The Five Best Places to Celebrate Missoula’s Summer Solstice

As the Summer Solstice approaches on June 20, Missoula offers the perfect backdrop for celebration with its sun setting at 9:34 PM. Whether you're hiking the M Trail or floating down the Clark Fork River, discover the best spots in Missoula to embrace the magic of the year's longest day.

Summer Solstice celebrations date back thousands of years ago when pagans celebrated the sun’s strength during crop season. Even though our society doesn’t celebrate solstice like our ancestors did it is still a time to be celebrated, we still celebrate in other ways. Some celebrate by connecting with nature and connecting with friends. Here are some of the best places to celebrate the Summer Solstice.

1. Kelly Island

With the multiple different types of birds, the forts that hikers built out of branches, and the beautiful river, Kelly Island is a beautiful place to celebrate the Solstice and thank the earth for all it’s given.

2. Floating The Clark Fork

Are you a true Missoulian if you haven’t floated the river before? No, but Solstice is the perfect time to float the Clark Fork River.

3. Sawmill Curry Gulch Loop Trail

Up the Rattlesnake, this trail has shining reviews from hikers. This trail is a quiet relaxing place to reconnect with nature on Solstice.

4. Caras Park

Caras Park is downtown and easily accessible for those of all ages. With a beautiful view of the Clark Fork River and river banks to relax on, Caras Park is a lovely place to enjoy Solstice.

5. The M Trail

Another Missoula staple, the M trail is a beautiful hike that has beautiful views of all of Missoula and it is a beautiful place to appreciate the late sunset.

Solstice doesn’t need to be spent in nature, it can be celebrated in other ways. Spending time with friends and family is important for solstice. Be sure to get outside and enjoy the longest day of the year!