Missoula and Montana Go Well Together

Missoula, The Garden City, in state of Montana, is located along the Clark Fork River near its confluence with the Bitterroot River in western Montana. At the convergence of five mountain ranges, Missoula is often described as the “Hub of Five Valleys“.

Missoula was founded in 1860 as Hellgate Trading Post while still a part of Washington Territory. By 1866, the settlement had moved five miles upstream and renamed Missoula Mills, later shortened to Missoula. Today, Missoula is said to be the most culturally active town in the state.

The city boasts a plethora of choices for the culturally minded local or senior tourist. Whether it is art or music being created in the street or a gala event at a local museum, Missoula has what it takes to satisfy even the most avant-garde individual. It is known as the “Garden City” for its dense trees and lush green landscape with three major rivers running through it.

 Three Rivers Run Through It

The first inhabitants of the Missoula area were American Indians from the Salish tribe. They called the area “Nemissoolatakoo,” from which “Missoula” is derived. The word translates roughly to “river of ambush/surprise,” a reflection of the inter-tribal fighting common to the area.

Peacefully tucked away in the heart of the northern Rocky Mountains, Missoula (pop. 85,000+) is the perfect spot for a weekend of history, culture and outdoor fun. Home to the University of Montana, one of the most architecturally distinguished academic institutions in the country, the city offers a number of intellectually stimulating attractions.

A Carousel for Missoula is a major draw in the city. It was completed in 1995 and was the brainchild and vision of a local Missoula cabinet-maker, who carved much of the structure himself and also trained an enthusiastic team of volunteers to assist in the project.

 Art, Fly Fishing And Hunting Draw Senior Visitors

For those of you seniors who have an interest in art, you will find art spread throughout downtown. Missoula offers many  galleries to explore for every art enthusiast. For others, Missoula is located within the fly fishing Golden Triangle and is a popular area for hunting deer, elk, bear and moose.

On the site of a fort used from 1877-1947, the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula is a sanctuary for western Montana’s cultural and logging history. Spread out over 32 acres, senior visitors will find 13 historic structures housing upwards of 25,000 objects associated with Montana’s vibrant history.

The city sits on an old, glacial lake bed, which is now cut by Clark Fork River. The Bitterroot River feeds into the Clark Fork on the Southwest edge of town; the famed Big Blackfoot River meets the Clark Fork just east of town.

Senior travelers will find lots of fun things to see and do all year long.  jeb