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

Posts Tagged ‘Daniel Saxton’

A Great Contrast

By DAN SAXTON - The last couple weeks have been eye-opening to me as a new resident in Montana and as a lover of the outdoors. We plunged right from 85-degree temperatures to the 50’s and have stayed there.... more

What is Peakbagging?

By DAN SAXTON - Climbing mountains has always been my favorite activity. I am what many call a “peakbagger" - that is, one who primarily climbs mountains and has a set goal of summits to reach. ... more

Hiking Sawmill Gulch

By DAN SAXTON - Hiking Sawmill Gulch via the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area on the north side of Missoula is a wonderful opportunity to see majestic forest country within a half-hour’s drive from town.... more

For Outdoor Enthusiasts: The Rocky Mountain Map Gallery

By DAN SAXTON - Whether you're a hiker, climber, fisherman, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast in general, check out the incredible selection of maps at the Rocky Mountain Map Gallery.... more

Mount Sentinel: The Landmark of Missoula, Montana

By DAN SAXTON - The best way for me to get a feel for a new place is to climb the most prominent local mountains, and for Missoula, Mount Sentinel perfectly fits that bill. ... more

My Unique Situation in Missoula, Montana

By DAN SAXTON - So far, Missoula has been an awesome place to get to know. However, as someone with a hearing disability, I do face some unique challenges as I settle down here.... more

My First Impressions of Missoula, Montana

By Dan Saxton - I'd made the decision to Move to Missoula, MT. What would be my first impression of the Garden City? Was its beauty real or or simply ordinary--it's people hospitable and friendly?... more