, allows for a good half-day adventure (four hours).

Enjoy a wide variety of plants and animals in the area. From Highway 83, turn onto Forest Service Road #17597 between mile markers 18 and 19 and travel 0.7 miles to the trailhead.

Alpine Artisans Self-Guided Tours

SOUTH

Bitterroot Valley The Bitterroot Valley is a spectacular drive south of Missoula on U.S. Highway 93. There are a variety of attractions, plus an abundance of recreational activities.

For more information on what to do in the valley, contact the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce at 406-3632400. www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com.

Holt Heritage Museum Located just outside Lolo, the Holt Heritage Museum is dedicated to the Cowboy, Stockman, Salish and Nez Perce Indians, and Lewis and Clark.

Bill and Ramona Holt’s display of their extensive memorabilia tells the story of Western Montana from the Salish/

D i s c ov e r t h e

unspoileD experiences awaiting you in Western

Travelers’ Rest State Park

Montana’s Glacier Country.

Travelers’ Rest State Park marks the location of a centuries-old Native American campsite used by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805 and again in 1806. In fact, it is in the only scientifically verified Lewis and Clark campsite in the nation. This National Historic Landmark and multicultural crossroads offers a variety of programming for all ages throughout the year. The Winter Storytelling Series continues the tradition of the Bitterroot Salish by passing on oral histories in the cold months; re-enactors grace the grounds during special events; interpreters wander the cottonwood lined trails to help you explore this place where the voices of history are carried on the breeze.

The new Holt Museum at Travelers’ Rest State Park offers a glimpse into the Pow Wow era of the regional Native American tribes, as well as a recreated frontier main street where you can learn of the early settlement days of the Bitterroot Valley – where Montana began.

Park admission is $5 per vehicle, although those with Montana license plates are free. Special program fees can apply. Open daily June through Aug. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Museum and Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Spring and fall hours 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (Museum and Visitor Center open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Winter hours vary.

Take Highway 93 South to Lolo, turn right on Highway 12 West, ½ mile (Park entrance on the left). 406-273-4253. www.travelersrest.org.

Here you’ll find the perfect

St. Mary’s Mission Church Father Pierre DeSmet and Father Anthony Ravalli established Montana’s

blend of unspoiled nature and modern amenities, with charming and vibrant small towns serving as gateways to the natural wonders, and cultural attractions that are as varied as our scenery.

Call for your free travel guide.

800-338-5072

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DAY TRIPS

Alpine Artisans is a regional visual and performing arts organization that offers visitors the opportunity to tour artists’ studios, attend concerts, workshops and art shows throughout the year in the Seeley Swan Valleys.

On the Tour of Arts, you have the opportunity to meet artists immersed in their passion and see them at work.

You’ll be welcomed into their life and their lifestyle. Visit one-on-one with them to learn first-hand about their art and hear their stories of creation. Take time to embrace the special world of the artisan at work. 406-793-5706. www.alpineartisans.org.

Nez Perce period to present day. Enjoy a display of Western hats, boots, and spurs (many belonging to famous folks) and an Old Town Street scene, among other displays. Take Highway 93 South to Lolo, turn left on Highway 12 West 1/2 mile (Museum entrance on right)6800 Highway 12. 406-273-6743. www.holtheritagemuseum.com.

www.mcvb.glaciermt.com

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first permanent white settlement and the Northwest’s first Catholic Mission in Stevensville in 1841. Chief Victor’s cabin now serves as a Native American museum and gift shop. Tours of the mission are available mid-April through mid-Oct. Follow Highway 93 South to the Stevensville turnoff. 401 Fourth Street, Stevensville. 406-777-5734.

Bitterroot Birding and Nature Trail From Lolo Pass to Lost Trail Pass, explore 25 prime birding and nature viewing sites following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark and generations of Salish and Nez Perce peoples. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge serves as trail headquarters and is a good place to start your adventure. www. montanabirdingtrail.org. Trail brochures also available at the Missoula Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1121 East Broadway.

406-532-3250. www.missoulacvb.org.

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Bald Eagle.

Located along the Bitterroot River, the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge offers

DAY TRIPS

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Joan Zeiber / best shot submission

spectacular views of the landscape, as well as of local wildlife. The refuge’s 2,800 acres are home to 235 species of birds, 41 species of mammals, and 17 species of reptiles and amphibians. The refuge provides visitors with opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, hunting, fishing, environmental education, and interpretation. The Wildlife Viewing Area includes a half-mile wheelchairaccessible path that leads to the Bitterroot River. Located just north of Stevensville on the east side of the Bitterroot River. 406-777-5552. www.leemetcalf.fws.gov.

Teller Wildlife Refuge This private refuge conserves riparian and upland habitats on 1,200 acres, including three miles of Bitterroot River frontage. Access by permission only.

Located just north of Corvallis on the east side of the Bitterroot River. 1292 Chaffin Road. 406-961-3507. www.tellerwildlife.org.

Marcus Daly Mansion Copper King Marcus Daly, who built his mining fortune in Butte, purchased the homestead in 1886 and had it remodeled to serve as his family’s summer residence. Completed in 1910, the three-story, 24,000-square-foot Daly Mansion is a reminder of the grand style of living the prosperous enjoyed in the early twentieth century. The home has more than fifty rooms, including twentyfive bedrooms and fifteen bathrooms, as well as seven fireplaces, five of which are made of imported Italian marble.

Located just outside of Hamilton, approximately forty-five miles south of Missoula on Highway 269, at mile marker 2. Open mid-May to mid-Oct. Call for hours. Tours available. 406-3636004. www.dalymansion.org.

OTHER AREAS

Bob Marshall Wilderness Area Rugged mountain peaks, alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, high mountain valleys, open meadows, and some of Montana’s finest Blue Ribbon trout streams are what make the Bob Marshall 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Wife’s version of FOLF.

Kristiana McElroy / best shot submission

For more information on the Bob Marshall Wilderness visit www.fs.fed. us/r1/flathead/ and www.fs.fed.us/r1/ lewisclark/.

Council Grove State Park On July 16, 1855, eighteen leaders of the Salish (Flathead), Kootenai, and Upper Pend d’Oreille Indian Nations signed the historic Hell Gate Treaty near the Hell Gate River (today’s Clark Fork River), at a site in the Missoula Valley known as Council Grove. The Indians reluctantly ceded their title to almost all of the land in western Montana, with the exception of the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Eight representatives of the U.S. government also signed the treaty, including Governor Isaac I. Stevens, Superintendent of Indian affairs for the Washington Territory. In less than two years (1854 to 1856), Stevens quickly conducted a total of ten controversial treaties with more than seventy Northwest tribes in today’s

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DAY TRIPS

Wilderness Area one of the most prized in the nation.

One of the largest wilderness areas in the United States, the Bob Marshall runs sixty miles along the Continental Divide from the southern tip of Glacier National Park almost to Ovando, Montana, and from the Seeley Swan Valley to the Rocky Mountain Front. The addition of the Lincoln Scapegoat Wilderness Area to the south and the Great Bear Wilderness to the north has brought the total acreage in the Bob Marshall Complex to 1.5 million. One of the most completely preserved mountain ecosystems in the world, the “Bob” includes the North and South Forks of the Sun River and the Middle and South Forks of the Flathead River.

The closest access points to the “Bob” from Missoula are the trailheads at Monture Creek and the North Fork of the Blackfoot River, both of which are found off U.S. Highway 200 East near Ovando.

Western access points are from the Seeley-Swan Valley.

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states of Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Governor Stevens’ instructions were to extinguish Indian sovereignty along a newly proposed railroad route from the Midwest to the Pacific Ocean.

The Quarter Master for Governor Stevens and his entourage was Captain Christopher P. Higgins, who five years later (1860), returned to the same area to construct his Hell Gate Trading Post and later was a founding father of the city of Missoula (1864).

Council Grove is located west of Missoula on the historic Mullan Road just past mile marker 6. Open May through October.

The visitor center is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Ranger District features Reservation Divide trails, wildlife, photo opportunities, a self-guided tour, accessible nature trails, and more. Camping, hiking, and cross-country skiing are available in the Grand Menard, Kreis Pond, Squaw Peak, or Petty Creek areas. Located twenty-two miles west of Missoula and four miles north of exit 82 on I-90.

406-626-5201.

Philipsburg A mining town in the 1800s, Philipsburg features a beautifully restored downtown, including the original opera house, unique shops and restaurants. Located seventy-eight miles east of Missoula, Philipsburg offers a variety of recreational opportunities in the Anaconda-Pintler Mountain Range, at Georgetown Lake, at Flint Creek, and at Discovery Ski Basin. www.philipsburgmt.com.

Garnet Ghost Town “Montana’s best-preserved ghost town” was never built to last. Garnet began as a humble gold-mining camp deep within the Garnet Range, but by 1898 the town had boomed to 1,000 residents. It had a school with 40 students and a healthy variety of businesses, including a candy and cigar shop, a Chinese laundry, and thirteen saloons.

During the winter, two historic miners’ cabins are available for rent, with access to a winter trail system for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Garnet is approximately forty miles east of Missoula. Travel east from Missoula on U.S. Highway 200, turn south on Garnet Range Road following mile marker 21. For more information, visit www.garnetghosttown.org or call the Bureau of Land Management at 406-329-3914 or the Garnet Preservation Association at 406-3293883.

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DAY TRIPS

Historic Ninemile Remount Depot and Ranger Station The history of early firefighting in the northern Rockies is chronicled at the Historic Ninemile Remount Depot.

From 1930 to 1953, the depot supplied packers and pack animals, and the area continues to be used in fighting wildfires in western Montana.

Facing page: Heavenly path up Water Works Hill.

Paul Queneau / best shot submission

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

LODGING

3700 642

Featuring 65 lodge-style sleeping rooms and suites.

C Enjoy a deluxe complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, sauna and hot tub. Hold your weddings, reception or meeting in our 4,000 sq. ft. conference center.

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126 beautiful rooms and suites overlooking the n n C/F Missoula Valley. Amenities include complimentary European breakfast and Internet access. Heated pool, whirpool, steam/sauna and fitness center. Close to airport and dining.

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NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS

CONTINENTAL OR FULL BREAKFAST

TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE

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3600

n n C Open, airy, all-inclusive hotel is built for business

and leisure. High-speed internet access, business center, conference center, indoor waterpark, continental breakfast, fitness center.

C Indoor heated pool—open year round. Guest laundry, high speed access, clean rooms located smack dab in the heart of Missoula’s downtown.

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Best Western Kwa Taq Nuk Casino Resort 112 $106-161 n 49708 US Highway 93 E, Polson, MT 59860 Ph. 406-883-3636, Fax 406-883-9317 800-883-9317 www.kwataqnuk.com

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n n n n n n n Located on the south end of Flathead Lake in Polson,

MT. We welcome you to experience our culture, history and wildlife all within a short driving distance from Missoula.

4 5000

n n n n n n n n C Complimentary expanded continental breakfast, heated

pool and hot tub, fitness center, on site restaurant, sports bar, casino, conference facilities. In room coffee makers, hair dryers, voicemail, laundry, free DSL. Airport shuttle service.

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Spacious guestrooms that combine comfort and func- 3 tionality. Luxury bedding, high-speed internet, 27” flat screen TVs, indoor pool with hot tub. Complimentary shuttle. Our hotel has a smoke-free policy.

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Bitterroot River Inn & Conference Center 65 139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr., Hamilton, MT 59840 Ph. 406-375-2525, Fax 406-363-9700 877-274-8274

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126 $79-159

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Best Western Grant Creek Inn 5280 Grant Creek Road, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-543-0700, Fax 406-543-0777 888-543-0700

RESTAURANT/LOUNGE ON SITE

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$45-80

AIR CONDITIONED

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HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE

Bel Aire Motel 300 E. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-543-3183, fax 406-543-0777 888-543-3184

LAUNDRY

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POOL–INDOOR/OUTDOOR

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100 $89-225

PRICE

Airport Wingate by Wyndham 5252 Airway Boulevard, Missoula, MT 59801 Ph. 406-541-8000, Fax 406-541-8008 866-832-8000 www.wingatemsla.com

Lodging

­NUMBER OF ROOMS

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Meeting/Conference information

$94-189

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Broadway Inn Conference Center 1609 West Broadway, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-532-3300, Fax 406-728-1930 800-286-2316 www.broadwayinncc.com

79 $70-150

n n O

C’mon Inn 2775 Expo Parkway, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-543-4600, Fax 406-543-4664 888-989-5569 www.cmoninn.com

119 $89-199

n n

I

Comfort Inn 4545 N. Reserve St, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-432-0888, fax 406-543-6247 800-228-5150

52 $89-169

n

I n n n n n

Courtyard by Marriott 4559 N. Reserve, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-549-5260, Fax 406-549-5257 800-321-2211

92

$73-169

n n

I

n n n n n n n

Days Inn Missoula Airport Jct. 1-90 & I-93; Exit 96 Ph. 406-721-9776, Fax 406-721-9781 800-DAYS INN, 800-329-7466 www.daysinnmissoula.com

70 $59-129

n n

n n n n n n n

Days Inn University 201 Eat Main St., Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-543-7221

50

$59-89

n

O n

Double Arrow Resort P.O. Box 354, Seeley Lake, MT 59868 Ph. 406-677-2777, Fax 406- 677-2922, 800-468-0777 www.doublearrowresort.com

32

$80-168

n n

I

Doubletree Hotel Missoula/Edgewater 100 Madison, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-728-3100, Fax 406-728-2530 800-222-TREE www.missoulaedgewater.doubletree.com

171 $69-239

Econo Lodge 4953 N Reserve, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-542-7550, Fax 406-721-5931 800-272-9500

67 $65-115

n n n n n

n

Conveniently located off I-90. Queen beds and in-room C coffeemaker, hairdryer, iron/board. Hot tub, guest laundry, cable & HBO, deluxe rooms available, deluxe continental breakfast. Near shopping & restaurants.

Family Inn 1031 East Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-543-7371, Fax 406-549-9240 800-955-7371 www.familyinnmissoula.com

30

n n n n n

n

C On the river across from The University of Montana.

Close to historic downtown. Visit museums, galleries, theaters and Missoula’s finest restaurants. Spacious rooms with kitchenettes; guest laundry available. High speed DSL.

n n n

n n n

n

n n C This is Montana! C’mon Inn and enjoy our threestory log-and-rock atrium complete with indoor pools and five hot tubs. Corner of I-90 & Reserve St. 42” plasma TVs in every room. n

n O

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

300

650

n

n

n

n

n

C You will enjoy quality accommodations year-around as well as our famous “choice” hospitality. For outstanding value and service, choose to stay at Missoula Comfort Inn.

Located at the junction of I-90 and Highway 93 is C your comfortable and affordable lodging choice. Easy to find, easy to access, lots of parking, casino, convenience store, fuel. Gateway to Glacier Park.

Located in the heart of downtown Missoula on the n n C banks of the Clark Fork River, within walking distance to shopping, dining and nightlife.

n n n

C Year-round destination resort in the Seeley Swan Valley: Deluxe accomodations, fine-dining, lounge, championship golf, horses, rafting, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing, horse drawn sleigh rides, conferences, retreats, reunions, and weddings.

3

n n I/Spa n n n n n n n n Full-service hotel right on the scenic Clark Fork River and 9 across from The University of Montana. Near downtown, and just 15 minutes away from the airport via complimentary hotel shuttle.

$55-80

200

2000

Stay a Night…Or Stay a Month.

STAYBRIDGE SUITES is an all-suite hotel designed to allow guests to feel more comfortable than ever before.

Our suites are perfect for an extended stay, but we’re happy to accommodate your one or two-night stay as well.

■ Studio, One Bedroom and Two Bedroom ■ Fully Equipped Kitchens ■ Complimentary Hot Breakfast ■ Evening Reception Tuesday-Thursday ■ Indoor Pool & Hot Tub ■ State of the Art Fitness Center ■ Billiards Room ■ Theatre Room ■ Sports Court ■ BBQ Grills in Courtyard ■ “Bridgemart” Convenience Store ■ Complimentary Laundry ■ Earn Priority Club Rewards Points ■ Extended Stay Rates 129 Expressway ■ Missoula, MT 59808 ■ 406-830-3900

www.staymissoula.com

LODGING

58

146 $99-209

n n I

Holiday Inn Downtown at the Park 200 South Pattee Street, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-721-8550, Fax 406-728-3472 800-399-0408 www.himissoula.com

200 $78-259

n n

Holiday Inn Express—Riverside 1021 East Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-549-7600, Fax 406-543-2223

95 $85-149

n n n

La Quinta Inn 5059 N. Reserve Street, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-549-9000, Fax 406-549-9014 (800) 531-5900 www.lq.com

80 $79-159

n n

Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Cabin Rentals 38500 Hwy. 12 West, Lolo, MT 59847 Ph. 406-273-2290 (877) 541-5117 www.lolohotsprings.com

4

I

n

F Victorian mansion located in the heart of Missoula.

1 1.6 miles to University. Coffee tray to room, breakfast in dining room, private bath, AC, wireless DSL, secluded gardens, gazebo, and patio. Coffee tray with fresh-baked scones.

800

30

n

AUDIO VISUAL

NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS

CONTINENTAL OR FULL BREAKFAST

FITNESS ROOM

HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

RESTAURANT/LOUNGE ON SITE

REFRIGERATOR/MICROWAVE

HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE

AIR CONDITIONED

n n

ON-SITE CATERING

Hilton Garden Inn Missoula 3720 North Reserve St., Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-523-5300, fax 406-523-5305 800-HILTONS www.missoula.HGI.com

n

OCCUPANCY

4 $115-155 n

TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE

Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast 823 39th St., Missoula, MT 59803 Ph. 406-251-1345, 866-251-1345 www.gibsonmansion.com

LAUNDRY

PETS ALLOWED

POOL–INDOOR/OUTDOOR

IN-ROOM MOVIES, CABLE

SUITES AVAILABLE

PRICE

Lodging

NUMBER OF ROOMS

Area

Meeting/Conference information

n n n n n n n F Luxurious comfort in an upscale American West decor. 12 22000 1600 n Western Montana’s largest conference facility, with over 22,000 sf of conference space. Also features Great American Grill and Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern, evening room service, 24 hour Pavilion Pantry, and Silver Creek Casino. Complimentary 24 hour airport shuttle.

n

n n n n n n n n F Newly Renovated premier hotel for lodging and conventions 10 15400 2000 n in the heart of downtown. Spacious guestrooms feature pillow top mattresses. High speed wireless internet access.

Free airport shuttle. Parkside patio dining, river and mountain views. One block to shopping & entertainment.

n

the n n n n n n n F Outstanding hotel is four stories and overlooks

1 scenic and historic Hellgate Canyon of the Clark Fork River and The University of Montana. Completed 100% remodel in 2005.

1600

C Located off I-90 at Exit 101 on N. Reserve! Wake 1 up on the Bright Side with fresh made waffles!

Enjoy the comfort of our New Euro-top mattresses & 24-hour high-speed wireless business center. Enjoy the creek side patio with complimentary evening snacks!

384

n

n n n n n

50

25

TM

$75-105

n I,O n

n n n

F Lolo Hot Springs is a year-round wonderland,

located 35 miles southwest of Missoula. We have deluxe lodging accommodations and new cabins.

For the summer months we offer an RV park and campground.

Montana Island Lodge - Salmon Lake 2433 Highway 83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868 Ph. 406-677-3620, Fax 406-677-3846 888-773-2643

11 Based on Group

n n

Mountain Valley Inn 420 West Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-728-4500, fax 406-728-9565 800-249-9174 www.mvimissoula.com

57

n n

Quality Inn & Conference Center 3803 Brooks, Missoula, MT 59804 Ph. 406-251-2665, Fax 406-251-5733 800-272-9500

81

$69-125

n n n n n

Red Lion Inn Missoula 700 West Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-728-3300, Fax 406-728-4441 800-RED-LION www.redlion.com Southgate Inn 3530 Brooks, Missoula, MT 59801 Ph. 406-251-2250, Fax 406-251-2006 800-247-2616

76

$69.95- 159.95

n n n n n n n n C 76 spacious guest rooms featuring in-room coffee, hair dryers, irons, ironing boards and FREE wireless high-speed Internet.

81

$65-100

$69-87

n O

n n O

n

n

n n n n n

n n

n n

n F Exclusive, upscale, full-service resort for small groups or special events. 8-25 people, package includes deluxe suite, all meals & refreshments.

Recreation and meeting facilities.

1

900

125 n n

4

5000

25 n n

n C Best rates in Missoula! In the heart of downtown Missoula next to St. Patrick Hospital. Free hot Belgium waffle breakfast. Covered parking, elevator, free wi-fi. Fresh baked cookies.

n n C Convenient location near downtown, UM and Southgate Mall. In-room coffeemaker, hairdryer, iron/board. Hot tub, fitness room, free newspaper, deluxe rooms available. Conference Center has ten meeting rooms.

10 4300 490 n

n

Southgate Inn offers one of the best deluxe n n C continental breakfasts in town! Wireless high-speed Internet. Close to several restaurants, sports bars, theaters, and the Southgate Mall.

MISSOULA’S BEST LODGING VALUE!

Call 888-900-9010 and book direct for

15% OFF (Not valid with any other discounts)

• Senior and Commercial Rates • Truck and Bus Parking • Guest Laundry • Free SuperStart Breakfast • Near Shopping and Dining • FREE High-Speed Internet

IN MISSouLa – 2 LoCaTIoNS: • 3901 S. Brooks, 406-251-2255 • 4703 N. Reserve, 406-549-1199

Toll Free Direct Reservations: 1-888-900-9010 www.super8mt.com 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

• Hot Tub • Pets Allowed • Continental Breakfast • Free Wireless HSIA 4953 N. Reserve • Missoula, MT 59808 Ph: (406) 542-7550 • Fax (406) 721-5931

1-800-272-9500

Super 8 Motels 3901 South Brooks, (Hwy. 93) Missoula, MT 59804 Ph. 406-251-2255, Fax 406-251-2989 1-888-900-9010 www.super8mt.com

103 $50-90

Super 8 Motels 4703 North Reserve, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-549-1199, Fax 406-549-0677 1-888-900-9010 www.super8mt.com

58

Thunderbird Motel 1009 East Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 Ph. 406-543-7251, Fax 406-543-7251 800-952-2400

31

University Center, U of M 31 Campus Dr. University Center University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-4115, (406) 243-4108 fax www.umt.edu/uc/events

1000 $17-25 I n n n n The University of Montana welcomes any group or organization to utilize its facilities. With our conference and per person event facilities, technology and professional staff, The Groups Only

Val-U Inn 3001 Brooks, Missoula, MT 59801 Ph. 406-721-9600, Fax 406-721-7208 800-443-7777 www.missoulavaluinn.com

$50-90

n n

n

n

n

n

n n

60

n

n

n n

n

n n n n

I

n n n n n

750

35

n

n

16 37000 10- n 1200

n

OCCUPANCY

1000

n n n n n n n n F All Suites Hotel featuring full kitchens, hot full break- 1 fast, sundowner reception, 24-hr. business center, laundry, fitness center, billiard room, theatre room, high-speed internet, extended stay rates!

Winter $54-99 Summer $70-120

AUDIO VISUAL

101 $89-239

ON-SITE CATERING

Staybridge Suites Missoula 120 Expressway, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-830-3900, Fax 406-830-3923 www.staymissoula.com

TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE

NUMBER OF MEETING ROOMS

CONTINENTAL OR FULL BREAKFAST

FITNESS ROOM

HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

RESTAURANT/LOUNGE ON SITE

REFRIGERATOR/MICROWAVE

AIR CONDITIONED

HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE

LAUNDRY

PETS ALLOWED

POOL–INDOOR/OUTDOOR

IN-ROOM MOVIES, CABLE

SUITES AVAILABLE

Lodging

PRICE

NUMBER OF ROOMS

Area

Meeting/Conference information

C On Highway 93 (Brooks Street) south side of Missoula. Easy access for truck/bus parking. Close to restaurants, Community Hospital, Larchmont Golf Course, Southgate Mall. FREE airport shuttle with Park & Fly parking.

n n C Just off I-90, exit 101. Truck/bus parking. Easy walk to restaurants. Close to Costco, Super WalMart, and many new stores. Close to airport.

FREE shuttle and Park & Fly parking. n n C Located two blocks off of I-90, within walking dis1 tance of The University of Montana, shopping, dining and hiking trails. 4, Two-room and jacuzzi suites available. High speed internet.

University Center offers your group the ambiance of an academic setting with all the amenities of a full-service convention center.

83 $68-90

n n Spa

n n n n

n

C A beautifully maintained motel next to Southgate Mall on the south side of Missoula. A friendly and helpful staff is waiting to assist you. Newly remodeled lobby and rooms. King beds available.

59

LODGING

Come to Work, Stay to Play.

High-speed in-room internet access. And deluxe continental breakfast. And, since every room is a family-friendly suite, there’s plenty of room to spread out your work.

After your meeting or conference, try out our pools. We’ve got two waterslides, two pools, and a hot tub—all indoors.

(866) 832-8000 (406) 541-8000 Airway Blvd exit off 1-90 Missoula, MT www.wingatemsla.com www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

• 42" Flat Screen TV’s • Large Pool • Baby Pool • 5 Hot Tubs • FREE Continental Breakfast • Hi-Speed Internet

• 10 Jacuzzi Suites • 2 Kitchenette Suites • Game Room • Meeting Rooms • Exercise Facilities • Corporate Rates

(888) 989-5569 (406) 543-4600

Reserve Street & I-90 Fax: (406) 543-4664

LODGING

60

Earn hotel stays, air miles or air travel, entertainment, merchandise and more! For additional information, visit our website.

Breakfast Buffet • High-Speed Wireless • Fitness Room • Outdoor Pool & Hot Tub

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Wake Up On The Bright Side

TM

WE OFFER

• Complimentary Breakfast Buffet with Fresh Waffles • 24-Hour Indoor Pool, Spa & Fitness Center • Free High-Speed Wireless • 24-Hour Business Center • In-Room Refrigerator & Microwave • 100% Non-Smoking • Pet Friendly • Spa Suites & Family Suites • Golf & Ski Packages

Call Today for a Friendlier Stay

✹ Mountain views ✹ Hot tub & sauna ✹ FREE continental breakfast ✹ Conference Center for up to 100 people ✹ High-speed wireless internet ✹ Within walking distance of Southgate Mall

®

5059 North Reserve St. Missoula, MT 59808

(406) 549-9000

Reservations: 800-SLEEPLQ (753-3757) • Or Visit: www.LQ.com

3001 Brooks Street Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 721-9600 ✹ (800) 443-7777 www.missoulavaluinn.com valuinnmt@qwest.net

61 95 River-View Rooms 2-Room Suites with Microwave and Refrigerator Non-Smoking & HandicappedAccessible Rooms Available Meeting Room—Seating for up to 100 Guest Laundry

Come for the Convenience, Stay for the Comfort 126 Guest Rooms and Spacious Suites with Fireplaces Newly renovated New flat-screen TVs Complimentary hot breakfast buffet Complimentary high-speed wireless internet New 24-hour business center Full-size heated swimming pool, whirlpool, steam/sauna and fitness center ◆ Pet friendly ◆ Conference center groups up to 150 ◆ FREE airport shuttle ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

Complimentary: Fitness Center • Breakfast Bar Business Center with DSL • Cable & HBO Airport Shuttle 6am–Midnight Local Calls and 1-800 Access Complimentary DSL Access in All Rooms Wireless Internet

100%

Non-Smoking

5280 Grant Creek Rd., Missoula, MT 59808

◆

406-543-0700 • 888-543-0700

1021 E. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 406-549-7600 • Fax 406-543-2223 expresssales@bresnan.net hiemsla@bresnan.net www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

LODGING

Grant Creek Inn

100% Remodel in 2005

Like home away from home With a more lively backyard!

Close to the mall, dining, movies, Fort Missoula, Community Medical Center and more!

406-677-3620 Fax: 406-677-3846 jane.fisher@umontana.edu

• Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Indoor Hot Tub • Outdoor Seasonal Pool • Sauna • Guest Laundry • Exercise Room • Cable TV • Pets Allowed • High Speed Internet

3530 Brooks / Missoula 251-2250 or 800-247-2616

u Located on the Clark Fork River–just across from the University of Montana u Close to Historic Downtown Missoula u Just 15 minutes from the airport u FREE continental breakfast u FREE high speed internet u Heated outdoor pool Approved u Kitchenettes are available

Days Inn Missoula Airport is located on the 10-acre campus of Muralt’s Travel Plaza at the Junction of I-90 & Highway 93 North at Exit 96.

Complimentary Airport Shuttle

Easy Access from Interstate 90

Family Friendly & Business Friendly

Family-Style Cafe

Spacious & Comfortable Guest Rooms

Wye West Lounge & Casino

3803 Brooks Street

Courteous & Friendly Staff

Traveler’s General Store

Missoula, MT 59804

Wireless Internet

Children’s Play Area

Ph (406) 251-2665 Fax (406) 251-5733

Cable Television with HBO

1-800-272-9500

• Fitness center • Deluxe continental breakfast • Free high-speed wireless Internet access • Conference Center

93 Kalispell

LODGING

62

1031 E. Broadway, Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-7371 • 1-800-955-7371 www.familyinnmissoula.com

Muralt’s Travel Plaza

90

Days Inn

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• Indoor Pool • Continental Breakfast • Hot Tub • Jacuzzi Suites • Hi-Speed Internet Access

109 E. Broadway 1-800-952-2400 Kalispell

Junction I-90 and US 93, Exit 96 • Missoula, MT 406-721-9776 • 800-329-7466 www.daysinnmissoula.com 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

CMY

K

2 Blocks from the University of Montana

Follow the Sun

• Free Wireless Internet • Covered Parking • 1 Block from Federal Building

• 3 Blocks from Shopping, Public Parks, Fishing & Tennis • 1 Mile from Golf Course • 15 minutes from Skiing at Snowbowl

201 E. Main • Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 543-7221

• Close to the University • Free Wireless • Guest Laundry • Kitchenettes

300 E. Broadway Missoula, MT 59802 406-543-3138 Fax 406-543-0391

63

LODGING

• • • • • •

79 Gracious, spacious & quiet guest rooms Complimentary breakfast Complimentary airport shuttle Convenient, central location Fitness Center & Guest laundry Outdoor pool and hot tub

1609 West Broadway Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 532-3300

• Wi-Fi Everywhere • Restaurant, Casino & Bar • Private courtyard with Cabana Bar • Full Catering and bar service • Conference capability up to 200 • Corporate, group & gov. rates • Canine compatible

www.broadwayinncc.com Reservations: 1-800-286-2316

Group/Corporate: 406-532-3351 www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

SWIMMING POOL

GIFT SHOP

GROCERIES

RESTAURANT NEARBY

ON-SITE FOOD SERVICE

TENT SPACES

PULL-THROUGH

HANDICAPPED-ACCESSIBLE

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

SHOWERS

WASTE DISPOSAL

FULL HOOK-UPS

PRICE

Camping

NUMBER OF SPACES

RV Parks &

Jellystone ParkTM RV Resort 110 9900 Jellystone Avenue, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-543-9400, Fax 406-543-9405 800-318-9644; www.campjellystonemt.com

$23-30

Missoula’s newest and highest rated RV park, Good Sam rated 9.5/10*/9. Large pulln n n n n n n n n n n n throughs, oversized sites, lots of grass, 50-amp service, camping cabins, swimming pool, mini-golf, pavilion, horseshoe pit, basketball court, ice cream socials, store/ gift shop.

Missoula’s only “10” rated bath house. Swim & Golf packages available.

Jim and Mary’s RV Park “Eight-Acre Wood” 75 9800 Hwy. 93 North, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-549-4416, Fax 406-543-9889 jimandmarys@montana.com www.jimandmarys.com

$24-27

n n n n n n

Missoula KOA 3450 Tina Avenue, Missoula, MT 59808 Ph. 406-549-0881, Fax 406-541-0884 800-562-5366; www.missoulakoa.com reservations@missoulakoa.com

$27-80

n n n n n n n n n n n n Family Fun headquarters! Heated pool and hot tubs, shaded pull-thru sites, Kamping Kabins, mini-golf, bike rentals, KOA Kafe & Gather Place serving breakfast daily, meeting room available for groups/reunions, ice cream social, free wireless internet and GREAT CELL PHONE RECEPTION! KOA Mountain Mercantile featuring high quality gifts & apparel.

Open year round.

211

Missoula’s nicest RV park, family owned and operated with beautiful landscaping and n n n gardens that can’t be beat! Big rig spaces, community room for guests to gather and the latest in WiFi and cable access. Tourist information/trip planning services, 10* rated restrooms, satellite friendly, choose open or shady spaces. RVers are the best...and the best come to Jim & Mary’s!

AREA CAMPING AND RV PARKS RV PARKS & CAMPING

64

bigstock photo

Family Fun Headquarters!

Missoula KOA 3450 Tina Avenue Missoula, MT 59808 I-90 Exit 101

Open Year Round!

1-800-562-5366

www.missoulakoa.com WiFi & Cable Cable TV TV

9800 Highway 93 N. • Missoula, MT 59808

406-549-4416

Call or E-mail Us For Prices & Reservations jimandmarys@montana.com www.jimandmarys.com

OPEN YEAR ROUND 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Best Hotel Value in Missoula — from $69 —

       

60 spacious, clean rooms Covered parking and elevator New Fitness Center with TV FREE Wi-Fi, computer station and guest lounge FREE waffle buffet breakfast In the Heart of Downtown, next to St. Patrick’s Hospital Fresh-baked cookies AAA Approved

420 West Broadway • Missoula, MT 800-249-9174 • 406-728-4500 info@mvimissoula.com It starts early In Montana—fishing at Rock Creek.

Sheila Cornwell/ best shot submission

65

RV PARKS & CAMPING

www.graywolfpeak.com 406-726-3778

KWA918: 4c - 1/2 pg horizontal ad in Missoula’s Visitors Guide; Trim size: 7.375” x 4.75” tall; no bleed; Materials: hi-res PDF to carolblodgett@msn.com

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Missoula

Dining

DINING

66

M

issoula and the surrounding communities capture the essence of Montana cuisine: fresh, locally produced ingredients combined with imaginative style. From Montana-raised beef and pork to local organic buffalo, from Hutteriteraised chickens to fresh seafood brought in from the West Coast, Missoula truly has Montana’s best dining opportunities.

You can find distinct cuisine from traditional American fare to ethnic spice.

Indulge in Cajun, Chinese, Eastern Indian, Hong Kong, Italian, Mexican, Thai, or

The Keep

Vietnamese cooking. Several restaurants offer remarkable vegetarian choices.

Whatever you desire, Missoula has an sort of a place amazing selection for dining amusement.

There are over 150 distinct eateries in unto itself. It’s like the city and many more throughout the Montana, but it surrounding area.

Many downtown restaurants purchase has feng shui and fresh fruits and vegetables from the Farmers Market during the summer green tea.” months. Local Flathead Valley cherries, Bitterroot apples, Dixon melons and Garrison keillor mountain huckleberries are usually available August through October. Missoula’s Hmong community, among others, produces fabulous gardens that offer fresh vegetables spring through fall.

Of course the Garden City offers all the standard places you’ll find anywhere in America; however, Missoula has distinct establishments that offer unique dining opportunities. Enjoy bakeries, espresso bars or cafés for breakfast. Take in Out to Lunch or Downtown ToNight in Caras Park during the summer months or enjoy Tee Times: 406-721-4653

“Missoula, it’s just

Restaurant

Panoramic Views of the Valley Dinner ~ 5 pm For reservations call: 728-5132 102 Ben Hogan Drive www.thekeeprestaurant.com 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

We have over 200 reasons why you

should come in and see us.

Hungry yet?

Where there's something for everyone!

Find us on Facebook®!

Huge Breakfasts • Sandwiches • Burgers • Steaks • Seafood • Pasta • Salads • Kids' Menu • Great Beer & Wine Selection 2620 Brooks, Missoula p 543-3200 | 4561 N. Reserve, Missoula p 541-8141 | 3540 Harrison, Butte p 494-1400 Open early ‘til late. See our full menu at www.montanaclub.com

a non-traditional lunch at a variety of sandwich shops.

Visit one of many sidewalk cafes, eat dinner on the river, or enjoy the casual atmosphere of a brewpub, casino or other nightspot. You can find it all in the Garden City.

There are, however, three things you won’t find in Missoula’s restaurants: no dress code, no sales tax and no outrageous prices!

Whatever your taste, you’ll discover a wealth of dining options to satisfy your thirst and hunger. Bon appetite!

Red Bird Restaurant in the historic Florence Building downtown. Lisa Mee

DINING

68

Rowdy’s Cabin & Fiesta en Jalisco Where North Meets South in a Comfortable, ‘Come As You Are’ Setting  Best Mexican food north of the border!  Casual fare with authentic Mexican selections  100% smoke free, family-friendly restaurant, casino & bar  Full-service bar including our famous margaritas  Two Happy Hours in the bar from 4-6pm & 10-close Sun-Thurs.

4880 N. Reserve St.  Missoula, MT Rowdy’s 406-543-8001  Fiesta en Jalisco 406-543-7775 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

BEER & WINE

(C)ATERING, (B)ANQUET FACILITIES

BANQUET FACILITY CAPACITY

n n

C,B

200

COCKTAILS

Casino

MEALS SERVED

RESERVATIONS

PRICE

MENU

Dining

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Area

Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern 3720 N. Reserve St. 406-541-BLUE www.bluecanyonrestaurant.com

American/ Family Dining

$7.99- $18.99

n n

L,D

Bridge Pizza 600 S. Higgins – Corner of S. 4th 406-542-0002 www.bridgepizza.com

Pizza, Pasta, BBQ

$3-$12

n

L,D

The Broadway Sports Bar, Grill & Casino 1609 W. Broadway 406-543-5678 www.broadwayinncc.com

Sports Bar

$6.15- $12.95

n

The Catalyst Café & Espresso 111 N. Higgins 406-542-1337

Ciao Mambo 541 South Higgins Ave. 406-543-0377 www.ciaomambo.com

Italian

Dairy Queen 3753 N. Reserve St. 406-728-5950 109 Bitterroot Plaza Dr., Hamilton 406-375-1112

El Cazador 101 S. Higgins Ave., 406-728-3657 Missoula, MT 59802

Café/Deli $2-$8 Coffee House

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Voted best pizza in Missoula. Pizza by the slice, wild salmon burritos, rice & veggie bowls with free range chicken, salads, soups, sandwiches, BBQ ribs, homemade pasta, unique selection of soft drinks, beer & wine, & much more.

Drive-up window, dine-in & delivery.

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Enjoy creative American cooking—that’s comfort foods with a twist– in a comfortably sophisticated mountain lodge setting. Savor steaks (Beef tenderloin, veal truffle, meatloaf), seafood, and vegetarian entrees.

Decadent desserts. Lunch, dinner and Sunday (live jazz) brunch.

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All American sports bar and grill featuring specially made pizzas, burgers, wings and other favorites. Come watch your favorite sports team on either our 13 foot screen or one of 20 TVs. Private meeting banquet rooms.

Private gaming area and outdoor courtyard.

Downtown café serving hand made salads, soups, sandwiches and baked goods since 1991. Excellent coffee, espresso drinks and atmosphere. Warm staff and diverse clientele welcoming to all.

Ciao Mambo is an immigrant style Italian restaurant based around an exposition kitchen. It is a lively, upbeat restaurant with great atmosphere and great food! All food is made to order on-site so pick your favorites from the menu or design your own dish.

$10-$20

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American Fast Food Desserts

$3-$10

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DQ Grill & Chill offers a variety of grilled sensations along with your favorite DQ chilled temptations. We have burgers, quesadillas, salads, chicken strips and more plus all your favorite Dairy Queen treats, including ice cream cakes. Dine in or drive thru.

Mexican / Family Dining

$6.95- $13.95

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Open for lunch and dinner from 11:00am to 9:00pm 7 days a week.

Dine in casual comfort while enjoying our best authentic Mexican food—with a glass of beer or wine. Great Downtown location to serve you! Voted best Mexican food in Missoula 11 years in a row.

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DINING

Huevos Rancheros. Omelets.

Tomato, Lime and Tortilla Soup.

Bing Cherry Salad. Fried Egg Sandwiches.

Open daily 7am – 3pm Breakfast and lunch served all day, everyday.

Locally owned & operated since 1991.

Daily specials from our local farmers.

111 N. Higgins Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 542-1337 www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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Steaks, Seafood

$6-$35

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Hoagieville Southgate Mall 1256 W. Broadway, 2413 S. Higgins 406-543-5265 2405 N. Reserve, 406-541-8031

Fast Food/ American­­

Iron Horse 501 N. Higgins Ave. 406-728-8866 www.ironhorsebrewpub.com

American, Northwest, Sports Bar

Jocko’s 49708 US Hwy 93 E., Polson, MT 406-883-3636

Lolo Hot Springs Restaurant 38500 Hwy. 12 W. Lolo, MT 59847 406-273-2290

Family Dining

Family Dining

$3-$6

$5.95- $19.95

The best Mexican food north of the border! Come try our authentic, mouthwatering fajitas, enchiladas, and chicken mole served up with your favorite beer, wine, margarita, or cocktail. Enjoy casual dining in a rustic log cabin atmosphere. Easy to find—just off I-90 at the Reserve Street exit.

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Finn & Porter Restaurant and deck featuring seafood, steak, and chops will entice you with a fabulous view, savory menu, and extraordinary service. Enjoy private dining with a river view.

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Serving Missoula from 4 convenient locations, Hoagieville has been serving the ultimate in quick service cuisine for over 35 years. World famous Hoagies, Hoagie Cheese Fries, Gourmet Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches and Real Shakes. Car hops at Higgins & Broadway locations.

C,B 40 & 50 Iron Horse Brew Pub and Grill is a favorite among the Missoula locals. The towering ceilings, warm wood interiors and all glass walls provide an open atmosphere. The perfect spot before or after a Griz game. 100% smoke free.

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Located in the Best Western Kwa Taq Nuk Casino Resort in Polson, MT on Flathead Lake. Enjoy lakeview dining, from the balcony for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Open 7 days a week 6:30am-10am Sun.Thurs. Open 24 hours on Fri. & Sat. nights. Full service lounge with flat-screen TVs.

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Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. House specialties include BBQ ribs and prime rib. Liquor, wine and beer served. Newly opened Boulder Room for your fine dining needs.

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$5.95- $28

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$7-$14

BEER & WINE

CASINO

Mexican, Family Dining, Sports Bar

COCKTAILS

MEALS SERVED

PRICE

Fiesta En Jalisco 4880 N. Reserve St. 406-543-7775 3701 Brooks St. 406-728-1323 110 Main St. – Polson 406-863-5854

Finn & Porter Seafood, Steaks, & Chops 100 Madison 406-542-4660 www.finnandporter.com

MENU

RESERVATIONS

Dining

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Area

DINING

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Voted BEST MEXICAN FOOD in Missoula 11 Years in a row Family Owned We love to take care of our customers Authentic Mexican Food at its best!

Corner of Higgins and Front–Downtown

101 S. Higgins 406-728-3657

You’re in Glacier CountryWatch for Blizzards!

On the hip strip

3753 N. Reserve • Missoula 109 Bitterroot Plaza Dr. • Hamilton

OLD FASHIONED STONE DECK OVENS VOTED BEST PIZZA IN TOWN! Pizza by the slice, wild salmon burritos, rice & veggie bowls with free range chicken, salads, soups, sandwiches, BBQ ribs, homemade pasta, unique selection of soft drinks, beer & wine.

Fresh Asian Style Dishes Since 1978 FULL BAR • DIM-SUM HAPPY HOUR 4-6:00 EVERY NIGHT DINE IN OR TAKE OUT • DELECTABLE DESSERTS

542-7333 • www.mustardseedweb.com • Southgate Mall-Paxson Entrance

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600 S. Higgins – Corner of So. 4th 542-0002 www.bridgepizza.com

Gourmet pizza in a rustic atmosphere. Sandwiches, salads, pasta and Panini are also available. We are passionate about exceeding your expectations each time you dine with us. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience. MRP Co…it’s that good!

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Missoula’s finest example of how food was meant to be. Scratch made breakfast, lunch, dinner and world class lunch & dinner specials daily.

Dine in casual comfort while enjoying a true sense of Montana. Private gaming area.

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Steaks, Seafood, $5-$20 Family Dining, Pizza Desserts

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Montana Club - North 4561 North Reserve 406-541-8141 www.montanaclub.com

Steaks, Seafood, $5-$20 Family Dining, Pizza Desserts

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Muralt’s Café Junction I-90 & US 93 N, Exit 96 406-728-8182 www.muralts.com

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Mustard Seed Asian Café Southgate Mall 406-542-7333 www.mustardseedweb.com

Asian,

Family Dining

$8.95- n $12.95

Paradise Falls 3621 Brooks St. 406-728-3228

$5-$16

Pearl Café & Bakery 231 E. Front St. 406-541-0231 www.pearlcafe.us

Sports Bar, American, Family Dining

$3.50- $12.99

American, $18-$29 French, Desserts

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$5-$15

All-American, Family, Casual

(C)ATERING, (B)ANQUET FACILITIES

MEALS SERVED

RESERVATIONS

PRICE

American, Family Dining, Pizza

BEER & WINE

COCKTAILS

MacKenzie River Pizza 5210 Grant Creek Rd. 137 W. Front St. 406-721-0099 / 721-0077 www.mackenzieriverpizza.com Montana Club - Brooks 2620 Brooks 406-543-3200 www.montanaclub.com

MENU

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CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Area

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Serving Ounces, Not Attitude. 24-hour, family friendly restaurant where all meals are made from scratch and breakfast is served anytime of the day. Home of the famous Big Medicine Buffalo Burger and great huckleberry milkshakes.

The Mustard Seed’s Asia-style dishes are made to order wit lean meats and fresh vegetables. Their signature sauces and dressings are prepared from scratch everyday. Sample award winning desserts. Take-out and delivery available. Dim-Sum Happy Hour 4-6pm Daily. Located at Southgate Mall.

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Brand new in July ’05, this modern classic Montana venue is a sure hit.

Convenient second location just blocks off I-90. Montana sized, scratch made meals anytime of the day or night. Beautiful banquet area for large parties and lots of parking. Private gaming area.

C,B 15 & 25 Paradise Falls is a Restaurant, Lounge and Casino offering family-friendly menu options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With 30 TVs, equipped with all the sports packages, and 20 video gaming machines, you’ll never be short of entertainment. We are Missoula’s Sports Center!

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French country specialties served in the warm and inviting atmosphere of a historic building. Chef-owned. Fresh fish and game dishes. Local ingredients.

Excellent wine selection. Delicious desserts. Attention to detail and service.

Reservations rsecommended.

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DINING

541 S. Higgins Avenue downtown Missoula • 406.543.0377

www.ciaomambo.com• open every night for dinner

Sporting Events B 20 Gaming Machines B 30 TV’s

T, LOUNGE & C AS RAN IN AU ST

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B All your Favorite

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When in Missoula, Do as the Missoulians Do. Locally owned & operated

B Family Friendly B Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

B Non-Smoking

Great Service, Great Food, Great Fun. 3621 BROOKS ST. • MISSOULA • 406-728-3228 | OPEN 7AM-2AM (SERVING FOOD UNTIL 11PM)

501 N. Higgins Downtown Missoula

Hours: 11am-2am Everyday • 782-8866 www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

Red Bird Historic Florence Building 111 N. Higgins Ave.,Suite 1000 406-549-2906 www.redbirdrestauraunt.com

River Bend Restaurant, Brooks & Browns Bar and Casino

200 South Pattee St.

406-721-8550

Gourmet $19-$34 Eclectic

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(C)ATERING, (B)ANQUET FACILITIES

BEER & WINE

COCKTAILS

CASINO

MEALS SERVED

RESERVATIONS

PRICE

MENU

Dining

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Area

A culinary treasure tucked into the historic Florence Hotel. Treat yourself to a sensuous dining experience, service, cuisine and ambiance delivered with creative and elegant detail. Seasonal menus featuring the freshest ingredients.

Chef owned and operated with an award-winning wine list.

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Family Dining, American, Steaks, Seafood

$6-$36

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B 25-1,000 Welcome to RiverBend—Missoula’s newest premier restaurant located in the Holiday Inn Downtown at the Park. The RiverBend prides itself on the freshest ingredients, Montana grown beef and seafood combined with a warm, rich atmosphere lending itself to a memorable dining experience.

Seasons Restaurant at Double Arrow Resort 2 miles South of Seeley Lake, Seeley Lake, MT 406-677-2777 www.doublearrowresort.com

Fine Dining

$19-$28

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Sushi Hana 403 N. Higgins Ave. 406-549-7979 www.sushihanamissoula.com

Japanese

$8-$25

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Located in beautiful downtown Missoula, serving traditional Japanese cuisine and exquisite sushi. Expanded selection of sake, beer and wine.

Open M-S 11:30-3:00 (Lunch); 5-Close (Dinner).

American

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The Keep Restaurant offers a casual fine dining atmosphere complimented by a unique setting and exceptional views of the Missoula Valley. Open 7 days a week from 5 pm. Call (406) 728-5132 for reservations.

The Keep Restaurant 102 Ben Hogan Dr. 406-728-5132 www.thekeeprestaurant.com Uptown Diner 120 N. Higgins Ave. 406-542-2449

Family Dining

$5-10

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Offering an exquisite menu, outstanding wine list and a comfortable, casual atmoshphere. Next to Seasons Restaurant is our full-service lounge, where you can relax and enjoy cocktails in an equally cozy setting.

One of Missoula’s favorites! When you’re in the mood for good times, friendly service and great food, be sure to check us out. Voted “Best Milkshake in Missoula” 13 years running. Open 7 days a week from 8am-3pm. Breakfast served all day.

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BEER & WINE GO GREAT WITH PIZZA. HECK, BEER & WINE GO GREAT WITH ANYTHING.

DOWNTOWN

Lunch & Dinner Sake + Beer + Wine

$1 Sushi Wednesday $1 Tempura Monday

Downtown Missoula 137 W. Front St. 406.721.0077 North Missoula 5210 Grant Creek Rd. 406.721.0099 DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Happy Hour Mon-Thurs.

3 to 6 pm Dine In - Take Out Available Open 7 Days a Week

– One of Missoula’s Favorites – Breakfast Served All Day When you’re in the mood for good times and great food, be sure to check us out.

403 N. Higgins Ave. 549-7979 www.SushiHanaMissoula.com

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Voted “Best Milkshake in Missoula” for 14 years running!

Open 7 days a week from 8AM – 3PM Located in fabulous downtown Missoula.

120 N Higgins Ave. (406) 542-2449

Missoula

Relocation

Above: Missoula riverfront trail system.

Jackie S./ best shot submission

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

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RELOCATION

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n addition to being an outstanding “Looking for a small town Hospital and Health Sciences Center also employ more than 1,000 individuals. tourism destination, Missoula is a wonderful place to live. Statistics While the wood and paper products with sophistication? from the 2000 census show that industry used to be one of the major Missoula is the place to employers in the area, trade center Ravalli County was the fastest growing county in Montana (31 percent activities have taken a stronger hold on move if you want both increase), while Missoula County was the local economy. Tourism is also one the the third fastest growing in that same major contributors to the economic base big-city amenities and 10 years. of Missoula.

When considering the cost of Due to the exceptional level of health out-and-out wilderness.” living, housing costs, education care facilities and personnel, Missoula opportunities, crime rates and health positions itself as one of the major MSN, “BEST PLACES FOR care, along with the wide range of destinations in the West for health care.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES” outdoor recreation opportunities For more information on relocating your and aesthetic beauty, the Garden business (or your family) to the Missoula City offers a quality of life no other city can match. In area, contact the Missoula Area Economic Development addition, it’s the quality of the people and their skill Corporation at www.maedc.org or 406-728-3337. levels that are one of Missoula’s most valued resources.

Economics Recently, the Center for Enterprise Development The Missoula Area Economic Development ranked Montana number one in the nation for quality of Corporation works hard to help local business stay workforce. strong and competitive and to recruit new industry to The University of Montana–Missoula is the largest the area. The MAEDC’s strategy has been reinforced by of the state university system institutions, with more several national publications. than 13,000 students. UM is one of the area’s largest Forbes Magazine ranked Missoula 11th on the 2003 employers, with more than 1,000 staff and faculty on the list of the “Best Small Places for Business and Careers.” payroll. Missoula County Public Schools, Plum Creek Missoula scored especially well in the areas of job Timber, Community Medical Center and St. Patrick

Experience Missoula’s Best…

“ Diane Beck DianeBeck@Realtor.com

www.HomesinMissoula.com

(406) 532-7927

RELOCATION

74

OK...so you fell in love with Missoula while you were visiting. Call me and let’s talk.

Owning a home in Missoula is more affordable than you might think.

”

growth and education attainment. Inc. Magazine ranked Missoula 2nd among the nation’s top 25 cities of its size for doing business in America in 2004.

Author Joel Kotkin, Senior Fellow at the Davenport Institute for Public Policy, wrote: “Montana’s nice scenery and the local university go a long way in a small place. Missoula’s population has almost doubled in the past 30 years, and many newcomers have started businesses.

Financial and professional business services, as well as information have all made solid gains.”

Men’s Journal identified Missoula as the best small town in America under 100,000 people in 2004. The ranking was based on health and recreational

factors, weather, population, cost of living, housing prices, proximity to major sports teams or events, and the amount of undeveloped land nearby.

Finally, the editors of CNN and Money Magazine have included Missoula on a short list of six communities to consider “if you have to live somewhere else” than New York. The choice was based on cities “that feature a strong sense of community — as well as low crime, nice weather, low property taxes and excellent education.”

All of these rankings support the claims of Missoula local economic development boosters that, indeed, “a great place to live is a better place to work.” For more information on the Missoula market, visit www.maedc.org.

Health Care With two regional hospitals, a clinic, nearly 300 physicians, and almost 1,500 nurses, Missoula serves as a regional medical center for quality health care.

Community Medical Center is a referral center, receiving mothers and infants from throughout western Montana and Idaho, as it is the only hospital in Western Montana that has a separate Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for children.

With sponsorship from the Sisters of Providence, St. Patrick Hospital & Health

Sciences Center is Western Montana’s most advanced cancer treatment center and is the regional leader in mental health and addiction treatment. St. Pat’s is well known for The International Heart Institute of Montana, which attracts the world’s leading researchers and clinicians to learn about heart disease.

Missoula is also home to the Western Montana Clinic, which has earned an excellent reputation for pioneering advances in medical technology. The clinic is affiliated with more than 60 Board Certified physicians practicing in 19 medical specialties. Western Montana Clinic has seven satellite facilities throughout Western Montana.

Library The Missoula Public Library offers free wireless Internet access and public Internet stations, study rooms, circulating print and audio-visual collections, and programming for all ages. It is open Mon.-Thurs. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sun. 1 to 5 p.m.

301 East Main St. 406-721-2665. www.missoulapubliclibrary.org.

Missoula Public Schools In addition to The University of Montana and the UM College of Technology, the Missoula public school system is one of the best in the region.

With 13 elementary schools in District 1, an additional 12 in other area districts and four public high schools, the system serves nearly 14,000 students. The region also offers 7 private elementary schools and 4 private high schools.

Housing The cost of housing continues to rise on a steady level, but a recent surge in building may help housing prices level off a bit. In 2008, the median price of a home was $215,000. Average monthly rent is just under $663 per month.

Tax Structure Montana is one of just five states that do not assess a sales tax. It is property tax and income tax that supports public services. Personal income tax ranges Blacksmith Brewing Company’s Summer Fest, Stevensville.

PAM KAYE

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

from 2 percent to 8 percent, and corporate income tax is 6.75 percent of net income.

Travel

Bus Transportation

Commercial air carriers . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Flights per day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Buses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Bus service is available to and from Missoula on Greyhound Bus Lines (406-549-2339) or Rimrock Stages (406-549-2339). The Missoula bus depot is at 1660 West Broadway.

Chartered bus service is available through Beach Transportation (406-549-6121) and Majestic Travels (406-273-2694).

Mountain Line Transportation is Missoula’s public transit system. Bus stops are easily identified by the teal, yellow and pink signs. These signs are located where it is safe for the bus to stop. Mountain Line is the Missoula Urban Transit service provider, offering bus service to the Missoula community, The University of Montana, and the Missoula International Airport. City bus information and scheduling can be accessed via phone (406-721-3333) or website (www.mountainline.com). Bus fair is 80 cents per single ride. Children ride free during the summer months..

About Missoula Time Zone — Montana is in the

Air Transportation Missoula connects with more than 220 destinations throughout the country in one stop or less. On average, 23 commercial flights arrive and depart from the Missoula International Airport, 5225 Hwy 10 West. 406-728-4381. www.flymissoula.com. Offering service to more than 7,000 individuals each week.

Airlines serving the Missoula area include: • Alaska Airlines / Horizon Air............. www.alaskaair.com • Allegiant Air......... www.allegiantair.com • Northwest / Compass Airlines.......... www.nwa.com • Sky West / Delta.......... www.delta.com • United Express............... www.ual.com Private air service can be contracted through: Minuteman Aviation . . . . 406-728-9363 Northstar Air Express . . . 406-721-8886

406-541-2345 406-549-4711 406-543-7001 406-542-2311 406-721-1888 406-549-9511 406-543-3131 406-721-3838 406-549-2277

Missoula by Car Missoula is easily accessible by highway. Interstate 90 runs east-west

right through the Missoula Valley. State highway 93 runs north-south through the valley. The distance from Missoula to other regional communities:

Distance (highway miles) Billings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345 Bozeman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202 Helena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Great Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205 Kalispell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 Spokane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198 Seattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 476 Boise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 369 Calgary, Alberta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 467 Denver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 895 Los Angeles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,211 Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,230 Portland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 549 Salt Lake City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 524 San Francisco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,147

Income The average annual wage for Missoula County in 2007 was $32,233.

The Montana average was $33,303 compared to the national average of $40,405.

Demographics Population: Montana (2008) . . . . 967,440 Population: Missoula County (2008) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107,320 Population: Missoula City (2008) . . 67,165 Unemployment Rate (2008) . . . . . . . 5.7% Median Price of House (2008) . . $215,000 Average Monthly Rent (2008) . . . . . . $663 Property Tax (within School District 1-1) 2005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .710.96 mills Sales Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . none

Car Transportation Countless Missoula area hotels offer courtesy pickup and delivery to and from the Missoula County Airport. Airport Shuttler (406-543-9416) offers shuttle service to anywhere in the Missoula area and many parts of western Montana, including Missoula to Polson, Seeley Lake, Ovando, Darby, Alberton, Superior, the Nine Mile area and all cities in between.

Nine car rental agencies service the Missoula area:

You’ve worked hard for your new home…

Now let us work hard for you.

Visit Clarkforkrealty.com for: LISTINGS u REAL ESTATE TIPS u LOCAL REOURCES u OPEN HOUSES u MORTGAGE CENTER u RENTALS u MARKET NEWS SCHOOL REPORTS u MOVING CENTER…AND MORE!

Stop by our restored Victorian office building

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512 E. Broadway Missoula, MT 59802 406.728.2621 Clarkforkrealty.com www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

RELOCATION

Mountain Standard Time Zone from October through April and the Mountain Daylight Savings Zone from April through October.

• Alamo Rent A Car . . . .

• Avis Rent A Car . . . . . .

• Budget Car & Truck Rental . . . . . . . .

• Dollar Rent A Car . . . . .

• Enterprise Rent A Car .

• Hertz Rent A Car . . . . .

• National Car Rental . . .

• Rent A Wreck . . . . . . .

• Thrifty Car Rental . . . . .

Medical

The Missoula area econoMic DevelopMenT corporaTion

Physicians Community Medical Center . . . . . . 400 St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266 Western Montana Clinic . . . . . . . . . . 75

is a nonprofit, membership based organization which strives to develop a healthy economy in the Missoula region. The organization helps employers create quality jobs, diversify the regional economic base, and improve the economy by taking leadership positions and forming partnerships with other organizations on community issues that affect local economic development.

Climate Elevation above sea level . . . . . . 3,199’ Growing season . . . . . . . . . . . 128 days Annual mean snowfall . . . . . . . . . . 41.4” Annual mean rainfall . . . . . . . . . . . 13.7” Average annual wind speed . . 5.4 mph

• Maintaining Montana’s Industry • Diversifying the Economy • Creating Quality Jobs • Encouraging Entrepreneurs • Bringing Federal Dollars to Montana

Average Tempertures by Season High

Low Mean Precip. Sunshine

Winter (Dec.–Feb.): 32.8 17.7 25.3 2.98 Spring (March–May): 57.4 32.9 45.2 4.00 Summer (June–Aug.): 80.4 48.5 64.5 3.97 Fall (Sept.–Nov.): 56.3 38.0 44.2 2.87

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in. 32.3%

Businesses

in. 56.0% in. 72.7% in. 52.0%

Sources: Missoula Area Economic Development Corporation, 1121 East Broadway, Suite 100, Missoula, MT 59802; 406-728-3337 (phone); www.maedc.org; Lambros Real Estate; National Weather Service.

1121 E. Broadway, Suite 100 • Missoula, MT 59802 www.maedc.org

Missoula’s Business Incubator

Government Contracting Assistance

Utilities Electric

Missoula Electric Coop. . 406-541-4433 NorthWestern Energy . . . 406-542-5950

Gas NorthWestern Energy . . . 406-542-5950

Water Mountain Water Co . . . . 406-721-5570

Sewer City of Missoula . . . . . . . 406-552-4880 (special districts outside of Missoula)

Waste Disposal Allied Waste Systems . . 406-543-3157

Media

Newspapers Missoulian . . . . . . . . . . . 406-523-5280 Missoula Independent . . . 406-721-6609

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

Share the Missoula experience, Locate property, Find a REALTOR®

LiveMissoula.com

Downtown rainbow.

jackie corday/ best shot submission

2007 SOLD LISTINGS BY PRICE RANGE

2008 SOLD LISTINGS BY PRICE RANGE

1%

77 4%

Television 406-721-2063 406-542-4400 406-542-8900 406-251-1360

Radio Gap West Broadcasting . . 406-728-9300 Cherry Creek Broadcasting 406-728-5000 KBGA College Radio . . . 406-243-6290 KMSO Radio . . . . . . . . . 406-542-1025 KUFM Public Radio . . . . 406-243-4931 Simmons Media . . . . . . . 406-329-1864

M WE’RE YOUR MISSOULA CONNECTION

CALL US TO FIND OUT THE BEST MISSOULA HAS TO OFFER.

1.800.526.3465

www.Missoulacvb.org

12%

23%

11% 26%

11%

13%

31%

21%

26%

Under $99,999 $100k-$149,999k $150k-$199,999k

Under $99,999 $100k-$149,999k $150k-$199,999k

$200k-$249,999k $250k-$299,999k Over $300k

$200k-$249,999k $250k-$299,999k Over $300k

MARKET SHARE BY AREA

BY CLOSED SALES 2008

24% 4% 7%

25% 4%

14%

Central/North Missoula University District Lewis & Clark/Farviews Rattlesnake East Missoula

5% 4%

12%

South Hills/Miller Creek Lolo Area Orchard Homes/Big Flat Grant Creek/Mullan Road

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

RELOCATION

KECI-TV (NBC) . . . . . . . .

KPAX-TV (CBS) . . . . . . .

KTMF-TV (ABC) . . . . . . .

KMMF-TV (FOX) . . . . . . .

19%

MEDIAN 2008 SALE PRICE

BY AREA OF TOWN

MISSOULA MEDIAN HOME SALE PRICE 2008

$350,000

$250,000 $300,000

$200,000 $250,000

$150,000 $200,000

Central/North Missoula University District Lewis & Clark/Farviews Rattlesnake East Missoula

RELOCATION

78

If you want the Missoula Valley to be your home, call us. It’s our home too.

You’ll likely bump into our agents in the grocery store, at the gas pump, or at the Griz game. You see, we live, work and play in the Missoula area.

Our agents are vested in this community and know it like no one else.

Call us today for your free personalized relocation package.

(406) 541-6550 • 2800 S. Reserve St. www.windermere.com 2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 M I s s o u l a ar e a v i s i tor s g u i d e

$188,900

$213,450

$255,000

$50,000

$213,000

2002 2001

$250,000

2003

$183,100

$138,000

2004

$343,000

$149,900

2005

$231,250

$163,000

2006

$325,000

$179,000

$100,000

$150,000

$176,000

$191,900

2008 2007

$206,700

$0

$216,900

$50,000

$215,000

$100,000

South Hills/Miller Creek Lolo Area Orchard Homes/Big Flat Grant Creek/Mullan Road

Bitterroot River.

jan rogers / best shot submission

79

RELOCATION

MeaT & seafood Missoula’s only certified organic meat department.

Wine & cheese Premium wine and cheeses, from Montana and beyond.

Produce

Voted Missoula’s favorite produce department for 15 years running.

One of Missoula’s Natural Wonders.

Bakery

all naTural deli

Fresh breads and pastries from our own ovens and from the best local bakeries.

Organic espresso and tall smoothies, hot breakfast, big sandwiches, pizza, fresh pasta and sushi.

Bulk

Beans, rices, spices, granola, pasta, snacks, coffee, baking supplies and more. Over 800 different choices.

1600 S. 3rd St. West

|

Missoula

|

406.541.FOOD

|

www.goodfoodstore.com

www . m i s s o u l acvb . O R G

MISSOULA CVB PO BOX 177 MISSOULA, MT 59807

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Missoula, MT 59802 Permit No. 559

Ask about our special financing options

Best Selling Downtown Condo Unit in Missoula!

50% Sold Out • 2-Bedroom now available FHA & VA Financing Available Models open daily 11:30 am to 5:00 pm Except Tuesday & Wednesday by Apppointment Only

REALTY CONSULTANTS, LLC

Each office independently owned and operated

Contact: Jeff Ellis Sales Associate Office: 406-203-4143 Cell: 406-529-5087

801 North Orange Street Downtown Missoula www.theuptownflatsmissoula.com

Luxury downtown living doesn’t have to be expensive