Bitterroot Valley Area Information

Just south of Missoula, Montana, The Bitterroot Valley offers life in the “Banana Belt” of the Northwest. The Valley, which receives 16 hours of sunshine a day during the summer, shares cool autumns and mild winters for visitors - the ultimate four-season enjoyment.

Situated between the Bitterroot Mountains and Sapphire Mountains, the Valley’s six distinctive towns bring together the best in community living. Marrying arts, culture, history and nature, the area is a destination for any nature-loving guest.

The Bitterroot Valley’s storied history includes playing a role in the Lewis and Clark expedition, when the two explorers crisscrossed Montana while discovering the backcountry. At the Ravalli County Museum, once the county’s courthouse built in 1900 and designed by A.J. Gibson, collections regarding the area’s rich Native American heritage and the establishment of Montana’s first white settlement at Stevensville are showcased. Like many other historic sites and landmarks, the museum is just one place to find a wealth of deep culture that the region provides.

But the Bitterroot Valley isn’t just a history lesson. It marries the past with the best of what is offered today – fine dining experiences, some of the state’s best golf courses and opportunities to explore Mother Nature’s bounty - whether on foot, on skis or by boat. Ninety-six miles long and 25 miles wide at the widest position, The Valley has plenty to explore. Of its 2,394 square miles, 26 percent is privately owned.

The great outdoors calls all, from the avid trout fisherman in the Bitterroot River, the boatsman cruising Lake Como, the bird lover at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge or the rugged lines of the 10,000-foot mountains that hug the valley’s curves. Each season lends itself to a new way to discover The Bitterroot Valley.

Found in the Bitterroot Valley is the Selway – Bitterroot Wilderness area which encompasses over 1.3 million acres. This is the largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states. Four season recreation is abundant offering hiking, trail riding, camping, hunting, mountain biking and all winter activities. The low-key family friendly Lost Trail Ski Resort is an easy drive just south of Hamilton. Chief Joseph is a popular stop to partake in the groomed trails for enjoyment of cross country skiing and snowmobiling.

 Flyfishermen will recognize the Bitterroot Valley as one of the most famous areas to cast a line. Close by is the Blackfoot River famous for Norman McClean’s “A River Runs Through It,” the blue ribbon trout stream – Rock Creek, the Missouri River and Clark Fork. All offer abundant fisheries and recreational opportunities. Just a few hours drive you can be steelhead fishing on the Salmon River or the Clearwater River in adjacent Idaho.

Wildlife is a four-season event. Whether calling in the majestic Bull Elk or tracking the elusive whitetail or mule deer you will never lack world-class experiences.

Nearby Missoula offers all city and shopping conveniences. The University of Montana is recognized for it’s nationally ranked Law School, Business School and Pharmacy Department. Numerous cultural events are held there year round. World class health care is found in Missoula with the International Heart Institute at St. Patrick’s Hospital directed by Carlos Duran.

Travel to the area is easy with the Missoula International Airport serviced by United Airlines, Delta, Allegiant, Horizon and Alaska.

There are many questions about rural living. We have included a link to a fantastic publication called “ Code of the West” which gives you a good description about Mother Nature, Owning Rural Land, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture and the Future of the area.   

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