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 ‘Zoo Town Surfers’

2 Rivers + 2 Hours = Missoula Fun

By JASON SHREDER - Many towns, such as Boise, Asheville, and Bend boast great river opportunities in or close to town--but here's why Missoula trumps them all when it comes to river fun.... more

Signs and Signals of Summertime in Missoula

By JASON SHREDER - The Best in the West Kayaking Championship marks the beginning of the summer for me and the guides here at Zoo Town Surfers. What marks the beginning of summer for you?... more

Rivers Are On The Rise In Western Montana

By JASON SHREDER - The local river users are bursting with joy as the water levels continue to rise. Here are some safety tips that will assure you of a memorable yet safe experience.... more

5 Things to Include in Your Personal Flotation Device

By JASON SHREDER - Here are the 5 "must have" items I make sure are either in or on my personal flotation device (PFD) when I hit the river.... more

Kayaking and Creating Community at Brennan’s Wave

By JASON SHREDER - Thanks to lots of hard work, Caras Park and Brennan’s Wave have become a place where the community can gather and enjoy the sport of kayaking.... more

Kayaking is FUN!

By JASON SHREDER - Whether you paddle casually or attack the biggest rapids in the world, just make sure you're kayaking for the right reason: To have fun.... more

A Sunday Afternoon Yard Sale on the Lochsa River

By JASON SHREDER - It’s that time of year where flocks of Missoulians head over Lolo Pass to run the Lochsa River. Just remember: Don't cheer 'til both feet are dry.... more

Spring River Buzz: Early Season Kayaking Tips

By JASON SHREDER - Spring is just around the corner and the river community is buzzing with joy, eagerness, and excitement. Here are a few tips to get you geared up.... more

Whitewater Kayaking Essentials: The Roll, Part 2

By JASON SHREDER - The roll significantly affects your safety, skill progression (both mentally and physically), and the amount of fun you can have on the water.... more

Whitewater Kayaking Essentials: The Roll, Part 1

By JASON SHREDER - One of the things I love about whitewater kayaking is that’s its constantly challenging. One of the biggest challenges beginners face is learning how to roll (AKA: The Combat Roll).... more

2012 Whitewater Kayak Resolutions

By JASON SHREDER - Each year time seems to fly by, faster and faster. It really makes me want start living even more. With that in mind, here are my 10 whitewater kayaking goals for 2012.... more

Winter Kayaking Motivation: Don’t Hesitate, Just Go!

By JASON SHREDER - The ultimate winter day is going to Snowbowl in the morning and surfing Brennan’s Wave in the afternoon. How many places can you do that?... more

Kayaking’s Best: The Rider of the Year and Whitewater Grand Prix

By JASON SHREDER - There are many different platforms to showcase the sport of whitewater kayaking. Whether it's big wave surfing in remote places or whitewater parks nestled in the heart of town, they all cont... more