Bitterroot Valley Montana
Hikers taking in the fantastic views overlooking Blodgett Canyon
Horseback riding surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of Lake Como
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
Visitors learning the history of scenic St. Mary’s Mission
Fly-fishing on the pristine waters of the Bitterroot River
Horseback riding in the fresh Montana air
- States:
- Montana
Discover enchanting small towns and outdoor adventures throughout the Bitterroot Valley in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.
Exciting Outdoor Expeditions
Try your hand at fly-fishing on the scenic Bitterroot River, known as one of the best trout fishing rivers in Western Montana. Pedal the 80-kilometer paved Bitterroot Bike Trail from Missoula to Hamilton, stopping at quaint mountain towns along the way. Downhill skiers flock to Lost Trail Powder Mountain’s 60-plus trails located on the Idaho/Montana border. Just north of Darby, Lake Como provides the perfect mountainous backdrop for a day full of swimming, boating, hiking or stand-up paddleboarding. Hiking trails abound in the Bitterroot Valley. The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is uniquely situated along the Lewis & Clark Trail and home to nearly 300 bird, mammal, reptile and amphibian species.
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. 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 Western Heritage Days, Creamery Picnic and parades.
Endless Off-the-Beaten-Path Excursions
Learn about rich Indigenous American and Lewis & Clark history at Travelers’ Rest State Park and Visitor Center, the explorers’ archaeologically verified campsite. Discover Montana’s history and first pioneer community at St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville. Tour the historic Daly Mansion in Hamilton with its 50-plus rooms, 2,200 square meters and numerous 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
Stevensville became the first permanent pioneer settlement in Montana with the founding of the Historic St. Mary’s Mission in 1841.
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.