DARBY
COMMUNIT Y OF
Darby is a small town located at the southern end of the Bitterroot Valley in southwestern Montana, known for its big town rodeos! Darby was named in 1888 by its Postmaster James Darby; and its overall architecture has a distinct western flair. Log buildings still stand as a reminder of the gold dust days. Darby’s Pioneer Memorial Museum was originally one of the first hand-hewn homestead cabins built in the area. Warm, friendly people will greet you at the unique shops, grocery store, post office, library, restaurants, saloons and lodging establishments. Visitors will enjoy the National Museum of Forest Service History located here. Darby is a rural small town that is horse-friendly. The lifestyle is laid back. The pace is slow. There are so many activities to participate in and enjoy, because Darby is the gateway to nature’s playground. The Richard Cromwell Memorial Rodeo Grounds host a variety of events including the Riggin’ Rally, Senior Pro Rodeo, Twisted Nut and Wild West Rodeo. Highlights of this prime recreation area include Alta Ranger Station, Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum, Lake Como Recreation Area, Lost
Photo by Perry Backus
Trail Ski Area, Painted Rocks Lake, Skalkaho Falls, and 3.5 million acres of untouched wilderness. The first USDA Forest Service ranger station was established in Darby, and visitors will enjoy the National Museum of Forest Service History located there. This is a great place to visit for families, four-wheelers, hikers, bicyclists, motorcyclists, anglers, hunters, nature lovers, photographers, skiers, and sightseers. The incredible scenery in western Montana will revitalize you. With a population in 2007 of 853 people, the town is a quiet one with spectacular scenery and fabulous fishing opportunities. Just minutes away are the East and the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, known for some of the finest fishing in the country. The Painted Rocks State Park and reservoir, as well as other streams and lakes, make Darby prime territory for the fishing enthusiast. With Brook Trout, Mountain Whitefish, Rainbow Trout, and Westslope Cutthroat Trout prevalent, Darby and its surrounding areas is the perfect fishing destination providing a once in a lifetime Big Sky experience.
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