The Story Behind the "M"

The "M" is 620 feet above the Missoula Valley floor. It is 125' feet long and 100' feet wide. University of Montana forestry students cut the switchbacks into the side of the hill in the early 1900's. The first "M" was assembled out of whitewashed rocks in 1909, and given a fresh coat of paint by freshmen every year, until 1968, when all those rocks were cemented together with concrete.

Photo by Nelson Kenter, kenterphotography.com

Archive for the ‘Lifestyles’ Category

MCT is Singin’ in the Rain!

The Missoula Children’s Theatre Youth Series invites grades 8-12 students to go back in time and jump some puddles with a classic musical in the after-school production class of Singin’ In The Rain JR.... more

Journey Through America’s Top Three Music Cities

The United States boasts a musical heritage as rich and varied as its history. Each city has its own unique soundtrack of live performances, iconic venues, and local music scenes.... more

Birdwatching in Montana

Birdwatching in Montana. The best locations for birdwatching and their brief description. Birds that you should see with your own eyes.... more

18th Annual River City Roots Fest: The High Hawks to Headline Admission-Free Festival

The Missoula Downtown Association’s River City Roots Festival returns to the streets of Downtown Friday and Saturday September 6-7.... more

Exploring the Unique Blend of Urban and Outdoor Living in Western Montana

Western Montana offers a remarkable combination of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure.... more

5 Key Whitewater Rafting Tips for First Time Rafters

Here is a selection of the preferred beginner tips and guidance tailored for first-time rafters.... more

5 Thrilling Adventures You Need to Experience in Montana

Here are five exciting activities to consider if you’re looking to experience the thrill of adventure in Montana.... more

Color Coordination: Choosing the Perfect Bridesmaid Dresses for Your Wedding Theme

In this guide, we’ll explore some key areas to help you choose the perfect bridesmaid dresses.... more

Hoot-Owl Restrictions Placed On Additional Rivers in Southwest Montana

A full angling closure and two new hoot-owl restrictions will go into effect on additional sections of the Madison River in southwest Montana.... more

MCT’s The Addams Family Young@Part

MCT’s Next Step Prep Presents announces the kick-off of the 2024-2025 Youth Series with a ‘snap-snappy’ version of The Addams Family young@Part.  This 65-minute version of the ridiculously popular Broadw... more

Explore Missoula’s Rich History With Unseen Missoula’s Guided Walking Tours

Historical Guided Walking Tours Running Weekly through September.... more

How to Prepare Your Family Home for a Fun Summer

Here are some practical and creative ways to ready your family home for a fun-filled summer.... more

Montana Road Trip: Exploring the Beauty of Big Sky Country

Buckle up and get ready to experience the captivating allure of Montana on an unforgettable road trip adventure.... more

FWP Reminder: Be Bear Aware When Recreating Outdoors

Remove or secure food attractants and keep a clean campsite As spring weather approaches, we’re all anxious to head outdoors, and bears are leaving their winter dens. This time of year, bears are waking up f... more

Reeling in Memories: The Joy of Family Fishing Trips

Let's explore the magic of family fishing trips, from the anticipation of the journey to the shared tales around the campfire.... more

MCT’s The Play That Goes Wrong

The Missoula Community Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong March 7-17, 2024 at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.... more

How Proper Gear Can Improve Your Hiking Experience

When properly equipped, the wilderness transforms into a majestic wonderland calling adventurers deeper into its sanctuary.... more

The Missoula Community Theatre’s AUDITION for The Play That Goes Wrong

The Missoula Community Theatre's AUDITION for The Play That Goes Wrong is Sunday, January 7th, 2024.... more

Winter Wildlife Closures on Mt. Jumbo, Mt. Dean Stone Begin Dec. 1st

Missoula Parks and Recreation reminds hikers and bikers that some City open space areas are closed in the winter months to protect wildlife.... more

Putting Missoula on the Flight Map

Let's take a look at just what's brought about this surge in popularity and the options for tourists looking to fly into Missoula.... more

September is Bear Aware Month

Being outdoors means being with wildlife. Here's some simple advice for staying safe while exploring the outdoors and in bear country.... more

New Missoula Murals Highlight Local Artists and Downtown Partnerships

Two new art murals highlight local artists and partnerships and add life and vibrancy to the streets and alleys in Downtown Missoula.... more

Missoula Community Theatre’s AUDITIONS for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

The Missoula Community Theatre is thrilled to announce an OPEN AUDITION for Rudolph The RedNosed Reindeer on Sunday, September 24th.... more

Going Solar? Here’s What to Keep in Mind

Going solar can be rewarding for multiple reasons. Not only is it a way to cut your utility costs, but it’s also an excellent way to give back to the environment.... more

17th Annual River City Roots Fest Celebrates Missoula

The MDA's River City Roots Festival returns to the streets of Downtown Friday and Saturday August 25-26.... more

MCT Performing Arts Camp Show: Working

MCT's Performing Arts Camp (PAC) welcomes 100 talented teenagers from 15 states and Canadian provinces for a 90-minute musical journey of Working, Aug. 10-12.... more

Warm Water Prompts Full Fishing Closures and Hoot-Owl Restrictions on Some Streams

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is advising anglers that full fishing closures and hoot-owl restrictions will be in effect starting July 26 on portions of some rivers and creeks in western and southwestern Monta... more

3 of the Best Reasons to Move to Missoula if You Have Kids

When raising a young family, parents must consider the environment they want their children to grow in because environments can shape who they become.  Traditionally moving was complicated, especially f... more

FWP REMINDER: Be Bear Aware When Recreating Outdoors

As you make plans for the July 4th holiday, be sure to review these precautionary steps to “Be Bear Aware”:... more

Keep AIS Prevention Protocols in Mind This Fourth of July

As boaters and other water recreationists gear up for the July 4th holiday, they need to follow the rules to prevent aquatic invasive species from affecting Montana’s waters.... more

Unseen Missoula Expands Guided Walking Tour Offerings

New Tour Explores Downtown Missoula’s “Restricted District”... more

How To Support a Loved One in Their Addiction Recovery Journey

Here's how you can help a loved one in their addiction journey: ... more

6 Ideas for Practical Use of PVC Tarpaulins You Didn’t Know

From creating an outdoor shelter to a DIY hammock, here are six ideas for the practical use of tarpaulins that will help make your next project easier and more enjoyable! ... more

2023-2024 Missoula Community Theatre Season on Sale June 5th!

Missoula Community Theatre subscription packages and single tickets are on sale starting Monday, June 5th for the following shows:... more

Things to Do in Missoula: Tourist Attractions and More

With a rich blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and lively local cuisine, there's something for everyone in Missoula, MT.... more

4 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Montana

This article will provide insider knowledge that will help you prepare for your move to the Garden City or anywhere in Montana. ... more

6 Things to Know Before Visiting Alaska

Here are some things to know before visiting Alaska.... more

How to Enjoy the Nightlife of Missoula

If you really want to make the most of a visit to Missoula, you will need to know how to enjoy the nightlife. Here are a few options:... more

MCT Presents: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical

The Missoula Community Theatre presents Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, April 27-May 14 at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.... more

9 Perfect Spots In and Around Missoula for Plein Air Painting

If you love plein air painting, Missoula is an outdoor painting paradise. Check out some of the spots:... more

Sip’n Shop for MCT

If you love spring, sipping, shopping and supporting a worthy organization, then Sip n’ Shop for MCT is where you want to be on Thursday, March 30th from 6-8PM.... more

Mount Jump South Zone Closure Extended

In consultation with state wildlife biologists, Parks and Recreation has extended the Mount Jumbo South Zone winter wildlife closure beyond the scheduled March 15 opening date.... more

A Ranking of the Top Five Missoula Hotels

Ensure that your upcoming business trip or vacation to Missoula, Montana is outstanding by reading our in-depth ranking of the top 5 hotels in the area.... more

The Missoula Community Theatre Presents: The Bridges of Madison County

The Missoula Community Theatre presents The Bridges of Madison County, March 9-19, 2023 at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.... more

Top 8 Things to Do Near Missoula

In this guide, we will share some of the best activities you should do near Missoula, so click to know about these interesting activities. ... more

Missoula Community Theatre AUDITION: The Bridges of Madison County

The Missoula Community Theatre audition for The Bridges of Madison County is Sunday, January 15th, 2023, from Noon to 4PM at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.... more

How To Get Started With Spearfishing

If you're a beginner, keep reading this article to learn how to get started with spearfishing.   ... more

Best Ice Fishing Spots in Vernal, Utah

The temperature is dropping; The ice is getting thick. Grab your gear because it's time to go ice fishing. ... more

How to Survive in the Wilderness – 2023

Every person who got lost in the woods had no plans of doing so. In this guide, we cover the basic things you need to do to survive in the wilderness. ... more

Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Missoula: The Best Things to Do in the City

In the Montana metropolis of Missoula, there is something for everyone. The city offers numerous undiscovered jewels, from outdoor activities to cultural events, just waiting to be found and experienced.... more