Smokejumper Visitor Center, Missoula Montana

Smokejumper Visitor Center in Missoula, Montana gives you the low down on aerial fire fighting. This lesser known aspect of fighting fires has a colorful history that is presented here in vivid detail. Learn all about the smokejumpers and their role in fighting forest fires.

Folks know all about the bright red fire trucks and the role they play in fire fighting. But when it comes to detecting and battling forest fires, the lesser known smokejumpers take centre stage. A trip to the Smokejumper Visitor Center in Missoula, Montana tells you all about this exciting yet dangerous and demanding activity. And wait till you learn of the intricacies that connect the history of smoke jumping with World War I.

It's practically hands-on once you get here, for you get to tour the smokejumper loft and see things from a smokejumper's perspective. If you're lucky you even get to climb aboard an aircraft that carries the fire-fighters. How's that for exciting authenticity! The tour takes you right to the heart of the action where you see how the smokejumpers pack parachutes and gear up in readiness for a mission.

To get here you need to take the Airway Boulevard Exit next to the Missoula Airport on Highway 10. The Visitor Center is open Memorial Day to Labor Day 8.30 a.m. – 5 p.m. If you intend to visit during winter you need to call at least 2 days ahead and make a reservation. They have hourly tours from 10a.m. to 4p.m. with a lunch break in between.