Missoula for Non-Anglers
Not everyone who comes to Montana wants to spend the day on the river — and that’s perfectly fine. Missoula is an exceptional destination for partners, friends, and families who prefer **nature, culture, food, wildlife, art, or relaxation** over casting a fly.
Below is a curated list of the **best non-fishing activities** in and around Missoula, including scenic adventures, outdoor experiences, local flavors, guided tours, day trips, and peaceful escapes. Whether you’re looking to fill a half-day or a full itinerary, Missoula delivers.
⭐ Montana Wood Boat Tours (Highly Recommended)
For those who want to be on the water without fishing, MontanaWoodBoatTours.com offers the most scenic and relaxing river experience in Western Montana.
- Guided river tours in stunning hand-crafted wooden drift boats
- No fishing required — perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and couples
- Sunset floats, wildlife viewing, quiet water, and unmatched craftsmanship
- A luxury alternative for guests who want the beauty of the river without the rods
This is one of the **best ways** for non-anglers to join the Montana river experience.
Missoula Farmers Markets
Weekend mornings in Missoula are vibrant, flavorful, and packed with local character. Three major markets operate within walking distance of each other downtown:
- Missoula Farmers’ Market – Fresh produce, flowers, pastries, and local growers
- Clark Fork River Market – Food trucks, crafts, baked goods, and river views
- Missoula People’s Market – Local artists, handmade goods, pottery, jewelry
Perfect for strolling, sampling, browsing, and people-watching.
Kim Williams Nature Trail
A quiet, scenic riverside trail ideal for peaceful walks, photography, jogging, or biking. The trail follows the Clark Fork River just east of downtown and offers shaded serenity close to everything.
Expect wildlife sightings, mellow terrain, and plenty of areas to relax along the riverbank.
National Bison Range
Just an hour north of Missoula lies one of Montana’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Drive or hike through sweeping grasslands filled with:
- Bison
- Elk
- Deer
- Birdlife
- Breathtaking Mission Mountain views
A perfect half-day or full-day outing for nature lovers, photographers, and families.
Caras Park & Downtown Missoula
The heart of Missoula’s downtown scene. Caras Park hosts concerts, festivals, food truck nights, and community events all summer long.
It’s also the best spot to watch surfers and kayakers ride Brennan’s Wave, a man-made river wave that draws athletes from across the west.
Great for walking, relaxing, or enjoying a summer event under the pavilion.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
A quick 10-minute drive from town leads to one of Missoula’s most accessible wilderness escapes.
- Forested trails
- Creeks and footbridges
- Meadows and mountain views
- Great wildlife viewing
- Hiking, biking, and trail running
Peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for anyone seeking nature without a full mountain climb.
More Activities for a Full Missoula Experience
- Hot Springs Day Trips – Lolo Hot Springs or the rustic Symes Hot Springs
- Art Galleries & Museums – Missoula Art Museum, Montana Museum of Art & Culture
- Shopping Downtown – Boutiques, bookstores, outdoor gear, local crafts
- Coffee + Cafés – Try Black Coffee Roasting Co., Clyde Coffee, Drum Coffee
- Brewery Tours – Missoula has one of the strongest craft beer scenes in the Rockies
- Scenic Drives – Seeley-Swan Valley, Evaro Hill, or the Bitterroot Valley
Missoula truly offers **something for everyone**, making it a wonderful destination for couples and groups with mixed interests.
Have Questions or Want Personal Recommendations?
We’re happy to help tailor a day (or a week) for anyone visiting with an angler. Whether it's a relaxing river tour, a scenic outing, or curated Missoula experiences, we can point you in the right direction.
Call Us → Email for Suggestions →