In Missoula, spring arrives with a bang, bringing vibrant colors, fresh air, and that irresistible urge to get outside. You don’t need a calendar to tell you when spring has arrived in Missoula—you simply feel it. It’s in the sound of bikes and walkers meandering down the Riverfront Trail, the smell of wildflowers on a breeze, and the hustle and bustle of shoppers and diners enjoying the downtown district. Whether you're out for a quick wildflower walk or lingering over a patio pint, Missoula in spring is something special. Here are six signs that spring has officially spring in Missoula.
The return of patio season is one of Missoula’s favorite rites of spring. As soon as the snow melts and the temperatures rise, outdoor tables fill up with friends catching up over beers, brunches, and iced coffee beverages. And Missoula has no shortage of patios to enjoy—where sunglasses and dogs are basically required accessories.
Nothing screams “spring” quite like wildflowers. The brilliant green of the hillsides contrast with the vibrant hues of yellows and purples, making for a gorgeous site from the valley floor and mountainsides alike. Hike up Waterworks Hill, Mount Jumbo, or the "M" Trail and you’ll be greeted with wildflowers like balsamroot, lupine, and glacier lilies painting the hillsides.
The Missoula Farmers Market scene is a real source of pride, and for good reason. Spring Saturdays bring not one, not two, but three markets to peruse for local produce, meats and cheeses, baked goods, and so much more. The Missoula Farmers Market, Clark Fork River Market are as much about community as it is about what you toss in your market bag. With great vibes, great shopping, and great fun, the markets are a must-do in spring.
In the spring, menus go seasonal (and so do the breweries). Missoula is all about local, so it is no surprise that bistros, cafes, breweries, and other eateries regularly switch up menus to reflect in-season and local flavors. Local restaurants embrace the season with fresh, regional ingredients—often sourced from just a few miles away. Missoula’s many breweries, cideries, and distilleries get in on the action too, with spring releases that are crisp, floral, and brewed for perfect patio sipping.
With warmer weather comes more movement in the natural world. Deer are more visible along trails, osprey return to their nests above the river, and you might spot a black bear in the forests and waterways around and outside of town. For a wilder view, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Pattee Canyon are close, quiet places to catch glimpses of spring’s return to the wild. Spring is a great time to check out the National Bison Range, located about 30 minutes north of Missoula–check out their driving loops for a chance to see bison, antelope, deer, bear, and migrating bird species.
The snowmelt of spring gives way to miles of trail ready for hiking, running, and biking. This time of year, Missoula’s outdoor playground opens up in a big way. While many people recreate through the winter months, spring is a time of rejuvenation and reawakening for many outdoor enthusiasts. And with limitless trail options to choose from, whether you’re on two wheels or two feet, it’s time to get back out there.
