Missoula, Montana
The Garden City
Missoula is nestled snugly in a large valley of the mountains of Western Montana, along the Clark Fork
River. The Big Blackfoot River joins the Clark Fork just above the city, and the confluence with the
Bitterroot River is a few miles below. Native Americans had lived here for centuries, and it was a
favorite area to harvest bitterroot, a small plant with pink flowers and edible roots which was a staple
of their diet. The relatively low elevation and mild climate, combined with the juncture of the large river
valleys, prompted the first white settlement in the 1860's. Rich deep soil and a long growing season led
to the develpment of large truck farms which supplied vegetables to much of the western part of the
state. Most of the truck farms have been covered with the expanding city, but the nickname of "Garden
City" has remained.
The University of Montana was established in Missoula in 1896, and has been an influence on the town
ever since. Bringing in students, and faculty, from a wide area (both geographically and intellectually)
has expanded the consciousness of what would otherwise be a sleepy little logging and agriculture town.
Art galleries showcase everything from the most cutting edge contemporary to traditional western and
wildlife. Restaurants serve a variety from steak (we suggest a tenderloin, medium rare), to steamed
mussels with a wine caper sauce, to Thai and East Indian fare. A rancher in town for supplies (with a
little proof of his vocation on his cowboy boots) may be eating sushi, while the exchange student from
Sumatra is munching on a hamburger.
Being the largest city between Spokane and Billings, in an area of mostly small towns, Missoula has also
developed into the hub for any other services that the population needs. Medical facilities draw
patients from a three state area with two excellent hospitals and a number of specialty clinics.
Professional services of any other kind are also available. Industrial services fill the needs of
agriculture, logging and construction.
The mountains and valleys around Missoula offer a variety of opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast.
Miles of clean beautiful rivers await the fisherman or rafter. Two downhill ski areas are within sight
of town, with three more within a 90 mile radius. Numerous trails close to town are open for hiking or
cross-country skiing. And just hopping in your car and taking a day drive will take you by some of the
most beautiful scenery that North America has to offer.
More Info for Visitors... Missoula Visitors Missoula Chamber Missoula Downtown
The Garden City
Missoula is nestled snugly in a large valley of the mountains of Western Montana, along the Clark Fork
River. The Big Blackfoot River joins the Clark Fork just above the city, and the confluence with the
Bitterroot River is a few miles below. Native Americans had lived here for centuries, and it was a
favorite area to harvest bitterroot, a small plant with pink flowers and edible roots which was a staple
of their diet. The relatively low elevation and mild climate, combined with the juncture of the large river
valleys, prompted the first white settlement in the 1860's. Rich deep soil and a long growing season led
to the develpment of large truck farms which supplied vegetables to much of the western part of the
state. Most of the truck farms have been covered with the expanding city, but the nickname of "Garden
City" has remained.
The University of Montana was established in Missoula in 1896, and has been an influence on the town
ever since. Bringing in students, and faculty, from a wide area (both geographically and intellectually)
has expanded the consciousness of what would otherwise be a sleepy little logging and agriculture town.
Art galleries showcase everything from the most cutting edge contemporary to traditional western and
wildlife. Restaurants serve a variety from steak (we suggest a tenderloin, medium rare), to steamed
mussels with a wine caper sauce, to Thai and East Indian fare. A rancher in town for supplies (with a
little proof of his vocation on his cowboy boots) may be eating sushi, while the exchange student from
Sumatra is munching on a hamburger.
Being the largest city between Spokane and Billings, in an area of mostly small towns, Missoula has also
developed into the hub for any other services that the population needs. Medical facilities draw
patients from a three state area with two excellent hospitals and a number of specialty clinics.
Professional services of any other kind are also available. Industrial services fill the needs of
agriculture, logging and construction.
The mountains and valleys around Missoula offer a variety of opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast.
Miles of clean beautiful rivers await the fisherman or rafter. Two downhill ski areas are within sight
of town, with three more within a 90 mile radius. Numerous trails close to town are open for hiking or
cross-country skiing. And just hopping in your car and taking a day drive will take you by some of the
most beautiful scenery that North America has to offer.
More Info for Visitors... Missoula Visitors Missoula Chamber Missoula Downtown
Fifth Street Guest House
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