Missoula has all four seasons - the original divisions of the year as determined by Mother Nature.
Here in Missoula we are fortunate enough to experience all four seasons. Spring awakens the valley with wildflowers, rushing rivers and trails waiting to be explored. Summer brings long, golden days perfect for floating the Clark Fork, outdoor concerts and warm evenings downtown. Autumn paints the hillsides in brilliant hues of gold and crimson, pairing perfectly with cozy cafes and local harvests. And winter? It transforms Missoula into a snow-dusted wonderland of skiing, skating and crackling fires.
No matter when you visit, Missoula’s ever-changing seasons promise beauty, adventure and memories that last a lifetime.
As winter loosens its grip on the valley, Missoula begins to bloom. Snowmelt trickles down the mountains, wildflowers color the valley, and the hillsides of Mount Sentinel and Mount Jumbo turn a lush, vibrant green. The air feels fresh and alive, and even the occasional spring snowfall—yes, sometimes as late as June—only adds to the excitement that comes with this season of renewal.
Warmer days invite you outside to hike, bike or wander to a nearby hot spring, while soft spring showers create the perfect excuse to explore Missoula’s museums, galleries and cozy coffee shops. When the clouds part, the clear skies and gentle sunshine make downtown strolls and patio dining irresistible. And let’s not forget—spring is an excellent time to browse Missoula’s local shops for a little retail refresh tax-free.
No matter how you spend your days, spring in Missoula is all about embracing the energy of new beginnings and making the most of every moment.
Summer in Missoula is more than a season, it’s a state of mind. More light in the day means more time to explore and soak up every last drop of sunshine.
Missoula temperatures in the summer are more than ideal, ranging from the upper 60's on the cooler end to upper 90's in August. Once those numbers start rising, you can expect to see locals outside and enjoying the warmth with fly fishing rods, paddle boards, tubes, rafts and boats, enjoying the numerous rivers and not so distant lakes.
Countless hikes with bright wildflowers and green hills await you. Breweries and distilleries break out the newest seasonal beverage, while local shops open their front doors just enough to let fresh air in — and for you to peek inside! But the thing we love most about Missoula in the summer is the numerous outdoor concerts, farmers markets and events that fill our calendars and bring us together.
Fall is a season of change. This time of year, crisp mornings quietly move in and leave thin layers of frost in their wake, and snow starts to creep closer and closer down the peaks of the surrounding mountains. Vibrant autumn colors appear overnight, telling the birds to pack up and wait out the cold months down south. Fall also welcomes a new crop of University of Montana students, and the energy buzzing through the town in the weeks leading up to another Grizzly football season is palpable.
Whether you’re spending an afternoon cheering on the Griz at a home game, taking a stroll along one of the many trails to view the changing leaves, spending a cozy afternoon in a warm coffee shop, or visiting a pumpkin patch for fun fall-themed festivities, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the season in Missoula.
Missoula is a dream during the winter season — fall colors fade into snow-covered scenery, creating the perfect setting for outdoor winter activities. And Missoula is so much more than alpine adventures! This vibrant mountain town comes alive with holiday festivities and opportunities to shop, eat and drink — not to mention fun ways to stay warm and toasty while enjoying the season. Missoula is the kind of place that always gives a warm welcome, even on the coldest days.
Every year Missoulians and visitors alike gather downtown for Holiday on Higgins where you will find 40+ Missoula Makers Collective markets, cozy bonfires, free horse-drawn carriage rides and a tree lighting with Santa. And downtown celebrations are only the beginning in Missoula — take your four-legged friend on a snowy hike at these dog-friendly trails, or visit local shops across town. Get into the holiday spirit with fun events, while restaurants, breweries, distilleries and bars offer creative (and delicious) holiday specials. And when it comes to the arts, you can't beat Missoula’s small-town charm with big-city talent.
Published: 11/5/25
