Explorer 2016 by Independent Publishing

h, summer in western Montana—a time of warmer temperatures, cool rivers, extended sunlight and precious getaways that always seem a little too short. Also, if we’re being honest, it’s a time when some of our favorite trailheads, putins, lakeside beaches and summits have a few extra boots—or sandals—on the ground. Although we love good company and don’t mind meeting new friends, those summertime crowds can sometimes put a damper on your adventure. That’s why we’ve focused a lot of this year’s explorer on the Treasure State’s hidden gems. While the masses jockey for position at the two national parks, we suggest five state parks that offer similarly memorable experiences and considerably less traffic. Our friends with the Montana Wilderness Association highlight a handful of lesser-known

regional hikes that promise mountain lakes, stunning vistas and rewards typically found on lengthier backcountry excursions. We’ve even examined some of Montana’s more star-studded attractions—you know, the type of glamping that’s attracted Justin, Gwyneth and Leo in recent years—and show you how to vacation like an A-lister on a more realistic D-lister’s budget. There are plenty of guidebooks and glossy magazines that offer a traditional look at western Montana’s plentiful summer offerings, but explorer aims to be a little different. It’s a chance for visitors to seek out adventure like a local, and locals to discover something new. If nothing else, we trust it will at least inspire readers to get out there and, well, explore. Perhaps we’ll see you out there. Or, better yet, maybe not—we can just trade stories afterwards at the bar. cover photo by Joe Weston

explorer 2016

Missoula Independent

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Table of Contents Walk on the wilder side: Hidden trails .................6 Big star country: An alt guide to glamping.............14 Adventure club: Outdoor social hour.....................22 Back up the wall: A climber returns to the sport ......30 Keep it local: Five state parks worth checking out .....36 Get outta town: A quick bike tour.........................46 Plan: Summer calendar of events .............................52 Spotlights: Missoula Marathon ..............................................66 Brandi Carlile......................................................92 River City Roots Fest ............................................98

Advertising Focus Pages Explore Montana ..................... 13 Downtown Missoula ..................25 Hip Strip ..................................40 Real Estate ...............................49 Philipsburg ...............................57 Bitterroot Valley.........................59 Pamper Yourself ........................65 Dish ........................................67 Sportinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Life ..............................75 Rentals.....................................79 Healthy Living...........................83 Mission Valley ......................... 85 Lodging ...................................86 Sustainable Living .....................89 Art, Antiques & Collectibles........91 Play, Laugh, Learn .....................93 Automotive ...............................97

PUBLISHER Lynne Foland EDITOR Skylar Browning PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Joe Weston ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Heidi Starrett BOOKKEEPER Kris Lundin DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS Christie Magill ARTS EDITOR Erika Fredrickson CALENDAR EDITOR Ednor Therriault STAFF REPORTERS Kate Whittle, Alex Sakariassen, Derek Brouwer COPY EDITOR Gaaby Patterson

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ART DIRECTOR Kou Moua GRAPHIC DESIGNER Charles Wybierala CIRCULATION MANAGER Ryan Springer ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Steven Kirst, Jess Gordon, Toni LeBlanc MARKETING COORDINATOR Ariel LaVenture CLASSIFIED REPRESENTATIVE Tami Allen FRONT DESK Lorie Rustvold

Missoula Independent P.O. Box 8275 Missoula, MT 59807 Phone number: 406-543-6609 E-mail address: independent @missoulanews.com PRESIDENT Matt Gibson

Missoula Independent

photo courtesy of Montana Wilderness Association photo courtesy of Aaron Theisen

photo by Joe Weston

ell an out-of-stater you live in Montana, and the next question may well be, “Oh, do you spend a lot of time in Glacier and Yellowstone?” For many of us, including me, the answer to that question is, “No, actually. Hardly any.” Beckoning travelers from across the U.S. and around the world, images of Glacier National Park’s snowcapped peaks and turquoise waters shine from National Geographic, Backpacker Magazine and other glossies, while larger-than-life bus wraps showcase Yellowstone’s boiling waters to bustling Seattleites and Chicagoans. But this isn’t my Montana. My Montana is wild and quiet and isn’t shared with millions of people each summer. My Montana lies in the lesser-known, but equally stunning places where the only other adventurers are 8

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pikas and wolverines, grizzlies and grayling. My Montana is bigger and wilder than Glacier and Yellowstone. It’s the open ridges, an-

from Eureka to Ekalaka. This “hidden” Montana won’t always be as big and wild as it is now unless people know it, love it and speak up to keep it just the way it is. That’s why, for the past year, more than 70 Montana Wilderness Association volunteers have hiked, photographed and mapped favorite, lesser-known trails in an effort to share the unsung gems of wild Montana. The organization’s new, statewide, online trail guide is now at hikewildmontana.org. There you can discover locals’ secrets and choose the perfect path based on distance, elephoto courtesy of Debo Powers vation gain and current conditions. Or you can add your cient forests and trout-filled lakes found in own trip report or favorite trail. Montana’s 15 wilderness areas and in the Here are a few places to start your jourdozens of roadless areas on our public lands, ney in western Montana:

explorer 2016

Missoula Independent

photo courtesy of the Montana Wilderness Association

Upper Miner Lakes, West Big Hole Proposed Wilderness Roundtrip Distance: 8 miles Total Elevation Gain: 775 feet Land Manager: Wisdom Ranger District, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to think of the Bitterroots as ending near Darby, but just a short drive south is the West Big Hole, an expanse of craggy peaks and alpine lakes that sees far fewer visitors than places closer to Missoula. This trail samples some of the best scenery in the southern Bitterroots, better known as the Beaverhead Range. With a climb of less than 800 feet over 4 miles to reach a scenic high mountain lake surrounded by rocky peaks, this trail offers big rewards for little effort. Trail 54 begins at the Upper Miner Lakes trailhead. (Best to come in a car with four-wheel drive and at a time when the road is dry; the trailhead is 2.8 miles from the end of the maintained road). At the junction with Trail 58, hang a left 10

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This gem in the quiet Sapphire Mountains offers creeks, cliffs, wildflowers and views to the Bitterroots and beyond. Trail 300 follows an old roadbed for the first half mile, then becomes steeper and narrower as it passes through a forest of Douglas fir and spruce before climbing to open talus fields and meadows with views of the Palisades and the Bitterroots across the valley. At the top of the switchbacks, the trail begins a gradual ascent past wildflower-filled meadows and ghosts of old whitebark pine trees. Turn around at the pass, with views into the Burnt Fork of the Bitterroot and beyond (8 miles roundtrip), or continue another half mile (9 miles roundtrip) along the photo courtesy of the Montana Wilderness Association crest of the Sapphires on Trail 44 to the summit of Palisade Willow Creek to Palisade Mountain, where 360-degree views take in Mountain, Stony Mountain the Rattlesnake Mountains, AnacondaPintler Wilderness, Sapphires Wilderness Roadless Area Study Area and the full length of the BitRoundtrip Distance: 9 miles terroots from Trapper Peak to Lolo Peak. Total Elevation Gain: 2,973 feet Land Manager: Stevensville Ranger District, Bitterroot National Forest

across the creek and gradually ascend through mixed forest and open slopes. The trail ends at Upper Miner Lakes, an alpine paradise where deep water invites summer swimming and large rocks beg for lakeside lounging.

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Missoula Independent

photo courtesy of the Montana Wilderness Association

Hazel and Hub lakes, Ward-Eagle Roadless Area, Great Burn

durance by climbing another 1,500 feet over 1 mile to Ward or Eagle peaks for views to what seems like eternity.

Cyclone Lookout, Whitefish Range Proposed Wilderness

Roundtrip Distance: 6 miles Total Elevation Gain: 1,750 feet Land Manager: Superior Ranger District, Lolo National Forest

Clearwater Lake Loop, Seeley-Swan Valley

Roundtrip Distance: 5.6 miles Total Elevation Gain: 1,041 feet Land Manager: Glacier View Ranger District, Flathead National Forest

Suitable for avid hikers or first-timers, this hike traverses the Ward-Eagle Roadless Area, one of the jewels in the “String of Pearls” wildlands that stretch between Lolo and Lookout passes. Showcasing some of the best of the unprotected Great Burn region west of Missoula, the trail climbs from cathedral forests to subalpine lakes perched beneath the Idaho-Montana border. Soon after beginning the hike on Ward Creek Trail 262, you’ll enter an aweinspiring grove of ancient western red cedars, some measuring 10 feet in diameter, which survived the Great Fires of 1910. After a steep midsection, the trail gradually climbs to the subalpine basins of Hazel and Hub lakes. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and some fishing at the lakes, or test your en12

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Roundtrip Distance: 2.6 miles Total Elevation Gain: 141 feet Land Manager: Seeley Lake Ranger District, Lolo National Forest This is a perfect family hike to the highest of six lakes in the Clearwater River Chain of Lakes. You won’t forget the views of the Swan Front or the perfectly clear lake reflecting the azure Montana sky. Although only 2.6 miles from start to finish, this hike offers rewards typically found on lengthier backcountry excursions and provides an excellent chance of spotting and hearing resident loons. The near-vertical slopes and rugged peaks of the Swan Front, which form the dramatic backdrop of the lake, are proposed additions to the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Don’t forget to bring your bear spray—this is grizzly country.

This quiet escape is a great introduction to the Whitefish Range, a quieter and noless-stunning alternative to Glacier National Park. The hike to Cyclone Lookout offers rewarding views for relatively little effort, including a 360-degree panorama of the highest peaks of the Whitefish Range and Glacier National Park, as well as the scenic North Fork Flathead River Valley. As an early season bonus, the snow on the trail tends to melt sooner than on other nearby peaks, often making it accessible as early as mid-June. Q Kassia Randzio is the community engagement manager at the Montana Wilderness Association. For more details on each of these hikes, plus 200 other trail descriptions, visit hikewildmontana.org.

photo courtesy of Paws Up Ranch

ove over, Dubai and the Bahamas: Montana is the hottest destination for celebs on vacay. It must be, anyway, if big names like Gwyneth Paltrow and Justin Timberlake sing its praises. All the attention is enough to make even the crabbiest longtime local feel a renewed sense of appreciation for our state, since celebrities pay out the nose to access the scenic vistas and outdoor recreation that’s available in our backyard every day. With that in mind, here’s our guide to living it up like the A-listers, but on a D-lister’s budget.

The DiCaprio Special The Revenant star and his buddy, Tobey Maguire, were spotted in June 2015 kicking back at Liquid Planet in downtown Missoula before walking around the MADE Fair. Gossip blogs report that the two were in town to celebrate Maguire’s 40th birthday 16

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while staying at Paws Up Resort in the Blackfoot Valley. Our way: Don aviator shades and stroll around the farmers market before starting a

one of the recently installed float-in campsites, located at the River Junction, Ninemile Prairie and Corrick’s River Bend fishing accesses on the Blackfoot. Fish, Wildlife and Parks sells permits for the sites for $7-$12, and you’ll need to apply at least two days in advance. Once you get out of the river, prearranged transportation can pick you up through Shuttle Snap, an online shuttle-booking service created by a Bozeman-based company. Prices vary, but you’ll find shuttles servicing several major waterways throughout the state, including the Blackfoot.

The Fonz Surprise Henry Winkler frequently espouses his love of fly fishing in photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox Montana and has endorsed Firehole Ranch in West Yellowstone. In create-your-own-adventure day in the Black- his book, I’ve Never Met An Idiot On the foot Valley. If you’re feeling nautical, book River, he thanks Firehole Ranch and writes:

photo courtesy of Alyse Backus/Dakotas BLM

“My heart lives in New York, where I was born and raised. My body lives in Los Angeles, where I do much of my work. My soul lives in Montana, where I fish.” Our way: If you’re looking to live the good life like Winkler, it’ll take a lot of TV royalties to fund it. A basic three-night stay at Firehole, with two days of guided fishing, runs about $2,500 per person. But plenty of local guiding operations will take you out for less. Missoula-based Sheerwater Guide, for instance, offers a full day of fishing on the Bitterroot, Missouri or Rock Creek for $475, with all tackle and lunch included— leather jacket optional. Or, if you’d just like a primer on the basics, check out the classes offered by Stacy Jennings, voted the best fly-fishing guide in the Missoula Independent’s annual Best of Missoula reader poll from 20072015. She hosts classes and clinics that range from $90-$125 and are aimed at all ages. Check out Kingfisher Fly Shop’s website for details. 18

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The Gwyneth Luxury Delight On Gwyneth Paltrow’s legendary lifestyle site, Goop, she gushed over her stay at Paws Up in 2014 and posted several selfies while wearing a cowboy hat. Paltrow also

do recommend activities at Glacier that are already pretty reasonable for the average Joe, such as staying at the Many Glacier Lodge in the park near Babb. Many Glacier includes rooms starting at $191 per night, and it’s conveniently located in a prime spot to take off on gorgeous scenic hikes to Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake. We’d add that Swan Mountain Outfitters offers guided horseback rides through Glacier Park. Prices start at $45 for an hourlong ride through Apgar Meadows, which is more than enough time to take plenty of Paltrow-style selfies for Instagram.

The ScarJo Supreme

photo courtesy of Goop.com

waxes poetic about Montana scenery and visits to Glacier National Park, advising, “this is absolutely one of those places you need to see before you die.” Our way: Paltrow and her Goop team

If you and your sweetie are dreaming of running away and tying the knot this summer, take a cue from actresses like Scarlett Johansson and Kate Bosworth. In recent years, they’ve both personally bought their marriage licenses at the Granite County Courthouse in Philipsburg before disappearing off to glamorous nearby locations for their ceremonies. Gossip sites report that

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Kate Bosworth stayed at The Ranch at Rock Creek, which offers an all-inclusive experience of horseback riding, hiking, catered meals and more. Cabin rentals will set you back $1,200 per night per person in the summer season. Our way: Airbnb lists several homes and cabins throughout the Philipsburg area for $157-$200 per night, and from there, you can find a slew of activities. Nearby Georgetown Lake offers a blue-ribbon trout fishery, along with camping, hiking and road biking. Experienced mountain bikers can challenge themselves at the bike park on the back of Discovery. It’s open on weekends from June through October, and an all-day mountain pass costs $32. If that seems a little gnarly, the 7-mile paved road around Georgetown Lake is also a scenic and couples-friendly option.

The Presidential Suite In 2009, during a visit to Montana, President Barack Obama went fly fishing on the East Gallatin with Dan Vermillion of the Sweetwater Fly Shop in Livingston. Later,

photo courtesy of Glacier National Park

the First Family stayed at the members-only Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, where other luminaries such as Bill Gates, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel have also been known to hang out. Our way: The Yellowstone Club might be a bit pricey for most of us mere mortals— the introductory membership fee runs about $300,000, according to The New York Times. But you can easily cavort around Yellowstone Park and nearby communities. Big Sky Resort’s golf course offers rounds for as low as $60, if you plan ahead and book your visit in advance. It’s also affordable to camp inside Yellowstone Park at sites like Grant Village, where the $28 nightly fee gets you a spacious spot near Yellowstone Lake. (Spots do fill up quickly for the summer, so jump online pronto.) If nothing will do but the real presidential deal, Sweetwater Fly Shop offers guided trips that run about $500 per day. Price doesn’t include the cost of asking a buddy to hum “Hail to the Chief ” when you show up. Q photo courtesy of The White House

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Missoula Independent

photo courtesy of Montana Dirt Girls

riving up Pattee Canyon Drive on a sunny afternoon, my newly tuned mountain bike in the back of my blue Dodge Dakota, I realize I’m already in over my head. I’m on my way to meet the Montana Dirt Girls, an all-women’s bike group that gathers every Tuesday evening at rotating trailheads around the Missoula Valley to ride or hike trails together. I haven’t been on my bike in a few years and I’m wearing jeans, but I’ve decided to come along for the experience. As I steer my truck up the road, higher and higher, I pass several women riding their bikes and my heart sinks a little. I’m positive some of these women are Dirt Girls. If they can ride the 2-mile uphill stretch just to get to the trailhead, even before hitting the designated trails, they’re in pretty damn good shape. I’m already betting against myself for how

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long I might last with this crew. Best case scenario, the sheer will to not embarrass myself will get me through the entire ride. Worst case? I won’t be able to pedal up the first incline. At the trail gate, 20 women gather on their bikes and chat warmly with one another. Many of them have been riding together every Tuesday for the last decade or more and some have forged strong friendships. There are almost always a few newbies, though, like me. “This is a pretty social group,” one of the women tells me. We go around in a circle and introduce ourselves, split into two groups—the “mellow” group and the one that wants to take a more challenging route. Julie Huck, a Dirt Girls founder and leader, counts all the women so she knows how many will be on the trail; the rule is, no one gets left behind.

••• The Montana Dirt Girls started in 2001 when Huck and some of her friends were looking for a way to get out mountain biking on a more regular basis, but in a fun, laid-back way. Huck is a longtime employee of the Missoula-based Adventure Cycling Association, a nonprofit member organization focusing on travel by bike. She knew there was one official mountain biking crew out there already, but they were pretty serious. “I kept saying, ‘Someone should start a group. Someone should start a group,’” she says. “We got calls from bike shops asking, ‘Is there a women’s group?’ And we’d say, ‘There’s not, but someone should start a group.’ And finally I was like, ‘Wait. I have to start the group.’” It began with five mountain bikers riding every week from May through September, but

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photo courtesy of Montana Dirt Girls

after more people joined and everyone got into the habit of showing up for the Tuesday night date, the season seemed too short. “So we started hiking in the winters,” Huck says. “And that was really fun and people got really into it. Some gals just come for hiking and some for just mountain biking and some do both.” All the Montana Dirt Girls routes are within a reasonable distance from town so participants can get off work or finish their day and be ready to ride by 6 p.m. (or 6:30— there’s no real rush). The Dirt Girls website and Facebook page provide information on where they’ll meet each week. Favorite spots for biking include Kim Williams trails, Blue Mountain, Pattee Canyon and Crazy Canyon. For hiking, the group will often do something as simple as the “M” (or to the top of Mount Sentinel) or take on a lesser-known route like the ravine trail from Grant Creek into the Rattlesnake. Mostly, they are predictable, moderate hikes, but sometimes they’re more intense. “We’ve had a couple of epic ones,” Huck says, “where half the people turned back and half the people said, ‘We’ve got to make it to

the top of the beacon!’ And they’re crawling in thigh-deep snow to the top. We try to go where you don’t have to have special equipment, just your hiking boots and maybe some gators.” The Montana Dirt Girls mountain bikers include women of all ages and skill sets. It helps to be in relatively good shape and know your bike gears well, which I didn’t. It is not, however, looked down upon to stop and rest or walk your bike for stretches at a time. The Dirt Girls are careful to make sure everyone is doing okay, so some of the seasoned riders stop and wait for others on a regular basis. “We try to accommodate everyone as best we can,” Huck says. “We may end up pushing some people, but you know, that’s okay. And even if you only come for half an hour just to find out where the trail starts out, hey, you’ve gotten to ride a new area and you can come back to the trail on your own.” The Montana Dirt Girls are the kind of women who can help you fix your flat, but they’re more interested in enjoying the time outdoors with each other than making the experience into sport.

“The social [part] is the reason we come out,” Huck says. “We get to exercise and spend all this time outdoors, which is what we love about it, but that’s not always why I go. People have found good friends here. New people coming to town and, boom!, they get this instant group of people they click with and become friends with. We’ve had people find jobs through it and babysitters and best friends. You’ve got people who are lawyers, homemakers, people who are unemployed, people who are students, people who are—everything. People you might not meet otherwise.” As we ride, one woman, who has been hanging back with me and keeping me company, tells me how much she loves the fresh pine air. She’s right. It’s exhilarating—when I’m not trying to catch my breath. After 20 minutes of riding and walking, I’m done. But, oddly enough, I’m not totally discouraged. Not with this group. I’ll be back. My riding buddy makes me reassure her I’ll be okay descending the trail on my own. Heading down, I can hear the friendly chatter of the group as they stop for a minute to check out some wildflowers before they’re on their way again.Q explorer 2016

Missoula Independent

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Missoula Independent

Explorer 2016

Explorer 2016 explorer

Missoula Independent

photo by Chad Harder

The chalk smells stale and vaguely sweet, exactly how I remember. Small clouds of it rise from my hands as I absentmindedly rub them together. It’s been eight years since that reflex last triggered. Eight years since I last laced up these faded yellow climbing shoes or studied the way a few swatches of likecolored tape flow up a wall. This used to be a near-nightly routine for me back in college. Now, as I teeter on the heavily padded floor of the Freestone Climbing Center, I’m having a hard time distinguishing between muscle memory and deja vu. Routesetter Scott Goodwin points to a blue dot on a strip of tape and recommends I start there. Given how much time I’ve been out of the climbing game, I asked that he walk me through Freestone’s introductory lesson. He works his way up the first marked route he’s selected for me, describing each move as he goes. Even with the long pauses he makes it look effortless. “I always say it’s like reading a sheet of music,” Goodwin says. “You don’t want to just start playing. You need to read the whole thing and study it so you know what comes next.”

I wrap my fingers around the first hold, position my feet and begin my ascent. Already the sweat on my hands is working its way through the chalk. The motions feel strange, almost as though my mind is coming unteth-

Goodwin picks a slightly more challenging route nearby—this time one with a sidepull—and his tip pays off immediately. My ascent is much smoother, so Goodwin focuses his critique instead on hip direction. The advice comes in layers; as soon as I begin to grasp one concept, he focuses on the next, building my skills back up from the ground level. It’s a great tactic, but it isn’t the only one Freestone has adapted for newcomers. Every wouldbe climber arrives at the center with a different set of abilities. Goodwin, who’s been with Freestone since its inception in 2011, says each lesson calls for a tailored approach. He has a hard time coming up with a single universal pointer. “There’s always a lot of little things,” he says. “I would mostly say don’t be discouraged ... If you look around, there’s a lot of strong people in here.” photo by Cathrine L. Walters He’s not kidding. For a Monday ered from my limbs. I finish off the 15-or-so evening, Freestone is hopping. More than a feet quickly and pick my way back down. dozen people are either climbing routes or sit“Okay,” Goodwin says. “That was a little ting around studying them. Several are taking jerky. You’re really leapfrogging for that next turns on an overhang, their bodies seemingly hold. Try to economize your movements so defying gravity as they Spiderman from hold you don’t get worn out as fast.” to hold almost parallel to the ground. Anyone explorer 2016

Missoula Independent

photos by Chad Harder

coming in for their first attempt at the sport would be totally within their rights if they felt a pang of intimidation. That said, Freestone has become a popular portal into the climbing world over the past five years. Prior to the gym’s establishment, local options were limited to the YMCA and the University of Montana’s rec center, which is difficult to access unless you’re a student or alum. Goodwin says Freestone’s youth programs have proven particularly popular, and the gym has even become a rallying point for area climbers to discuss issues beyond Freestone’s doors. The opportunities will only increase in fall 2016 when the Freestone crew opens what Goodwin calls “Freestone 2.0,” a brand new facility just a few blocks away that will feature fixed-rope climbing in addition to the bouldering-style walls that have so far been the gym’s sole offering. Goodwin predicts the inclusion of a more familiar brand of climbing will result in a “large upswing” in attendance. “The reason we didn’t do ropes initially was that there just weren’t any good buildings for it, and as a starting business it’d be really difficult to get that kind of capital to build a

rope gym and a bouldering gym,” he says. “Now that we’ve been open a while, we’re able to do that.” Emboldened by my smooth performance on a novice-rated route, Goodwin decides to

throw me a bit of a curveball. The series of holds he directs me toward snake up either side of a sharp vertical outcrop, requiring a few

changes in pitch and one especially long reach. I start out in the wrong position, and after I fall, Goodwin corrects me. Another failed attempt leaves my forearm feeling tight. We both stand back, mentally tracing each maneuver needed to reach the top. Goodwin switches metaphors and likens it to solving a mathematical equation. The solution might be the same, he says, but each person differs slightly in how they choose to get there. Confident I have the solution sussed out, I try once more. My fingers briefly touch the hold I’ve been having trouble reaching, but my forearm tenses again and I fall. Eight years is a long time. The climbing strength I once had is gone and, thanks to the ravages of beer and barbecues, I’m carrying a few more pounds than I used to. “If you ever start feeling any tweaks,” Goodwin says, “that’s when you want to be like, ‘Okay, I need at least a couple of rest days.’” He’s on a roll with the advice so I heed his words again. But I can still feel that last hold on my fingertips as I unlace my shoes, and something tells me it won’t be another eight years before I try to solve that problem again. Q explorer 2016

Missoula Independent

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photo by Joe Weston

lacier and Yellowstone dominate the guidebooks, grace the covers of glossy magazines and receive the star treatment in Ken Burns documentaries. They also attract the biggest crowds, cost more and, from Missoula, require a bit of a drive to reach. While we’re all for seeking out our favorite spots in those national parks, peak season allows us to embrace a worthy alternative—state parks. Here are our writers’ five favorites.

Beavertail Hill State Park I must have passed Beavertail Hill a hundred times driving along I-90 before I finally discovered it was there. It was one of those typical weekend mornings in college, when the mind was moving slow and that freewheeling fishing trip to Rock Creek’s upper reaches suddenly seemed ambitious. A friend suggested we wade into the day with a few lazy shoreside casts into Beavertail Pond, just a hop and a skip east of the Rock Creek exit. Even with the few cars and campers milling about, the spot was tranquil, the water calm and inviting. Hours later we were still there, lazing in the grass tossing back beers. Only later did I realize the postcardsized state park had a 28-spot campground, a hiking trail and a boat ramp into the Clark Fork. The pond’s sloping shore is ideal for fly-fishing lessons, and the proximity to

Rock Creek makes it a great backup for those crazy summer weekends when campgrounds like Norton and Harry’s Flat are full-up. These days Beavertail Hill even has two 18-foot tipis for rent that can sleep up to eight people. Just remember to bring a long leader. Most days I’ve been there, that pond is as smooth as glass. (Alex Sakariassen)

Painted Rocks State Park The West Fork Road just south of Darby offers enchanting scenery of pine forests, wildflower-speckled mountainsides and the white rapids of the Bitterroot River’s West Fork. But it’s when you begin to round the curves toward Painted Rocks State Park that the place starts to feel a little more like the canyon walls of a Southwest desert landscape. The tall, bare slabs of rock shine pink and orange in the sun and they’re also marked in green and yellow swaths of lichen, as if painted—thus the name. The view coming out of the mountains into the 23-acre park is striking. The Painted Rocks Reservoir, which was built in 1939, stretches across the West Fork Valley and in the spring and fall it’s a migration stop for all kinds of waterfowl, especially ducks and geese. Sometimes there are blue heron and kill-deer. Even on a rainy day, when a group of us decided to picnic on the shore, the place

seemed abuzz with wildlife. We laid out our food and drinks at a sheltered picnic table and vowed to come back again on a weekend when it was drier since there are 25 camp sites and endless opportunities on the water to boat, fish and swim. Still, a gray day at this state park isn’t a total loss. The contrasting light and shifting clouds play off the rock in fabulous ways, like a big outdoor cinema or moving canvas. Plus, when the weather gets old and it’s time for a change, the drive to Darby’s Bandit Brewery isn’t that far. (Erika Fredrickson)

Salmon Lake State Park “Baby, you a song/ You make me wanna roll my windows down and cruise.” The pop-country song echoed off the waters of Salmon Lake as a boat full of partying, bikini-clad college kids kept careening around the lake, blasting the same Florida Georgia Line song on repeat. Meanwhile, my best friend and I sat on the shore, sipping beers and soaking our feet, and it just kept getting more ridiculously funny every time the party boat rounded the corner again. “Down a back road blowin’ stop sings through the middle/ Every little farm town with you.” It was a beastly hot afternoon, and when I’d gotten off work earlier that day, I’d called explorer 2016

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Elise and told her to get in the car. We hit the road in search of the nearest cool body of water and Salmon Lake fit the bill. Salmon Lake State Park, which is south of Seeley Lake on Highway 83, offers the benefit of being far enough away from Missoula that it feels like a secluded mini-vacation, but it’s close enough that you can clock out at 5 p.m. and still jump into the water by 6. The lake itself is part of the Clearwater River chain, nestled between the Mission and Swan ranges, and includes campsites, public restrooms and a little hiking trail around the shoreline. Even on the busiest days, when families with young kids swarm the shoreline and boats cruise around the waters, it’s easy to find a secluded spot on the shore to dunk in the water and cool down, before retreating to a picnic table and adult beverages. Nothing can bother you at Salmon Lake—not even pop country. (Kate Whittle)

Council Grove State Park There were maybe 10 cars and a school bus in the parking lot when I pulled into

photo courtesy of Montana Office of Tourism

Council Grove State Park. Nonetheless, I felt like I had stumbled upon my own secret haven. The 187-acre woody area along the Clark Fork, just 10 miles out of Missoula off Mul-

lan Road, is shielded by dozens of old-growth ponderosa pine trees that lend a calm, quiet atmosphere. The park is day-use only, with a couple of picnic tables set up in the grass. And while there’s a

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vault toilet, visitors must pack out the rest of their trash. Council Grove State Park is where the Flathead Reservation was created, after the U.S. Government signed the Hellgate Treaty with the Salish, Kootenai and Pend d’Orielle tribes in 1855. There’s a memorial near the parking lot that includes the treaty text and interpretive panels written from the tribes’ perspective. My original impression of the place as a private sanctuary quickly changed to something more ambiguous, and I decided to take a walk. Crisscrossing the dirt paths, I came upon a woman taking wildlife photography, an older couple sitting by the river and an active osprey nest. Students from Frenchtown were in each corner of the park gripping nets and notepads as they learned about the outdoors. Educational cards, I noticed, were placed on the ground along one of the dirt paths. Some cards were scientific, but others simply encouraged contemplation. The first one I saw I had to bend over to read. It said, “Doesn’t it feel great to be alone?” (Derek Brouwer) 44

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Lost Creek State Park “Is this it?” I hadn’t even closed the car door before my kids had scampered up a paved path, out of sight but not earshot. My 7-year-old son screamed again: “Is this the only reason we came here?” Maybe you had to be there to get the humor. It was a fair question considering his quick run up the ADA-accessible trail covered all of maybe 50 yards. But, then again, he asked it as he stood at the bottom of Lost Creek Falls, surrounded by impressive gray limestone cliffs and pink and white granite formations rising 1,200 feet above the canyon’s narrow floor. In the distance there was the promise of mountain goats and big horn sheep, and a longer trail that hugs along Lost Creek and extends miles from the trailhead. Nobody else—not even another parked car—could be seen at the park. You know you’re raising a Montana kid when their first impression of this pristine setup is to ask, “Is this it?” Lost Creek State Park is well-known to those in and around Butte and Anaconda.

It’s a short drive from the latter, attracting day hikers and picnickers, as well as overnighters to the 25 designated campsites. I’m told during the summer it can get crowded, with fierce competition for car campers. In a lot of ways it reminds me of Bass Creek, the popular Bitterroot spot that also has a family-friendly trail not far from the campgrounds. After breaking it to my son and daughters that, no, this short path at the trailhead was not in fact “it,” we set off on the longer Forest Service trail to the north of the 50foot falls. This route circles around and above the falls before reaching back through forests and meadows. There are clear views of the surrounding mountains without ever leaving Lost Creek’s side. The kids jumped in the water while I scouted for wildlife. We’d gone more than 2 miles before my littlest, who’s 5, started complaining about sore legs and an empty stomach. It was another half mile or so later that I suggested we head back. “Already?” my son whined. “But there’s more to see.” (Skylar Browning) Q

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he first and only time I’ve journaled was during a cycling tour. The trip, also my first, was a May-June ride around Iceland’s Ring Road with two friends. The highway makes an 828-mile loop around the country, passing by glaciers, coastline, waterfalls and just about every village on the island. If that all sounds sublime, well, it was—at times. We had mapped every campsite and hostel along the route. We charted daily riding schedules. But we had no idea what we were getting into. I realized this in the first few hours of the four-week ride, while huddled behind an igneous rock at 4 a.m. to shield myself from the icy winds, too tired to carry on. The next day I crashed in a busy section of highway, a stream of cars zipping inches past my head. My first journal entry was written in a panic as I wondered if the trip would become a lesson in losing my dignity, or worse. The thought was cut short. “Can barely keep my eyes open,” I scribbled, and passed out. The route itself was cut short two days later, when the volcano Grímsvötn erupted about 60 miles up the road. Ash blotted out

photo by Cathrine L. Walters

the sky for days, and fears of glacial flooding closed down the highway. We ferried to a tiny island to wait it out, then decided to take a bus to the other side of the country. The ride went on, the weather eventually warmed, and the tone of my journal entries brightened.

I did lose some dignity along the way, but I also found moments of delight. They came in odd places, like cooking curry on a bathroom changing table, plunging into a natural hot springs in the evening and trading long sleeves for sunburn as summer finally arrived. Since that trip, I’ve come to see bike touring as something the opposite of epic, an activity that, while grueling at times, is more about riding with the breeze. And when the wind gets too strong, you duck out of the way. On the road, you can’t help but always be attuned. By this logic, the unique flavor of bike travel doesn’t require an exotic destination or even a lengthy adventure. It should just take a weekend. That was my thinking, anyway, when I decided to pack up my panniers and see how far off I could feel just a day’s ride from Missoula. It’s also the thinking behind the firstever National Bike Travel Weekend scheduled for this June 3-5, sponsored by Missoula’s Adventure Cycling Association as part of its 40th anniversary. The goal, Executive Director Jim Sayer said in announcing the event, is “to inspire new and experienced bike travelers alike.”

photo by Derek Brouwer

The organization has published an interactive online map of planned overnight trips and they’ve assembled a list of more than 200 volunteer “ambassadors,” including several in Montana, who riders can email with questions about routes, campsites and more. As of late April, nearly 6,500 participants around the country were signed up. For my recent trip, I had hoped to bike to Seeley Lake—to do a familiar weekend outing in an unfamiliar way. But heavy rains quickly upended that plan. With just one clear day to ride, I aimed instead for Lubrecht Experimental Forest, about 32 miles from my front door, where the campground could serve as a starting point for a weekend-long outing. Even though I wouldn’t be staying the night, I loaded up the bike with the requisite gear as a kind of early-season training ride. The route is simple: ride along Broadway out of Missoula, then turn onto 50

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Highway 200 at Bonner. Take note of the last Mountain Line bus station when leaving Bonner; there’s a bike workstand with tools next to it, in case anything feels out of tune once your gear is loaded up. Highway 200 is busy, but its wide shoulder makes for surprisingly stress-free riding. I’ve driven this stretch many times but hadn’t really appreciated how the landscape changes up the valley. The road snakes up the Blackfoot River before emptying into a lush valley that smells of cattle. After passing Potomac, which is basically just a gas station and bar, it’s a relatively easy climb to Lubrecht. The trip to the campground took me about 21/2 hours while riding a Trek 520 with about 20 pounds of camping equipment, food, tools and a change of clothes on the rear rack. The ride in gains around 900 feet in elevation. You’ll have to make reservations to use

the Lubrecht campground, but the facilities are worth it. Tiny cabins can sleep three people and cost $50. Campsites cost $10 per person per night and include the use of showers. The campground was empty when I arrived on a drizzly Sunday afternoon, except for the bluebird who watched me nibble on a Clif Bar. From Lubrecht, the Garnet ghost town is only 11 miles to the southeast, and Seeley Lake another 25 miles north. On this day, I had to turn around, cruising down the valley and stopping occasionally at fishing pull-outs to rest and listen to the river. On the way back home, be sure to stop in at Steel Toe Distillery (around the 10mile mark) for a taster of Uncle Carl’s Prohibition Whiskey. Sips are free, and a bottle can help nurse your sore legs once you make it home, so remember to leave some space in your panniers. Q

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FRIDAY JUNE 3 Spend some time “Where Montana Began,” in Stevensville. The First Friday of each month is celebrated with music, food and art. For more info visit mainstreetstevensville.com. Join Montana Audubon for their 17th annual bird festival, Wings Across the Big Sky. The three-day weekend offers speakers, field trips, educational presentations and a silent auction. At the Holiday Inn Downtown. Runs through Sun., June 5. For details visit mtaudubon.org. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Join the ZACC and other Northside/ Westside galleries for the First Friday Bike Challenge. Commute between galleries on the North and West side of Missoula and have a passport (provided at the venues) stamped. Return your full passport to the Clay Studio of Missoula to win prizes. At the

ZACC, enjoy the Conceptual Mixed Media art show featuring the art class of Hellgate High School. 235 N. 1st St. W. 5 PM Explore eight exhibitions and enjoy an artist gallery talk from Karen McAlister Shimoda. Her exhibit, Field Notes, is on display at the Missoula Art Museum, 5– 8 PM. Free. Christine Carbo reads from and signs her new book, Mortal Fall. Fact & Fiction, 220 N. Higgins. 5:30 PM. Free. Family Friendly Friday invites little ones to boogie to some live music while parental units kick back at the Top Hat. 6 PM. No cover. Bring an instrument or just kick back and enjoy the tunes at the Irish Music Session every Friday at the Union Club from 6– 9 PM. No cover. Texas blues-rock trio Los Lonely Boys bring some chili-hot rock to the Top Hat. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $30/$25 advance at tophatlounge.com.

SATURDAY JUNE 4 Missoula’s Farmer’s Market offers produce, flowers, plants and more. Several food and drink vendors are on hand to provide shopping sustenance and there’s usually live music. Every Saturday through October, 8 AM–12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market features vendors offering local produce and meats as well as hot coffee and prepared foods. Music starts at 10:30 under the Higgins Bridge. 8 AM–1 PM every Saturday through October. The Pengelly Double Dip is a challenging half-marathon with 2,700 feet of elevation up and down Mount Sentinel. Also feature the 10K Single Dip and the new 5-mile Vertical Dip. $30–$45 at runwildmissoula.org. Matt Prescott reads from and signs his new work, A Thousand Yesterdays. Fact & Fiction downtown, 10:30 AM. Free.

The White Buffalo bring their brucellosis-free sound to the Top Hat Tuesday, June 14. Doors at 8PM show at 9PM. $16-18.

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The Los Lonely Boys bring their Tex-Mex tunes to the Top Hat Friday, June 3. Doors at 9 PM and show at 10 PM. Tickets $25-30.

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Phillip Phillips, the modern-day boy named Sue, showcases his “American Idol” sound at the Big Sky Brewery on Tuesday, June 21, at 6 PM. $35-$45.

SUNDAY JUNE 5 The Audubon’s festival, Wings Across the Big Sky continues. For details visit mtaudubon.org. The Missoula Marathon running class is designed for beginning to advanced runners. Meet every Sunday morning at 8 AM, Run Wild Missoula in the basement of the Runner’s Edge, 304 N. Higgins. $100. If accordion is your thing, head over to the Northwest Montana Accordion Association Jam at the Polson Elks Lodge. 2–5:30 PM. For info call 883-1695. Jazz Martini night offers live, local jazz and $5 martinis every Sunday night at the Badlander. 9 PM. No cover.

MONDAY JUNE 6

Sip a fancy soda for a cause at Moscow Monday at the Montgomery Missoula Independent explorer 2016

Distillery, 129 W. Front St. A dollar from every drink sold is donated to a cause each week. Family friendly, noon–8 PM. Aaron “B-Rocks” Broxterman hosts karaoke at the Dark Horse Bar. 9 PM. Free.

TUESDAY JUNE 7 Let’s hope this workshop lives up to its title. How to Do Business Video That Doesn’t Suck aims to teach you everything you need to know to capitalize on the mobile video trend. The Loft of Missoula, 9 AM–5 PM. To apply go to growthshop.co/register Draught Works Brewing’s Cheers for Charity night supports a local charity or nonprofit. Every Tuesday the Northside brew pub donates 50 cents of each pint sold between 5 PM and closing time. Improv Anonymous meets the first Tuesday of every month in the Missoula Pub-

lic Library’s large meeting room at 5:30 PM. Free. Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. You can find the upcoming trip posted at facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. Various locations, 6 PM. Learn the two-step and more at Country Dance Lessons at the Hamilton Senior Center, from 7–8:30 PM. $5. Bring a partner. Call 381-1392 for more info. Show off your big brain at Quizzoula trivia night, every Tuesday at the VFW, 245 W. Main St. Current events, picture round and more. 8:30 PM. Free. Mike Avery hosts the Music Showcase every Tuesday, featuring some of Missoula’s finest musical talent. At the Badlander, 9 PM to 1 AM. To sign up, email michael.avery@live.com.

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WEDNESDAY JUNE 8 Out to Lunch features the Big Sky Mudflaps in the river front setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. Every Wednesday through August, 11 AM–2 PM. Free. Visit missouladowntown.com for a schedule of performers. The Missoula Marathon running class is designed for beginning to advanced runners. Every Wednesday at 6 PM, Run Wild Missoula in the basement of the Runner’s Edge, 304 N. Higgins. $100. Win big bucks off your bar tab and/or free pitchers by answering trivia questions at Brains on Broadway Trivia Night at the Broadway Sports Bar and Grill, 1609 W. Broadway Ave. 7 PM.

Get up onstage at VFW’s open mic, with a different host each week. Half-price whiskey might help loosen up those nerves. 8 PM. Free. Get your yodel polished up for rockin’ country karaoke night, every Wed. at the Sunrise Saloon. 9 PM. Free. Kraptastic Karaoke indulges your need to croon, belt and warble at the Badlander, 9 PM, no cover.

THURSDAY JUNE 9 Downtown ToNight is an evening of live music, featuring Gladys Friday, and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM, every Thursday through August. Visit missoula downtown.com for more info.

The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club meets the second Thursday of each month. This month the discussion focuses on The Gaia Effect. Community Room, 6– 7:30 PM. Free and open to the public. Missoula novelist Gwen Florio reads from and signs copies of Disgraced, her new book featuring Lola Wicks. Shakespeare & Co., 7 PM. Free. Open mic with Cheree is back at the Eagles Lodge. Singer-songwriters can try out their stuff onstage. Every Thu., starts at 8:30 PM. For a time-slot text 406396-5934. Local rockers Pale People host a residency at the Palace, where they’ll invite a rotating cast of musical and artistic characters to join them onstage. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. No cover.

Grant Farm bring their joyful roots rock to the Top Hat Sat., June 11. Doors at 9:30 PM, show at 10. $5.

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The Growlers make a stop on their Wet Dreams summer tour to lay some psychedelic surf rock on you at the Top Hat Tue., June 21. Doors at 7:30 PM, show at 8. $20/$17 advance at tophatlounge.com.

FRIDAY JUNE 10 Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free.

SATURDAY JUNE 11 Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM. Missoula-grown hip hop artist OverTime 62

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returns on his 5th U.S. tour to finish things off in his hometown. Monk’s Bar, Doors at 9:00 PM, show at 10. $10 at overtimemusic.com. Grant Farm bring their joyful roots rock to the Top Hat. Doors at 9:30 PM, show at 10. $5.

SUNDAY JUNE 12 The 18-piece Ed Norton Big Band puts some swing in the month’s second Sunday when they play the Missoula Winery, 5646 Harrier Way, 6–8 PM. $7. Polish your steps with $5 swing lessons

at 4:45 PM. Visit missoulawinery.com.

TUESDAY JUNE 14 Get those thumbs limbered up! The Official MPL Gamers Club meets to play Wii and Xbox 360 in the YA dept. at the Missoula Public Library. Ages 13–19, 6:30 PM. Try to hang on when Blue October from San Marcos, Texas, fill the room with their melodic, emotional tunes. At the Wilma with Austin’s Danny Malone. Doors at 6:30 PM, show at 7:30. $29 at thewilma.com.

Summer Programs Daily guided tours att 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturda t ay Trekker Kids program ms at 11 a.m.

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Slightly Stoopid return to Missoula for a big summertime show at Big Sky Brewing Co. Wed., June 22. Also Soja, Zion I, The Grouch and Eligh. Doors at 5 PM, show at 6:30. $36 at ticketweb.com.

The White Buffalo return to Missoula for a night of gritty country-rock at the Top Hat. Doors at 8 PM, show at 9. $18/$16 at tophatlounge.com.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 15 Out to Lunch features the music of The Salamanders & The Retro-Tones in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. Local singer/songwriter Aran Buzzas plays a blend of honk tonk and folk originals he calls folky-tonk. Check him out at Great Burn Brewing, 6–8 PM. Free. Win big bucks off your bar tab and/or free pitchers by answering trivia questions at Brains on Broadway Trivia Night at the Broadway Sports Bar and Grill, 1609 W. Broadway Ave. 7 PM. Michael J. Dax reads from and signs copies of his new book, Grizzly West. Fact & Fiction downtown, 7 PM. Free. Get your yodel polished up for rockin’ country karaoke night, every Wed. at the Sunrise Saloon. 9 PM. Free. 64

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Kraptastic Karaoke indulges your need to croon, belt and warble at the Badlander, 9 PM, no cover.

THURSDAY JUNE 16 Downtown ToNight features the music of Marshall Catch, mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30– 8:30 PM..

auction and dancing on Main St. Friday, and a parade, wagon rides, beer garden and food court on Saturday. Stevensville. Call 777-3773 for details. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free.

Rachel Toor reads from and signs copies of her new work, Misunderstood. Fact & Fiction downtown, 7 PM. Free.

Help Big Sky Brewing Co. celebrate 21 years of pumping out tasty local beer. Music, food and of course beer at Caras Park. 4–10 PM Free.

FRIDAY JUNE 17

SATURDAY JUNE 18

Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime twowheeled adventure with an eye-opening twist? Check out the Summer Session Climate Ride, a 1,200-mile bike trek from Portland to Santa Barbara. It’s a charitable ride that also checks in on the work being done by bike advocacy groups. The trip is June 17–July 10. For info visit climateride.org.

Run free at the monthly dance at the American Legion Hall, 825 Ronan St., with tunes from the Wild Coyote Band. 7–11 PM. $7. Call 240-9617 to learn more.

Celebrate your Bitterroot roots with Western Heritage Days, featuring a Calcutta

The 55th annual Belt PRCA Rodeo features two days of bareback riding, steer wrestling, mutton busting and all that other rodeo goodness. Belt is 20 miles east of Great Falls on Highway 87. Check beltrodeo.com for schedules and details.

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SPOTLIGHT

ru n w i ld

There comes a time every spring in Missoula when certain friends stop coming with you to the brewery and hanging out late on the weekend. While many locals take advantage of the nicer weather by indulging in outdoor patios and IPAs, a segment of the population turns serious, focused and determined. They disappear for long stretches. They talk more about diet. Casual conversation almost always includes mention of mileage or, more often than not, the latest aches and pains. WHAT: Missoula Marathon and HalfMarathon WHEN: Sunday, July 10 HOW MUCH: $95 marathon/$85 half-marathon through June 14 MORE INFO: missoulamarathon.org

We’re talking about runners—and, specifically, those overachieving friends who start training months and months in advance to conquer the Missoula Marathon and Half-Marathon. Whether they’re competing for time or just to finish, these fleet-footed fanatics increasingly use their weekends to push toward reaching 8, 12, 16 and, eventually, 26.2 miles. The weirdest thing about this seasonal phenomenon is that those runners make it all sound so easy. Well, maybe not always easy—those aches and pains are real—but at least worth it. They speak with pride about accomplishing a training goal or exude a sense of belonging after attending a training diet class at Good Food Store. They talk about

photo by Cathrine L. Walters

where friends will be cheering them on along the picturesque course and how much beer they’re going to drink after crossing the finish line on Higgins Avenue. They never fail to mention the usual caveats—if I stay healthy, if I finish—but never in a way that suggests actual failure. And the more these friends talk, the more we tend to get the creeping feeling that, yes, we too could make this happen. There’s a reason the Missoula Marathon contin-

Celebrate your Bitterroot roots with Western Heritage Days, featuring a Calcutta auction and dancing on Main St. Friday, and a parade, wagon rides, beer garden and food court on Saturday. Stevensville. Call 777-3773 for details. Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

Here’s the chance for the little ones to catch a big one. The Silver Lagoon Fishing Derbies offer prizes for kids of all abilities. Fishing rods are limited, bring your own if you can. 9–11 AM at Silver Lagoon next to Currents in McCormick Park. Kids 12 and over need a license. $1 entry fee. Missoula Independent explorer 2016

ues to be such a success. The organization and local support have always been present, but there’s also the cult-like following that seems to suck more and more newbies into the fold every year. If that includes you, we get it (and we’ll go ahead and mention that— nudge, nudge—registration is still open). Q

—Skylar Browning

SUNDAY JUNE 19

TUESDAY JUNE 21

All MAM supporters are invited to attend the ceremony for Daniel and Sophia Lambros, MAM supporters for 40 years. Drinks, food and live music. RSVP to alison@missoulaartmuseum.org or call 728-0447 before June 19.

The Missoula Marathon running class is designed for beginning to advanced runners. Meet every Sunday morning at 8 AM, Run Wild Missoula, basement of the Runner’s Edge, 304 N. Higgins. $100. Join Community Harmony, a monthly gathering for the yoga community, every third Sunday. This month Brian leads a discussion on the history of a sequence of uplifting postures. Inner Harmony Yoga, 214 E. Main. 5:30–7 PM.

Draught Works Brewing’s Cheers for Charity night supports a local charity or nonprofit. Every Tuesday the Northside brew pub donates 50 cents of each pint sold between 5 PM and closing time. Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. You can find the upcoming trip posted at facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. Various locations, 6 PM. continued on page 72

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$…Under $5 • $–$$…$5–$15 $$–$$$…$15 and over Alcan Bar and Grill 16780 Beckwith St. Frenchtown 626-9930 Tantalize your taste buds with Angus beef burgers, chicken strips, shrimp, and biscuits and gravy from Alcan Bar & Grill. With more than 20 years of experience and 10 years in the business, we have been offering fresh meals and beverages at the area's most competitive prices. Our friendly professionals offer personalized service and make sure you leave our restaurant as one of our friends. We offer a variety of specials for ladies’ night and sports events featuring drink specials and free food. Contact us today and enjoy our incredible menu selection. 9am–2am Mon-Sun. $ Biga Pizza 241 W. Main St. 728-2579 • bigapizza.com Biga Pizza offers a modern, downtown dining environment combined with traditional brick-oven pizza, calzones, salads, sandwiches, specials and desserts. All dough is made using a “biga” (pronounced bee-ga) which is a time-honored Italian method of bread making. Biga Pizza uses local products, the freshest produce as well as artisan meats and cheeses. Featuring seasonal menus. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. Beer & Wine available. $-$$

Missoula Independent

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Brooks & Browns 200 S. Pattee St. 532-2056 The best patio in town is open! Happy Hour daily 47pm and all day Sunday. Martini Mania with $4 martinis every Monday, burger & beer special $8 every Tuesday, $2 well drinks & $2 PBR tall boys every Wednesday and Big Brains Trivia every Thursday at 8pm. Live Music most Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. Have you discovered Brooks & Browns? Inside the Holiday Inn, Downtown Missoula $-$$ Burns Street Bistro 1500 Burns St. • 543-0719 burnsstbistro.com We cook the freshest local ingredients as a matter of pride. Our relationship with local farmers, ranchers and other businesses allows us to bring quality, scratch cooking and fresh-brewed Black Coffee Roasting Co. coffee and espresso to Missoula’s Historic Westside neighborhood. Handmade breads & pastries, soups, salads & sandwiches change with the seasons, but our commitment to delicious food does not. Mon-Fri 7am - 2pm. Sat/Sun Brunch 9am 2pm. Dinners on Fri & Sat nights 5 - 9 PM. $-$$ Butterfly Herbs 232 N. Higgins • 728-8780 butterflyherbs.com Celebrating 44 years of great coffees and teas. Truly the “essence of Missoula.” Offering fresh coffees, teas (Evening in Missoula), bulk spices and botanicals, fine toiletries & gifts. Our cafe features homemade soups, fresh sal-

ads, and coffee ice cream specialties. In the heart of historic downtown, we are Missoula’s first and favorite Espresso Bar. Open 7 Days. $ Doc’s Gourmet Sandwiches 214 N. Higgins Ave. • 542-7414 docsgourmet.com Doc’s is an extremely popular gathering spot for diners who appreciate the great ambiance, personal service and generous sandwiches made with the freshest ingredients. Delivery in the greater Missoula area. We also offer custom catering...everything from gourmet appetizers to all of our menu items! $-$$ Eagles Lodge #32 Missoula 2420 South Ave. • 543-6346 foe32.com Join us for lunch Monday thru Friday from 11am - 2:30pm, full menu with daily specials. Thursday night Matadors or BBQ & Friday night Burgers, 6-8p both nights. Live music Friday & Saturday nights from 8p-1a - NO COVER. Tailgate with us before each Griz home game and get a FREE ride to the game on our shuttle. $ Five Guys Burgers & Fries 820 E. Broadway 830-3262 • fiveguys.com Five Guys gives you exactly what our name suggests: burgers and fries. Burger-lovers come here for the best burgers and fries in town. If you have a hankering for an amazing burger and world-class French fries, Five Guys is your place. $-$$

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student ID and $6 for all others. Children under 10 eat free. Join us from 11:30 - 12:30 M-F for delicious food and great conversation. $

Hob Nob on Higgins 531 S. Higgin 541-4622 hobnobonhiggins.com Come visit our friendly staff & experience Missoula’s best little breakfast & lunch spot. All our food is made from scratch. We feature homemade corn beef hash, sourdough pancakes, sandwiches, salads, espresso & desserts. MC/V $-$$

The Mustard Seed Asian Cafe Southgate Mall • 542-7333 mustardseedweb.com Contemporary Asian fusion cuisine. Original recipes and fresh ingredients combine the best of Japanese, Chinese, Polynesian, and Southeast Asian influences.Award-winning desserts made fresh daily, local and regional microbrews, fine wines & signature cocktails. Vegetarian and gluten-free menu available. Takeout & delivery. $$-$$$

Market on Front 201 E. Front St. • 541-0246 marketonfront.com The Market on Front is more than a market with a restaurant. It is an energetic marketplace which offers an epicurean experience to excite the senses. It is also an energetic, vibrant marketplace creating an opportunity to taste and take home the products of artisans who create excellent products at awesome prices. This community-centered specialty food destination features gourmet yet traditional prepared foods, sandwiches, salads, specialty cheeses, charcuterie, local brews, wines and espresso, and so much more! MonSat: 7am-9pm. Sun: 8am-7pm. $-$$ Missoula Senior Center 705 S. Higgins Ave. (on the hip strip) 543-7154 • themissoulaseniorcenter.org The Missoula Senior Center serves delicious hearty lunches every weekday for only $4 for those on the Nutrition Program, $5 for U of M Students with a valid

Orange Street Food Farm 701 South Orange St. 543-3188 orangestreetfoodfarm.com We LOVE food!!! Voted number one in all kinds of ways. Fried chicken, fresh meat, great produce, vegan, gluten-free, all-natural, a HUGE beer and wine selection, and ROCKIN' music. What deal will you find today? $-$$$ Paul's Pancake Parlor 2305 Brooks • 728-9071 (Tremper's Shopping Center) Our famous breakfast is served all day! Try one of our 18 different varieties of pancakes or an omelet, crepes, waffles and all kinds of breakfast specials. Check out our home-cooked lunch and dinner specials. Monday is all-you-can-eat spaghetti and Wednesday is turkey night with all the trimmings. Eat in or take-out. Mon-Fri 6am-7pm, Sat/Sun 6:30am-4pm. $-$$

Pearl Cafe 231 E. Front St. 541-0231 • pearlcafe.us Country French meets the Northwest. Idaho trout with Alaskan king crab, duckling with pomegranate cherry sauce, Angus beef, fresh seafood specials daily. House-made charcuterie, sourdough bread & delectable desserts. Extensive wine list; 18 wines by the glass and local beers on draft. Reservations recommended for the intimate dining areas. Visit our website to check out our nightly specials, make reservations, or buy gift certificates. Open Mon-Sat at 5:00. $$-$$$ Qdoba Mexican Grill 1001 E Broadway Eastgate Plaza • 549-0020 Enjoy authentic Mexican food at Qdoba, custom burritos, tacos & more, including health-oriented options. Conveniently located in Eastgate Plaza close to UM. Delivery available, charges may apply. $ Red’s Bar Home of “Dead Pecker Row” DPR Inc. 127 Ryman • 728-9881 • redsbar.net Red's has a huge sports memorabilia collection including the largest football helmet collection in the state as well as two full-service bars, 14 HI-DEF TVs, keno-poker games, AND an Official Montana Lottery Terminal to accommodate our patrons. Come on down, support your favorite team. Have a good time with your friends, family, & acquaintances at Red's Bar, Missoula's Sport's Bar since 1952. $-$$

Your Local Neighborhood Deli 2106 Clements Rd Missoula, MT 59804 406-721-3322 www.thetroughmissoula.com

Sandwiches * Soups * Salads * Coffee Pastries * Ice Cream * Smoothies explorer 2016

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The Stone of Accord 4951 N. Reserve St. • 830-3210 stoneofaccord.com Serving Award Winning Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinners 7 days a week! All of your favorite Irish classics, plus a daily selection of specialties. A full bar, wine and liquor store and the Emerald Casino make The Stone of Accord the perfect place for an enjoyable meal. 11:00am-10:00pm. $-$$ Sushi Hana 403 N. Higgins • 549-7979 sushimissoula.com Montana’s original sushi bar. We offer the best sushi and Japanese cuisine in town. Casual atmosphere. Plenty of options for non-sushi eaters including daily special items you won’t find anywhere else. $1 Specials Mon & Wed. Lunch Mon–Sat; Dinner Daily. Sake, Beer, & Wine. Visit our website for full menu. $$-$$$ The Trough 721-3322 thetroughmissoula.com Hidden gem in Target Range neighborhood. Upscale deli offering a unique selection of breakfast items, coffee, cold sandwiches, grilled Panini's, soups, salads and more, created by professional chefs. Whether it be a catered event, a hosted party, breakfast, lunch or just tonight's dinner for a busy family, we are here for you. Open daily at 2106 Clements Rd, just down from the big cow. $-$$

WESTERN MONTANA Belton Chalet Dining & Taproom 12575 Highway 2 East, West Glacier • 406-888-5000 beltonchalet.com Chef Melissa arouses taste buds with her imaginative and inventive dishes that delight any palate, using local organic seasonal ingredients to create fine Montana cuisine the Belton way. Gluten, vegetarian, nightly specials, distinctive wine list, innovative cocktails, outside seating and breathtaking views of Glacier National Park. Creating an experience as unique as the Belton Chalet! Visit our website to view menus. 7days per week ~ Taproom 3-8pm ~ Dining Room 5-9pm $$-$$$ Bison Inn Cafe Ravalli, MT • 406-745-0997 Enjoy a full breakfast and lunch menu at the Bison Inn Cafe - famous for our hand-pressed 100% pure Bison Burgers, Huckleberry Shakes and Hard Ice Cream! And try our world-famous Clam Chowder and Authentic Indian Tacos. Located at the entrance to the Mission Valley, stop in for a classic roadtrip diner experience. Wi-Fi, ATM, gift shop, overnight parking available. Open daily at 8am-3pm. $-$$ Bitter Root Brewing 101 Marcus St., Hamilton 363-7468 bitterrootbrewing.com Bitter Root Brewing is open 7 days a week serving delicious microbrews and tasty

handcrafted food. Live music EVERY Thursday and Saturday from 6-8:30pm. Check out our website or find us on Facebook for upcoming events, menus, and other information. Cheers! $-$$ Flathead Lake Cheese 208 1st Ave E, Polson 406-883-0343 flatheadlakecheese.com Down at the south end of Flathead Lake, you’ll find our little solar-powered Creamery by the Bay. Handcrafted artisanal cheeses made 300 gallons at a time. We offer several flavors of curds, Notzarella, Feta and a variety of aged cheeses. Sample our cheeses at the Saturday Missoula Farmer’s Market. $$ River Rising Bakery 337 Main St., Hamilton 363-4552 riverrisingbakery.com Hamilton's favorite bakery, deli, and espresso bar. Serving all-butter pastries, delicious and nutritious muffins, cream scones, and delectable desserts. Or choose from our selection of homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches found nowhere else. Open 6:30am-5:30pm Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm Saturday, 8:00am2:00pm Sunday. Weekday local business lunch delivery available 9:00am-1:00pm. $-$$

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217 Ryman St 728-9881

www.redsbar.net MISSOULA’S SPORTS BAR SINCE 1952 Montana’s Largest Football Helmet Collection

KENO POKER ATM

14 Hi-Def TVs Official Montana Lottery Terminal

PAC12, SEC, BIG TEN Networks NFL Sunday Ticket ESPN College Extra March Madness explorer 2016

MLB Extra Innings NBA League Pass ESPN Full Court NHL Center Ice Missoula Independent

Widespread Panic overtake Missoula at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field Wed., June 29. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7. $40/$45 advance at MSO Hub.

Phillip Phillips of “American Idol” fame brings his melodic pop to Big Sky Brewing with Matt Nathanson. Doors at 5 PM, show at 6. $35–$45 at ticketweb.com Learn some fascinating facts about exotic insects while quaffing a cold oat soda at Bugs and Brews. Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium hosts the event monthly. $5 includes admission and two drink tickets. 6:30–8:30 PM. For more info visit missoulabutterflyhouse.org. The Growlers make a stop on their Wet Dreams summer tour to lay some psychedelic surf rock on you at the Top Hat. Doors at 7:30 PM, show at 8. $20/$17 advance at tophatlounge.com.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 22 Out to Lunch features the music of the Ed Norton Big Band in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free.

Slightly Stoopid return to Missoula for a big summertime show at Big Sky Brewing Co. Also Soja, Zion I, The Grouch and Eligh. Doors at 5 PM, show at 6:30. $36 at ticketweb.com. Missoula Independent explorer 2016

Tell Us Something rounds up eight–10 storytellers to share their personal stories from memory. Stories are ten minutes, based on the theme “Bad Advice.” Doors at 6 PM, show at 7. $10/$8 advance at thewilma.com.

THURSDAY JUNE 23 Downtown ToNight features the music of Black Mountain Moan, mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM. Ted Ness and the Rusty Nails complete a perfect Montana summer day with some homegrown bluegrass at the Top Hat. 10 PM. Free.

FRIDAY JUNE 24 Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Check out youth events like mutton bustin’ and mini bull riding at the Mission Mountain NRA Rodeo. Polson Fairgrounds, 6:30 PM.

Bring your techno/house/dance-loving friends out for Foxy Friday, featuring a rotating cast of DJs. Every fourth Thursday at the Badlander. 10 PM, no cover.

SATURDAY JUNE 25 Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM. Check out youth events like mutton bustin’ and mini bull riding at the Mission Mountain NRA Rodeo. Polson Fairgrounds, 6:30 PM. Runners will get down and dirty, up and over, through and around, and in all the way to their necks at the third annual Great Divide Mucker. It’ll be a filthy-good time. Great Divide Ski Area, Marysville. $50 pre-registration. Visit montanamucker.com for complete information.

SUNDAY JUNE 26 Western Union play authentic Texas swing at the Missoula Winery every fourth Sunday of the month. 5646 W. Harrier. 6–8 PM. $7.

Enjoy the No Pads, No Blazers Comedy Hour every fourth Sunday of the month at the VFW, at 8 PM. Includes half-off drink specials. $3 sugg. donation.

TUESDAY JUNE 28 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for a hike or bike facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM. Built to Spill return to Missoula with Toy Zoo. The Badlander, doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $25/$22.50 advance at ticketfly.com.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 29 The Arlee Powwow is a six-day celebration with ceremonies and competitions to honor Native American elders and traditions. Powwow Road at the south end of Arlee. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules. Out to Lunch features the music of Off in the Woods in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. The Missoula City Band, performs

a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park. 8 PM. Free. Widespread Panic overtakes Missoula at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7. $40/$45 advance at MSO Hub.

THURSDAY JUNE 30 Check out Bicycle Eclectic, the exhibit of photos by Greg Siple that includes shots from a bike trip from Alaska to Argenitna. Missoula Art Museum, free. The Arlee Powwow continues. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules. Downtown ToNight features the music of Full Grown Band, mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Free. 5:30– 8:30 PM. It’s been 40 years, and I just realized those spaceships on the album cover are guitars. Boston brings their reunion tour to Big Sky Brewing, promising to play all the hits. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7:30. $50/$49.50 advance at ticketweb.com.

0W_ aW] \_MISML aW]Z JIKS Q[ aW]Z J][QVM[[ /M\\QVO ZQL WN \PM XIQV Q[ W]Z[ Bare Naked Ladies bring their Last Summer on Earth tour to the Big Sky Brewing amphitheater Fri., July 15. Doors 5:30 PM, show at 7. $40 general admission at ticketweb.com or knitting factory.com.

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String Cheese Incident come to town for back-to-back shows at Big Sky Brewing Wed. and Thu., July 20-21. Doors at 5:30 PM, show at 7. $60/$49.95 advance at knittingfactory.com.

FRIDAY JULY 1 Spend some time “Where Montana Began,” in Stevensville. The First Friday of each month is celebrated with music, food and art. For more info visit mainstreetstevensville.com. The Arlee Powwow continues. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free.

SATURDAY JULY 2 The Arlee Powwow continues. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules

Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the Missoula Independent explorer 2016

north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

SUNDAY JULY 3 The Arlee Powwow continues. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules

MONDAY JULY 4 The Arlee Powwow continues. Check arleepowwow.com for details and schedules It just wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without the big fireworks show at Southgate Mall. Why not give the neighborhood pets a break and leave the pyrotechnics to the pros this year? Southgate Mall parking lot, featuring the Missoula City Band. 9:30 PM. Free.

TUESDAY JULY 5 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

WEDNESDAY JULY 6 Out to Lunch features the music of Gladys Friday in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free.

THURSDAY JULY 7 Best of Missoula takes over Downtown

The Church join eighties post-punk heroes Psychedelic Furs for a night of dreamy new wave nostalgia at the Wilma Thu., July 28. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $39.50/$29.50 advance at thewilma.com.

ToNight. Music will be provided by the bands selected by the Missoula Independent’s readers as the best in Missoula.The evening will feature mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM, every Thursday through August. Visit missoula downtown.com for a list of performers.

FRIDAY JULY 8 The Missoula Marathon returns with a full marathon, half-marathon, 5K and kids’ marathon. $10–$125, register at missoulamarathon.org. (See Spotlight.)

Montana Folk Festival, a three-day celebration of some of the best music from artists all over the country. Workshops, ethnic food and one of Montana’s most historic cities provide for an excellent summer experience. Oh, and it’s free. For info visit montanafolkfestival.com. Missoula Independent explorer 2016

Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Portland folk-rock alchemists Blitzen Trapper grace the stage at the Top Hat. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $18/$16 advance at tophatlounge.com.

SATURDAY JULY 9 The Missoula Marathon returns with a full marathon, half-marathon, 5K and kids’ marathon. $10–$125, register at missoulamarathon.org. Montana Folk Festival continues. For info visit montanafolkfestival.com. Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

SUNDAY JULY 10 The Missoula Marathon returns with a full marathon, half marathon, 5K and kids’ marathon. $10–$125, register at missoulamarathon.org. Montana Folk Festival continues. For info visit montanafolkfestival.com. The 18-piece Ed Norton Big Band puts some swing in the month’s second Sunday when they play the Missoula Winery, 5646 Harrier Way, 6–8 PM. $7. Polish your steps with $5 swing lessons at 4:45 PM. Visit missoulawinery.com.

TUESDAY JULY 12 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

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Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area operates the Route of the Hiawatha under a special use permit from the USFS

Get those thumbs limbered up! The Official MPL Gamers Club meets to play Wii and Xbox 360 in the YA dept. at the Missoula Public Library. Ages 13– 19, 6:30 PM. Chad Dundas reads from and signs copies of Champion of the World, his new historical fiction work about pro wrestling in the 1920s. Shakespeare & Co., 7 PM.

WEDNESDAY JULY 13 The 10th International Choral Festival returns to Missoula, with four days of vocal groups from all over the world. Event kicks off at Out to Lunch on Wed., July 13. Admission button gets you into all events. $20 at choralfestival.org. Out to Lunch features the music of the International Choral Festival in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more

than 20 vendors.11 AM–2 PM. Free. Steve Kimock has turned the tables on his American rock style to create freeflowing songs using electronics and experimental guitar textures. Check him out at the Wilma with Missoula favorite Jerry Joseph. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $30/$25 advance at thewilma.com. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free.

THURSDAY JULY 14 The 10th International Choral Festival returns to Missoula. Admission button gets you into all events. $20 at choralfestival.org. Downtown ToNight features the music of The Bent Bones and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden.

Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM. The Bitterroot Public Library’s Fellowship Club meets the second Thursday of each month. This month the discussion focuses on The Gaia Effect: The Remarkable System of Collaboration between Gaia and Humanity by Monika Muranyi. Community Room, 6–7:30 PM. Free and open to the public. The rewards & challenges of bicycle touring in Baja are featured in a presentation by Nicholas Carman and Lael Wilcox. Free Cycles Missoula, 7–9 PM. Free. RSVP by emailing bpetersen@adventurecycling.org or call Beth at 721-1776. Local rockers Pale People host a residency at the Palace every second Thursday, where they’ll invite a rotating cast of musical and artistic characters to join them onstage. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. No cover.

Couchin’ it. Heartless Bastards, along with ESKMO, Dead Hipster, Miller Creek and many others play the Bearmouth Music Festival in Haugan, June 19-21. Visit bearmouthmusic fest.com.

549-6106 • 422 Madison • Missoula • www.gcpm-mt.com 79

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Missoula Independent

Grizzly Property Management, Inc. “Let us tend your den”

Since 1995, where tenants and landlords call home. 2205 South Avenue West • 542-2060 • grizzlypm.com

Missoula Independent

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FRIDAY JULY 15 Adventure Cycling celebrates the 40th anniversary of its founding event, Bikecentennial. The three-day weekend includes parties, speakers, music, art, film, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly minted Missoula to Lolo Trail, bike rides along the Bitterroot Trail and Bikecentennial 76 reunions. Sunday Streets and BIKEapalooza, a community bike ride around Missoula, round out the celebration. For details and a schedule of events visit adventurecycling.org. The 10th International Choral Festival returns to Missoula. Admission button gets you into all events. $20 at choralfestival.org. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Enjoy a reception honoring Bikecentennial founders Greg and June Siple and Dan and Lys Burden. Films presented by Laura Crawford and Russ Roca with The Path Less Pedaled. Also enjoy a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, and live music by Ben Sollee. University Center Ballroom, 4:30–7 PM. $30.

Bare Naked Ladies bring their Last Summer on Earth tour to the Big Sky Brewing amphitheater with Howard Jones and OMD. Doors 5:30 PM, show at 7. $40 general admission at ticketweb.com or knittingfactory.com. Cycling nut Ben Sollee’s music has been compared to that of Nickel Creek and the Punch Brothers. See for yourself when he plays the Top Hat, part of Adventure Cycling Association’s Montana Bicycle Celebration. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $15/$12 advance at tophatlounge.com.

SATURDAY JULY 16 Adventure Cycling celebrates the 40th anniversary of its founding event, Bikecentennial. The three-day weekend includes parties, speakers, music, art, film, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly minted Missoula to Lolo Trail, bike rides along the Bitterroot Trail and Bikecentennial 76 reunions. Sunday Streets and BIKEapalooza, a community bike ride around Missoula, round out the celebration. For details and a schedule of events visit adventurecycling.org.

The 10th International Choral Festival returns to Missoula. Admission button gets you into all events. $20 at choralfestival.org. Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM. Bike the completed Lolo-to-Missoula trail after a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Senator Jon Tester and Governor Steve Bullock. Travelers’ Rest State Park, noon. Free. The Montana Bicycle Celebration Expo features bike demos, bicycle nonprofits, cycling services and products, food vendors, activities for people of all ages and live entertainment. Silver Park, 2–5 PM. Free. The Missoula Bicycle Celebration hits its peak at a dinner featuring a cash bar, music by Mark Baker, and speakers Erick Cedeño, Lael Wilcox & Willie Weir. Holiday Inn Downtown, 5:30–9 PM. $60 at adventurecycling.org.

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Missoula Independent

Josh Ritter and the Royal City Band share the stage with JJ Grey and Mofro for a big rock show at the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $45/$35 advance at thewilma.com. You wanted the best, you got the best! But you’ll have to drive to Bozeman to see KISS on their Freedom to Rock Tour, with opener Caleb Johnson. Brick Breeden Fieldhouse, 8 PM. $55–$125 at ticketswest.com.

SUNDAY JULY 17 Adventure Cycling celebrates the 40th anniversary of its founding with Bikecentennial. Sunday Streets and BIKEapalooza, a community bike ride around Missoula, round out the celebration. For details and a schedule of events visit adventurecycling.org.

TUESDAY JULY 19 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

WEDNESDAY JULY 20 The Art Associates of Missoula meets the third Wed. of the month in the Education Center of the Missoula Art Museum at 10 AM. This month experimental artist Pam Caughey shares her art and process. Free and open to the public. For more info call Susie at 544-0891. Out to Lunch features the music of Zeppo Blues in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. Double the cheese, double the fun. The String Cheese Incident comes to town for back-to-back shows at Big Sky Brewing. Doors at 5:30 PM, show at 7. $60/$49.95 advance at knittingfactory.com. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free. 82

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THURSDAY JULY 21 Downtown ToNight features the music of Luke Dowler and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM.. Double the cheese, double the fun. The String Cheese Incident comes to town for back-to-back shows at Big Sky Brewing. Doors at 5:30 PM, show at 7. $60/$49.95 advance at knittingfactory.com.

FRIDAY JULY 22 Rodeo comes to Northwest Montana at the Tobacco Valley Rodeo. Lincoln County Fairgrounds in Eureka. For info visit lcfairmontana.com. Daly Days is a two-day celebration of Hamilton’s founder, copper king Marcus Daly. Activities include a street dance, car show, games, music, art exhibits, pony rides and of course tours of Daly Mansion featuring reenactors. Free. For schedule and events check explorethebitterroot.com. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Family Friendly Friday invites little ones to boogie to some live music while parental units kick back at the Top Hat. 6 PM. No cover. Bring your techno/house/danceloving friends out for Foxy Friday, featuring a rotating cast of DJs. Every fourth Thursday at the Badlander. 10 PM, no cover.

SATURDAY JULY 23 Daly Days is a two-day celebration of Hamilton’s founder, copper king Marcus Daly. Activities include a street dance, car show, games, music, art exhibits, pony rides and of course tours of Daly Mansion featuring re-enactors. Free. For schedule and events check explorethebitterroot.com. Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM–12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

Join Senior Curator Brandon Reintjes and Helena painters Dale Livezey and Amy Brakeman-Livezey for an in-depth discussion about artist Devin Leonardi, who died in 2016. Leonardi was known for his complex contemporary paintings that use 19th century photography as source material. Missoula Art Museum, 11 AM–noon. Free. Sublime with Rome take over the Big Sky Brewing amphitheater, with Tribal Seeds and Bleeker. Doors at 5 PM, show at 6:30. $38/$36.50 advance at ticketweb.com. Argentine Tango is featured on the fourth Saturday of every month by Tango Missoula. Start the night with a beginning dance lesson and enjoy locally made wines for purchase by the glass. No experience or partner necessary. Missoula Winery. Lesson at 8 PM, Milonga (social dance) at 9.

SUNDAY JULY 24

WEDNESDAY JULY 27

Western Union play authentic Texas swing at the Missoula Winery every. 5646 W. Harrier. 6–8 PM. $7.

Out to Lunch features the music of You Knew Me When in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free.

TUESDAY JULY 26 Join Missoula Parks and Recreation for Kids Fest, an afternoon filled with games, activities from local organizations, live music, food and drink—you know, stuff kids like. Caras Park, 10:30 AM–2:30 PM. Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM. Claypool Lennon Delirium, featuring Les Claypool and Sean Lennon bring their prog-rock show to the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $42/$32 advance at thewilma.com.

The last Wednesday of every month you can join a few dozen other thirsty road warriors for Run Wild Missoula’s Last Wednesday Beer Run. Each month runners and walkers start and finish at a different brewery. This month’s spot is Draught Works Brewing. 6 PM. Free and open to all. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free. Kraptastic Karaoke indulges your need to croon, belt and warble at the Badlander, 9 PM, no cover.

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THURSDAY JULY 28 The Red Ants Pants Festival is one of Montana’s biggest music events. This year the four-day fest features Eilen Jewell, Ray Wylie Hubbard, the Mavericks and more. White Sulphur Springs. Visit redantspantsfestival.com. Downtown ToNight features the music of Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM. Eighties post-punk heroes Psychedelic Furs join Australia’s The Church for a night of dreamy new wave nostalgia at the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $39.50/$29.50 advance at thewilma.com.

Montana’s biggest music events. This year the four day fest features Eilen Jewell, Ray Wylie Hubbard, the Mavericks and more. White Sulphur Springs. Visit redantspantsfestival.com. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. Country star Joe Nichols (“Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off”) unveils a new approach to his sound as he stomps all over the stage at the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $36.50/$32.50 advance at thewilma.com.

SATURDAY JULY 30

FRIDAY JULY 29

The Red Ants Pants Festival continues. Visit redantspantsfestival.com.

The Red Ants Pants Festival is one of

Missoula’s Farmer’s Market offers pro-

duce, flowers, plants and more. Several food and drink vendors are on hand to provide shopping sustenance and there’s usually live music. Every Saturday through October, 8 AM–12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market features vendors offering local produce and meats as well as hot coffee and prepared foods. Music starts at 10:30 under the Higgins Bridge. 8 AM–1 PM every Saturday through October. Texas singer-songwriter Hayes Carll is as authentic as a taco-truck plate in Austin. He plays the Top Hat Lounge, doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $20/$17 advance at tophatlounge.com.

SUNDAY JULY 31 The Red Ants Pants Festival continues. Visit redantspantsfestival.com.

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Fitz and the Tantrums, featuring newly local drummer/ coffee magnate John Wicks, bring their big rock show to Big Sky Brewing Co. Sun., Aug. 28. Doors at 6:30 PM, show at 8. $35/$30 advance at ticketweb.com.

TUESDAY AUGUST 2 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike or bike somewhere in the area. You can find the upcoming trip posted at facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. Various locations, 6 PM.

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 3 Out to Lunch features the music of the Bottom Feeders in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free.

THURSDAY AUGUST 4 Downtown ToNight is an evening of music from Billy Shaddox and mingling, featuring food and drink vendors and a

beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM.

FRIDAY AUGUST 5 Spend some time “Where Montana Began,” in Stevensville. The First Friday of each month is celebrated with music, food and art. For more info visit mainstreetstevensville.com. Stevensville’s 104th Creamery Picnic brings together the community for a parade, barbecue cookoff, beer festival, milk run, a garden party and all that other great Bitterroot family fun. Main Street in Stevi. Visit creamerypicnic.com. Bozeman’s Sweet Pea Festival features arts and crafts, music, a film fest, live entertainment and exhibitions, a fun run and lots of music. Aug. 5–7. For schedule and info visit sweetpeafestival.org. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free.

Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers will surely live up to their name when the piano man visits the Wilma with his finely crafted pop. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $45/$35 advance at thewilma.com. Country chart-topper Chris Young makes a stop in Missoula with his I’m Comin’ Over tour, with Tara Thompson. Big Sky Brewery, doors at 6:30 PM, show at 8. $40/$38 at ticketweb.com. James McMurtry returns for a night of wry Americana and folk-rock at the Top Hat. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $20/$17 advance at tophatlounge.com.

SATURDAY AUGUST 6 Bozeman’s Sweet Pea Festival features arts and crafts, music, a film fest, live entertainment. Aug. 5–7. For schedule and info visit sweetpeafestival.org. Stevensville’s 104th Creamery Picnic contiunes. Visit creamerypicnic.com. explorer 2016

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Country chart-topper Chris Young makes a stop in Missoula with his I'm Comin' Over tour, with Tara Thompson Fri., Aug. 5. Big Sky Brewery, doors at 6:30 PM, show at 8. $40/$38 at ticketweb.com.

Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

Draught Works Brewing’s Cheers for Charity night supports a local charity or nonprofit. Every Tuesday the Northside brew pub donates 50 cents of each pint sold between 5 PM and closing time.

SUNDAY AUGUST 7

Join the Montana Dirt Girls for an all-women hike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

Bozeman’s Sweet Pea Festival continues. For schedule and info visit sweetpea festival.org. Country music legend Emmylou Harris comes to Missoula for a show at the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $59.50–$69.50 at tophatlounge.com. Jazz Martini night offers live, local jazz and $5 martinis every Sunday night at the Badlander. 9 PM. No cover.

TUESDAY AUGUST 9 It’s Fair Week in Missoula. The Western Montana Fair features history, education, entertainment, food and animals. Western Montana Fairgrounds. Visit missoulafairgrounds.com. 88

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Get those thumbs limbered up! The Official MPL Gamers Club meets to play Wii and Xbox 360 in the YA dept. at the Missoula Public Library. Ages 13–19, 6:30 PM.

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10 It’s Fair Week in Missoula. Visit missoulafairgrounds.com. Out to Lunch features the music of the Hardin Scott Band at Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free. Brandi Carlile brings her big, radio-ready folk-rock to Missoula for a

show at Big Sky Brewing. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7:30. $36 at ticketweb.com or Rockin Rudy’s. The Missoula City Band, directed by Gary Gillett, performs a free concert in the band shell at Bonner Park every Wednesday through Aug. 10. Bring a lawn chair. 8 PM. Free.

THURSDAY AUGUST 11 It’s Fair Week in Missoula. missoulafairgrounds.com.

Visit

Yoga newbies can get hip to a gentle, mindful practice with Easy Yoga for Beginners at the Learning Center at Red Willow, 825 W. Kent Ave. Meets Thursdays from 4-5:15 PM. $45 for six weeks or $10 drop-in. Downtown ToNight features the music of Money Penny and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30– 8:30 PM, every Thursday through August. Visit missouladowntown.com for a list of performers.

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Amy Helm and the Handsome Strangers bring their alt-country storytelling style to the Top Hat Fri., Aug. 12. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $18/$16 advance at tophatlounge.com.

FRIDAY AUGUST 12

SATURDAY AUGUST 13

It’s Fair Week in Missoula. Visit missoulafairgrounds.com.

Rockin’ the Rivers is Montana’s biggest rock festival, and this year’s lineup boasts some of the biggest names in classic rock, including Vince Neil, Buckcherry, Ratt, Loverboy and everyone’s favorite all-female AC/DC tribute band, Hell’s Belles. Three Rivers, camping available. Check rockintherivers.com for tickets and info.

Rockin’ the Rivers, Montana’s biggest rock festival, continues. Check rock intherivers.com for tickets and info.

Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free. The Run for the River 5K is a Fun Run to benefit Bitter Root Water Forum. The course weaves through two city parks along the beautiful Bitterroot River. Starts at 7 PM. To register visit brwaterforum.org. Amy Helm and the Handsome Strangers bring their alt-country storytelling style to the Top Hat. Doors at 9 PM, show at 10. $18/$16 advance at tophatlounge.com. 90

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Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM. Join other volunteers for Bitter Root Water Forum when they pull thousands of pounds of trash out of the Bitterroot River. Volunteers are assigned stretches of the river. Gloves and garbage bags can be picked up at the Run for the River event, Hamilton Farmer’s Market booth, and all valley fly shops. 9 AM–5 PM. Check out Riverfest in the ‘Root, the Bitter Root Water Forum’s annual free event to celebrate the Bitterroot River. Learn more about the Bitterroot watershed and enjoy local art vendors, face painting, a fly casting clinic, a live animal show, food

and beer vendors and more. Live music by the Big Sky Mudflaps. Kiwanis River Park in Hamilton, 2–7:30 PM. Free. Folk rockers Trampled By Turtles are joined by Lord Huron at the Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7:30. $35 at knitting factory.com.

SUNDAY AUGUST 14 It’s Fair Week in Missoula. Visit missoulafairgrounds.com. Rockin’ the Rivers continues. Check rock intherivers.com for tickets and info.

TUESDAY AUGUST 16 Zootown Fringe Festival is a five-day explosion of performance art and music. Artistic freedom is unrestrained, and 100% of the ticket fees go to the artists. Dozens of performances take place over six days in a number of venues. For a list of performances visit zootownfringe.org.

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SPOTLIGHT

have dreams

Brandi Carlile’s 2005 eponymous album included the sweet and sad Roy Orbison-style “Throw It All Away,” and “What Can I Say,” which wouldn’t feel inadequate among a compilation of some of the best gritty alt-country folk song classics. Rolling Stone put her on its list of Top 10 Artists to Watch—and she proved them right. The songstress has made solid gold pop, soul and country-tinged songs for the last 10 years, in particular, “Dreams,” on the 2010 WHO: Brandi Carlile with Blind Pilot WHEN: Wed., Aug. 10. Doors at 6 PM. WHERE: Big Sky Brewing Co. HOW MUCH: $36 MORE INFO: bigskybrew.com

album Give Up the Ghost. That song is perfection with a slight hint of rockabilly and lines like, “I keep it to myself./ I know what it means./ I can’t have you, but I have dreams,” done up in heartbreaking optimism as cutting as Adele’s 2011 “Someone Like You,” but with the kind of ache you associate with Patsy Cline and just enough sass to be totally rockin’. The first time I heard her was at White Sulphur Springs’ annual Red Ants Pants Festival and she was doing a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.” She does it beautifully, but at the time it felt overdone in the sense that Jeff Buckley had already nailed it so well—and even then, that song feels like just too much. When I heard

her do it, I rolled my eyes, but she’d already hooked me with her original stuff. It was too late. Carlile appeals to a broad audience—pop country fans, alt-country fans and those who love acts like Angel Olson and Lydia Loveless. For the Big Sky Brewing Co.’s concert, Carlile is paired with the noteworthy Portland act Blind Pilot who charmed a few Indy writers when they came

Join the Montana Dirt Girls for an allwomen hike or bike somewhere in the area. facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

Alan Isakov at the Wilma. Doors at 7 PM, show at 8. $37/$32 advance at thewilma.com.

Learn some fascinating facts about exotic insects while quaffing a cold oat soda at Bugs and Brews. Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium hosts the event monthly. $5 includes admission and two drink tickets. 6:30–8:30 PM. For more info visit missoulabutterflyhouse.org.

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 17

Michael Franti and Spearhead bring their SOULROCKER tour to Missoula for a show at Big Sky Brewing. Zella Day join them for a night of groovy, reggaeflavored rock. $39/$36 advance at ticketweb.com. Neo-soul rockers Lake Street Dive are joined by Colorado troubadour Gregory 92

through Missoula in 2011. Israel Nebeker’s poppy “uh oh” flourish is something to hear, and the band has gotten even a little heavier since then, making their rainy-day music feel more equipped for a downpour. Big Sky has a lot of shows lined up this summer, but this is the one that has us on the edge of our seat. Q

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Zootown Fringe Festival continues. For a list of performances visit zootownfringe.org. Enjoy the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, featuring relay races, demolition derby, livestock sale and more. Aug. 17–21 in Kalispell. Check out the schedule at nwmtfair.com. The Art Associates of Missoula meets in the Education Center of the Missoula Art Museum at 10 AM. This month experimental artist Pam Caughey shares her art and process. Free and open to the public. For more info call Susie at 544-0891.

—Erika Fredrickson

Out to Lunch features the music of Kenny James Miller Band in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free.

THURSDAY AUGUST 18 Zootown Fringe Festival continues. For a list of performances visit zootownfringe.org. Enjoy the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, featuring relay races, demolition derby, livestock sale and more. Aug. 17–21 in Kalispell. Check out the schedule at nwmtfair.com. Downtown ToNight features the music of Mabel’s Rage, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM.

Folk rockers Trampled By Turtles are joined by Lord Huron at the Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater Sat., Aug. 13. Doors at 6 PM, show at 7:30. $35 at knittingfactory.com.

FRIDAY AUGUST 19 Zootown Fringe Festival continues. For a list of performances visit zootown fringe.org.Enjoy the Northwest Montana Fair. Check out the schedule at nwmtfair.com. Join other peddlers for a weekly ride to Free Cycles Missoula and back to UM. Meet at the Grizzly statue. 12:30–2 PM. Free.

SATURDAY AUGUST 20 Run free at the monthly dance at the American Legion Hall, 825 Ronan St., with tunes from the Wild Coyote Band. 7–11 PM. $7. Call 240-9617 to learn more. 94

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Zootown Fringe Festival continues. For a full list of performances visit zootown fringe.org. Enjoy the Northwest Montana Fair. Check out the schedule at nwmtfair.com. Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM– 12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM. West Coast reggae stars Rebelution hit the stage for an eclectic night of groovy rock with The Green + J Boog, Stick Figure and Through the Roots. Big Sky Brewing Co., doors at 5 PM, show at 6. $30 at ticketweb.com.

SUNDAY AUGUST 21 Zootown Fringe Festival continues. For a list of performances visit zootownfringe.org. Enjoy the Northwest Montana Fair. Check out the schedule at nwmtfair.com.

TUESDAY AUGUST 23 Draught Works Brewing’s Cheers for Charity night supports a local charity or nonprofit. Every Tuesday the Northside brew pub donates 50 cents of each pint sold between 5 PM and closing time. Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an hike. facebook.com/ MontanaDirtGirls. 6 PM.

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Fresh from trail work in the SelwayBitterroot, Govt Mule hit the Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater Sat., Sept. 3. Doors at 5 PM show at 6:30 PM. $33 at knittingfactory.com.

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 24 Out to Lunch features the music of Western Union in the riverfront setting of Caras Park. Enjoy a variety of food and drink from more than 20 vendors. 11 AM–2 PM. Free.

THURSDAY AUGUST 25 The Lincoln County Fair is over 100 years old, but it’s still as fun as ever. Hundreds of exhibitors compete in 4H divisions for that blue ribbon. Visit lcfairmontana.com. The Indian National Finals Flathead River Rodeo features a day of rodeo action followed by live music. Food 96

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and drink vendors on hand to keep you fueled up. Polson Fairgrounds. Your backyard ain’t big enough for this barbecue. Breaking Benjamin anchors the bill for Big Sky Brewing’s inaugural Backyard BBQ. Saint Asonia, AVATAR, Shaman’s Harvest and Stitched Up Heart provide a night of rock and metal. Doors at 3 PM, show at 4. $30 at ticketweb.com. Downtown ToNight winds down for the last event of the season featuring County Line and mingling, food and drink vendors and a beer garden at Caras Park. Plenty of family activities, and it’s free. 5:30–8:30 PM.

FRIDAY AUGUST 26 The Indian National Finals Flathead River Rodeo features a day of rodeo action followed by live music. Food and drink vendors on hand to keep you fueled up. Polson Fairgrounds

SATURDAY AUGUST 27 The Indian National Finals Flathead River Rodeo continues. Polson Fairgrounds Missoula’s Farmer’s Market runs 8 AM–12:30 PM. Located at the XXXXs at the north end of Higgins Ave. Missoula’s Clark Fork Market, under the Higgins Bridge, 8 AM–1 PM.

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SPOTLIGHT

nashville knowhow

The craft of songwriting is arguably at its nadir in pop and country music, having taken a backseat to hired hit makers who create beats or hang thirdrate lyrics on a carefully crafted musical hook. While the big paydays go to producers like Max Martin and Joey Moi, thousands of songwriters are out there scratching out a living, ignoring trends and speaking from the heart. When Rodney Crowell moved to Nashville in 1972, songwriters were still highly valued. He got WHAT: River City Roots Fest WHO: Rodney Crowell WHEN: Sat., Aug. 27, 8:30 PM WHERE: Main stage HOW MUCH: free MORE INFO: rivercityrootsfestival.com

a job as a staff writer, after being noticed by country picker and songwriter Jerry Reed, and embarked on a career that’s followed a singular path. He spent the mid-’70s associating with the cream of Nashville’s music scene, playing rhythm guitar in Emmylou Harris’ band and befriending Texas legend Guy Clark, who became a major influence on his writing. In 1977 he even formed The Notorious Cherry Bombs with Vince Gill. Rubbing shoulders with the right people on his upward climb paid off as Crowell’s songs were recorded by everyone from Waylon Jennings to Crystal Gayle, but it would be 1988 before his own performing career would catch up with his

songwriting success. After spending most of the ’80s producing then-wife Rosanne Cash’s albums, he released Diamonds and Dirt. It was one of those rare, fully realized records that sounds like a greatest hits album. Diamonds would go on to have five consecutive No. 1 hits over the next year and a half, and Crowell finally joined the upper echelon of American songwriter-performers. These days the two-time Grammy winner continues to tour and record. In 2013 he reunited with Emmylou to sing duets on Old Yellow Moon, and they

SUNDAY AUGUST 28 Fitz and the Tantrums, featuring newly local drummer/coffee magnate John Wicks, bring their big rock show to Big Sky Brewing. Doors at 6:30 PM, show at 8. $35/$30 advance at ticketweb.com.

TUESDAY AUGUST 30 Join the Montana Dirt Girls every Tuesday for an all-women hike. facebook.com/MontanaDirtGirls. Various locations, 6 PM. Shakespeare in the Park Montana presents A Comedy of Errors. Catch the free performance at the UM Oval. Show starts at 6 PM.

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EmmyLou Harris plays hits from her multi-Grammy career at the Wilma. Sun, Aug. 7, doors at 7 PM, show at 8 PM. thewilma.com

were named duo of the year by the Americana Music Awards.The man whose former father-in-law is Johnny Cash has come full circle in an amazing career, and in a fitting bit of recognition, Crowell was tapped to serve as executive music producer for I Saw the Light, the new biopic about Hank Williams. Of all the musical authorities out there to choose from, the job went to the man who knows full well that it’s all about the song. Q

—Ednor Therriault