If you’re looking for a quintessential summer vacation destination, especially one filled with opportunities to get out and enjoy nature, don’t miss your trip to travel to Missoula. There are plenty of fantastic things to do in Missoula, Montana, including biking on the gorgeous Bitterroot Trail. The Bitterroot Trail follows a gorgeous path from Missoula south through the Lolo Pass, extending 50 miles to the community of Hamilton in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley.
The Bitterroot Valley is one of our favorite places in Western Montana, filled with jaw-dropping scenery and charming small towns to explore. The Bitterroot Trail is just one of the many ways to explore the Valley. The landscapes are diverse, ranging from lush forests and sparkling rivers to expansive meadows, with the rugged Bitterroot Range standing sentinel in the distance. The trip into the Valley is about so much more than a bike ride, though. Take the time to stop at various points of interest, whether for a cold pint at local breweries or to explore charming small towns and historical landmarks.
Of course, riding the Bitterroot Trail is just one of the many things waiting for you in Missoula this summer. Missoula is a relatively small town, but it retains the sophistication of a larger city. It is surrounded by multiple mountain ranges and offers a breathtaking backdrop for a myriad of summer adventures. All the top things to do in Missoula, Montana, are at your fingertips when you stay with us at our top-rated Missoula Bed and Breakfast. We offer a range of accommodations and a warm, personal touch for a more intimate and enriching stay. Book your stay with us today!
Take a Ride on the Bitterroot Trail near Missoula
Whether you’re only interested in riding a segment of the trail or all 50 miles of the route between Missoula and Hamilton, biking the scenic Bitterroot Trail is one of our favorite things to do in Missoula, Montana. The Bitterroot Trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for cyclists of all abilities. It winds through diverse landscapes, including verdant forests, open meadows, and along the scenic Bitterroot River. Apart from the surrounding scenery, you’re bound to see plenty of wildlife along the Bitterroot Trail, too, not to mention plenty of points of interest along the way.
The Bitterroot Trail roughly parallels I-93 and skirts the base of the rugged Bitterroot Mountains. The section closest to our Bed and Breakfast is the portion from Missoula to Lolo, a small community about 8 miles south of downtown Missoula. Lolo is just one of the charming communities worth visiting along the length of the Bitterroot Trail. Beyond the Bitterroot Trail, Missoula offers a wealth of other exceptional biking routes, including mountain biking destinations. Here is a list of additional great biking trails in the area:
- If you’re looking for mountain biking trails, head to the Blue Mountain Recreation Area. There’s an extensive network of trails here with varying degrees of difficulty.
- Another popular spot for mountain bikers is the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, which offers a variety of trails that wind through beautiful forests and along pristine streams.
- If you’re looking for a short but sweet ride that’s also relatively flat, consider the Kim Williams Nature Trail. It follows alongside the Clark Fork River and takes you through a 134-acre natural area of the Hellgate Canyon. It’s a fantastic spot to spot wildlife.
- The Pattee Canyon is home to some of the most popular bike trails in the Missoula area.
More Great Things to do in Missoula, Montana
As beautiful as the journey on the Bitterroot Trail is, it’s just one of the many great things to do in Missoula this summer. Here, you’ll find a treasure trove of activities and attractions catering to various interests. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is evident in its numerous art galleries, theaters, and live music venues, providing ample opportunities for artistic and cultural enrichment. For outdoor enthusiasts, Missoula offers abundant recreational activities, from hiking and biking in the surrounding mountains to fishing and rafting on the Clark Fork River.
The local culinary scene is equally impressive, with various farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, and farmers’ markets showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty. Whatever you choose to do, you’ll no doubt find a memorable and fulfilling visit for all. Below, we’ve listed a few of our favorite things to do in Missoula, Montana, this summer.
- Of all the things to do in Missoula, Montana, few are more iconic than hiking Mount Sentinel or Missoula’s famous “M” Trail. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas from the top.
- Float down the scenic Clark Fork River, an exciting water adventure right in the heart of the city. You can also try your skills at Brennans Wave, an excellent whitewater park right in town.
- Learn about the region’s history and heritage at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.
- Visit the Missoula Art Museum, which is filled with contemporary and local art.
- Taste local brews and enjoy summer concerts at Big Sky Brewing Company.
- If you’re looking for something quieter for your trip to Missoula, consider an afternoon birdwatching at local birding hotspots.
- Enjoy some of the best fly fishing in Missoula, Montana. With world-class trout streams, it’s one of the best things to do in Missoula!
- Head up to explore the vast network of hiking trails at Lolo Pass, a gorgeous four-season destination that is home to many of the top things to do in Missoula, Montana.
Don’t forget to leave yourself plenty of time to relax and unwind at our tranquil property just outside of Missoula in the scenic Bitterroot Valley. Guests can enjoy spacious, elegantly appointed rooms with modern amenities and wake up to gourmet breakfasts. The proximity to downtown Missoula and nearby hiking trails ensures visitors can easily explore local attractions while enjoying a peaceful, rejuvenating stay. Book your stay at our Missoula Inn today!
