Things To Do
Glacier National Park
2.5 hour drive from Missoula. We recommend spending at least 2 days here to see enough of the park and nearby towns. Glacier National Park offers numerous unforgettable experiences. Going-to-the-Sun Road: This 50-mile paved road is a National Historic Landmark and a civil engineering marvel, offering unparalleled views and access to many of the park's highlights, including Logan Pass. Lake McDonald: This large lake is a central point in the park, offering scenic drives, boat tours, and the opportunity to visit the historic Lake McDonald Hotel. Grinnell Glacier & Hidden Lake: These hikes reward visitors with stunning views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains. Many Glacier: This area is known for its dramatic scenery, including Swiftcurrent Lake, where you can take a boat tour. Avalanche Lake: This lake is accessible via a popular hiking trail and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Downtown Missoula
Take a stroll along Downtown Missoula with its historic architecture where you'll find unique shops, restaurants, and a thriving arts and cultural scene.
Garnet Ghost Town
Explore a fully intact 19th-century mining town, offering a glimpse into Montana's history.
The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
Explore the rich history of the fort and the surrounding area, including the role of the army in Montana's development.
Flathead Lake
1.5 hrs from Missoula. Flathead Lake, in northwestern Montana, is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western US. It's a massive body of water, roughly 27 miles long and 15 miles wide, with 161 miles of shoreline, surrounded by towering mountains. The lake is known for its pristine, clear waters and is a popular destination for various recreational activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
Yellowstone National Park
Our highly recommended park to visit if you have the time! The West Yellowstone entrance of Montana is located 4 hours away from Missoula. Upon entering Yellowstone from the west, this gives the best opportunity to see wildlife along the Madison River. Elk and bison are frequently spotted here, along with occasional sightings of bears and bald eagles. Key attractions inside Yellowstone National Park: Old Faithful: The most famous geyser in the park, known for its regular eruptions. Grand Prismatic Spring: A colorful and vibrant hot spring, one of the largest in the world. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: A stunning canyon with impressive views and accessible trails. Lamar Valley: Known for its abundant wildlife, including wolves and bison. Yellowstone Lake: The largest lake in Yellowstone National Park, offering opportunities for fishing and boating Visit the West Yellowstone town itself just outside of the entrance gates and enjoy its rustic old charm.
Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Located 2 hrs from Missoula. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is special because it houses one of the largest, highly decorated limestone caverns in the Northwest. The park also boasts guided tours of the caverns, multiple hiking trails, a campground, and offers a glimpse into a living cave ecosystem.
The M
Hike the M. Take in the stunning views of Missoula from the iconic M, a short 0.6 mile hike from the University of Missoula!
Lolo Hot Springs
A commercial resort with both indoor and outdoor pools, a casino, and a restaurant. It's a short 18-minute drive from Missoula. Book ahead for their hot springs day pass!
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
A free, natural hot springs accessible through a moderate hike! It's about an hour and 22 minutes from Missoula located right at the border of Montana and Idaho.
Nimrod Hot Springs
Nimrod Hot Springs is an undeveloped warm spring located west of Missoula, Montana, near I-90. It's known for its clear, cool water (around 70°F) and an underwater cave that visitors swim into. The area is popular for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty. West of the Bearmouth exit on I-90, look for a waterfall along the east side of the road.