20
2020-21 BEAR NECESSITIES
Missoula has prominent hillside symbols: an “M” for the University of Montana and an “L” for Missoula Loyola Sacred Heart High School. The letters are often decorated on special occasions and to make political statements. The “M,” located on Mount Sentinel, is easily accessible via a trail from the UM campus. The “L,” located on Mount Jumbo, is accessible via its own series of trails. TOMMY MARTINO, Missoulian file photo
Missoulian Staff
A field trip in Missoula
Consider Montana your playground while you’re here — and Missoula itself a gateway to even small adventures. Here are some favorite outings of Missoulian staff and interns:
In Missoula
If you hike to the L in early- to mid-October during sunset, you’re sure to catch some of Missoula’s best fall foliage. From Mount Jumbo, the setting sun illuminates the reds, yellows and oranges that flow down the Rattlesnake and into the Missoula Valley, where the autumn leaves abound. – Laura Scheer When you’re tired of computer screens, maybe you’re missing your furry friends back home, take an hour to refresh at Jacobs Island Bark Park. An easy walk or bike ride past the Washington Grizzly Stadium takes you to the riverside dog park where pups have free reign to chase sticks and the Clark Fork River flows unperturbed. During warmer months, you can take a dip in the water, or you can sit at a bench and take time to soak in the wonders of nature. - Mazana Boerboom
Don’t let familiarity breed contempt when it comes to the river trail. Walk (or run or bike) it daily — or at least on a regular basis — and you’ll see great blue herons, osprey, bald eagles, the occasional raccoon and maybe even a beaver, in addition to the unending variety of your fellow humans. Each change in season brings a new kind of beauty, and winter, when the ice piles up in fantastical sculptures, is possibly the most spectacular. - Gwen Florio Late spring, walk up Waterworks and the North Hills to look for bitterroots, flowers that bloom close to the ground in hot pink, champagne, and every shade in between. It’s a short steep hike to the top, where you’ll have a lovely view of the city. If you’re lucky, you might see a fox or a bluebird along the way. - Keila Szpaller When you’re ready for a little break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Missoula, catch a show at the Roxy Theater across from Hip Strip. With local owners and a community feel, this theater is perfect for date night or a friendly outing. The Roxy always has fun showings and events going on, and offers them at half the cost of a chain theater. The popcorn alone is worth the ticket price! - Addie Slanger
