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Since 1980, local residents have voted to approve four open space bonds that have helped protect wildlife habitat, farm and ranchland, waterways, trail corridors, parkland, and more. The 2026 Missoula Open Space Adventure Tour invites residents to celebrate and explore the conservation lands that the bonds - through their tax dollars - made possible, including many FIve Valleys projects.

Between September 19-27, community members can visit 10 featured bond project locations across Missoula County. By visiting and checking in at a location, you are entered to prizes. Participants who visit the most places are entered to win the biggest prizes!

Stay tuned for more information as the event draws closer!

Featured Locations:

• Barmeyer Trail and conservation easement*
• Clark Fork River Access Improvements
• Corner Farm
• Hayes Ranch conservation easement*
• Iverson Ranch conservation easemet*
• Marshall Mountain*
• Oxbow Cattle Company conservation easement*
• Rich's Montana Guest Ranch conservation easement*
• Rock Creek Confluence*
• Travelers Rest State Park*

*denotes a Five Valleys conservation project supported by the Missoula Open Space Bond

Prize information:

• Grand Prizes:
  
  • One-night stay at the Wren Hotel in Downtown Missoula, OR a free 10-week Master Gardener class ($300 value)!*
    • Must visit all 10 properties
    • First Grand Prize Winner selected will get first choice of priz
    ‍
• First Prizes:
  
  • 1 Five Valleys merchandise package (Hoody, gloves, hat, and sticker)
  • City of Missoula Parks and Recreation $50 gift card (2 available)
    • Must visit at least 5 properties
    ‍
• Second Prize:
  
  • $25 Downtown Missoula Gift Card
    • Must visit at least 1 property
    ‍

Confluence Grand Re-Opening

The week will end with the Grand Re-Opening of our Rock Creek Confluence property! Join us on Saturday, September 26th from 3pm-6pm to celebrate the success of the Confluence Gateway Initiative, the legacy of the Missoula Open Space Bond, and National Public Lands Day. Learn more here.

Header photo: The Rich Ranch by Ross Perkins