Missoula

Missoula’s rich and complex history is woven into its landscape. Today, the city sits at the bottom of what was once Glacial Lake Missoula, a 3,000-square-mile proglacial lake. For centuries, the Séliš (Salish), Ksanka (Kootenai), and Ql̓ispé (Upper Pend d’Oreille/Kalispel) people were the original stewards of the land in and around Missoula and still reside there today. In the 1860s, it became a trading post for early settlers and trappers, marking the start of Missoula’s transformation into a commercial hub.

Fort Missoula, constructed in 1877, played a pivotal role in the city’s development, first serving as a military post during various conflicts and later as an internment camp during World War II. The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1883 further solidified Missoula’s status as a regional trade center, driving economic growth and population influx. The establishment of the University of Montana in 1895 added another cornerstone, attracting students and shaping the city’s cultural fabric.

Today, Missoula’s history is evident in its preserved architecture, historic districts, and cultural institutions. Visitors can explore sites like the Museum of Mountain Flying and stroll the grounds of Fort Missoula for a glimpse into the city’s layered past. Experience the arts with a show almost any night of the week, and wander the streets on the first Friday of each month for a community event celebrating galleries and shops.

Outdoor recreation thrives year-round, with the river running through it, lunchtime hikes readily accessible, and a ski mountain just minutes from downtown. Named one of the Best Foodie Cities in America by WalletHub, Missoula offers something for every palate.

Explore the best of Missoula before and after your ride along the Bitterroot Trail. Time to start pedaling, next stop Lolo...