If you lived in Montana when the 1992 movie "A River Runs Through It" was in production, you probably know that it was largely filmed in Bozeman in Livingston. That said, it was Missoula that inspired both the book and the film.. a city that does, in fact, have a river running through it. And decades later, it's still a great place to visit.
Before it was a blockbuster film starring Craig Sheffer, Brad Pitt, Tom Skerritt, Brenda Blethyn, and Emily Lloyd, "A River Runs Through It" was a book written by Norman Maclean.
The semi-autobiographical novel was published in 1976.
The story follows two sons of a Presbyterian minister who lead very different lives.
One son is more reserved, while the other is a total rebel - and the minister is stern with them both.
The Missoula area was the perfect setting for this coming of age tale, which is now recognized as one of the classic American stories of the 20th century.
The author, Norman Maclean, was an English professor who began writing fiction at the age of 70, proving that it's never too late to start.
One of the most chilling lines comes at the end of the story, when the author pens that he is "haunted by waters."
Of course, the stunning Clark Fork River is the farthest thing from haunting.
While it has been decades since the story was initially written and filmed, Missoula still holds that claim to fame.
And despite its numerous changes since the '70s (and even the '90s), it's still an amazing place to visit.
Missoula is technically one of the largest cities in Montana, but with a population of 73,340, it would be considered fairly small in most other states.
It's the perfect place to visit for those who can appreciate big city amenities but still want to be near nature.
If it's been a while since you've visited Missoula, make it a point to go soon - it's perpetually changing, but it still has the same relaxed vibe.
And if you haven't read the book "A River Runs Through It" yet, it's well worth your time.
While "A River Runs Through It" isn't exactly a happy tale, the city of Missoula is always an upbeat place to visit.
Do you have a favorite Missoula destination? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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