406-543-6966
221 E front st, missoula
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406-543-6966
221 E front st, missoula
It’s truly inspiring to recount the journey of The Trail Head, which began as a visionary partnership back in 1974. The Trail Head started as a venture with a clear goal: to cater to the burgeoning backpacking and camping market that emerged from the environmental movement of the early 1970s. Operating out of a leased space at 501 South Higgins, employees poured their hearts into the business. Throughout the late ’70s and ’80s, The Trail Head saw steady growth, expanding offerings to include boating equipment and a broader selection of clothing. The Trail Head wanted to offer more to outdoor enthusiasts who sought quality products from a knowledgeable source.
Fast forward to May 2000, I found myself in an unexpected position: purchasing the business I once managed. It was a somewhat adversarial transaction, but I was determined to steer the ship toward continued growth. Despite increased competition and economic challenges, we thrived. In August 2004, we embarked on another exciting chapter, relocating to a historic warehouse building at 221 East Front Street after an extensive remodel. Situated in the heart of downtown, near new developments and outdoor attractions like the riverfront trail, our new location symbolized our commitment to progress.
In August of 2019, we opened our sister store focused on non-motorized boating. Whether you’re into kayaking, canoeing, rafting, or paddleboarding, River Sports has everything you might want or need to enjoy your time on the water. Step into Trail Head River Sports, and you’ll find a vast array of essential gear like personal flotation devices, dry bags, kitchen and cooking equipment, helmets, clothing, and various accessories.
But perhaps the most impressive part of our store in Midtown Missoula is our massive, open showroom dedicated to boats. Rows upon rows of rafts, canoes, kayaks, inflatables, and paddleboards. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, we’ve got the perfect vessel for your adventure. And it doesn’t end there. River Sports also offers boat rentals, so you can try out different models before making a purchase.
Plus, our repair services and stock of replacement parts ensure that your beloved boat stays in top condition, no matter how many miles you log on the water. So, whether you’re planning a leisurely paddle down the river or an adrenaline-pumping whitewater adventure, visit Trail Head River Sports.
In November of 2020, we embarked on one of our most thrilling endeavors yet: Trail Head Gear Exchange. This innovative concept offers a 365-day-a-year platform for swapping quality outdoor gear.
The inspiration behind this venture came from none other than my daughter, Megan, who was captivated by a used gear store she encountered in Squamish, British Columbia. Part of the allure of the used gear business lies in the industry’s overall trend, with prominent players like Patagonia leading the charge with initiatives like Worn Wear, alongside online platforms such as Geartrade.
Leveraging this momentum, Trail Head Gear Exchange aims to provide outdoor enthusiasts with an accessible avenue for acquiring and exchanging gear. A key factor in our success has been the contribution of our older, longtime customers who bring in a wealth of quality vintage gear and clothing.
This not only adds character to our offerings but also resonates with the younger demographic, drawing them in to explore our racks week after week.
At Trail Head Gear Exchange, we operate on a consignment basis, foregoing payment for used gear upfront. Instead, once an item sells, we offer the previous owner the choice of cash or store credit, with a higher payout amount for those opting for store credit. This model not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that both sellers and buyers reap the benefits of our shared passion for the great outdoors.
Fast forward to March of 2024, and my passion for the water has led me to embark on my latest unexpected adventure: the purchase of SOAR Inflatables.
It’s my first foray into the manufacturing side of the industry and taking over a legacy brand like SOAR is nothing short of an honor. When SOAR canoes first hit the scene in 1993, they turned heads and raised eyebrows. These boats were a departure from the norm, blurring the lines between traditional hard-shell canoes and inflatables. Yet, despite their unconventional design, SOAR inflatable canoes quickly gained recognition as “the most versatile adventure crafts in the world”.
The acronym SOAR, which stands for “Somewhere On A River,” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of exploration and adventure that drives us forward. It aligns seamlessly with our company’s mission and values, emphasizing our commitment to providing enthusiasts with the tools they need to seek out new experiences and push their boundaries.
Taking the helm of SOAR Inflatables represents more than just a business opportunity – it’s a chance to continue a legacy of innovation and excellence in the outdoor industry. I’m excited to build on SOAR’s storied past and chart a course for an even brighter future, where adventure knows no bounds.
Todd Frank, The Trail Head Owner
We’re unwavering in our commitment to nurturing trust and enriching outdoor experiences for our community. We know firsthand the value of face-to-face interactions and the irreplaceable connections they foster.
That’s why our dedicated staff is wholeheartedly devoted to providing exceptional customer service every single day. However, recognizing the evolving needs of our customers, we’re thrilled to introduce an online purchasing option.
Now, you can conveniently browse and buy our quality products from the comfort of your own home, saving you time while ensuring you still get the gear you need to embark on your outdoor adventures. Despite these changes, our core mission remains unchanged. It’s deeply rooted in trust and community, guiding every decision we make.
We understand the profound impact our actions have, both on individuals and the collective team. That’s why we’re not just about transactions – we’re about building relationships and giving back to the community that supports us.
Through donations and volunteer efforts, we strive to be more than just a business – we aim to be responsible members of society, contributing positively to the world around us. So, whether you’re shopping in-store or online, know that your support enables us to continue making a difference, one adventure at a time.
Thank you for taking an interest in our story.
Todd Frank
The Trail Head Owner