This Cider Mill In Montana Will Put You In The Mood For Fall

There's no denying it -- the leaves are turning, there's a chill in the air, and another fall has come to Montana. If you're having trouble getting into the spirit, just head straight to Western Cider in Missoula. The scenery (and the sips) will put you in the mood to enjoy autumn.

Western Cider is located at 501 N. California Street, on the banks of the Clark Fork River.

Montana's first hard apple cidery opened after Michael Billingsley had 2,500 apple trees planted in the Bitterroot Valley in 2012. He has planted hundreds of trees since.

These days, you can taste the fruits of that labor at the cidery daily.

Hours vary, but on most days, they're open from noon until 10 p.m.

The ciders here are unique, crafted from a blend of locally grown apples and apples grown in the Pacific Northwest.

And the tasting room allows you to try them all.

In addition to their delicious ciders being readily available, the cidery often hosts local food trucks.

Every Sunday from 10-2, for example, you can enjoy Country Brunch.

The Missoula area is especially beautiful in the fall, and visiting Western Cider will definitely put you into an autumn state of mind.

Apple cider and autumn go hand in hand... and this cider has a nice kick.

The ciders range from dry (like the Poor Farmer) to sweeter (like Whiskey Peach).

Although the ciders are hard, the cidery is totally family-friendly.

And when you've had your fill of cider, you can take a stroll along the Clark Fork River and enjoy the changing leaves.

Late September and early October will be a perfect time.

Western Cider will be at Bigfork's Ciderfest kickoff of September 29, for those who can't make it to Missoula anytime soon.

However, Western Cider is delightfully charming, especially this time of year.

Western Cider is the perfect place to spend a beautiful fall day. Here are some other options for tasty cider in Montana.