365 Missoula Follows

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Many of the local athletes are taking a much needed break from the daily grind of youth and high school athletics at this time. But the break will soon come to an end and many of them will be back training to make themselves better and stronger. And one gym in particular has been helping many of these local athletes achieve their goal.

Pfahler Sport Specific is an athletic training gym designed to train youth athletes, typically grade 5 through high school while also opening their facility to college and professional athletes looking for extra training in their offseason. Run by former Griz football player Steven Pfahler and it’s wife Alyssa, a former Lady Griz basketball player and professional player overseas.

Steven and his team work the kids on the weight equipment while Alyssa and her team work with youth on developing their basketball skills. Follow her particular account designated to basketball training at .
These two are incredibly passionate about what they’ve built here in Missoula and have equally strict standards that has led to their gym being one of the most popular places for youth to be trained. With solid core values built in to teach kids proper lifting techniques and fundamentals on the court to grow no matter what level your child is.

They have been an integral part to the development of countless athletes in the area. Helping them progress and reach their goals while also preparing them for the next level, whatever that may be. You can see them in the stands at local high school games throughout the year supporting their athletes on and off the court.

So, if you’re looking to have your kids learn from two of not only the best coaches I know, but two of the most incredible people around, then consider Pfahler Sport Specific.

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Yesterday we featured Stephanie Land () and her NYT bestselling book MAID which was adapted to the binge worthy limited series on Netflix.
As I mentioned in that post, the winter break is a great time to catch up on shows you’ve missed but it’s also a great time to discover new podcasts with your extra time. And one great locally based podcast I stumbled upon last Christmas break, that I would love to bring to your attention, is Death In The West.

The podcast is a history podcast dedicated to the American West’s strange crimes, unsolved intrigues and the history that shaped, or was shaped by, these events. The debut season examined the murder of union organizer Frank Little in Butte, Montana during the summer of 1917.
Having grown up in Montana, I was familiar of the name but knew very little about the story of his life and subsequent unsolved murder. Season One dove deep into the cast of characters including revolutionaries, shady detectives, corporate overlords, and corrupt cops. It’s also a great glimpse into the history of Butte at the time and the economy and political system that built and eventually fractured the region.

The first season was phenomenal and I am anxiously awaiting the premiere of Season Two which premieres on January 4th, 2022. The second season will feature the story of DB Cooper, an iconic figure in the outlaw history of the west and inspired half a century’s worth of investigation and speculation. Fifty years ago, a man calling himself “Dan Cooper” hijacked a northwest flight, demanded a $200,00 ransom from the airline, and then… jumped. I cannot wait to learn more about this story and the deep dive they will take!

This podcast comes from the team of Chad Dundas; an acclaimed author, podcaster, and one of my favorite follows on Twitter. Erika Fredrickson, a journalist and former arts editor for the Missoula Independent. Leif Fredrickson, a professor at teaching public history and the history of the American West. And Zach Dundas, an editor for The Great Detective.

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The presents have been opened, the food has been devoured, and now comes the most glorious time… where we all sit around and consume content. It’s honestly my favorite part of this winter break.
Whether it’s mindlessly watching a football game, rewatching Christmas Story for the umpteenth time, or lighting the fuse on a tv series you’ve been meaning to see. And if the latter is something you’re about to embark on, may I suggest a show that really made an impression on me and my wife when we watched it. It’s called MAID and you can find it on Netflix right now.

The limited series is inspired by the memoir of Stephanie Land, today’s featured post. The NYT bestseller about a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and eventually gets a job cleaning houses. The story is all about the struggles she faces with government assistance, her own dysfunctional parents and dealing with her ex-boyfriend and their tumultuous relationship. But at the core, it’s about a mother doing whatever it takes to raise her daughter and provide for her in any way she can.

This inspirational story was written by Missoula’s own Stephanie Land. Whose story received critical acclaim, earned a place on President Obama’s Summer Reading List, and eventually was developed into the Netflix series.
Currently, she continues to work as an author and public speaker. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The New York Reviews of Books, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Salon, The Nation, and many other outlets.
Stephanie is currently writing a new book entitled ‘Class’ about the hard truths of college education. Follow her account for more information as it gets closer to release. And scroll through her previous posts if you’re interested in the story MAID, having watched it or are watching it for the first time.

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I’ve been anticipating today’s feature post for quite some time. Ever since I stumbled upon his account while searching for local artists and discovered this remarkable and inspirational talent. Today let me introduce you to Mitchell Ray.

Mitchell is a 39 year old Native American artist working in the medium of both pen and painting. He is an inspirational speaker, advocate for disabilities, and counselor. Mitchell also just happens to be a quadriplegic as well. He’s quite a remarkable human and one I hope you all get to know.

He started drawing mouth art at 18. It was a way to pass time while also finding something physical that he could to stand out and at the same time fit in with his peers.
I highly encourage you to check out his videos on his account showing him draw and paint with only his mouth and incredible patience. Some of his ink pieces can take anywhere from 2-8 hours to complete. While his paintings are more laborious taking at least 2-3 weeks depending on the size and subject matter.

Mitchell told me that art is his therapy. It gives him an escape from the world, allowing him to be happy and feel like there’s a purpose for his life. He likes sharing his work because it shows people that he is more than just his disability. And knowing that he inspires others, it motivates him to create and continue to grow.
In fact, he just finished graduate school this semester!

He’s a testament of determination and artistic prowess. And someone you should keep an eye on. He is currently open for commissions and many of his stuff is for sale online on his etsy page. He wants you all to know that he appreciates all the support that he gets and the kinds he’s received along the way.

So if you aren’t already following, go check today!

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I know many of you are flooding this weekend. Scouring stores in search of last minute Christmas presents. And I know shopping can work up quite an appetite. Well, you’re in luck because Southgate Mall actually has one of Missoula’s hidden gem of a restaurant in our humble opinion. 

That’s right The Sushi Palace is serving arguably some of the best sushi and ramen in town! It’s a family owned restaurant made with high quality and delicious products at low prices. Everything is freshly made daily using only the best ingredients.
With cooked sushi rolls like California Rolls, Krab Combos, and Crunchy Tempura Shrimp. To Raw Sushi Rolls with Spicy Tuna and Cucumber, Salmon with Cream Cheese, and Spicy Combos. Or get Vegetarian Rolls with avocado, carrot, cucumbers, sweet potato or a veggie combo. They have other specialty rolls and combos, rice bowls, and even sushi burritos.
And that’s just the sushi menu! Their ramen menu is legit as well. Classic Tonkotsu to Miso with of course your choice of baked chicken, Char Siu Pork, Sukiyaki Beef, Tempura Shrimp or Baked Tofu.

So when the doldrums of shopping slows you down, you don’t have to go to the quickest fast food place. Instead get some fresh sushi or warm ramen to keep your engine going for that final holiday shopping push!

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I rarely do this.. but I also rarely find myself about to travel (when you’re reading this I’ll be in Costa Rica)… but I’m going to feature someone I just came upon and know almost nothing about. But that’s the thing with Missoula and this project. There’s just so much talent here!

So, this one will be brief… but maybe the talented Haley Eakin behind today’s feature, Wildfired Metalworks can fill us in. Maybe she can drop a little “about” for us in the comments below?
But if not, that’s ok too! For I know on the day of this post (December 17th) she’ll be busy getting her handmade metalwork ready for today’s pop-up event with at tonight from 5-8pm along with 11 other makers.

And although I don’t know much about Wildfired Metalworks, I can still appreciate the craftsmanship and skills it takes to not only create beautiful jewelry but also the work it takes to start up a business from scratch just like so many of those makers we’ve featured throughout the year here.

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Another brewery in Missoula?!? Yes please! That was my immediate answer to OddPitch opening their doors this year.. and from the looks of it every time I’m in the brewery, many Missoulians agree with me.

In a part of town vacant of a good place to grab a beer, OddPitch set their sights on the newly constructed center near Malfunction Junction and . This place has a great feel to it. Wide open floor plan with plenty of seating. Cool wooden barrels line the wall. Many of them originally held Oregon and Washington wine, which now help in their sour beer production. And a wall of six pinball machines! With random pinball tournaments for people of any skill, you’re sure to have a good time down at OddPitch.

Thanks to Gabe Stinchfield who owns the brewery and has been working in the craft beer industry for ten years. His head brewer Jake Principe who had been home brewing for several years before completing his Craft Brewing certificate and becoming a professional brewer. And Kendra Bell who not only runs the taproom as manager, but she’s also the Queen!

This brewery is focused on being the forefront of creativity and innovation in the craft beer industry. Along with their flagship beers, they maintain a rotating line up of experimental, tradition and ofter times, simply odd beers. And if you’re wondering about the name: no, it has nothing to do with baseball. OddPitch is roughly translated into an unexpected or unusual “pitch” which is the brewers term meaning to add the yeast to the fermenter.


So if you haven’t already, stop by the next time you need to rest from your crazy holiday shopping for a pint. And more often than not, there’ll be a food truck outside to curb your appetite as well!

350 of 365@rolliinsinsuranceagency
Now, you may think it’s a little weird featuring an insurance agency during this 365 Missoula project. But, insurance is something we rely on everyday of our lives. And just because we don’t think about it daily, doesn’t mean having a good insurance agent is valuable. Especially when you need them most!
I’m speaking from personal experience here as well. One winter a few years ago, my basement flooded and thankfully Josh Rollins was there to help. He was professional and diligent as he walked us through the steps from the first drip to the final day. Turning a difficult situation for our family into a manageable one.
Recommending a good insurance agency to a person is like recommending a good mechanic or restaurant. You don’t want to be embarrassed that your recommendation failed who you were trying to help. That’s why referring you to isn’t some random name I’m featuring here. In fact, I’ve know Josh Rollins since high school when we played football, basketball and track together at Sentinel a long long time ago. He was always a trustworthy teammate and friend since day one. And he still relies on those values of handwork and determination in his profession today.
Rollins Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agent. That means you deal directly with Josh, who’ll give you personal assistance throughout the process. Offering auto, home, commercial, farm and ranch policies to get you prepared for life’s un-fortuitous bounces.
Look, winter is setting in and Montana’s winters can be harsh and dangerous at times. You need to rely on trusty insurance to get you through. And Josh Rollins Agency is someone I couldn’t recommend more highly to keep you protected out there.

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You know what makes a great Christmas gift?!? Something handmade! Or better yet, something you make WITH someone else.
Today we’re featuring Create Art Bar. One of the best places to go to not only make a craft, but get a drink too!And because they’ve explained what they are all about on their site, I’m going to do a little copy and paste to have them better teach you what this great 100% woman and locally owned place is all about!
CREATE art bar is a do-it-yourself crafting bar in the New Mercantile Hotel in downtown Missoula, Montana. A place where you can be creative, make a unique piece of art and enjoy craft cocktails, wine and beer. We have a menu of around 15 art projects ranging from leather wallets to beaded jewelry to string art and magnetic bottle openers. Projects will be purchased with all materials, tools to borrow and custom written instructions so you can complete it on your own, at your own pace, and with assistance as needed. CREATE art bar hosts daily events or crafting sessions where seats can be reserved ahead of time, or join us on the spot. Special workshops and private events may be scheduled periodically offering you a “make and take” workshop with a specific project. CREATE art bar will also have a full bar with a wide selection of beer and wine and unique crafty cocktails! We are always getting creative and making new drinks to offer you. We also have a special “craft-your-own-cocktail” where we will give you options to choose from and get creative with your own unique drink!With a special selection of wine and beer and crafty cocktails and a variety of art and craft projects, CREATE art bar has something for everyone to enjoy.”
So give them a follow at and check out their calendar on their site createartbar.com for the next class to go make someone’s special Christmas gift today. And give a cheers to the owners Paisley and Chase Taylor for creating something pretty great themselves here in Missoula!

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I didn’t realize until I was literally on the river last summer, that I was floating the Smith with one of Missoula’s most unique and talented artists Joel Issacs. It was just one of your typical Missoula connections where everyone eventually knows everyone else. And I have to say, it was an absolute pleasure getting to know Joel and his wife Laura. They are the most down to earth and nicest people you’ll meet.
And if you don’t know about Joel’s art, you are in for a treat! A Metal Artist under the name Mantucky Metal Artwork. Using old 55 gallon drums, hand cut with a plasma torch and reclaimed metals to create amazing masterpieces of rusty gold. Being self taught from the start and 10 years of experience, you simply gotta check out his Instagram account to truly appreciate his creations.
Much of his work is inspired by the mountains, rivers, and animals of Montana which make for a great piece to hang on anyone's walls. His artwork is sold and shipped all over the country. As you can imagine, his work is time consuming, so he’s roughly 4 months out on my orders as they are custom requests.
However, if you’d like to get your hands on one of his pieces sooner, his artwork is on display regularly at and for the month of December at . You may also spot his stuff in several other places around town as well.
So if you aren’t already, go give a follow today. And something to look out for 2022… he recently acquired several printing press plates (circa 1970’s) that he will be releasing in a series next year. As well as a “Seasons in the Sun” series which consists of 1950’s aircraft parts as trout! I CAN NOT wait for that!!!

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There’s some businesses where you don’t truly appreciate the potential possibilities that one can do until you really start investigating. Today’s feature is all about that. Black Mountain Marking provides customer laser marking, engraving, marking, and etching on a WIDE variety of materials and products.

From high-volumed product branding for large businesses to custom art and anything in between. These guys have all the equipment and creativity to tackle your needs. On first blush, you may think that laser engraving isn’t that versatile or artistic. But you’ll quickly discover as you scan their Instagram account, that these guys are cranking out some really cool stuff.

From custom cribbage boards, signs, maps, lighters, mugs, even engraved rocks! If you can dream it, these guys can execute it… or help dream it up for you! Owners Sean Essen and Lance Oaas are dedicated workers and artists as well. Some of their local river maps are my favorite works they have done and you can see many of them hanging (and for sale) at ‘365 Certified’ . Heck, you may even bump into them down there after work having a pint!

They’ve worked with several businesses in town including , , , , , , , and .

So if you’re a local business or even just for a personal project, give these guys a holler. They’re super knowledgeable and easy to work with. And make sure to give them a follow at to see what they come up with next!

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Whoa. Today may have been the hardest decision for whom to feature on this particular day. One of the biggest days for Missoula Makers in our community. For today (Dec12) is the Missoula Holiday MADE fair from 11am - 6pm at . With three levels of the Adams Center to check out over 220 local artists and non-profits, to choose simply one today was kinda ridiculous. So… I left it up to my wife to decide! Since, she’s the true MADE Fair connoisseur.

Today’s feature and one of the many great makers on display today is Piper Handcraft; hand made hats, mittens and accessories by the talented Jen Bohman. My wife and her sisters all have hats and mittens or both from Jen and once you see them, you’ll probably want an item or two as well! The styles and colors are just so unique. And man, they are warm and comfortable too! But be prepared as her items go fast not only at the MADE Fair but on her etsy site. Thankfully, she has introduced a new system where you can order mittens that will be ready to ship in January/February if you find they are currently sold out. Which is when winter hits around here nowadays I guess!

So if you aren’t already, go give a follow and pick up some mittens or a hat for the winter for you or for a gift.. or both! She also makes other items as well. Leather earrings from time to time and an awesome Roadside Travel Board Set. It comes with a leather case with optional Opinel Pocket Knife and mini cutting board. It’s a great gift for anyone who loves to camp, backpack, hunt, fish, etc.

Enjoy the Made Fair everyone!

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Christmas is right around the corner. So, we’re going to be posting a lot of local makers in the next several days to give you some ideas on some great local gifts for friends or loved ones.

Today we’re featuring Skinny Dip Candles because who doesn’t want to light some candles during the holiday season?!?

From the original Skinny Dip Candle to Sensual Edibles (yep, edible candles!), Skinny Minis which make great stocking stuffers to their rotating scents for the holidays. You’ll find a candle for any occasion at skinnydipcandle.com

Originally created by native Missoulian, Karen Porter, in 2004, the company is now owned and run by another Missoula native, Lindsey Keeley. In 2020 during the onset of the pandemic, Linsdey bravely took over the Skinny Dip company and began running the little “factory” out of her garage with help from her husband Kevin. Through ups and downs, she’s worked extremely hard at building this company and brand to what it is today while keeping the sensibilities of the company's beginnings.

Since 2004, Skinny Dip has offered a complete line of 4-in-1 lotion, massage oil and body balm candles featuring a proprietary blend of natural, cosmetic-grade, sink nourishing ingredients. Simply melt a pool into the candle and use the rich, warm wax for hands, cuticles, dry areas on the body, and as a deliciously warm massage oil. As they say, “Delight your senses and go Skinny Dipping!”

If you’re looking to purchase some candles for a Christmas gift (or for yourself) orders need to be in by December 15th. Local deliveries can go right up until the 20th.

You can also find Skinny Dip Candles at , Bitterroot Flower Shop, “365 Certifieds” and .

You can also find Lindsey and her candles down at the pop-up next Saturday at as well!

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Super excited for today’s feature. I feel like their account is somewhat/partly an extension of 365MissoulaFollows. It’s something I would have loved to put together, had I the knowledge and motivation that the creators of Missoula Makers Collective have. But instead, this account and initiative was born and is SO much better than anything I could have cobbled together!

Introducing a new collective supporting Missoula’s incredible maker’s. Many of whom have been featured here early this year. Including the two masterminds behind - ‘365 Certifieds’ Bailey Durnell () and Rachel Cowan ().

They met bartending while also trying to get their personal businesses off the ground. Eventually developing a “maker friendship” with each other as they shared their personal trials and tribulations with each. But also swapping collective knowledge and insight about things that were and weren’t working with their startups. Building off of those conversations, it set in motion the idea to create a “collective” that would support local makers and build a space of collective knowledge shared with other makers within the community. Where others could learn from one another and support each other.

Currently they are seeing this through by planning and hosting select pop-ups throughout the winter time when less opportunities are available for local makers to share their goods. Eventually they would like to offer workshops in the spring on different aspects of the business, taught by experts in our community and other business people/makers. Some which are already in the works!

Beyond that, they’d like to offer a summer market and are right now collecting funds for a business grant called the “Makers Grand Fund” which they are hoping to award to a local maker around this time next year. Ideally they’d like to expand and offer multiple grants each year.

The skies are the limit for Missoula Makers thanks to the leadership of Bailey and Rachel.

So go give them a follow at AND if you’re searching for a Holiday gift, go check out their pop-up TODAY (Dec 10th) from 5-8pm at ‘365 Certified’ featuring:





flamecandelco


and.thread
Art by Kenzie

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Did you know Meadowsweet turned 25 this summer?!? Unfortunately this one slipped through the cracks on us during their actual “birth day” but we can still celebrate them, right? A place that has served Missoula that long we can inevitably take for granted, but today let’s shine a little extra light one of Missoula’s finest.⁠⠀
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Meadowsweet Herbs provides and manufactures an array of body care products. From their own line of herbal salves, infused oils, and essential oil blends, they also sell many other high-quality products. They also offer a full line of vitamins and supplements, bulk and prepackaged therapeutic grade essential oils, diffusers, natural bath and body care products, herbal related books, local flower essences, medicine making supplies, homeopathic remedies, organic bulk herbs, candles and gifts. Phew - that’s a lot! ⁠⠀
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But if you’ve been into this historic brick building in the Hip Strip neighborhood then you know they have all these items and then some. And if you haven’t, I encourage you to get down to this super cool space with their walls of jars and aromas flowing freely. They have a super friendly staff that’s willing to help educate or refer their customers to other modalities, the latest scientific research, or the local health clinic, if need be.⁠⠀
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As they say on their site, “We love our craft, are excited about empowering people and sharing knowledge. Meadowsweet Herbs is a company with a conscience whose commitment to quality, ethics and suitability ensure integrity in every aspect of our business.”⁠⠀
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So go give a follow today!

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One of the most exciting companies growing and cultivating right beneath us here in Missoula, is not unlike the product they offer. Since 2018, William Gregg has been growing and providing Western Montana and the region with high quality gourmet mushrooms. Through both wholesale and direct to some of the area’s finest restaurants as well as local farmers markets.⁠⠀
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Honestly the mushrooms they’re growing are more than delicious healthy food, they’re a blend of science, art and beauty. Being unfamiliar with the process, I’m not quite sure how they grow create what they do, but all I do know is that it’s impressive to say the least. With names like Lion’s Mane, Chestnut, Maitake, Italian, Black Pearl, Golden and Blue Oyster I swear they’re making up half this stuff! Regardless, it’s all gorgeous and incredibly impressive.⁠⠀
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So stop what you’re doing and get your hands on some of nature’s goods. They offer weekly and bi-weekly pickup on their website. Or you can pickup some at the summer and winter markets or at the Good Food Store in Missoula. And as mentioned, many of Missoula’s restaurants also use their tasty mushrooms in their dishes. ⁠⠀
Join the mushroom movement and go give a follow today!

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You know I couldn’t end the year without another food truck or two on here. And one of my favorite trucks in tow, run by some of the nicest owners Nas Ali and Rachel Sullivan, is Middle Terranean Wraps. Offering authentic Middle Eastern food in various location around town, most commonly outside and late night on most weekends from 10pm - 2am.⁠⠀
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Nas worked at the Missoula Airport while in school and the airport would offer free flights to employees. So, he would try to fly each week to Seattle or California just to have some authentic Middle Eastern food since it wasn’t available anywhere near here. On one of those trips, he came across an amazing chef who showed him the ropes, next thing you know he’s offering authentic Middle Eastern food right here in Missoula the they used to travel so many miles for.⁠⠀
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For the last couple years now, Middle Terranean Wraps has been serving the community delicious beef and chicken kabab wraps, falafels and fries. And sometimes you can get it those flavors together with Chicken Shawarma Fries and homemade garlic sauce or a Tabouli salad with grape leaves or beef kababs on Basmati rice. The flavors that come out of this truck are amazing. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for?! ⁠⠀
Go give them a follow at and find their locations on their page or check daily on .missoula.

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Guess who’s turning 10?!? It’s everyone’s favorite local climbing gym, Freestone Climbing! ⁠⠀
And to celebrate, they’re putting on a Comptober Climbing Competition and Community Event this Saturday, October 23rd. Registration for the event can be found on their website. With both a youth competition and citizen completion to participate in. There’ll be events and competition all day with The Finals and a party at 7:30pm as well as a raffle and giveaways!⁠⠀
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If you are unfamiliar with Freestone Climbing but may be interested in taking up a new challenge especially with winter right around the corner then this may be the place for you. Having opened up a few years ago one of the large indoor climbing spaces in the state, with a 60 foot wall and nearly 5,000 square feet, it’s quite a climbers paradise to work on their fitness and techniques while the snow flies all winter long.⁠⠀
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There’s also bouldering walls ranging from vertical to 45 and 60 degree overhangs as well as easier walls for the beginners and youth to learn and get comfortable on. Speaking of kids, they also host kid parties as well as after school climbing and summer camps. ⁠⠀
And they offer family memberships as well as couple and individual passes, punch passes and discount passes for student and military members.⁠⠀
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So if you aren’t already, go give a follow and consider getting involved in this fun, physical activity and join the friendly supportive rock climbing community in Missoula. ⁠⠀
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Happy 10th Birthday to Freestone!