Missoula, Montana, transforms into a vibrant autumnal paradise as the crisp air ushers in the fall season. Though Missoula may not be at the top of your mind for colorful fall destinations this year, one scenic chairlift ride up the Snowbowl in Missoula will change your mind. These rides provide an elevated perspective of the surrounding mountains and valleys, allowing visitors to marvel at Missoula’s autumnal splendor from a unique vantage point.
Fall chairlift rides at the Snowbowl in Missoula aren’t the only way to enjoy this colorful, transitional season. Fall in Montana is the perfect time of year for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to get outside for an immersive adventure in the region’s stunning scenery. From gorgeous hikes up our surrounding mountains to breathtaking bike rides through the Bitterroot Valley, we think there’s no more beautiful place to experience fall in Montana.
The best time to witness the spectacular fall foliage in this picturesque city is typically from mid-September to late October, with peak colors often occurring in mid-October. Visit us any time during these months, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of a captivating landscape lit with a rich palette of amber, crimson, and golden hues. We hope you get to experience at least one fall in Missoula – and when you do, we hope you join us at our top-rated Missoula Bed and Breakfast.
There’s no better place to stay in Missoula than our rustic but elevated lodge-style Inn. With a gorgeous rural property to enjoy and access to some of Missoula’s top destinations, not to mention exceptional hospitality, our Missoula Bed and Breakfast serves as the perfect home away from home for your fall getaways. Book your room today!
Beautiful Scenery at the Snowbowl in Missoula
Though the Snowbowl in Missoula is a prized skiing area during the winter, the fun doesn’t stop when the snow melts! Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities during the summer and fall months, too. Take advantage of this area’s stunning natural surroundings and trails and enjoy an exhilarating adventure this fall. One of our favorite things to do at Snowbowl in Missoula is take scenic chairlift rides in the fall.
Fall chairlift rides at Snowbowl in Missoula offer an exceptional way to experience the breathtaking autumn scenery of western Montana. Operating every Friday through Sunday, the Grizzly Chair provides visitors with a leisurely ascent, allowing ample time to soak in the vibrant fall colors that blanket the surrounding mountains and valleys. Beyond this leisurely trip to the top, there are plenty more ways to enjoy the Snowbowl in Missoula this fall. We’ve listed a few of our favorite activities below,
- In addition to scenic chairlift rides, Snowbowl in Missoula offers an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour. You’ll love the thrill of soaring through the air on the zip line, an experience enhanced by the unique perspective of the beautiful terrain and vibrant fall colors.
- Snowbowl in Missoula is also one of the best places in the area for mountain biking. Explore a range of trails designed for various skill levels.
- Unsurprisingly, this is also a great place for hiking! There are various trails to explore at Snowbowl in Missoula, allowing you to enjoy an up-close view of fall in Montana.
- How about a round or two of disc golf? Snowbowl in Missoula has a great course that offers a fun and engaging way to spend an afternoon in this area.
These activities make Snowbowl a versatile destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation during the summer and fall months in Montana.
More Ways to Enjoy Fall in Montana
Fall in Montana is special—and it’s not just because you can hike, bike, and explore places like the Snowbowl in Missoula. There are plenty of great things to do in Missoula in the fall, which makes it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a getaway during this vibrant season. The city sets a beautiful stage for getaways, with foliage providing a stunning backdrop for all your adventures and activities.
Whether you’re looking to get out on the top Missoula hiking trails, enjoy festive events and live music, bike through storied western Montana scenery, or simply soak up the hip, trendy, yet relaxed vibe of this historic college town, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy fall in Montana. Below are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the city this fall.
Top 10 Things to Do in Missoula This Fall
- Drive through the scenic Bitterroot Valley, witness its stunning fall colors, and visit the Daly Mansion for a picturesque view.
- Enjoy some of the best fall hikes in the Missoula area, including those throughout the gorgeous Bitterroot Valley.
- Explore the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area on foot on one of the many hiking trails or on a scenic drive through the vibrant fall leaves.
- Explore the Blue Mountain Recreation Area, home to some of our favorite hiking and biking trails in the Missoula area.
- Stroll the Riverfront Walking Trail that skirts along the Clark Fork River, where you’ll enjoy the reflection of fall colors in the water.
- Visit local Missoula breweries and sample seasonal brews like pumpkin ales and Oktoberfest lagers from Great Burn Brewing, Draught Works, and Bayern Brewing.
- Attend a Concert at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater, where you can enjoy live music against the scenic backdrop of the Blackfoot River and autumn foliage.
- Enjoy fly fishing on the rivers around Missoula. The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot Rivers are renowned for world-class fly fishing.
- Take advantage of the clear, cool fall waters for kayaking or rafting on the Clark Fork River. For something more adventurous, take a rafting trip through the scenic Alberton Gorge.
- Enjoy fall birdwatching at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge.
These activities highlight the best of fall in Montana. With so many great adventures to enjoy, you’ll need a comfortable home away from home. There’s no better place to stay in Montana than our top-rated Missoula Bed and Breakfast. Book your room today!
