Missoula (pop. 57,000) is known as the "Garden City" for its dense trees and lush green landscape. The settlement was called Hell Gate when it began as a trading post. Missoula was taken from a Salish Indian word meaning "near the cold, chilling waters."
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Wildlife Visitor Center in Missoula features wildlife habitat conservation, a collection of mounted elk displays, a wildlife gallery and wildlife films.
Address: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, 5705 Grant Creek Road , Missoula, MT 59808, United States
Phone: 1 (406) 523-4545, Fax: 1 (406) 523-4550
Hours:
January 1 to April 30: 8am-5pm; Sat:10am-5pm; Closed: Sun
May 1 to December 31: 8am-6pm; Sun:9am-6pm; Sat:9am-6pm; Closed: Sun
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Easter - Christian
Created in 1995, the carousel in Missoula features 38-hand carved horses and 2 chariot rides. The music is provided by the largest carousel band organ - with 400 pipes.
Hours:
June 1 to August 31: 11am-7pm
September 1 to May 31: 11am-5:30pm
Tips: People with disabilities are always welcome to ride free.
The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula is on the site of historic Fort Missoula which was established in 1877. Exhibits feature the timber industry, forest management, the fort and early settlements. Six of the original 13 buildings have been renovated.
Address: Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, Building 322, Missoula, MT 59804, United States
Phone: 1 (406) 728-3476, Fax: 1 (406) 543-6277
The Lolo National Forest, encompassing two acres, is an important timber area and offers slopes that are open and grassy. Recreational opportunities include trout fishing, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing.
Address: Lolo National Forest, Fort Missoula Building 24, Missoula, MT 59804, United States
Phone: 1 (406) 329-3750, Fax: 1 (406) 626-5403
Splash Montana in Missoula features a splash pool, a kiddie slide, and a current channel. There is also a lap pool and hot tub.
Hours:
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Memorial Day - USA (last Monday, May ), Thanksgiving - USA (4th Thursday, November ), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25)