Bitterroot Valley Montana
Inspiring views from the Blodgett Canyon Trail just outside Hamilton
Horseback riding surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of Lake Como
Aerial view of Hamilton, nestled between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain ranages
Taking a break to fish while floating the Bitterroot River
A beautiful misty fall morning in the Bitterroot Valley
Biker enjoying the trails in the stunning Bitterroot Valley
Family admiring outdoor sculptures at the Holt Heritage Museum
Refreshing, family-friendly morning hike though Skalkaho Bend Park
Fly-fishing on the pristine waters of the Bitterroot River
Horseback riding in the fresh Montana air
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- Montana
Discover vibrant small towns and outdoor adventures in Western Montana’s Bitterroot Valley
Exciting Outdoor Expeditions
Try your hand at fly-fishing on the Bitterroot River, known as one of the best trout fishing rivers in Western Montana, then hike or bike some of the valley’s scenic trails. The 80-kilometer paved Bitterroot Bike Trail runs from Missoula to Hamilton, stopping in quaint mountain towns along the way. Downhill skiers flock to Lost Trail Powder Mountain to enjoy over 60 Rocky Mountain trails on the border of Idaho and Montana. Just north of the town of Darby, Lake Como provides the perfect mountainous backdrop for a day of swimming, boating, hiking or stand-up paddleboarding. The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, situated along the Lewis & Clark Trail in Stevensville, is home to nearly 300 bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species and makes for a peaceful day trip.
Charming & Friendly Small Towns
Sample creative concoctions at more than 15 breweries, wineries and cideries within the Bitterroot Valley. Enjoy a mouthwatering steak at the rustic Lolo Creek Steakhouse, a local favorite with more than 1,000 five-star Google reviews. Explore Darby’s picturesque downtown with a Wild West feel before spending the night in a luxurious cabin on the sprawling Triple Creek Ranch. Darby is also home to the famous Dutton Ranch from the television series “Yellowstone.” While the ranch is not open to the public, other filming locations in the area are: Stop at Glen's Cafe in Florence to chow down on their Famous Yellowstone Salisbury Steak. Fill your basket with an impressive list of vendor goodies at the farmers market in Hamilton, the local trading hub for farms, orchards and ranches. Nestled between the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains, Stevensville is packed with small-town charm and holds events such as the annual Scarecrow Festival, Creamery Picnic and parades.
Endless Off-the-Beaten-Path Excursions
Learn about Indigenous heritage and the legacy of Lewis & Clark at Travelers’ Rest State Park and Visitor Center, the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Corps of Discovery Expedition. Tour the historic Daly Mansion in Hamilton with its 50-plus rooms, 2,200 square meters and fascinating renovations. Opt for a farm stay at ABC Acres, also in Hamilton, where you can experience permaculture and life on a working farm without sacrificing cozy accommodations. The winding, scenic drive along Highway 12 features notable stops, like The Jack Saloon, Lolo Hot Springs, and the 1,595-meter Lolo Pass, making for a memorable car or motorcycle ride.
Fun Fact
Travelers’ Rest State Park is home to the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Photo: Michael Graef
Bitterroot Valley was named after the bitterroot plant, documented by Lewis and Clark while on their expedition.
