When the days grow shorter and the snow begins to collect on the mountains, Missoula settles into its cozy season. The air is crisp, the scenery is gorgeous, and the rhythm of the city slows to an easy-going pace, making this the perfect time to enjoy the mix of indoor comfort and quick outdoor adventures that make this place so special. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or just a local looking for some fun activities to pass those early-winter days, here are some of our favorite suggestions for this special time of year in Missoula.
Hiking is a four-season pastime in Missoula, and early winter is one of the most special times to get outdoors. For quick hikes with big views, be sure to check out Waterworks Hill, located on the north end of downtown, or the famous M Hike, beginning on the University of Montana’s campus. Gently stroll up a short incline to take in views of downtown Missoula and the snowcapped Bitterroot Valley on Waterworks, or bear down for a short and steep incline for views that will wow on the M Trail. Whichever route you choose, gorgeous views await!
Bundle up for a short stroll through downtown Missoula, where local boutiques, galleries, eateries, coffee shops, and breweries make it easy to spend a cozy afternoon. Pop into Radius Gallery or Rockin Rudy’s for local finds. Explore the latest fashion trends at upscale boutiques. Browse for one-of-a-kind finds at antique shops. Sip and sample local flavors at the many cafes, restaurants, and breweries, or warm your hands with a cup of joe or tea as you stroll the streets. Sounds like a perfect day to us!
Step inside and immerse yourself in Montana’s wild spaces, all without braving the cold! Explore interactive exhibits, learn about elk conservation, and get inspired for your next outdoor adventure in the comfort of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s visitor center.
Warm up with a dose of creativity at the Missoula Art Museum. With free admission and rotating exhibits featuring local, regional, and Indigenous artists, it’s an easy and uplifting stop on a chilly day downtown.
Escape the chill and enter a warm tropical haven at the Missoula Butterfly House and Incectarium. In addition to the butterfly house, filled with butterflies and tropical plants, there is also an exhibit to explore other crawly critters and interesting insects. Watch vibrant wings flutter by and learn about some of the world’s most fascinating insects–and enjoy a delightful dose of sunshine in the wintertime!
Winter does not slow down Missoula’s arts and music scene! Our events calendar is packed with live shows nearly every night of the week. From headliners packing the house at the historic Wilma to local artists showcasing their talents at the ZAAC, Missoula’s creativity flows year-round.
For those who embrace the cold, escape into a pre-winter wonderland with a longer jaunt in the woods or mountains. Great options near town include the Rattlesnake Wilderness, Pattee Canyon, and Blue Mountain Recreation Area. The Rattlesnake main trailhead, located about 15 minutes from downtown, offers a fairly flat main trail with steeper side trails and winds its way along the Rattlesnake Creek in a gorgeous forested setting. For big views on the western side of town, Blue Mountain is a must, with criss-crossing trails for all experience levels. And in the winter, Pattee Canyon’s perfect mix of forested wonderland and steeper mountain treks makes it a great place to explore.
Photo courtesy of Rob Taylor, 2TravelDads. Read more about their family favorites in Missoula here
Step into a world of fossils, feathers, and all the wonderful wild things that call Montana homes. The Montana Natural History Center is a hands-on, family-friendly space that brings Montana’s ecosystems to life. With dioramas and exhibits, this is a crowd pleaser for all ages. And the best part, you will get to explore Montana with no boots or snow gear required!
