Missoula, MT lies in a mountain forest setting where five valleys converge. It is 140 miles from Glacier National Park and 270 miles from Yellowstone National Park. We spent 3 days here while Freightliner diagnosis and repaired our motor home. After initially thinking it was a gear box that needed to be replaced we were pleasantly surprised when their mechanics discovered only the power steering pump was the problem. It took a little extra time to get the part but less money to replace.

Missoula, taken from the Salish Indian word that means “near the cold, chilling waters,” is Montana’s most culturally diverse city. Attractions such as A Carousel, Garnet Ghost Town, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Smokejumper Visitor Center make this city unique. For me the highlight was a day to shop at WalMart, Southgate Mall as well as time to get a pedicure. Time all to myself! RV’ers understand what I mean by having just a day to yourself!

On Wednesday all summer long from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm in the downtown Caras Park there is “Out to Lunch.” The event is in a covered pavilion next to the Carousel that all of Missoula is so proud on the banks of one of the three rivers that flow through Missoula. Every week a variety of local restaurants serve their specialties and live bands play music. It’s Montana’s largest food festival. On Thursday nights it’s “Downtown ToNight,” same thing but wine and beer are served and it is an evening event. We had some of the best food and at really reasonable prices. Pets are welcome so we took Squeek. He was not so impressed but at least he was out of the coach while it was being repaired.

We also visited Ft. Missoula, the 1877 fort that has been preserved. During World War II the fort served as an internment camp. It now serves to collect, preserve and interpret the history of Missoula, Fort Missoula and the forestry Industry.

All thought-out Montana are Ron Paul for President signs. They are not left over temporary signs but more permanently affixed signs. Coming from Texas and knowing Ron Paul I can see how his politics match the independent spirit of the Montana people.