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Former Griz All-American and NFL linebacker Jordan Tripp joins Colter Nuanez to talk about his impressions of Montana State's 31-28 win over Montana in Missoula plus key matchups as the Griz get ready for the FCS Playoffs with a second round matchup against No. 14 South Dakota State.
Former Montana State All-American offensive lineman JP Flynn joins Colter Nuanez to talk all things Bobcat football, including MSU's 31-28 win over Montana in Missoula and the upcoming potential playoff run for the Bobcats.
Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down the latest action across the FCS landscape and preview the upcoming playoff matchups—including Montana's showdown with South Dakota State and Montana State's clash with Yale. (6:17)Then, Colter sits down with Missoula native Adam Jones to discuss the Cats securing the outright Big Sky title, what it means for a hometown kid to win inside Washington–Grizzly Stadium, and how Montana State is gearing up for Saturday's matchup with Yale.(31:35)To close the show, Colter shares his thoughts on Eli Gillman being left off the Walter Payton Award watch list despite his standout season for the Grizzlies. (40:18)
Colter sits down with Medium contributor and South Dakota State insider Tanner Castora to break down the Jackrabbits' roller-coaster season and analyze their high-stakes showdown with Montana inside a roaring Washington–Grizzly Stadium this Saturday. Tanner brings sharp insight, key matchups to watch, and what SDSU must do to survive in Missoula. (2:24)Then, Colter catches up with Montana star running back Eli Gillman, fresh off an 11–1 regular season. Gillman reflects on the Griz's dominant year, the mindset in the locker room, and what it will take to punch their ticket past South Dakota State. (32:42)
This week on the show John Kruse chats with 1. Mark Holyoak with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation about a land acquisition benefiting hunters in Wyoming and their new and improved Visitors Center in Missoula. 2. Lori Miller with the Klamath Falls chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation shares details about scholarships being offered to high school seniors. 3. Kyle Jones with Jones Sportfishing breaks down the hot fishing on Idaho's Clearwater River for big steelhead 4. We've also got another extended Mack's Minute with Bob Loomis and another edition of BirdNote! www.northwesternoutdoors.com
Montana State sophomore running back Adam Jones joins Colter Nuanez on Nuanez Now on ESPN MT to discuss MSU's Big Sky Conference championship and its second round FCS Playoffs matchup against Yale on Saturday in Missoula.
Colter Nuanez kicks off the show with Scobey head coach Brock Berryhill, fresh off an incredible 12-0 season capped with a state championship. Coach Berryhill dives into the keys to their perfect run, the defining moments that made the season unforgettable, and what this title means for both the program and the community. (6:34)Next, Colter shines a spotlight on Montana's state champions, celebrating standout teams and athletes across flag football, golf, cross country, and volleyball. Get inspired by the dedication, skill, and heart these athletes bring to the field and court. (28:07)To close out the episode, Colter unveils his Treasure State Stars of the Week, highlighting men's and women's basketball players to watch this season. (40:48)
Colter Nuanez is joined by University of Montana Assistant Club Sports Director Tucker Sargent to break down the latest developments in UM club athletics. Tucker also weighs in on the New England Patriots holding the best record in the NFL, and, as an East Coast native, offers his unique perspective on Yale traveling to Montana to face Montana State on Saturday. (1:35)Later, Colter catches up with Havre native Kellan Detrick after practice for a quick interview to preview the Grizzlies' huge showdown with South Dakota State this Saturday at Washington–Grizzly Stadium. (40:43)
In this week's ESPN Roundtable on 102.9 FM ESPN Montana, Colter Nuanez is joined by Tanner Castora, a journalist and author who covers South Dakota State with multiple mediums as the Jackrabbits make their way to Missoula for the second round of the FCS playoffs to play the No. 3 Montana Grizzlies.
South Dakota State first-year head coach Dan Jackson joins Colter Nuanez on Nuanez Now to discuss the Jacks' trip to Missoula for the third playoff matchup in as many years against Montana.
South Dakota State head coach Dan Jackson ahead of Saturday's second round game in the FCS Playoffs against Montana.
Join the B- Team As they go Over the Win over UNH and look forward to the game in Missoula
You met Mike Nugent for a brief moment back in Episode 8 when he was campaigning for mayor but there's a lot more to Mike than just his political involvement. As an avid Griz fan he hosts the Griz Fan Podcast, working a full time job in Real Estate with Berkshire Hathaway, being an owner Paradise Falls, on city council and still finding time to raise a family. Mike is a busy guy and does everything he can to help Missoula thrive and be a community people want to be in.
Colter Nuanez is joined in studio by former Grizzly quarterback and longtime NFL coach Marty Mornhinweg. The two dive into Montana and Montana State's outlook as they head into their first games of the FCS playoffs, breaking down matchups, momentum, and what each team needs to advance.Mornhinweg also weighs in on the latest week in the NFL, offering his perspective on a season that feels as wide open as ever.
On this week's Montana Football Hour, Colter Nuanez — joined in studio by former Montana Radio Sportscaster of the Year Ryan Tootellbrings you interviews with both Montana head coaches, Brent Vigen of the Bobcats and Bobby Hauck of the Grizzlies. The coaches break down their All-Conference selections and highlight standout performers including Eli Gillman, Kealiʻi Ah Yat, and Caden Dowler. (14:10) Colter also shares a quick interview with Coach Vigen about his decision to remain at Montana State and turn down the head coaching offer from Oregon State. (24:32)To close out the hour, Colter and Ryan delivers their full evaluation of both the Griz and the Cats, outlining each team's strengths and weaknesses as they get ready for Saturday's second round of the FCS playoffs.
Sermon Title: How Can We Get a Bigger Picture of Faith?Main Scripture: Hebrews Synopsis: This Sunday we looked at how Hebrews calls us to a bigger, stronger faith as we step into Year 6 together. We explored three movements: Stir It Up — faith grows in community; Don't Shrink Back — we move forward by remembering God's past faithfulness; and Look Back to Look Forward — the heroes of Hebrews 11 remind us God is still faithful today. We closed with Hebrews 12:1–2, running with endurance and fixing our eyes on Jesus.November 30, 2025 • Matt Pye• • • • • • • •.• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Join us for service in person and online every Sunday at 10am (MST) at the City Life Community Center in Missoula, MT. We believe that you matter. We would love to connect with you and hear your story! https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.com/contactIf you would like to engage financially with Anchor Church you can give by texting any amount to 84321 or by visiting https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.comNeed prayer or have a praise report? https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.com/prayerpraiseFor more information about Anchor Church or ways to get connected visit us at https://www.www.anchorchurchmissoula.com or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram - @anchorchurchmissoula - https://www.instagram.com/anchorchurchmissoulaFacebook - @anchorchurchmissoula - https://www.facebook.com/anchorchurchmissoula
Join the A-Team as they discuss the most fun game all year and prognosticate regarding the upcoming trip to Missoula to face the Montana Grizzley's
Matthew from South Bend, Indiana, joins Kelsey to share how he and his wife planned a Pacific Northwest road trip for their family of four (with their 5-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter) to meet up with extended family in Spokane, Washington, Missoula, Montana, and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. They chat about using hotel points and an Airbnb, favorite riverfront parks and playgrounds, easy hikes with big views, lake time, and all the delicious food stops along the way.This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you'd like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Comfrt Hoodie 15% Off Discount Link: https://comfrt.com/KELSEY279- Snacklebox Link: https://amzlink.to/az0QsoCiIT2zv- Blue Sky Chicago O'hare Airport Parking- Going App- Spokane: Riverfront Park & Playground- Gonzaga University- La Quinta Inn & Suites Spokane- Citi Strata Premier- Vieuxcarre Cajun/Creole Restaurant- Huckleberry Milkshakes- St. Regis Rest StopMissoula, MT: Fairfield Suites Missoula Airport, waterslides, the Old Port- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card, M-Hike, Dragon's Hollow Park, Big Dipper Ice Cream, Public Library, University of Montana: Geology Building and Student Union, Tamarack Brewery- Coeur d'Alene: McEuen Park, Roger's Burgers, Mineral Ridge Hike, Old Wagon Trail, Tubb's Hill, Floating Island Green, Fisherman's Market & GrillTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal's Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.
Get ready to headbang, because the Mistresses of Mayhem are diving deep into the Big Sky's heavy music scene for a massive episode dedicated to Montana Metal!Join the ladies as they pour the tequila and whiskey, crank the volume, and highlight their favorite acts from across the state. They're spinning tracks from Missoula's crushing giants Walking Corpse Syndrome and everyone's favorite anihereos blessiddoom, plus Great Falls death metal powerhouse Aclavaria, and the classic metal energy of Devilution. This episode is a fierce tribute to the region's dedicated and vibrant heavy music community.But the mayhem doesn't stop there! The Mistresses are laying down their Fantasy Super Bowl Halftime Show Picks! With Bad Bunny taking the real stage, who would they choose to deliver the ultimate, unforgettable 15-minute metal performance? Expect arguments, unexpected choices, and a full dose of metal mayhem.Plus, don't miss out on important show announcements, including the monumental news about Elephant Graveyard sharing the stage with legends Soulfly!Featured Artists & Tracks:Devilution - BounceWalking Corpse Syndrome - ThreatAclavaria - Maggotblessiddoom - Stepford Life
Mike Schaedel is the Western Montana Forest Restoration Director for The Nature Conservancy, where he leads some of the most ambitious and collaborative forest restoration work happening anywhere in the West. Based in Missoula, Mike works at the intersection of science, community partnerships, and land stewardship—helping restore fire-adapted forests, reduce wildfire risk, and improve the health and resilience of landscapes across the region. Mike's career path is super interesting and anything but traditional. He grew up in Portland, fell in love with the mountains through rock climbing, and eventually landed in Missoula, where the combination of wild landscapes and a rich literary community drew him in. After earning an undergraduate degree in creative writing, he found his way into forestry and fire ecology through conservation corps work, hands-on restoration experience, and a graduate program focused on forest dynamics and fire. In this conversation, Mike offers a clear overview of how Western Montana's forests came to look the way they do today—shaped by millennia of tribal burning, transformed by railroad-era land grants and industrial logging, and altered further by a century of fire suppression. He explains why effective restoration now depends on combining mechanical thinning with prescribed fire and on working across ownership boundaries with partners ranging from local communities to tribes and federal agencies. We also discuss some of the innovative collaborative efforts underway in the region, as well as a memorable story of a prescribed burn that came together through quick problem-solving and deep trust. This is a rich, informative, and hopeful conversation about what it takes to restore forests at scale—and why the future of these landscapes depends on both ecological understanding and strong community partnerships. Enjoy! --- Michael Schaedel, Western Montana Forest Restoration Director Reserved Treaty Rights Lands Program: The Power of Partnership Complete episode notes and links: https://mountainandprairie.com/mike-schaedel --- This episode is brought to you in partnership with the Colorado chapter of The Nature Conservancy and TNC chapters throughout the Western United States. Guided by science and grounded by decades of collaborative partnerships, The Nature Conservancy has a long-standing legacy of achieving lasting results to create a world where nature and people thrive. During the last week of every month throughout 2025, Mountain & Prairie will be delving into conversations with a wide range of The Nature Conservancy's leaders, partners, collaborators, and stakeholders, highlighting the myriad of conservation challenges, opportunities, and solutions here in the American West and beyond. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy's impactful work in the West and around the world, visit www.nature.org --- TOPICS DISCUSSED: 3:02 – Intro, Mike's love for Missoula 6:04 – Getting a creative writing degree 8:21 – And fighting back into forestry 12:26 – Early writing influences 13:39 – Switching sides of the brain 15:32 – First job out of grad school 20:08 – And that work now 23:38 – Checkerboard landownership 33:04 – Conservation accomplishment 34:56 – Fitting in forest health 39:33 – Fire scars 45:52 – The Big Burn 52:59 – Fire playing a beneficial role 58:51 – And the role mill workers play 1:02:03 – Projects down the pipeline 1:12:00 – Book recs 1:13:49 – Parting words --- ABOUT MOUNTAIN & PRAIRIE: Mountain & Prairie - All Episodes Mountain & Prairie Shop Mountain & Prairie on Instagram Upcoming Events About Ed Roberson Support Mountain & Prairie Leave a Review on Apple Podcasts
R&R is brought to you The Bobcat CollectiveThe Cats take care of the Griz in Missoula. We recap the win, briefly recap the playoff picture, and discuss Brent Vigen to Oregon State rumors.Intro music courtesy of Ugly Duckling
Colter goes heavy on Montana prep football, breaking down state championships from across the state. Hear interviews and reaction from:• Frenchtown — head coach Seth Mason and freshman quarterback Cody Forthofer after pulling off one of the greatest upsets in Montana high school history (7:04) • Manhattan — head coach Wes Kragt and Junior quarterback Tyson Pavlik as they capture their first state title since 2020 (19:34) • Glacier — head coach Grady Bennett and senior quarterback Jackson Pressley as they finally break through for a championship after back-to-back title game losses (30:28)To close the hour, Colter is joined in studio by Pete Hamill as they hand out his final Vertical Raise Player of the Week award. (44:18)
Colter Nuanez is joined by Brooks Nuanez to break down last week's NFL action and preview all the matchups coming up over Thanksgiving weekend — packed with analysis, predictions, and everything you need to get ready for the holiday slate. (1:20)Then, Colter is joined by Carolyn, the chick who doesn't know sports, to recap her experience at the Brawl of the Wild, react to Jauan Jennings' below-the-belt moment, and dive into plenty more laughs and surprises. (29:13)
Skyline Sports writer Tom Stuber, who's on the Montana State football beat, gives his takeaways on MSU's 31-28 win over Montana in Missoula to sew up the No. 2 seed in the FCS playoffs.
Andrew Schmidt joins Colter Nuanez for his reaction to Montana State's 31-28 win over Montana in Missoula, the 7th rivalry game win in the last 9 for the Bobcats.
Skyline Sports co-founder Brooks Nuanez joins Colter Nuanez on Nuanez Now on 102.9 ESPN Radio to talk all things rivalry after Montana State won in Missoula for the first time since 2018 and the 7th time in the last nine times against Montana on Saturday.
Another year is almost at a close, which means another round of myth busting! This week all three commissioners take turns quizzing each other on local government myths about how tax dollars can be spent, jurisdictional authority, tax increment financing and more!Heard a myth about county government? Submit it on missoulacountyvoice.com! Text us your thoughts and comments on this episode! Thank you to Missoula's Community Media Resource for podcast recording support!
Meet Christine Kowalchik; from Kennebunk, Maine, she has called Missoula home since 2013. Quitting dance after an instructor told her she wouldn't make it due to her appearance, Christine's career has blossomed since. Creating a studio made for EVERYONE because as she puts it, "the body is meant to move." Check out her studio: https://showtymeacademy.com/
Colter Nuanez is joined by FCS expert and HERO Sports contributor Sam Herder to break down the Brawl of the Wild, react to the newly released FCS playoff bracket, and take a wide-angle look at the FCS landscape as a whole. (2:04)Next, Colter shares his thoughts on the news surrounding Brent Vigen and his candidacy for the vacant head coaching position at Oregon State. (27:03)
In a jam-packed Montana Football Hour, Colter and Brooks Nuanez breaks down every angle of the latest Brawl of the Wild, a hard-fought showdown in Missoula that ended in a 31–28 Montana State victory. (8:42)Get expert analysis, key storylines, and exclusive postgame reaction from MSU head coach Brent Vigen, Montana head coach Bobby Hauck, and standout players including Justin Lamson, Caden Dowler, Eli Gillman, and more.If you're a fan of Big Sky football, rivalry drama, and in-depth insight, this is an episode you won't want to miss.
In this episode of the Crack House Chronicles Donnie and Dale tell the crazy story of Wayne Nance, The Missoula Mauler. Wayne Nathan Nance, known to many as the "Missoula Mauler," was a suspected serial killer in Missoula Montana during the 1970s and 1980s. Nance is believed to have killed six victims between 1974 and 1986. He was never tried for a single murder. https://www.crackhousechronicles.com/ https://linktr.ee/crackhousechronicles https://www.tiktok.com/@crackhousechronicles https://www.facebook.com/crackhousechronicles Check out our MERCH! https://www.teepublic.com/user/crackhousechronicles SOURCES: https://billingsgazette.com/article_af33b419-ca33-50b8-b5e6-c592d4b23373.html https://medium.com/@crimewaffles/wayne-nance-the-missoula-mauler-d7bbcfc7f029 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Nance
Sermon Title: Overseers SundayMain Scripture: Proverbs 11:14 "Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in the abundance of counselors there is safety."Synopsis: This week we had the privilege of having all three of our Overseers in the room with us. They spoke such wisdom into the current and future seasons of Anchor. November 23, 2025 • Kyle Smith• • • • • • • •.• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Join us for service in person and online every Sunday at 10am (MST) at the City Life Community Center in Missoula, MT. We believe that you matter. We would love to connect with you and hear your story! https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.com/contactIf you would like to engage financially with Anchor Church you can give by texting any amount to 84321 or by visiting https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.comNeed prayer or have a praise report? https://www.anchorchurchmissoula.com/prayerpraiseFor more information about Anchor Church or ways to get connected visit us at https://www.www.anchorchurchmissoula.com or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram - @anchorchurchmissoula - https://www.instagram.com/anchorchurchmissoulaFacebook - @anchorchurchmissoula - https://www.facebook.com/anchorchurchmissoula
In this week's Akem's Analysis with Keenan, we react to Montana's close loss to Montana State at home. We discuss all the factors that contributed to the loss and share our thoughts on what could have been done differently. In the second half of the video, we examine the FCS Playoff bracket and share our initial thoughts about it as it is announced. All of this in this week's Akem's Analysis.SPORTS BET MONTANA LINK: https://sportsbetmontana.com/en
Montana head coach Bobby Hauck, senior captain TJ Rausch and junior running back Eli Gillman addressed the media following UM's 31-28 loss to Montana State in Missoula on Saturday afternoon.
Montana State 5th-year head coach Brent Vigen won for the first time in his career in Missoula, sewing up his third Big Sky Conference championship in the process by beating No. 2 Montana 31-28 on Saturday afternoon.
Montana State quarterback Justin Lamson, safety Caden Dowler and defensive end Zac Crews addressed the media following MSU's 31-28 win in Missoula over No. 2 Montana to secure a Big Sky Conference championship.
Montana State head coach Brent Vigen along with quarterback (13:33) Justin Lamson, Caden Dowler and Zac Crews + Montana head coach Bobby Hauck (23:17), running back Eli Gillman and safety TJ Rausch addressed the media following MSU's 31-28 win over UM in Missoula on November 22, 2025.
Skyline Sports analyst Ryan Tootell gives his instant reaction to Montana State's 31-28 win over Montana in Missoula on November 22, 2025.
Colter Nuanez is joined by Rajiem Seabrook as they continue their conversations about the 124th Brawl of the Wild, featuring interviews with Griz head coach Bobby Hauck and Cats head coach Brent Vigen. Together, they break down the key matchups and storylines that will shape Saturday's showdown. (1:32)Next, Colter and Rajiem shift to the high school ranks, discussing state championship action from across Montana — including a Glacier team looking to rebound after back-to-back title game losses and a strong Billings West squad aiming to finish the job. (32:16)To wrap up the first hour, former Montana State player and coach Michael Rider joins Colter to talk about his alma mater, Billings West, and what has allowed the program to sustain its success. Then, Brent Vigen returns for a short conversation about small-town football and the impact those players have had on the Bobcats' roster. (40:43)
Colter Nuanez continues his coverage of the 124th Brawl of the Wild, starting with former Montana Radio Sportscaster of the Year Ryan Tootell, who brings insight, analysis, and plenty of rivalry perspective. (2:08)Next, Colter welcomes former Griz standout Samuel Akem to break down this year's matchup and reflect on what it's like to play in one of college football's fiercest rivalries. (14:14)Lastly, Colter shifts to the high school ranks as Frenchtown head coach Seth Mason joins the show to preview their upcoming state championship showdown against Billings Central. (33:05)
To kick off Nuanez Now, Colter Nuanez is joined by SWX Sports Director Shaun Rainey as they continue the conversation around the 124th Brawl of the Wild heading into Saturday's showdown. (9:12)Next, Colter welcomes the voice of Montana Hockey, Geoff Safford, into the studio to break down Montana's season so far and preview this weekend's matchups in Billings against Lake Region State out of Devils Lake, North Dakota. (31:10) To close the hour, Colter shifts to the hardwood, recapping the early-season starts for the men's and women's basketball teams at both Montana and Montana State. (44:14)
In the second hour of Nuanez Now, Colter is joined by Brooks Nuanez for a full slate of NFL talk — breaking down this weekend's matchups and building out their weekly parlay. (2:07)Next, Colter welcomes former Griz legend, NFL veteran, and current Scripps Sports color commentator Jordan Tripp to share his perspective on this year's matchup between Montana and Montana State. (28:45)
Colter Nuanez and Samuel Akem share rivalry game memories (1:25) and ask a collection of questions to each other, both contemporary & historic, leading up to the 124th edition of the Montana-Montana State contest, including: (5:35) - What is the biggest matchup in the 2025 game? (8:12) - Who has the advantage in the trenches? (9:55) - What do people deny the eye test? Why is Montana State ranked ahead of Montana in Sammy's poll? (13:19) Measuring talent beyond the starters and evaluating the way each team rotates, especially on defense (15:20) Who has the best win - Montana or Montana State? (18:15) What player on each side is going to have a really big game this weekend? (21:20) How have the Griz receivers been so much more productive this year than last year despite losing four seniors from last season? And how does that group match up with Montana State's confident, youthful defensive backs? (26:51) Does it matter that 22 Montana seniors are expected to play on Saturday while MSU only has nine seniors on its roster? (29:19) Why has the visiting team been avalanched in every rivalry game since 2019? (34:34) Position by position comparisons - who is better at each position group? (45:30) The best individual performances we've ever seen in the Brawl of the Wild (50:13) What's the loudest crowd pop you've ever heard in the rivalry? (51:48) What's the craziest play you've ever seen in the Brawl? (53:40) The Cats will win if? The Griz will win if? (54:43) Which head coach has more pressure on them when it comes to legacy within the rivalry? (56:34) Tommy Mellott or Keali'i Ah Yat? (1:00:24) How important is it for the Griz to win this game if they want to make a run to the national championship? (1:02:50) What would be crazier - a rivalry rematch in the playoffs in MIssoula or Bozeman? Or a rivalry game national championship in Nashville?
Former Montana State All-American offensive lineman JP Flynn joins Colter Nuanez to talk all things Montana-Montana State football, share his memories from his time battling the Griz and preview the key matchups in Saturday's game in Missoula.
Bicycle touring numbers feel like they're down—fewer loaded panniers on the road, Adventure Cycling Association facing major financial headwinds, and a lot of long-time tourers quietly aging out. But is touring actually in decline, or is it just shifting into something that looks different—like bikepacking, gravel, and shorter, more flexible trips? In this episode I dig into Adventure Cycling's recent membership and financial update, talk through generational and economic trends, and explore whether we're seeing the end of an era… or just the end of one version of it. Is Bicycle Touring in Decline? What the ACA Letter Tells Us Recent email to ACA membership on a vote regarding selling their building in Missoula Membership down from almost 40,000 in 2023 to about 18,000 today. Donations down. Demand for guided tours has softened. Sales of maps/routes have dropped with free digital tools and GPS routes everywhere. Their diagnosis Members aging out of cycling. Some people don't feel enough value in a paid membership. Travel patterns are changing; inflation and costs are up; maybe fewer people committing to long guided tours. The building sale piece: ACA can sell their big, underutilized Missoula headquarters for ~$2.55M, then lease back just the space they need. The goal is to buy a "runway" of a few years to rebuild membership and modernize programs (digital experience, routes, tours, events). This is serious—membership halving in a couple of years is not a blip. But this is one institution. It's a single data point, not the whole story. Is ACA's Crisis Proof That Touring Is Dying? Possible "touring is in trouble" interpretation: If the biggest U.S. touring org is shrinking, maybe demand really is falling. Fewer people willing to pay for routes, maps, and guided tours could indicate less interest in traditional loaded touring. Alternative explanations: Value perception problem: If you can download GPX routes for free, people might not feel like they need a membership. Younger riders may not connect with a membership model or a print magazine in the same way. Business model problem vs. touring problem: Guided tours and paper maps are specific products. Those can decline even if DIY touring thrives. If a streaming-era kid doesn't buy DVDs, it doesn't mean movies are dead—just that the business model changed. Same question here: is ACA Blockbuster, or are movies in trouble? The Aging Out Effect The ACA explicitly mentions aging out of cycling. Talk through generational dynamics: A lot of classic touring energy came from the boomers and older Gen X. Long, multi-week tours require time, health, and often retirement or very flexible work. People aging out doesn't necessarily mean the activity is dying, but: If younger generations aren't replacing those numbers, you get a visible decline. Touring can look intimidating: expensive gear, big time commitments, safety fears. Possible barriers for younger riders: Student debt, unstable housing, fewer long chunks of vacation, higher baseline anxiety around traffic and climate disasters (heat, smoke, extreme weather). The Rise of Bikepacking and Off-Road Travel Ttouring may just be changing costume: More folks are drawn to bikepacking and gravel: lighter gear, off-road routes, "adventure" branding. Social media and brands push a certain aesthetic: frame bags, dirt roads, epic photography. Contrast vibes: Classic touring: fenders, racks, panniers, highways, small towns, campgrounds. Bikepacking: singletrack/doubletrack, BLM land, forest roads, more "expedition-y", often shorter but punchier trips. If someone is out for five days with bags on their bike, sleeping outside and moving every day… and we're calling that bikepacking instead of touring… did touring really decline, or did it just get relabeled? Is bikepacking now the umbrella term for bike adventuring? Is It Just a (pardon the pun) Cycle? Historical perspective: There was a big touring boom in the 1970s and again mini-waves around the early 2000s . We thought the 2020 COVID bike boom would impact things, but did it? Outdoor sports often rise and fall with the economy, culture, and media stories. Economic cycle: High inflation, higher travel costs, and general uncertainty can make long trips harder. At the same time, travel has become more fragmented: people take 3-day trips instead of 3-week odysseys. Cultural cycle: Right now, gravel and ultra-events (Unbound, etc.) get the headlines. Touring is slow and unsexy by comparison. Slow unsexy things tend to look "dead" for a while… until the next backlash against all the hype and burnout. We might be in the hangover phase after the COVID bike boom and a big cultural swing toward short, 'epic' experiences. Other Factors That Make Touring Feel Smaller Safety and traffic fears: distracted driving, speed, road rage, social media amplifying every horror story. Climate and weather extremes: heat domes, wildfire smoke, storms—touring has always danced with weather, but now the dice feel loaded. Information overload: paradoxically, infinite online info can make people freeze and not choose any tour. Shift to micro-touring: overnighters, weekend campouts, credit-card touring instead of epic cross-country runs. That looks less visible on the ACA radar but might be the real growth area. What ACA's Plan Signals About the Future Positive outlook: Selling an underused building to buy time to modernize could be a good sign. It's a choice to adapt instead of slowly bleed out. They're explicitly planning to invest in: More routes and route updates Digital and website improvements Stronger advocacy tools Expanded tours and member events The big question: Can an organization built around old touring models reinvent itself for a world of bikepacking, GPS, and dispersed, remote communities? Will they pivot toward being the hub for all forms of bike travel, not just pannier touring? Final Take: Is Touring Actually in Decline? Yes, in the classic sense. Fewer people paying for memberships, maps, and guided pannier tours. The touring demographic that built ACA is shrinking and aging. No, if you widen the definition. Bikepacking, mixed-surface, overnighters, and "ride-to-your-Airbnb" trips are essentially touring by another name. People are still traveling by bicycle; they're just doing it with different gear and routes. Mostly, it's in a messy transition. Legacy institutions and business models are under intense pressure. New formats (digital communities, route-sharing platforms, YouTube, social media) are where a lot of the energy lives now. The story isn't "touring is dying"—it's "touring is migrating." Go on any kind of bike trip—overnight, credit-card, dirt, paved, doesn't matter. Support whichever orgs, creators, or communities actually help them get out the door (ACA, local groups, creators, etc.). If you're an ACA member, vote on the building sale by November 24. Whatever side you land on it seems like this will likely define things for ACA for the next several years. •Bike touring has always been a niche. The question isn't whether the niche survives—it's what form it takes for the next generation. And we all get to shape that.
Colter continues his deep dive into rivalry week, previewing the Brawl of the Wild and examining the wider FCS landscape with FCS expert and Hero Sports contributor Sam Herder. (4:50)Then, the voice of the Bobcats, Keaton Gillogly, joins the show to add even more insight as the countdown to the Brawl of the Wild heats up. (29:26)Lastly, Colter takes time to discuss and honor the life and legacy of Lady Griz basketball great Skyla Sisco, who recently passed away at the age of 50 after a battle with cancer. (47:54)
On this week's ESPN Roundtable, Colter Nuanez is joined by Montana State head coach Brent Vigen as they continue the conversation surrounding Saturday's Brawl of the Wild. (1:35)Then, Colter sits down with Geno Leonard to talk about facing the Bobcats this weekend, what it will take to win at home, and how the Griz can keep their unbeaten streak alive. (34:37)
Colter kicks things off with his Treasure State Stars, highlighting standout athletic performances from across Montana. Then, Glacier head coach Grady Bennett joins the show to preview the Class AA State Championship — a game Glacier has reached but come up short in each of the past two seasons. (18:42)Next, Colter teams up with Pete Hamill for their weekly Vertical Raise Player of the Week, spotlighting one of the top individual performances in Montana high school football. (31:50)To close things out, Cats head coach Brent Vigen offers a brief take on Billings West(45:18) before Colter is joined by Billings West head coach Rob Stanton for a final breakdown of this weekend's Class AA State Championship clash. (47:49)
Colter Nuanez continues his deep dive into the 124th Brawl of the Wild, featuring the undefeated No. 2 Montana Grizzlies (11–0) and the No. 3 Montana State Bobcats (9–2). He brings you exclusive interviews with both head coaches — Bobby Hauck of the Griz and Brent Vigen of the Cats — offering insight straight from the leaders of each programColter also checks in with Montana Star of the Week, Dylan Botner, for a quick conversation ahead of the rivalry showdown. (32:12)
Meet Ryan Frey; from the sticks of Washington to a stint in the Peace Corps, he has had quite the journey before landing in Missoula. Ryan's latest endeavor, Upslope Group, is a company with a unique way of building homes to help tackle the housing affordability crisis. Check out Upslope Group: https://www.upslopegroup.com