Missoula, Montana, is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and rich cultural life.
Nestled in the Northern Rockies, Missoula is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
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The city itself has a well-organized network of streets and roads, along with a variety of attractions that draw both residents and visitors.
Principal Streets and Roads
- Higgins Avenue
- Overview: Higgins Avenue is one of the main thoroughfares in Missoula, running north-south through the heart of downtown. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural landmarks.
- Landmarks: The Wilma Theater, a historic and iconic building, is located on Higgins Avenue. The avenue also crosses the Clark Fork River, offering picturesque views and access to Caras Park.
- Brooks Street (U.S. Route 12)
- Overview: Brooks Street is a major commercial corridor in Missoula, running southwest from downtown and serving as part of U.S. Route 12. It’s home to numerous businesses, including shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Connections: Brooks Street eventually merges with Reserve Street, another significant roadway, providing access to various parts of the city and surrounding areas.
- Reserve Street (U.S. Route 93)
- Overview: Reserve Street is a key north-south arterial road in Missoula, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city. It is part of U.S. Route 93 and serves as a major commercial area with a wide range of stores, services, and dining options.
- Functionality: Reserve Street is also crucial for accessing Interstate 90 (I-90), the primary east-west highway that passes just north of the city.
- Russell Street
- Overview: Running parallel to Higgins Avenue, Russell Street is another important north-south route. It has undergone significant redevelopment to improve traffic flow and pedestrian access.
- Development: The Russell Street Bridge over the Clark Fork River has been recently expanded, enhancing connectivity between neighborhoods and the downtown area.
- Orange Street
- Overview: Orange Street runs north-south through central Missoula, providing another connection across the Clark Fork River. It is a vital link between downtown and the areas north of the river, including access to I-90.
- Features: The street is lined with various businesses and residential areas, and it’s a popular route for accessing local parks and trails.
- Broadway Street
- Overview: Broadway Street (also known as West Broadway) is a significant east-west route through Missoula, running parallel to the Clark Fork River. It’s a busy commercial corridor with shops, offices, and other businesses.
- Access: Broadway provides easy access to downtown, the University of Montana, and various residential neighborhoods.
- Van Buren Street
- Overview: Van Buren Street is a north-south road on the east side of Missoula that provides access to the University of Montana and the residential neighborhoods near Mount Sentinel.
- Connectivity: The street connects to the Van Buren Street Interchange on I-90, making it a key route for those traveling to and from the university and nearby areas.
City Attractions
- Caras Park
- Overview: Located along the Clark Fork River in downtown Missoula, Caras Park is a central gathering place for community events, including farmers’ markets, festivals, and concerts. The park offers scenic river views and is home to the popular “Brennan’s Wave” for surfing and kayaking.
- Features: The park is adjacent to the historic Wilma Theater and the Higgins Avenue Bridge, making it easily accessible from downtown.
- University of Montana
- Overview: The University of Montana is a key institution in Missoula, offering a picturesque campus at the base of Mount Sentinel. The university is known for its academic programs and vibrant campus life.
- Attractions: The university features the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, a performing arts center, and the iconic “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel, which offers stunning views of the city.
- Mount Sentinel and the “M” Trail
- Overview: Mount Sentinel is one of Missoula’s most prominent natural landmarks, with the “M” Trail leading to a large white “M” near the summit. The trail is a popular hiking spot that offers panoramic views of Missoula and the surrounding valley.
- Activities: In addition to hiking, Mount Sentinel is a favorite spot for paragliding and other outdoor activities.
- Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness
- Overview: Located just north of Missoula, the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area offers over 60,000 acres of wilderness, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It’s a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking outdoor adventure.
- Trails and Scenery: The area features a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, and is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
- Missoula Art Museum (MAM)
- Overview: The Missoula Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Missoula. It features a diverse collection of contemporary art with a focus on regional artists from Montana and the surrounding region.
- Exhibitions: MAM hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs, making it a hub for the local arts community.
- Historical Museum at Fort Missoula
- Overview: The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula is located on the grounds of a former U.S. Army post. The museum offers a glimpse into the history of Missoula and western Montana, with exhibits on the military, early settlers, and the region’s development.
- Outdoor Exhibits: The museum features several historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a church, and barracks, which visitors can explore.
- A Carousel for Missoula
- Overview: This handcrafted carousel, located in Caras Park, is a beloved attraction for families and children. It was built by local volunteers and features beautifully carved wooden horses.
- Community Project: The carousel is a symbol of community spirit and creativity in Missoula and is adjacent to Dragon Hollow, a large wooden playground.
- Clark Fork River Trail
- Overview: The Clark Fork River Trail runs along the river through downtown Missoula, offering a scenic route for walking, running, and biking. The trail connects several parks and provides access to fishing spots and riverfront areas.
- Events: The trail is popular for community events, including fun runs and outdoor festivals, and it offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
- Southgate Mall
- Overview: Southgate Mall is Missoula’s largest shopping center, featuring a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is located on Brooks Street and serves as a commercial hub for the city.
- Shopping and Dining: The mall offers a range of national and local retailers, as well as dining options, making it a popular destination for shopping and leisure.
- Big Sky Brewing Company
- Overview: Located on the western edge of Missoula, Big Sky Brewing Company is one of Montana’s most well-known breweries. It’s famous for its Moose Drool Brown Ale and offers tours and tastings.
- Events: The brewery also hosts outdoor concerts and events during the summer, attracting both locals and visitors.
Missoula is a city that balances urban amenities with access to the great outdoors. Its streets and roads are well-planned, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions, from historic sites and museums to parks and recreational areas. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or outdoor adventure, Missoula has something to offer.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.