Missoula

The Clark Fork River cuts through Missoula, at the confluence of the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers, where five mountain ranges meet in western Montana. A fascinating city that bridges the gap between the urban and the outdoors, Missoula is the state's second‑largest city, outranked only by Billings. Clark Fork River is the lifeline of the city, a scenic waterway that attracts fly-fishers and paddle-boarders in equal measure. The historic downtown is a charming collage of classical 20th-century buildings, dotted with many fine restaurants, art galleries, and shops. The acres of leafy forests nearby mean ample opportunity for hiking excursions, while the Art Museum of Missoula and Historical Museum offer cultural nourishment. Missoula sustains a vibrant live music scene as well, spurred by the youthful populace of the University of Montana, another architectural landmark of the city. The best time to visit is in summer when the city plays host to various events like the International Choral Festival, the River Roots Music Festival, farmer's markets and outdoor film screenings.