2022 BITTERROOT Tourism and Relocation

Page 32

BITTERROOT

2022 TOURISM AND RELOCATION GUIDE

DARBY | CORVALLIS | HAMILTON | FLORENCE | STEVENSVILLE | VICTOR

The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your family. We invite you to relax and enjoy the many wonders our valley has to offer. Breathtaking scenery, hiking, bicycling, skiing, fishing, hunting, and camping, are just some of the activities here for you to enjoy.

Our valley, 96 miles in length and 25 miles wide, is nestled between two mountain ranges - the Bitterroots on the west and the Sapphires on the east. This natural setting creates a sublime year-round climate and has earned us the reputation as the ‘Banana Belt of M ontana’.

The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce is comprised of six (6) distinct communities with a modest population of only 43,806. Each community has its own story to tell and we urge you to visit them and find your little piece of Montana to take home with you.

We invite you to our communities, our culture and our way of life here in the Bitterroot Valley. The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce extends our invitation to come, see and enjoy the many grandeurs our piece of Western Montana has to offer.

Please let us know if we can be of assistance to you as you explore our valley from Florence to Sula.

Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce

RECREATION | LAND | SPORTING | AGRICULTURE RECREATION | LAND | SPORTING | AGRICULTURE Rod Freeman 406.369.0320 Rod@BitterrootHorseProperty.com Jan King 406.369.4313 Jan.King@ranchmt.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC Your Local Ranch & Recreation Specialists 3
Photo by Carol Woodring
welcome

We’ve been serving Western Montana for 50 years. With branch locations conveniently located in Hamilton, Stevensville and Corvallis, we proudly offer home, real estate and commercial lending, Totally Free Personal and Business Checking – and we do it with care and commitment to service that folks have come to expect here in the Bitterroot Valley.

Hamilton: 100 W. Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-3551

Stevensville: 318 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 406-777-7219

Corvallis: 297 Woodside Cutoff Road, Corvallis, MT 59828 406-363-3551

fsbmsla.com

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING OUR 50 TH ANNIVERSARY
50
th
It’s a steady hand that gets the job done.
TABLE OF CONTENTS TOURISM INFORMATION Corvallis Community 07 Darby Community 08 Florence Community 09 Hamilton Community 10 Stevensville Community 11 Sula Community 12 Victor Community 13 BITTERROOT ACTIVITIES Outdoor Adventures 17-19 Historic Attractions 19-20 Locally Crafted Libations 21 Agriculture & Farms 22 Youth Activities 23 Arts & Entertainment 24 Annual Events & Festivals 25-26 Biking the Bitterroot Trail 29-30 Suggested Hikes 31-32 Scenic Area Drives 42 RELOCATION INFORMATION Accommodations 45-46 Demographics & Valley Profile 47 Education 48 Local Parks & Walking Trails 51-53 Daly Mansion - Historic Place 55 Fort Owen Ranch - Historic Place 56 St. Mary’s Mission - History 57-58 Bitterroot National Forest 63-64 Restaurants 65-66 Community Resources 68-70 2022 Chamber Member Directory 71-88 Bitterroot Fold-Out Map 34 5

ADVERTISER INDEX

Thank you to our advertisers for supporting this publication and making it possible!

A2Z Personnel

Page 74

Allora Massage Page 64

Alpine Realty Page 8

Anglers Lodge & Cabins Inside Back Cover

Art Focus Fine Art & Custom Framing Page 44

AV8-ORR Helicopters Page 59

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Page 43

Big Sky Builders Page 84

Bitter Root Humane Association Page 60

Bitter Root Land Trust Page 61

Bitterroot Brewfest/Downtown Daly Days/Daly Days at the Mansion Page 33

Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering Page 21

Bitterroot College Page 73

Bitterroot Disposal and Victor Transfer Station Page 70

Bitterroot Health Page 35

Bitterroot River Inn Page 20

Bobbi J. Lockhart / Kerry Hanson, PureWest Christie’s Inside front cover

Burlap Chic Boutique Page 44

Cardinal Properties Page 84

Catered Table Page 21

Chapter One Book Store Page 22

Cheryl G. Smith, ERA Lambros Real Estate Page 9

City Center Motel Page 30

Clearwater Credit Union Page 49

Clearwater Montana Properties Page 15

Clearwater Systems Page 87

Coldwell Banker / Western States Associates Page 48

Comfort Solutions - Water, Heat, Air Page 14

Copper Poppy Boutique Page 18

Daly Mansion Page 14

Edge Restaurant, The / Hamilton Wine & Liquor Page 2

Engel & Volkers Real Estate Page 39

Exit Realty Bitterroot Valley Page 78

Farmers State Bank Back Cover

First American Title Company Page 81

First Security Bank Page 4

Glacier Sotheby’s International Real Estate Page 54

Great Pyrenees Rescue of Montana Page 30

Grizzly Broadband Page 45

Hamilton Assembly of God Page 28

Heirloom Remedies

Page 60

Julie Fillingham, Re/Max Advantage Page 69

Kitchen Tune-up Page 66

Lankford Drafting & Design Inc. Page 70

Live Love Montana Real Estate / Geneva Financial Page 79

Lube Quick Page 67

MAPS Media Institute Page 51

Maria Laughlin, The Laughlin Group Page 23

Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry Page 48

Montana Ranch Properties-Rod Freeman Page 3

Montana Rose Antiques Page 72

Montana Westgate Realty Page 47

Neff’s Flooring Page 59

O’ Hara Commons Mid-Week Farmers Market Page 20

Opportunity Bank of Montana Page 52

Paper Clip Page 59

Quick Wash Page 67

Ravalli County Fairgrounds Page 40

Ravalli County Federal Credit Union Page 72

Ravalli Republic Newspaper Page 73

Reliance Automotive Page 67

Riverside Crossing - 55+ Pocket Neighborhood Page 59

Robbins on Main Page 60

Sapphire Lutheran Homes Page 64

Sapphire Summer Concert Series Page 62

Schrock Construction Page 71

Sharon Dedmon, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Page 76

Sons of Norway Page 66

St. Francis Church of Assisi Page 62

St. Mary’s Mission Page 46

State Farm Insurance, Darcy Hansen Page 62

Stockman Bank - Carol Holman Page 53

The Closet Boutique Page 61

The Cupboard Home Company Page 61

TrailWest Bank Page 76

Westslope Distillery Page 24

Wilderness Spirit Cabins Page 23

Windermere Real Estate Page 52

Yours, Mine and Ours Kids Store Page 6

BITTERROOT GUIDE 2022

is published by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce. Copyright 2022 by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce.

6
PROJECT SALES, PRODUCTION & DESIGN BY Jodi Mitchell PHOTOS PROVIDED BY Perry Backus and Carol Woodring

community of CORVALLIS

Corvallis, as its name suggests, is “the heart of the Bitterroot Valley.” Visit its historic buildings, drive or bike its rural roads, explore the river as it flows through the area…..for a taste of life in the valley as it was and as it is.

The annual American Legion Memorial Day Parade is a not-to-bemissed event in Corvallis. The parade was first organized by returning World War I veterans, and has continued since to honor men and women who have died in our nation’s service. This is a wonderful event for people of all ages. It is preceded by a pancake breakfast and draws people from all over the valley.

Corvallis was one of the first settlements in the valley. Some of the Bitterroot’s most fertile soils are located in the Corvallis area, and the community has a long agricultural history, which continues to this day. Corvallis is home to the Western Montana Agricultural Research Experiment Station. Numerous historic farm houses along the Eastside Highway and along back roads attest to the area’s history, as do many buildings in the town area of Corvallis. The former Memories Café occupied a building built in 1881 as the first protestant church in the valley. The Brooks day care center, occupies the former Brooks Hotel, ordered from a catalog and constructed in 1894!

A wagon train brought Elijah and Margaret Chaffin to the Corvallis area in 1864. The Chaffin homestead is now part of The Teller, a private wildlife refuge, which offers lodging in the historic Chaffin and Slack houses. In 1871, a post office was established in Corvallis and the town site was platted in 1879. Corvallis has grown along with

the rest of the valley, but remains an unincorporated community.

In 1867, the first public school was opened, in what was then Missoula County, and Corvallis officially became School District No.1, a designation it still carries on Ravalli County records. Most residents would agree that the Corvallis community, in many ways, is centered around and defined by its schools. The Corvallis School District currently educates approximately 1,350 students in kindergarten through 12th grade, and is the second largest school district in the county. The Corvallis Schools have a well-deserved reputation for excellence and progressive, child-centered educational programs.

The Corvallis community is shaped by its volunteer organizations. The Corvallis School District is governed by the elected, volunteer Corvallis School Board. Through donations, the volunteer Corvallis School Foundation supports programs that enrich and enhance the academic programs of the school district. In 2007, an all-weather track, football field, soccer fields, and playground were completed on school district property through the fundraising efforts of community members who formed the Corvallis Community Events Center Foundation. The Corvallis Volunteer Fire Department offers first class service to Corvallis with the latest up-to-date fire hall and meeting room along the Woodside Cut-Off Road.

7
Photo provided

community of DARBY

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. Darby is a rural small town that is horsefriendly. 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 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 of 2,282 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.

8
Photo by Perry Backus
406.821.3771 | 808 N Main St, Darby, MT 59829 | www.alpinerealtymt.com Dorene Sain Broker/Owner Jane Berryhill Realtor
Myers Realtor
Dan
Kelly Harris
Realtor
Ronda Lang Realtor Susan Jensen Realtor
Teamwork Knowledge Communication Meet the Team We have a dedicated team of individuals with an extensive amount of local knowledge.
Al Zepeda Realtor

community of FLORENCE

Its earlier settlers called the town ‘One Horse’ for the little creek that drains through it from the Bitterroot Mountains. In 1880, the town was renamed Florence for the wife of A.B. Hammond. Mr. Hammond was instrumental in opening the Bitterroot Valley for lumbering, and brought the railroad to the Bitterroot to transport timber. He set up a sawmill in the center of one of the Bitterroot’s best logging areas, and this site became the town of Florence in 1888. There was a town to the north called Carlton, which merged with Florence, thus the school name of Florence Carlton. Around the turn of the century, Florence had a post office, railroad depot, hotel, Catholic and Disciple Churches, I.O.O.F. Hall, blacksmith shop, livery stable, school, several stores, a small creamery and, of course, saloons.

Threemile Wildlife Management area encompasses 6,050 acres. The area may be accessed by two-wheel drive vehicles between May 15 and December 1. The area lends itself to mountain biking in the summer - motorcycles and ATV’s are not permitted in this area.

The primary goal is to provide winter range for elk and compatible recreational opportunities for the public.

Threemile provides a mixture of motorized access and walk-in hunting opportunities for elk, mule deer, grouse and black bear. Regulations for hunting district 204 apply to Threemile.

Few elk inhabit this area during the summer months, but are often observed nonetheless. Most likely are songbirds and raptors. Activities offered are: bicycling, big game, bird watching, bird hunting, bow hunting, deer hunting and camping.

Threemile Wildlife Management area is located 9 miles east of Florence.

Live the dream.

9
Photo by Perry Backus Cheryl G. Smith - Broker, MBA, CRS, GRI - 406.880.6650 - Cheryl@eralambros.com - 5th generation Bitterrooter - Experience you can trust.

community of HAMILTON

Located in the middle of the Bitterroot Valley is the county seat of Ravalli. Hamilton is home to over 5,000 people and the immediate area around the town has somewhere over 14,000 people. Downtown Hamilton has several historic buildings with unique shops and restaurants. Looking west on Main Street is a beautiful view of the Bitterroot Mountains. Beautiful street scape, trees, and street lamps invite one to enjoy the unique downtown shops. Highway 93, which passes through town, also boasts a variety of shops, grocery stores, and gas stations. The Chamber of Commerce is located on the corner of Main Street and Highway 93. The city offices are located in the historic Bedford Building just across the street from the Ravalli County Courthouse. The Ravalli County Museum, housed in the old courthouse, was built in 1900. Each July, Hamilton comes alive as the entire town celebrates ‘Daly Days’ in honor of the city founder, Marcus Daly. This event includes arts, crafts, and food vendors on held in Downtown Hamilton and at the Daly

A BRIEF HISTORY

Mansion. The local businesses hold their annual sidewalk sales and games for the kids. The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce holds its annual Micro-Brew Festival located on the historic Daly Mansion grounds; all this makes for a weekend of events, sharing, reminiscing with old friends, and meeting new friends.

The city of Hamilton hosts a variety of events throughout the year including Apple Day, Annual Chamber’s Micro Brew Festival, Bitter Root Day, a variety of art functions, several plays, art, and craft shows and the Ravalli County Fair. These are just a few of the exciting activities planned throughout the year. See pages 25 & 26 for a list of annual events and festivals.

Hamilton was not a pioneer village in the days it was founded. Instead, it was a planned town of wide streets and avenues, a complete economic center for an area of farms and stock ranches. The History of Hamilton began when Marcus Daly, a great finance figure of the 1880 era in Butte and Anaconda mining development, made his way into the Bitterroot Valley seeking interests other than mining. About 1887, Mr. Daly bought up small sawmills west of the present site of Hamilton and almost overnight had established a lumber making industry on the bank o f the Bitterroot River. Marcus Daly’s next move was to bring two men from another state to plan and develop his dream town. They were James Hamilton and Robert O’Hara who came from Minnesota in 1890. Mr. Daly named Hamilton after James Hamilton and the town was incorporated in 1894; Mr. O’Hara was named the first mayor. Read about the history of the Daly Mansion on page 55.

10
Photo by Perry Backus

community of STEVENSVILLE

Montana’s first permanent settlement is thriving as a great little community - overflowing with small town charm. Stevensville’s community organizations work with all of the local businesses and strives to ensure that the community grows and prospers. Considering the small size of this community, Stevensville offers a variety of delicious eateries, two breweries, an ice cream and local soda shop, art, gifts and more!

In the summer there are many community events, including Western

ST. MARY’S MISSION

Heritage Days, the 4th of July “Pignic”, the Creamery Picnic, Scarecrow Festival and Brewfest, plays, and other celebrations. The outdoor activities are abundant offering up wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, fishing and golf. Children stay entertained with Lewis and Clark Park. This adventureland consists of 2 playgrounds, swings, a basketball court, 2 pavilions with charcoal grills, a swimming pool, skate park and open space. A new splash pad is currently in the works!

During the decade 1831-1841 four separate delegations of the Salish and Nez Perce Indian tribes traveled to St. Louis to petition for “Black Robes” to live among them. Belgian Jesuit, Fr. Pierre Jean DeSmet, along with 5 missionaries were sent in response to the requests. On September 24, 1841 St. Mary’s Mission established the first church in the Pacific Northwest and the first settlement in Montana. In November of 1845, Fr. Anthony Ravalli, S.J., arrived at St. Mary’s after being recruited from Italy by Fr. DeSmet. Fr. Ravalli was a true renaissance man in addition to being a Jesuit priest. He was Montana’s first physician, surgeon and pharmacist. Fr. Ravalli was an architect, artist, sculptor, and built the first grist mill and sawmill. He was assigned to St. Mary’s during 1845-1850 and again from 1866 until his death in 1884. Ravalli County was named in honor of Fr. Ravalli in 1893.

Historic St. Mary’s Mission truly is “Where Montana Began” 48 years before Montana became a state. The photo gallery in Chief Victor’s Cabin, circa 1861, brings a sense of the 19th century when the Indian and European cultures merged. The Chapel, Fr. Ravalli’s log cabin and pharmacy are all restored to the 1879 era, furnished with items handmade by Fr. Ravalli. The Salish encampment represents the native homeland of the Bitter Root Salish, while St. Mary’s Chapel represents the first pi oneer settlement in the Montana.

Historic St. Mary’s Mission is the story of remarkable people in a turbulent time, and the assimilation of two very different cultures against the backdrop of the American Frontier. Walk through history and see, touch and hear this fascinating, controversial, and important chapter of this nation’s past. More about St. Mary’s Mission on page 57.

11
Photo by Perry Backus

community of SULA

Sula is not a city or even a town or group of buildings. Literally it is the post office in Ross Hole. All the years since the first settlers, Sula Post Office has been the heart of cow country that is Ross Hole. Sula post office is in the old neighborhood or Ross Hole with Sula Peak and the Sula Range guarding it. The Sula post office could be called the “Capital of Ross Hole.”

In the early days, Jack and Will Kerlee drove the stage from Darby all the way up the East Fork to deliver mail at stage stops and finally to the Scott Sherrill ranch house where the Sula post office was located. Mail sacks were distributed to homes along the 20-mile stretch of country road. The historic name of Ross Hole continued to be the name of the area, but the first post office got its name, Sula, to honor Sula Thompson, as the first white child born in Ross Hole. Her father was known as “Longhair Thompson.” He was the second Sula postmaster. Will Wetzsteon was the first.

Jim Lord and his brother came to Ross Hole in 1882, bringing Bertie Lord, Jim’s son, with them. After the hard winter of 1886-1887, the worst for Montana Territory, they were discouraged and had to sell out to Longhair Thompson.

Scott Sherrill and his two children, Forrest and Mira, with his second

ROSS’ HOLE

wife and her child, Eva Helt, moved to Ross Hole in 1890. They bought the Thompson place for $1,000. After Thompson left, Scott Sherrill was the postmaster until he died in 1901. Two sons, Theo and Archie, were born to Scott Sherrill and his wife in Ross Hole. Mrs. Sherrill gave up the post office job then and once more it was Will Wetzsteon’s job as Sula postmaster.

Sherrill tried to have the name changed from Sula to Sherrill, but was not successful in doing so. Scott Sherrill’s father, Jacob Sherrill, was a Corvallis pioneer.

Sula is located at the south end of the valley, on the East Fork River, and is 16 miles from the Idaho border on Highway 93. It is known historically as Ross’ Hole because a Hudson Bay fur trader, Alexander Ross, spent the severe winter of 1824 in the area. Sula is best known for being the place where the Lewis and Clark expedition met the Shoshone Indians. Sula was originally settled by Jacob Wetzsteon and his large family of sons and daughters.

Any trip to Ross’ Hole would not be complete without a stop at Camp Sula, an architectural log store, which can provide you with just about anything you need while traveling in our beautiful valley.

Ross’ Hole was named for a fur trader Alexander Ross, leader of a Hudson Bay Company trapping brigade, who camped here in March 1824. Historic records detailed that with him were 55 indian and white trappers, 89 women and children and 392 horses. The party spent almost a month here trying to break through deep snow encountered in the mountain passes leading to the Big Hole Valley. Ross called the basin “The Valley of Troubles”, due in part to their difficulties.

12
Photo by Perry Backus

community of VICTOR

Welcome to Victor - Located in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. The 0.46 square mile unincorporated town has a population of about 745. Victor is nestled between the Bitterroot Mountain Range, Bitterroot River and the Sapphire Mountain Range. This positions the community of Victor for some of the most breath-taking panoramic views in this valley. The warmth and charm of Victor provides you with small community traditions and the ability to experience nature out your back door. With mountain corridors and the river close by, there is an abundance of wildlife and fowl. You’re just minutes away from a labyrinth, corn maze, float trip down the Bitterroot River, hike or horseback ride from one of the many trailheads. You can unwind at one of Victor’s vacation rentals, lodges or Bed and Breakfasts. Enjoy fantastic dining at Victor’s restaurants - known to be some of the

A BRIEF HISTORY

Valley’s best! For larger groups, choose from one of the privately owned event destination centers - each having a unique landscape and charm.

The town has a variety of small businesses spread throughout the community. Victor’s school has over 300 students from K-12, including the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center with a capacity of 270. This venue has state-of-the-art equipment and was opened in 2009.

Like most small Montana rural communities, Victor is close knit, helping and enjoying the town they live in. Events such as Victor Heritage Museum Annual Chocolate Tasting (the first Monday in December) or the ‘Field of Screams’, Western Montana’s #1 Haunted Attraction, shows how this community takes pride in their town!

The people of the Red Willow (the Salish), a nomadic tribe, occupied the Bitterroot Valley including Victor before the earliest trappers and explorers came. Plenty of Horses christened as Victor, was chosen as chief of the Salish tribe. Chief Victor died in the summer of 1870 on a hunt near Three Buttes in eastern Montana.

In the mid 1860’s, A. Sterne Blake and his Shoshone wife came to the valley and were among the original founders of Victor.

Mr. Blake was also the first elected State Legislator from Missoula County, which at that time Victor was a part of. Founding of the townsite, originally named Garfield after President James A. Garfield, was August 20, 1881. It was later discovered when applying for a post office destination for the town, the name ‘Garfield’ had already been taken.

The name Victor was made official December 12, 1881. Shortly after, Victor experienced the railroad and silver mining boom along with prosperity in lumber and agriculture. For more information on the Victor community visit us at www.victormt.com.

13
Photo by Perry Backus
14 856 US Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 HEATING - COOLING - PLUMBING - BOILERS GEOTHERMAL - POOLS - DUCT CLEANING HOT TUBS - GAS PIPING - WATER HEATERS WATER FILTRATION SYSTEMS - POOLS www.comfortsolutionsmt.com  QUALITY   HONESTY   INTEGRITY   PROFESSIONAL 

If you get stuck in a precarious position, do not try to pull it down or tip it by hand. Use the proper tools and techniquesbe smart.

Make sure you are on level ground with brake on if you stop.

Inspect your vehicle before you leave on your trip to make sure everything is working properly.

15 SERVING THE BITTERROOT VALLEY SINCE 1993 LET US HELP YOU ® www.CMPMontana.com | 800.577.3013 Because our associates live the lifestyle they sell, you’ll get local insight that can’t be found elsewhere. Stop by our office and say ‘Hello’! 333 MAIN STREET, HAMILTON TRAVELING OFF-ROAD IN THE BITTERROOT Let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return.
have at least one other vehicle along.
survival gear
you
your seatbelt,
car.
Always
Pack
...
never know what might happen. Tie everything down on your vehicle. Wear
it is no different than driving your
RULES FOR A SAFE, ENJOYABLE RIDE A group of enthusiasts here in the Bitterroot, find excitement and fun traveling off-road. Going off road gives you some spect acular views that you would not otherwise see. It also challenges you as the terrain is different from what you are use to driving on. For more information on your local off-road association here in the Bitterroot visit www.facebook.com/groups/ravallioffroad Arms and legs must remain inside. Stop if you become tired.

Soaking up the local hot spots

When water deep underground comes in contact with rocks still heated by magma and then finds its way back to the surface, we get a natural hot spring. And, when a human body eases into such a pool of hot water, smiles and relaxation are the natural result! The Bitterroot Valley is ringed by natural hot springs, and here are a few to consider:

Lolo Hot Springs , 26 miles west of Lolo on US Hwy 12, sits amid picturesque granite boulders that provide a clue about the hot springs’ origin. About 100 million years ago, the Idaho Batholith surged upward from deep within the earth, forming the Bitterroot Mountains. Lolo Hot Springs sits right above the contact of that body of still-warm granite with the sea-bed rocks that it shoved aside.

Native Americans knew of Lolo hot springs, and the Lewis & Clark expedition camped there on their return journey in 1806. They enjoyed a soak, and were both astonished and amused by their Native American guides who alternately soaked in the hot pools, and then cooled themselves in the icy Lolo Creek.

A road was built to connect Missoula with the hot springs in 1888, and the resort thereafter became a destination for Missoulians and Bitterrooters alike. It even briefly served as a training ground for Olympic athletes when the first luge run in the U.S. was built there in 1965, and the remains of the run can still be found.

Lolo Hot Springs is now a well-developed destination, with indoor and outdoor pools that offer water from 102-106F. The resort has a restaurant with bar/lounge and casino, and accommodations include cabins and camping. Soak up some history while imagining the relief that Native Americans and white explorers enjoyed there!

More at www.lolohotsprings.com

Another hot spring boasts a Lewis & Clark connection as well. Sacagawea, the expedition’s Shoshone guide, led Captain Clark to Jackson Hot Springs on their return journey in 1806. Clark recorded that it took just 25 minutes to cook the meat for their dinner in the near-boiling water!

Today, visitors will drive through the spectacular Big Hole Valley to get to Jackson, on MT 278; you won’t get lost looking for the lodge in tiny Jackson. Visitors pass through a beautiful lodge and bar to access the rustic pool, where the water temperature runs between 100-106F. The highly-regarded restaurant will be happy to cook your steak for you - although boiling is not an option! The lodge offers accommodations for those who want to take full advantage of the area’s abundant attractions.

Find out more at www.jacksonhotspringslodge.com

Unfortunately, Lost Trail Hot Springs escaped the notice of Lewis & Clark as the expedition passed nearby in 1805. You won’t want to overlook it, though, tucked into the valley just off US 93 near the base of Lost Trail Pass, “conveniently located in the middle of nowhere,” as their own website boasts.

Known as “Gallogly Hot Springs” up until the 1970’s, the resort served as a resting place for those traveling over Lost Trail Pass and Gibbons Pass, long before those roads were improved and when travel of any kind was difficult. Modern visitors will find lodgings ranging from an RV park to private cabins, with a group lodge available.

Hot water burbles up at a temperature of about 108F, but the pool maintains a comfortable 95F, and the hot tub about 103F. In colder weather, the pool resides under a plastic greenhouse dome that keeps the water warm and the air comfortably moist.

Get details at www.losttrailhotsprings.com

For those interested in a deluxe, private experience, Sleeping Child Hot Springs may be the answer. This private retreat features a 25,000 square foot lodge (yes, that comma is in the correct place!), nine bedrooms, 17 bathrooms, and accommodations for up to 20. Not just the pool, but the entire property is heated by the natural artesian hot spring which gushes forth at 130F. Once a more humble operation open to the public, the property now is available as a rental for weddings, retreats, or other occasions. For more information, see the listing on www.vrbo.com

Medicine Hot Springs , on Warm Springs Creek at the toe of Lost Trail Pass, is another historic attraction, but it is currently for sale and not available for public or private use.

Many more Montana hot springs beckon within a day’s drive: Elkhorn, Polaris, Quinn’s, Fairmont, Symes, and more await your discovery; check them out via www.visitmt.com

For those seeking a more natural experience, numerous hot springs are located on public land within a day’s drive of the Bitterroot, most located in Idaho. These are largely undeveloped areas, and conditions are subject to change due to use and natural events. Numerous websites feature information on these attractions; www. idahohotsprings.com is one among many. Visitors should also check with the appropriate land management agency – the US Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management – for details on access, camping, and usage.

Now, isn’t it time for a refreshing soak?

16

BITTERROOT ACTIVITIES

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

HIKE THE BITTERROOT MOUNTAINS

The Bitterroot Mountain Range runs most of the border between Montana and Idaho and is one of the valley’s beautiful scenic points. With numerous hiking trails up and down the valley and with varying degrees of hiking challenges. Stop by the Chamber to pick up a brochure or visit any Forest Service at www. fs.usda.gov/bitterroot for locations and descriptions. Bitterroot Valley’s local bookstores also carry guidebooks and maps on local hiking trails. Check out some popular hikes on pages 31-32.

RIDE A HORSE INTO THE WILDERNESS

There are 1,340,000 acres in the Selway-Bitterroot, located in Ravalli County, Montana and Idaho County, Idaho. It is the third largest wilderness area in the lower 48 states. You will experience some of most scenic views and have time to let your mind wander and experience what it used to be like in our Montana wilderness. Contact Accurate Outfitters at (406) 370-5210 to book a ride.

CAMP IN THE BITTERROOT MOUNTAINS

Camping in the Bitterroot Valley is an experience you will not forget. There are 26 developed campgrounds and 1,500 miles of access to trails, fishing, boating, biking and much, much more. Sleeping under the Big Montana Skies you will see a blanket of stars with a beauty only found in Montana. Visit www.fs.usa,gov/bitterroot for more information regarding camping in the valley.

EXPLORE BIRDING & NATURE TRAILS

From Lolo to Lost Trail Pass, you can see 25 prime birding and nature viewing sites. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, located in Stevensville, MT, is a good place to begin your adventure. For a map and other information on birding in the Bitterroot Valley go to www.montanabirdingtrail.org

VISIT LEE METCALF NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Driving or walking through Lee Metcalf Refuge, you will be able to view the wonders of wildlife in a single 2½ mile stretch of nature trails. You can also stop by their information center and view all the exhibits they have as well as ask questions regarding the refuge. Call (406) 777-5552 or visit www.fws.gov/leemetcalf.

HIKE BLODGETT CANYON

Blodgett Canyon is a glacially carved canyon. This canyon has vertical cliffs and is home to herds of mountain goats as well as several species of birds. Hiking this canyon is a must when visiting our valley. Call (406) 363-7100 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot

ROCK CLIMBING IN THE CANYONS

This sport has become increasingly popular as a climbing destination. Many canyons on the west side of the Bitterroot Valley offer rock climbing at its very best. Visit www.bitterrootclimbers.org for more information regarding this sport.

SWIMMING AT LAKE COMO

Lake Como waters are fed by snow-covered peaks 10,000 feet above the lake. There is a sandy beach roped off so adults and kids alike can enjoy the stunning view as well as enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. For information regarding usage www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot.

BOATING AT PAINTED ROCKS

Painted Rocks State Park is located on the West Side of the Bitterroot River up the West Fork. It offers boating as well as fishing in a quiet and secluded settin g. There are 25 campsites with grills, fire pits, tables, boat ramp and dock, as well as drinking water. Visit www.fwp.mt.gov/parks/visit for more information.

FLOAT THE BITTERROOT RIVER

Abundant wildlife and rooted deep in history, the Bitterroot River winds its way north between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains. You will see a wide range of birds as well as wildlife along its banks as you enjoy a quiet, relaxing float trip down this beautiful river.

TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE

There are a number of breathtaking drives to take throughout the Bitterroot Valley. Skalkaho Falls and Sula Peak Lookout are among a few. Check out more scenic drives on page 36.

PICNIC PLACES

The Bitterroot has numerous places in which to relax and enjoy the beauty of our valley. More information on local parks are on page 51-53.

17

FISH BLUE RIBBON TROUT STREAM

The Bitterroot River flows north for almost 100 miles. It is known for its aquatic insect hatches and is a place to fish for big trout. Catch and Release fishing is practiced. To receive a copy of the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Park’s current regulations call (406) 542-5500 or visit any local fly shop, Bob Ward’s Sporting Goods or visit www.fwp.mt.gov.

HUNTING FOR BIG GAME

With 1.6 million acres of public land in the Bitterroot and Lolo National Forest, the Bitterroot is a hunter’s paradise. From elk, moose, deer, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, black bear and mountain lion, hunters come to the Bitterroot for an experience that will last them a lifetime. Call the Chamber for information or visit www.bitterrootchamber.com.

OBSERVE WILDLIFE AT THE TELLER REFUGE

The Teller Wildlife Refuge maintains 1,200 acres of farmland and river bottom dedicated to the conservation of native riparian habitat. Approximately 40 acres are open for the public to enjoy. Call (406) 961-3507 or visit www.tellerwildlife.org.

BIKING IN THE BITTERROOT

No matter what kind of biking enthusiast you are or what age group you are in, the Bitterroot Valley has a trail for you. From mountain trails to our newly paved bike path that parallels US 93 for 45 miles from Lolo to Hamilton. If you did not bring your bike, no problem, we have local bike shops here to accommodate your every need. Valley Bicycles rents mountain bikes and they will be more than happy to fit you with a bike for your bicycling adventure, Call (406) 363-4428 or email valleybicycles@yahoo.com.

RIDE THE TRANSAMERICAN BICYCLE TRAIL

Between April and September, hundreds of cyclists across the country ride the 75 miles between Lost Trail Pass and Florence along Hwy 93, just one small portion of the 4,250 miles of the TransAmerican Bicycle Trail. Taking the same path that Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery took while traveling through the Bitterroot Valley. For a map of the trail, go to www.adventurecycling.org/routes/transamerican. cfm.

TRAP SHOOTING

The Hamilton Trap Club has an excellent Five-Stand range. It is open Sunday and Wednesday afternoons. It is located on the Hamilton Airport Road in Hamilton, Visit www.hamiltontrapclub.com . The Whittecar Rifle Range is west of Hamilton and has six shooting ranges open to the public Wednesday through Sunday.

GOLFING IN THE VALLEY

The Hamilton 18-hole Golf Course in Hamilton was designed by Gary Jacobson and has 6,545 yards of golf. Listed as one of the best public courses in the northwest, it was established in 1924. In Stevensville there is a 9-hole, Whitetail Golf Course. It features 2,859 yards of golf and this course was designed by Jason Allen.

RIDE ATVS IN THE BACK COUNTRY

A great way to see our the beautiful scenery and wildlife is by fourwheel vehicles. There are two designated ATV trails, Overwhich Falls Trail and Chain of Lakes Trail. You will be able to view a wide range of wildlife and superb scenery. Rye Creek Lodge offers guided tours for this adventure. Call (406) 821-4844. For off-road safety tips, see page 15.

VISIT OUR STATE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS

Threemile and Calf Creek Wildlife Management Areas were created to provide winter range for elk and recreational opportunities to the public. Threemile, which is located east of Florence, offers 6,089 acres and Calf Creek, east of Hamilton, has 2,333 acres. Threemile is a mixture of motorized and walk-in. Calf Creek is by foot, horseback or mountain bike. Call (406) 542-5500 or visit www.fwp.mt.gov

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

You can begin your adventure at any Forest Service road or trail head. Chief Joseph trailhead is a beautiful place to begin your journey into the wilderness. Maps are available at the trailhead for your convenience as well as at your local Chamber and other businesses in the valley. Visit www.bitterrootxcskiclub.net for more information regarding this adventure.

18 307 W. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8250 Find us of social media: @CopperPoppyBoutique

SKIING AT LOST TRAIL POWDER MOUNTAIN

Lost Trail Powder Mountain features over 50 marked trails and 1,800 acres. Its longest run is 2.5miles and they have some of the best snow in Montana with over 300 inches annually. Visit www.losttrail.com.

SNOWMOBILING TRAILS

The Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains of our valley offer snowmobilers their destination for this activity. Explore areas that can only be seen during the winter by snowmobiling across vast acres of our beautiful mountain trails.

DISC GOLF

Disc Golf . . . when you play on this course, it has baskets and ‘tones’ instead of holes. You do not need to bring your clubs but you will need a Frisbee. Spiritwood is a private 22 hole Disc Golf course. Kids and adults will enjoy this ‘Montana’ way to golf. Please call (406) 961-4970 before playing on this course.

WALK THE REDSUN LABRYNTH

The Redsun Labyrinth is an 800-year-old pattern. Labyrinths have been used for 4,000 years as a spiral design pattern. The walk takes approximately ½ hour and can also be used for ceremonies. Call (406) 642-6675 or visit www.redsunlabyrinth.com.

HOT SPRINGS OFFER RELAXING RELIEF

Lolo Hot Springs was well known to the Indians long before the arrival of Lewis and Clark, and you can visit them at www.lolohotsprings.com . Lost Trail Hot Springs is another spot in the valley, which is just south of Sula. You can visit them at www.losttrailhotsprings.com . Both hot springs offer lodging where you can relax and enjoy your beautiful surroundings.

SKALKAHO FALLS

Skalkaho Highway 38 is located south of Hamilton and is one of the most scenic drives in the valley. The falls in the spring provide roaring water from the melt off and is a spectacular sight to view. Bring your camera and a lunch basket and enjoy the view from the Falls. Contact your local Chamber for information on the Falls 406-363-2400.

HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS

TRAVEL LEWIS & CLARK TRAIL

Lewis and Clark entered the valley near Lost Trail Pass in September of 1805 where they came across the Salish Indian tribe. The Indians helped sustain the travelers with food and fresh horses. On their return trip in July of 1806, they once again traveled through the Bitterroot. For information on this epic event visit www.edgate.com/ lewisandclark/expedition or stop by the Chamber for a brochure on their epic journey.

NEZ PERCE HISTORIC TRAIL

The Bitterroot Valley is rooted deep in history and one of the historic stories was the Nez Perce Indians on their flight from the US Army in 1877. Hundreds of Nez Perce men, women and children, along with their livestock, traveled over 1,170 miles on a four-month journey in search of a new home after being forced to flee from their homeland. For more information on this story visit www.nezpercetrail.net .

VISIT HISTORIC ST. MARY’S MISSION

In 1841, Fr. Pierre Jean DeSmet, at the request of the Salish and Nez Perce Indian Tribes, established St. Mary’s Mission, making it the first church and pioneer settlement in the Pacific Northwest. Another Jesuit missionary, Father Anthony Ravalli, arrived in 1844 to be Montana’s first physician and pharmacist. For more information on this unbelievable story, call (406) 777-5734 or visit www.saintmarysmission.org .

FORT OWEN STATE PARK

Parts of this 250x125 foot adobe and log trading post, stand steeped in history. In 1850, Major John Owen established the fort as a regional trade center. Period furnishings and artifacts are displayed in the restored rooms of the east barracks. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Call (406) 542-5500 or visit www.stateparks.mt.gov/ parks/visit/fortowen

TOUR THE DALY MANSION

In 1886 Copper King Marcus Daly and his wife, Margaret, purchased the original homestead here in the Bitterroot Valley, where they built a Queen Anne style Victorian summer home. It has over 56 rooms, 25 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms and 7 fireplaces. The three-story, 24,000 square foot home is surrounded by 50 beautifully landscaped acres. Tours are available during the summer months from May through October. Call (406) 363-6004 or visit www.dalymansion.org.

RAVALLI COUNTY MUSEUM

Designed by A.J. Gibson in 1900, this historic brick building served as the county’s courthouse until 1979. Now it is the home of numerous exhibits from Natural History Room, Military Room, A Walk through the Bitterroot and the Lewis and Clark Discovery Rooms. Rotating exhibits as well as traveling exhibits are on display. Located at 205 Bedford Street in Hamilton, the Ravalli County Museum is a must stop while in the Bitterroot. Call (406) 363-3338 or visit www.brvhsmuseum.org

19

ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Marcus Daly promised land for the church’s construction and this English Gothic structure was built. Today it still stands much like it was back in the late 1800’s. Margaret Daly was a devout Episcopalian and a patroness of the church. Tours are available and can be scheduled by calling (406) 363-3025 or visit www.bitterrootepiscopal.org

STEVENSVILLE MUSEUM

Preserving the early growth of the Bitterroot, the Stevensville Museum displays numerous artifacts and pictures so you can turn back the clock and see what it was like in the early years of the valley. They are located at 517 Main Street in Stevensville, call (406) 777-1007 or visit www.mainstreetstevensville.com for more information.

VICTOR HERITAGE MUSEUM

The Victor Museum is housed in what once was the Victor Depot. The museum hosts numerous relics and a vast array of articles from days gone by. The museum is located in downtown Victor or give them a call 406-642-3997 for more info OR visit www.victorheritagemuseum.org

DARBY PIONEER MEMORIAL MUSEUM

The Darby Museum houses a rare collection of home and business artifacts, which were donated by many pioneer families of the area. It was one of the first hand-hewn homestead cabins built in the area. The museum is located on Main Street in Darby. For more information call (406) 821-3753.

HISTORIC FOREST AND GUARD STATIONS

The Alta Ranger Station, which was built in 1899, is the oldest surviving Forest Service Ranger Station and is located on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. The East Fork Guard Station near Sula, a cabin on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River. The lookouts provide beautiful views of the Sapphire, Bitterroot and Pintler mountain ranges. For more information on how to rent the lookouts or cabins, call (406) 363-7100 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot .

DRIVING THE HISTORIC EASTSIDE HIGHWAY

If you are looking for a relaxing drive through the Bitterroot Valley, the Eastside Highway from Florence to Hamilton will provide you many historic sites and unsurpassed beauty of the valley. This roadway was the primary road before US 93 was constructed. Stop by the Chamber to pick up a brochure to make sure you see all the historic stops along the way.

20
O'Hara Commons MidWeek Farmers Markets L O C A L P E O P L E L O C A L F O O D Y o u r s o u r c e o f f r e s h v e g e t a b l e s , f r u i t s , d a i r y , m e a t s , h o n e y , b a k e d g o o d s , f e r m e n t s , e g g s , m u s h r o o m s , j a m s , s y r u p s , h e r b a l p r o d u c t s a n d m o r e V I S I T W W W T H E O H A R A C O M M O N S O R G F O R M O R E D E T A I L S I N P E R S O N : J U N E T H R O U G H S E P T E M B E R E V E R Y W E D N E S D A Y , 4 - 6 P M O N L I N E : Y E A R R O U N D S T O R E F R O N T P I C K U P T H U R S D A Y S , 3 - 5 P M

BREWERY TOURS

The Bitterroot Valley boasts of six breweries right here in the Bitterroot Valley. Bitter Root Brewing and Higherground Brewing are both located in Hamilton. Blacksmith Brewing and Wildwood Brewery are located in Stevensville, Brigand (formerly Bandit Brewing) Brewery in Darby and Lolo Peak Brewing in Lolo.

WINE AND MEAD TASTING

Ravalli County has several options for wine tasting to tempt your palates. Blodgett Canyon Cellars and Shed Horn Cellars are located on Main Street in Hamilton. Visit Hidden Legend Winery on Highway 93 (between Hamilton and Victor) to sample local meads. Check in with Hamilton Wine and Liquor for their wine tasting event schedule.

DISTILLERIES

Great spirits and cocktails are right around the corner at Montana Distillery in Stevensville. FireRoot Spirits is just a few minutes away in Florence. Look for their bottles in local liquor stores. Head south to Hamilton to enjoy the rustic, elegant ambiance of Westslope Distillery. Check their entertainment schedule for live music.

HARD CIDER

Try some traditional and some “not-so-traditional” hard cider made right here in the Bitterroot Valley. Montana CiderWorks is based out of Darby. Call ahead for tastings or order pickup at (406) 360-5078. Backroad Cider is located in Hamilton and has 6 ciders on tap weekly. They are open Wednesday-Saturday from 3-9pm.

Daly Mansion - Hamilton Montana

21 205 Main St Stevensville Mt. 59870 777-7090 Tuesday thru Saturday 5-9 www.cateredtable.com CATERE D TABLE CASUAL FINE DINING IN THE BITTERROOT LARGE SELECTION OF DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL WINES / BEERS AVAILABLE FOR BANQUETS, SPECIAL EVENTS & CATERING PLEASE JOIN US FOR A WONDERFUL EVENING! DAILY ENTR É E & DESSERT SPECIALS LOCALLY CRAFTED LIBATIONS Games & Gathering 13th Annual Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering August 20 & 21, 2022 2022 Honored Clan Henderson Tickets available online or at the gate. More information at www.bcgg.org.

AGRICULTURE & FARMS

LIFELINE FARMS

With a herd of around 400 Brown Swiss Cows, sheep, lambs, pigs and an array of vegetables, herbs and flowers, Lifeline Farms is an agricultural wonder. Selling their own organic beef, pork, cheese and milk, makes them special to our valley. For a tour (creamery tours only) call (406) 642-9719 or visit www.lifelinefarm.com or 2427 Meridian Road in Victor. This is a stop you do not want to miss while you are here in the Bitterroot Valley.

HISTORICAL FEED MILL

Lakeland Feed & Supply has been in this same location since the 1930’s. This tour is great for kids as well as adults to learn how traditional methods are combined with the latest scientific knowledge. Visitors are welcome to tour this facility (24 hour notice requested). Call (406) 363-2334 to schedule a tour or visit www.lakelandfeeds.com .

ALPACA TOUR

Looking for something special - learn about one of the newest livestock industries in the Bitterroot. These animals furnish a wonderful, warm, lightweight, hypoallergenic fiber, that is turned into socks, garments and accessories of all kinds. For more information on these wonderful animals call Rocking L Alpacas at (406) 642-3085.

HORSE RANCHES IN THE VALLEY

Horses have always been a part of Montana, and the Bitterroot is blessed to have several equine organizations. Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen, Western Montana Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation and Equestrian Club at Dunrovin Ranch are among a few of them.

WESTERN AG RESEARCH CENTER

MSU’s Western Ag Research Center is located at 580 Quast Lane NE of Corvallis. The center addresses agricultural needs for its area of the state. To find out more information call (406) 961-3025 or visit www.ag.montana.edu/warc

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS

When spring comes to the valley, Farmers Markets from Darby to Florence begin their weekend markets. From locally grown produce, plants, flowers, baked goods and handcrafted items, these markets are packed every weekend with people wanting to take home something special from the Bitterroot Farmers Markets.

FARM STANDS OR ORCHARDS

Several farm stands and orchards in the valley are open seven days a week during the growing season. You will find the best of the Bitterroot right here in our valley. For more information on our local food producers contact the Chamber.

AGRI-TOURISM

ABC acres has unveiled a new and exciting Agritourism service geared towards Farm Stay Vacations, complete with educational and participatory components for guests to learn about our ongoing regenerative agriculture systems, and how that directly benefits the local and global community. Call (406) 210-5710 or www.abcacres.com.

22

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

BITTERROOT AQUATIC CENTER

Enjoy a multi-seasonal swim at the Bitterroot Aquatic Center in Hamilton.

YOUTH HISTORY CAMP

The Daly Mansion hosts this event in June. Some of the activities include 19th century lawn games, participation in historic re-enactments, all with hands-on activities. This camp is geared to kids from 4th grade to 8th. Call (406) 363-6004 ext. 3 for more information.

SUMMER READING PROGRAMS AT THE LIBRARY

summer

Call (406) 361-7163

RAVALLI COUNTY MUSEUM ACTIVITIES

Check with Ravalli County Museum for seasonal children’s activities. The museum provides learning fun with Saturday Learning Adventure Series, Letterboxing, scavenger hunts, geocaching and more. Visit ravallimuseum.org for more information.

THEATER SCHOOL

The Hamilton Players offer three theater schools for students K-12. They focus on fundamental performance skills, improvisation, introductory theater etiquette and technical skills. Call (406) 375-9050 or visit www.hamiltonplayers.com for information on dates.

The Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton offers a Summer Reading Program beginning in June. The Darby Community Public Library and North Valley Public Library offer various programs for kids and adults of all ages to keep them interested in reading.

DANCE STUDIOS

There are several dance studios located in the valley to develop the talents of local children; Bitterroot Dancers, Ballet Bitterroot, Dance EFX, Groovz Studio and River Street Dance Theatre.

SKATEPARKS

The Bitterroot Valley hosts three skateparks. The Circle 13 Skate Park is located at Claudia Driscoll Park in Hamilton. The park is designed in a way that it provides a continuum of experience that will accommodate all skill levels.

Darby’s Evergreen skatepark is an amazing place. It’s a fun and enjoyable place where you can go and meet your friends. The park is located at 318 Rodeo Road. Pads and helmets are recommended.

Stevisk8 park in Stevensville was the first skatepark in the Bitterroot Valley. They received a gift from many donor’s that made their skatepark a reality.There is no age limit to enjoy this event. They are located at 307 Charlos St in Stevensville.

23
offers
and
beautiful homes BOUGHT AND SOLD WITH LAUGHLIN Maria Laughlin The Laughlin Group 406.381.9427 maria.laughlin@exprealty.com www.beautifulmontanaproperties.com Call to schedule a listing or showing appointment! Offering complimentary property evaluations.
This facility
both indoor
outdoor swimming pools. In the
months, enjoy the water slide and splash pad.
for hours and more information.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

LIVE THEATER AT HAMILTON/STEVENSVILLE PLAYHOUSE

The Hamilton/Stevensville Players bring great entertainment to the Bitterroot. They provide several full scale productions each season as well as children’s workshops and numerous off-site special events. Hamilton Playhouse - call (406) 375-9050 or visit www.hamiltonplayers.com . Stevensville Playhouse - call (406) 777-2722 or visit www.stevensvilleplayhouse.com

MONTANA PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS ASSOCIATION

The Montana Professional Artists Association hosts a Show and Sale every June at the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton. This show features artists from all over Montana. Admission is free - call (406) 961-3887 or visit www.montanaprofessionalartists.com.

MONTANA A CAPELLA CHOIR

The Montana A Capella Society is a vocal choir from the Bitterroot Valley. They perform at various functions without instrumental accompaniment. The group has received international recognition. For more information as well as available CDs, go to www.montanaacapella.org.

VISIT AN ART GALLERY

The Bitterroot Valley has various artists and craftsmen. The valley is a paradise for local artists - it seems to bring out their creative juices. You will enjoy browsing through galleries and see the variety of talents we have right here in the valley.

ENJOY SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK

Sapphire Lutheran Homes bring Shakespeare in the Park to the Bitterroot every year with a different touring performance. It is the only professional touring theater program in the state that produces Shakespeare’s plays and they are free to the public. Call Sapphire Lutheran Homes at (406) 363-2800 or visit www.sapphirelutheran.org

ARTISTS ALONG THE BITTERROOT

The vast beauty of the valley seems to draw artists here to make their home. Beautiful and unique pieces of art can be found up and down the valley. Call (406) 531-0853 or visit www.artistsalongthebitterroot.com.

SAPPHIRE LUTHERAN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Sapphire Lutheran Homes hosts a FREE Annual Summer Concert Series on Friday nights in the summer months. Call (406) 363-2800 or visit www.sapphirelutheran.org for more information.

24 Come taste our full line of award-winning, small batch craft spirits and enjoy them in our creative seasonal cocktails! 172 South 2nd Street | Hamilton, Montana westslopedist.com pure montana Voted Bitterroot’s Best

2022-23 EVENTS & FESTIVALS

MAY 2022

May 6 CIRCUS FUNTASTIC 4:30pm & 7:30pm at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.circusfuntastic.com

May 7 MOTHER’S DAY TEA: A Royal Tea 11am - 3pm at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org

May 7 FARMERS MARKET - SEASON OPENING Saturday Mornings - Hamilton, Stevensville, Darby, Florence

May 13 COLORS OF CANCER GOLF TOURNAMENT at Hamilton Golf Course / www.bitterroothealth.org/events

May 13 AOIFE O’DONOVAN PERFORMANCE 8pm at Bitterroot Performing Arts Center / www.bitterrootperformingsarts.org

May 14 CULTURE CRAWL 11am-3pm Downtown Hamilton / www.facebook.com/culturecrawlhamilton

May 20 MARK O’CONNOR DUO PERFORMANCE 8pm at Bitterroot Performing Arts Center / www.bitterrootperformingsarts.org

May 21 MULE DEER FOUNDATION BANQUET 5pm - 10am at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.muledeer.org

May 22 AMERICA’S SUPER PAGEANT at Hamilton High School Performing Arts Center

May 30 CORVALLIS MEMORIAL DAY PARADE - 10am Call Corvallis American Legion Post #91 for information. (406) 546-4255

JUNE 2022

June 3 - 4 ARTISTS ALONG THE BITTERROOT Bitterroot Valley-Wide / www.artistsalongthebitterroot.com

June 4 - 5 RIGGIN’ RALLY RODEO at Darby Rodeo Grounds / www.darbyrodeo.org

June 10-12 / 17-19 /24-26 HONKY TONK ANGELS at Hamilton Playhouse / www.hamiltonplayers.com

June 10-12 / 17TH ANNUAL MPAA ART SHOW & SALE at Bitterroot River Inn / www.montanaprofessionalartistsassoc.com

June 11 BITTER ROOT DAY 9am - 1pm at Ravalli County Museum / www.ravallimuseum.org

June 14 CULPEPPER & MERRIWEATHER CIRCUS 5pm Middle Burnt Fork Rd & Park St in Stevi / www.stevensvillecivicclub.com

June 17 RONNIE RIPTIDE & THE RIPTONES - CONCERT 7pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org

June 18 - 19 BITTERROOT GEM & MINERAL SHOW at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.bitterrootgemandmineral.org

June 21- August 23 JEAN MATTHEWS TUESDAY AT 12 at Rav Co Museum Grounds / www.facebook.com/tuesdayattwelve/

June 24 GARTH LIVE - CONCERT 7pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org

June 24 - 25 SENIOR PRO RODEO at Darby Rodeo Grounds / www.darbyrodeo.org

June 24 - 25 WESTERN HERITAGE DAYS

Town of Stevensville / www.facebook.com/bitterrootstar June 24 - 25 BITTERROOT 50 MILE GARAGE SALE Lolo to Sula / www.bitterroot50milegaragesale.com

JULY 2022

July 1 THE BILLY/ELTON SHOW - CONCERT 7pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org

July 2 1ST ANNUAL MOUNTAIN MUSTER East Fork Road, Sula / www.veteranvictoryalliance.com July 2 BITTERROOT RIVER RIDE FOR VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDERS www.bikereg.com/bitterroot-river-ride-for-veterans-and-first-responders July 4 CITY OF HAMILTON FIREWORKS SHOW www.facebook.com/cityofhamiltonmt July 4 4TH OF JULY “PIGNIC” IN STEVENSVILLE 12PM at Lewis and Clark Park / www.stevensvillecivicclub.com July 7 BITTERROOT HEALTH - DARBY CLINIC FUNDRAISING DINNER at Darby Rodeo Grounds /bitterroothealth.org July 1 BRITISH EXPORT - CONCERT 7pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org July 8-9 TWISTED NUT FESTIVAL at Darby Rodeo Grounds / www.darbyrodeo.org July 9 BITTERROOT SECRET GARDEN TOUR Bitterroot Valley / www.facebook.com/bitterrootsecretgardentour/ July 15-16 HAMILTON PLAYERS OUTDOOR THEATER at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org July 16 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL - DARBY www.darbymt.net/a/recreation/annual-events/ July 22-23 ANNUAL BACKYARD CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT at Backyard Tap House, Florence / www.backyardtaphouse.com July 22-24 HARDTIMES BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL www.hardtimesbluegrass.com

July 23 LAKE COMO TRIATHLON at Lake Como / www.lakecomotri.com July 26 SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARKS - “TWELFTH NIGHT” 6pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org July 27 SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARKS - “KING LEAR” 6pm at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Grounds / www.sapphirelutheran.org

July 29 DOWNTOWN HAMILTON STREET DANCE on Main Street in Hamilton/ www.visithamiltonmt.com July 29-30 DALY DAYS - DOWNTOWN HAMILTON Downtown Hamilton/ www.visithamiltonmt.com July 30 27TH ANNUAL BITTERROOT BREWFEST at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.facebook.com/bitterrootbrewfest July 30 DALY DAYS - HISTORIC DALY MANSION at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.dalymansion.org

25

AUGUST 2022

Aug 5-6 ANNUAL CREAMERY PICNIC - STEVENSVILLE

Lewis and Clark Park / www.creamerypicnic.com

Aug 6 THE LIL SMOKIES AND JOAN ZEN at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.bitterrootperformingarts.org

Aug 12 BITTERROOT HEALTH FOUNDATION GALA at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.bitterroothealth.org/events

Aug 12-14 / 19-21 / 26-28 VANYA & SONIA & MASHA & SPIKE at Hamilton Playhouse / www.hamiltonplayers.com

Aug 12-13 WILD WEST RODEO (NRA SANCTIONED) at Darby Rodeo Grounds / www.darbyrodeo.org

Aug 13 RUN FOR THE RIVER 5K/RIVER CLEAN UP www.brwaterforum.org

Aug 18 TASTE OF THE BITTERROOT TOUR

Bitterroot Valley / www.bitterrootbia.com

Aug 19-21 BITTERROOT TOUR OF HOMES Bitterroot Valley/ www.bitterrootbia.com

Aug 20-21 BITTERROOT CELTIC GAMES & GATHERING

at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.bcgg.org

Aug 27 DALY MANSION CAR SHOW at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.dalymansion.org

Aug 27 ROUNDUP AT RIVERSIDE - DALY MANSION FUNDRAISER at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.dalymansion.org

Aug 31-SEPT 3 RAVALLI COUNTY FAIR & RODEO at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.ravalli.us/545/fair

SEPTEMBER 2022

Sept 9-10 ARTISTS ALONG THE BITTERROOT Bitterroot Valley-Wide / www.artistsalongthebitterroot.com

Sept 10 ANTIQUE SHOW W/ MT HISTORICAL FOUNDATION at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org

Sept 18 FORK TO FARM BIKE TOUR at 580 Quast Lane in Corvallis / www.bikewalkbitterroot.org

Sept 24 EMMA’S HOUSE ROARING 20’S GALA at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.emmashousecac.org

OCTOBER 2022

October SCARECROW FESTIVAL - STEVENSVILLE www.townofstevensville.com

Oct 1 BV CHAMBER OKTOBERFEST at Daly Mansion Grounds / www.dalymansion.org

Oct 1 ANNUAL MCINTOSH APPLE DAY/LIQUID APPLE NIGHT at Ravalli County Museum / www.ravallimuseum.org

Oct 7 & 8 CUTTING EDGE MANOR - A HAUNTED HOUSE at A2Z Personnel in Stevenville / www.facebook.com/a2zpersonnel

Oct 15 TAMMANY TROT 5K TRAIL RUN at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org

Oct 20-22 HAMILTON PLAYERS MURDER MYSTERY at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org Oct 30 TRUNK OR TREAT at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org Oct 31 DOWNTOWN HAMILTON KIDS HALLOWEEN PARADE Main Street in Hamilton / www.visithamiltonmt.org

NOVEMBER 2022

Nov 4-5 BITTER ROOT ARTS GUILD BRAG HOLIDAY SHOW Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.bitterrootartsguild.org Nov 18-19 HOLLY JOLLY CRAFT FAIR at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org Nov 25 HAMILTON DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS STROLL Downtown Hamilton / www.visithamiltonmt.org

DECEMBER 2022

Dec 2-3 STEVENSVILLE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Downtown Stevensville / www.stevensvillecivicclub.com Dec 10 THE GIVEAWAY - HART TO HART MINISTRIES at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.facebook.com/h2hmMT/ Dec 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE BALLOUT BASH at Ravalli County Fairgrounds

JANUARY 2023

Jan 12-14 BITTERROOT STOCKGROWERS AG EXPO & BANQUET at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.facebook.com/bitterrootstockgrowers

FEBRUARY 2023

TBA DALY MANSION ROARING 20S GALA at Daly Mansion / www.dalymansion.org

Feb 3-4 BBIA HOME & RANCH EXPO at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.bitterrootbia.com Feb 25 RAVALLI CO FISH & WILDLIFE BENEFIT FOR WILDLIFE at Ravalli County Fairgrounds / www.rcfwa.org

MARCH 2023

March 11 LINDA MASSA YOUTH HOME - BITTERROOT’S FINEST HOUR Ravalli County Fairgrounds

APRIL 2023

April 7-8 BITTER ROOT ARTS GUILD HOLIDAY SHOW

Ravalli Co Fairgrounds / www.bitterrootartsguild.org

April 9 HAMILTON EAGLES LODGE KIDS EASTER EGG HUNT Ravalli Co Fairgrounds / www.bitterrooteaglesfoe1693.business.site

April 29 4-H CARNIVAL

Ravalli Co Fairgrounds / www.ravalli.msuextension.org/4h.html

26

Our Big Dam Lakes

For those who take their recreation with a LOT of water, there are only two answers, Lake Como and Painted Rocks reservoir. As refreshing as their waters are, however, there’s a lot of history just below the surface!

Lake Como is a gem, nestled into the Rock Creek drainage only 15 miles south of Hamilton, or 10 miles north of Darby. Over three miles long at full capacity, it is the most popular recreation site on the Bitterroot National Forest, providing land- and water-based recreation in every season.

The lake received its name from Father Anthony Ravalli, one of the missionaries who helped establish Saint Mary’s Mission in the 1840’s, who said that its spectacular mountain setting reminded him of Lago di Como in his native northern Italy. (Of course, Father Ravalli also generously shared his name with Ravalli County!)

The sparkling waters and snow-capped peaks don’t begin to tell Como’s whole story. The lake we know was created by a dam in the early 1900’s, but prior to that a much smaller lake existed there, ringed by soggy flats where camas flowers bloomed into a sea of blue each spring. Since time immemorial, indigenous peoples have used the area, leaving behind traces of toolmaking and hunting. Camas bulbs, bitterroots, fish, and huckleberries were important food sources for the Bitterroot Salish Indians, and for the many other

native cultures that used the area for generations before the first Europeans laid eyes on it.

By the 1890’s, the Bitterroot Valley was open to settlement, and recreational use of Lake Como expanded. A small, stern-wheel steamboat, the “Admiral Dewey,” operated on Lake Como around 1900, taking passengers on summertime excursions, and returning to a rustic dance hall.

By 1906, the demand for irrigation water in the valley was desperate enough that construction began on a dam that rose to a height of 65 feet (later raised to 85 feet), giving Lake Como a surface area of almost 900 acres, and making it into the engine of Bitterroot agriculture. The lake fed a canal, which was flumed across canyons and siphoned under the Bitterroot River, to provide water for thirsty apple orchards and other farmlands along the valley’s east side. The Big Ditch, as it was called, ran for 80 miles, and opened up thousands of acres to agriculture, thanks to water flowing from Lake Como. Beginning in the early 1900’s the area was logged, sometimes using small locomotives that operated on temporary railroad beds. The remnants of these old logging railroad beds can still be found in the forests around the lake and, at low water, even on the lake bed itself. For most Bitterrooters, though, Lake Como is all about recreation. Como offers a boat ramp on its south shore, a swimming beach on

27
An aerial view of Lake Como by Perry Backus

the north shore, a hiking trail that encircles the lake, two campgrounds, mountain bike and cross-country ski trails, horseback facilities, and more.

On a summer day, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards predominate early in the day when the wind is calm, and jet skis and powerboats show up for the afternoon and evening hours. In winter, ice skating and ice fishing draw people out onto the lake. The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks regularly stocks the lake with rainbow trout and westslope cutthroat trout, to the delight of anglers.

Boaters also flock to Painted Rocks reservoir, 22 miles up the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. Managed by the State of Montana, Painted Rocks Reservoir provides water for irrigation, livestock, domestic use, and in-stream flows for fish.

Constructed in 1939, Painted Rocks takes its name from the colorful lichens that adorn the many granite and rhyolite outcrops in the area.

Like Lake Como, Painted Rocks was an important gathering area and travel corridor, used not just by the Bitterroot Salish but also the Nez Perce and Shoshone/Bannack cultures. Many ancient Ponderosa

pines in the area bear the scars of native use – in the spring, when the sap was rising, Indians would peel the bark to expose the sugar-rich cambium layer, an important food source at a time of year when other foods were scarce.

At full pool, Painted Rocks covers 655 acres, backed up behind an impressive, earth-fill dam standing 143 feet high. The lake stretches almost 3 miles in length, plenty of room for jet skis and motorboats, but the lake also sees its share of kayaks, and swimmers just hanging out on inflatables.

The reservoir features a State Park, a couple of boat launch facilities, and several Forest Service campgrounds in the vicinity. Trailheads dot the area, and a network of Forest Service roads invites hunters and huckleberry pickers alike to explore the area. Nearby, history buffs can visit the historic Alta Ranger Station, the first Forest Service structure in the nation, built in 1898. These two lakes not only provide irrigation water for thousands of acres, they’re reservoirs of history!

28 -Sunday Ser vice Times9:00am Sunday School 10:15 Morning Service - Hamilton C hristian Ac ademyA Christian school with academic excellence School Office 406-363-4534 Facebook, YouTube or www.hamiltonag.org -Wednesday Nig hts5:00 Free Community Dinner 6:30 Classes for all ages Passion for God Compassion for People
Photo provided

The Bitterroot Trail Preservation Alliance (BTPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and maintaining public multi-use non-motorized trails in the Bitterroot Valley. In partnership with the Montana Department of Transportation, Missoula Parks and Recreation, Missoula Parks and Recreation, Missoula County and

Ravalli County. They work to improve and maintain the 50 mile Bitterroot Trail between Missoula and Hamilton. They are working on directional and interpretive signing and information, events, litter pickup, fund raising for restrooms and trail use monitoring.

29
45 mile paved trail between Missoula and Hamilton Access to five other communities along the path: Lolo, Florence, Stevensville, Victor, Corvallis Interactive trail map that details: • Primary points of interest • Signalized roadway crossings • Parking locations • Benches, tables & restroom facilities THE HIGHLIGHTS biking the BITTERROOT TRAIL
Photo by Perry Backus

Bicycling is the second most-popular form of recreation in the U.S., with half the population getting on a bike annually. The City of Hamilton has rolled out the welcome mat for cyclists, as the gateway to the Bitterroot Valley’s plentiful road and mountain biking opportunities.

The Bitterroot is simply an outstanding place to ride. The valley’s abundance of highly scenic paved roads, with relatively low traffic volume, is almost irresistible, while a paved bike path runs the length of the valley, from Lolo to Hamilton, providing 42 miles of relatively level cruising.

For mountain bikers, the Bitterroot offers a network of Forest Service roads, hundreds of miles of them, suitable for casual mountain biking; more serious bikers will find miles of challenging single-track routes, some of them easily accessible and others quite remote. In Hamilton, the city has designated well-marked bike paths and bike routes to conduct cyclists safely through town.

Downtown sidewalks have ample bicycle parking, and the city is implementing a comprehensive bike/pedestrian plan. Check the city non-motorized plan on their web site at www.cityofhamilton.net

Hamilton also offers two excellent bike shops, Valley Bicycles and Ski, at 219 S. 1st Street, and Red Barn Bikes, off Sleeping Child Road at 399 McCarthy Loop. Both have knowledgeable sales and service staff, and can direct cyclists to suitable rides regardless of their skill levels.

Mountain bikers will find a nest of trails in the Skalkaho/Rye/ Sleeping Child area. Between Lost Trail Pass and the West Fork of the Bitterroot, lies another network of trails that offer access to remote country and challenging rides.

Lake Como also offers a mix of trails and gravel roads that are scenic, and capable of challenging riders of any level.

The Coyote Coulee recreation trail, located up Lost Horse canyon, is a mixed-use trail that offers hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers a great outing on mixed terrain. Several informal, weekly rides take place during the cycling season, some for experienced cyclists seeking a hard workout, others are more relaxed, “no-drop” rides, where the pace is set to accommodate the slowest in the group. Inquire at local bike shops for more information on these group rides, for both road cyclists and mountain bikers.

The Bitterroot Valley is on a major, transcontinental bike route, the Transamerica, developed by the Adventure Cycling Association to help guide riders traveling cross-country. More than a thousand cycle tourists pass through the Bitterroot Valley every year on that route.

Adventure Cycling and other organizations sponsor cycling tours that occasionally pass through the area, “Cycle Montana” is another organization that hosts annual rides throughout Montana. In Montana, as in most states, bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and duties as the driver of any other vehicle. Key practices for safe riding include: wearing a helmet at all times, being visible, wearing bright colors, using lights when riding in conditions of adverse visibility, riding predictably with traffic, signaling intentions, and riding respectfully and defensively. When riding with others, ride in single file and in a straight line. State law also requires cyclists to remain as far to the right as practical, unless passing another vehicle or turning left. Bicycles are required to have a white reflector on the front, red in back, and reflectors on the spokes and pedals.

Bicycling plans a big role in Montana’s tranporation system. Montana was named the safest state to commute by bicycle in the United States. Casual or experienced rider, a bike commuter, a bicycle tourist - always be safe and responsible.

Most Montanans are pedestraians at one time or another every day. Whether you are walking for exercise, recreation or just walking to work or to the store. Use the cross-walks and be on the lookout for bikes as well as cars.

Share the road is an integral part of the MDT’s Vision Zero, moving toward zero deaths and injuries on Montanan’s roads. Pay attention - share the road, motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians are all responsible for safety on Montana’s roadways. Whether driving, bicycling or walking everyone must pay attention, follow traffic signs and laws and use common courtesy, The end goal - eliminate bicycle, motor vehicle and pedestrian fatalities. To find out more about Montana and our safety rules go to www.mdt.mt.gov/travinfo/ bikeped/sharetheroad.shuml.

30

SUGGESTED BITTERROOT HIKES

of hikes was

LAKE COMO LOOP 7.5 miles

On Hwy 93, twelve miles south of Hamilton, turn right on Lake Como Rd. Drive approximately three miles and turn right on FS Road 5623. Continue to the Upper Como campground where the trailhead begins. Stock use is restricted on the North trail. There is access across the dam making this hike a complete loop around the lake. This loop is also a suggested mountain bike trail. North trail ends at the bridge/falls - this is the point of access to the Rock Creek trail.

BAILEY LAKE 2 miles

Take US Hwy 93 to its marked junction with Lost Horse Road, approximately 9 miles south of Hamilton. Turn west and follow this winding mountain road though the countryside and into the canyon beyond. This road features numerous turnouts and reaches the Lost Horse Guard Station in 17.7 miles. Here the road forks; veer left to locate the signed Bailey Lake Trailhead after another .2 mile. This hike takes you to a shallow mountain lake that lies within 45 minutes of the roadside trailhead.

BLODGETT OVERLOOK

- 540 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

3.0 miles OUT & BACK

Turn west on Main St. in Hamilton off Hwy 93 (at second stop light). Continue as Main St. becomes West Bridge Rd. (keep to the right). At the end of West Bridge Rd. turn left on Blodgett Camp Rd. and follow the signs to the Canyon Creek Trailhead. This is a combined trailhead for both Blodgett Overlook and Canyon Creek trails. Both share the same trail for the first 20 yards after which the Blodgett Overlook trail takes off to the right. There are resting spots and benches along the way.

CAMAS LAKE 5.4 miles

EASY - 1,230 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

Approximately 9.3 miles south of Hamilton on US Hwy 93, turn right (west) on Lost Horse Road #429, follow this road for 2.3 miles. Turn north on Road #496 signed for Camas Creek and travel 6.1 miles to the signed trailhead. Trail ends at Camas Lake. The first half mile is an old logging road. Beginner mountain biking trail for the first 2 miles. The trail crosses two foot log bridges. This day hike leads to a mountain lake.

COYOTE COULEE 8.8 miles

MODERATE -

1,490

FEET ELEVATION GAIN

Take US Hwy 93 to Lost Horse Road approximately 9 miles south of Hamilton. Follow the paved road west for 2.3 miles and veer right onto Forest Road #496. Continue .2 miles to the trailhead for Coyote Coulee. The trail consists largely of the stitched together segments of old orchard roads and spur railway grades. The entire route offers a varied course with lots of ups and downs. The trail was developed in cooperation with the Bitterroot Backcountry Horsemen, so you should see lots of equestrians on the trail.

BEAR CREEK OVERLOOK

MODERATE - 1,160 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

2.8 miles

From Hwy 93, turn west onto Bear Creek Road and drive 2.3 miles. Turn right onto Red Crow Road and drive 2 miles. Turn left at the junction 2.25 miles from the end of the pavement onto Forest Road #1325. This turn is not always marked, so pay close attention as you drive. Drive the last 3.6 miles to the trailhead at a Forest Service gate. It takes less than an hour to reach Bear Creek Overlook. There is no other trail quite equal to the visual impact of this trail.

31
EASY
EASY - 640 FEET ELEVATION GAIN
EASY
OUT & BACK FULL LOOP
This list provided by the Bitterroot National Forest Service.
OUT & BACK OUT & BACK OUT & BACK
Photo by Perry Backus

BEAR CREEK 15.4 miles

MODERATE - 2,730 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

Take US Hwy 93 to Tucker Crossing, 3 miles south of Victor, and follow Bear Creek Road west for 2.3 miles. Turn right at a marked intersection with Red Crow Road. Proceed north for .8 mile, veer left for the final 3 miles.

About 1.5 miles from the trailhead is a series of waterfalls. This makes a perfect destination for a day hike. At mile 7.7, the trail ends at Bryan Lake. For those interested in longer outings, this trail can be used as the starting point for a multi-day hike to Big Creek Canyon.

SWEATHOUSE FALLS 4 miles

EASY - 1,330 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

OUT & BACK

From Victor, take 5th Avenue west and turn north at the T intersection with Pleasant View Drive after 1.0 mile. Continue north for .5 mile before turning west once again on Sweathouse Creek Road. At this point follow the road for 3 miles to reach the trailhead parking area. It is 1.8 miles to the lower Sweathouse Falls and another .2 mile to the upper Sweathouse Falls.

SAINT MARY PEAK

6.4 miles OUT & BACK

Take US Hwy 93 to the trailhead signs at Indian Prairie Loop, 3.6 miles south of Stevensville turn-off. Follow the road west for 1.3 miles, then turn right onto Saint Mary’s Road and continue to the next road junction .5 mile beyond. Hang a left and follow the dirt road for 10.8 miles to the trailhead.

Saint May Peak rises from the timbered foothilss west of Stevensville. It is a moderately difficult climb and is a very popular hike. There is a Forest Service fire lookout tower on top of the summit.

BASS LAKE 16.8 miles

MODERATE - 3,240 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

OUT & BACK

Take US Hwy 93 to Bass Creek Road, 4 miles south of Florence, and follow the signs for Charles Waters Campground. Parking is available at the upper west end of the recreation area. The trail follows an old dozer grade. It is one of the most popular backcountry lakes in the Bitterroot. The lake has a good population of trout. It is also very scenic and has camp spots.

EASY

.4-6.5 miles HIKING & HORSEBACK LOOPS

Take US Hwy 93 to Bass Creek Road, 4 miles south of Florence, and follow signs for the Charles Waters Campground. The road forks shortly after crossing a bridge over Bass Creek. Stay right and continue north to the day use parking area or to the Larry Creek Campground.

The Larry Creek Complex offers .4 - 6.5 miles of hiking and horseback riding loops.

KOOTENAI CREEK 19 miles

MODERATE - 2,680 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

OUT & BACK

From the Stevensville junction on Hwy 93, travel north 1 mile. Turn west on Kootenai Creek Rd. and continue 2 miles to the trailhead. This trail is a rather steep trail and offers excellent views of the river and falls. The trail enters the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness at approximately 2.5 miles. There are 4 different lakes about a mile further from the end of the trail: North Kootenai Lake, Middle Fork Lakes and South Kootenai Lake. You can also take trail #301 (2.5 miles) which meets up with Bass Creek Trail.

BAKER LAKE

EASY - 880 FEET ELEVATION GAIN

OUT

From Darby, drive south on US Hwy 93 for 4.4 miles to the West Fork Road, Route 473. Turn right and drive another mile to a second junction. Take the right fork again and drive to the end another 7.5 miles. This road gains a considerable amount of elevation, climbing the mountain via switchbacks. There is limited parking and no trailhead facilities.

The trail is rough, but well defined. Baker Lake is a high alpine lake at about 7,800 feet elevation.The lake offers good cutthroat trout fishing.

MODERATE - 2,810 FEET ELEVATION

GAIN

19 miles OUT & BACK

Follow US Hwy 93 to its junction with West Fork Road, 4.4 miles south of Darby. Continue south along the West Fork for 13.5 miles to reach the marked turn-off for the Boulder Creek Trailhead. Turn here and follow Forest Road #5731 past Sam Billings Campground for the remaining 1.4 miles to the trailhead.

The trail is a 3.4 mile hike to Boulder Falls and ends at Boulder Lake at mile 9.5. It is a scenic hike with lakes, meadows, waterfalls & fishing.

32
MODERATE - 2,490 FEET ELEVATION GAIN OUT
& BACK
LARRY CREEK COMPLEX
2.4 miles
& BACK
BOULDER CREEK
33 Historic Daly Events 1pm - 6pm REENACTOR VIGNETTES LIVING HISTORY PRESENTATIONS OLD-FASHIONED BAKE SALE BY DALY MANSION VOLUNTEERS CARRIAGE RIDES BY LIVE OAK BELGIANS ON ORIGINAL DALY FAMILY CARRIAGES AND MORE! Dancing, Music, Food & Beer, and Family Fun! DALY DAYS WEEKEND IN HAMILTON FRIDAY JULY 29TH 2022 Friday Night Street Dance on Main Street SATURDAY JULY 30TH 2022 Family Fun & Heritage Events 9am - 2pm BITTERROOT BOUNCERS HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS WEINER DOG RACES VENDOR BOOTHS SATURDAY JULY 30TH 2022 SATURDAY JULY 30TH 2022  SHUTTLEOVERTO...  STAYFORABREW! @ the Daly Mansion Grounds 2pm - 8pm LOCAL BREWS LIVE MUSIC w/ Joan Zen FOOD TRUCKS visithamiltonmt.com dalymansion.org bitterrootchamber.org CHECK THE BITTERROOT BREWFEST FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPDATES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS ON THE EVENT! DOWNTOWN DALY DAYS MANSION DALY DAYS

“I’ll see you at Tuesday at Twelve!”

Among the many delightful attributes of the Bitterroot Valley is the fact that one person, with a vision and a fair amount of energy, can make something wonderful happen here.

Back in 1990 that person was Jean Matthews who was, among other things, a musician. After going to hear some friends play at Missoula’s “Out to Lunch” concert series, she wondered if Hamilton might support a similar program.

Thirty-two years later, the answer is still a resounding “Yes!” “Tuesday at Twelve” kicked off with its first concert at American Legion Park in July of 1990, and continues to draw audiences of all ages to sit with their family and neighbors, enjoying a picnic lunch while listening to high-quality performances. Typical attendance ranges from 100 to 200 people.

The series moved to the shady, welcoming lawn of the Ravalli County Museum in 2013, where it will continue in 2022, every Tuesday from noon until 1 p.m., beginning June 14 and running through August 23. Though some chairs and benches are available, most attendees bring their own lawn chairs or blanket to spread out, and should dress for the weather.

The musical genres vary from week to week, with folk, jazz, ballads, bluegrass, country, and rock ‘n roll on tap, all of it family-friendly. Concert-goers can check the Tuesday at Twelve Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Tuesdayattwelve) for a schedule.

Matthews had three goals in mind when she started the concert series: to provide free public concerts on a weekday; to pay the performers a reasonable fee; and to draw people to Hamilton’s

beautiful, historic downtown. The series is supported by local business sponsors, grants, and by individual donors, so that there’s never a charge to attend.

Practical goals aside, Matthews was delighted to see every segment of the community gathered together for an hour, to enjoy some good music in the company of their neighbors. After she passed away in 2015, the series was renamed the “Jean Matthews Tuesday at Twelve Summer Concert Series,” and became her legacy to the valley.

Though in the past food vendors have been available, there are none that are currently signed up, so concert-goers are encouraged to bring a picnic, whether it’s a to-go order from a local lunch spot or a bag lunch from home. The Ravalli County Museum sells popcorn and water on-site.

Bitterrooters are a hardy bunch; in case of light rain showers or smoke, the show generally goes on, but heavy rain or unhealthy air quality have on rare occasions forced a cancellation. The Community Room at Hamilton’s City Hall, just steps away, provides an alternative, indoor location when available.

The Bitterroot supports many events from up and down the valley that began as one person’s vision, and it would take most of a year to attend them all (see the Chamber’s Calendar of Events for a listing). We hope you’ll make it to them all, but this summer, join the in-theknow crowd who tell their friends, “I’ll see you at Tuesday at Twelve!”

38
39 Looking for your dream home in the Bitterroot Valley? At Engel & Völkers, we will guide you through every step of the process and make sure the journey is just as perfect as your destination. Engel & Völkers Western Frontier Missoula . Polson . Hamilton . Whitefish . Kalispell . Columbia Falls Stevensville . Bigfork . Helena . Coeur d’Alene Learn more at westernfrontier.evrealestate.com ©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act. WE ARE ENGEL & VÖLKERS. GLOBAL EXPOSURE BITTERROOT VALLEY EXPERTISE

Ravalli County Fairgrounds

The Ravalli County Fairgrounds ~ It’s more than the Fair!

Reserve a date for your next event. Venues Include:

The Fairgrounds Event Center—16,000 square foot conference facility with stage, wireless internet, overhead door access and attached catering kitchen.

Commercial Building—22 booth spaces, 3 season use

Arena horse shows, team penning and roping, open riding

Art Building—seating for up to 100, year round use

Various Barns animals shows, clinics and events

Front Lawn — open air market, car shows, family and class reunions, dog shows

Mandy Park birthday parties, outdoor concerts, games and company picnics

What’s in your future? Let the Ravalli County Fairgrounds be your host!

Facilities available for everything from antiques to art to boat shows, auctions, barbeques, birthday parties, civic and community activities, class reunions, concerts, dances, dog training classes, exhibitions, family reunions, fundraisers, horse sales, horse stalling, meetings, open riding, pet shows, picnics, private parties, rodeos, trade shows, workshops, worship services and more…

For more information check us out at www.rcfair.org or contact our office at 363 -3411

…..
40

Connect with the Valley You Love

Celebrating 25 Years of Conservation with the Bitter Root Land Trust

Whether you were born here and never imagine leaving, or if it took a bit longer to find the missing piece of the puzzle in your life is here in the Bitterroot Valley, this place has something about it that makes it feel like you’re finally home. From our verdant green fields dotted with cows and calves, to our river flowing with native westslope cutthroat trout and surrounding hills ringing with the sounds of elk bugles in the fall, we can all agree that the Bitterroot just wouldn’t be, “the Bitterroot” without its immeasurable attributes – the very essence of why we all choose to live here. Like many rural and beautiful mountain valleys, while growth can shape our community in positive ways, it can also threaten the values that draw people here and make the Bitterroot Valley a great place to call home. Since 1997, the Bitter Root Land Trust (BRLT) has worked to protect the water, wildlife, and working farms and ranches in the Bitterroot Valley, helping over 45 local families conserve approximately 9,848 acres through voluntary conservation easements. This includes the farms and ranches that feed our families with fresh produce and beef, timbered forests that provide critical wildlife habitat, and the Bitterroot River that provides endless recreational opportunities. In addition, BRLT works to connect all generations to the beautiful

open lands of the Bitterroot Valley by providing access to recreational lands through riverfront parklands and trails. Skalkaho Bend and Steve Powell Parks in Hamilton and C. Ben White Memorial Fishing Access Site in Conner offer diverse recreational opportunities for the community to enjoy year-round.

By partnering with local landowners, businesses, municipalities, and community members, BRLT helps to make it possible for landowners and our community to pass on their agricultural heritage, love of the land, and way of life for future generations - protecting these values so they will be here forever.

Community Conservation

There are many ways for our community to contribute to BRLT’s mission and support conservation in the Bitterroot Valley. From volunteering with special events various giving options, when you support the conservation of the Bitterroot’s water, wildlife and working lands, you help safeguard our valley’s unique character, prosperous local economy, and vibrant way of life. We invite you to visit our website, stop by our office or attend an upcoming special event to learn more about BRLT’s vital work to protect what you love about the Bitterroot Valley.

Article by Stephanie Sipe, BRLT Communications & Outreach Coordinator. For more information: bitterrootlandtrust.org 406-375-0956 | 170 S. 2nd Street, Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840

41
Mogan Farm in the Threemile area, Conserved by BRLT in 2020. Photo by Eric Ian.

SCENIC AREA DRIVES

If you are looking for beautiful scenery only minutes away, you have come to the right place. Listed here are some suggestions for a great day drive. This list of drives was provided by the Bitterroot National Forest Service.

SKALKAHO FALLS

Skalkaho Falls is located along Skalkaho Highway (MT-38), in between Hamilton and Phillipsburg. 3 miles south of Hamilton, turn left on MT38/Skalkaho High-way and continue another 22 miles. The falls will be locat-ed on your left. Skalkaho Falls is located in the Sapphire Mountains within Bitterroot National Forest. The water of Skalkaho Creek cascades down over 150 feet, providing impressive views and great photo opportunities. Most accessible during late spring through early autumn. Travel on Skalkaho Highway is slow due to narrow curves and limited pull-outs. During winter, only the first 10 miles of the road is plowed for automobiles.

MCCART LOOKOUT

From Sula, MT head northwest 0.2 miles on Highway 93. Turn northeast (right) onto East Fork Rd. (county road #472). Go approximately 15 miles and turn south (right) onto Forest Service Road #435 (Johnson Peak Trail). Travel 5.5 miles to the trailhead. Hike about 1.5 miles to the lookout tower. The tower is situated east of the Bitterroot Valley, at an elevation of 7,115 feet. It was named for William McCart, who settled the area but failed to com-plete his homestead entry to patent. It is poised on the edge of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and offers beautiful views of the Pintler Mountains to the east and the Bitterroot Mountains to the west.

SULA PEAK LOOKOUT

This peak has an active fire look-out. It can be driven up on a good road starting from For-est Service Road 5727, just south of the Spring Gulch Campground on highway 93. The drive is 3.6 miles to the top. Visiting hours for the Lookout are from 9:30AM to 6:00PM during the fire season.

BAKER LAKE VISTA POINT

From Darby, drive south on U.S. Highway 93 for 4.4 miles to the West Fork Road, Route 473. Turn right and drive seven miles west to the Baker Lake Road. Turn right on Baker Lake Road and drive one mile to a junction. Take the right fork. Drive another mile to a second junction. Take the right fork again, and drive to the end another 7.5 miles. This road gains considerable amount of elevation, climbing the mountain via switchbacks. The road is also very narrow in some places. Total driving time on the dirt road can be 30 minutes so plan ahead. About a half mile before the trailhead you will come to an overlook with a giant rock. Pull off to the right and walk out for a breathtaking view. About a half mile up the road is the trailhead. A short but vigorous hike through forest leads to Baker Point, a large rock outcropping with panoramic views. After this point the trail levels out a bit and continues on to Baker Lake, sitting in the Basin below Trapper Peak (the Bitterroot’s tallest peak). One-way mileage to Baker Lake is 1 1/4 miles.

42
Skalakaho Falls - Photo by Carol Woodring

Getting Pickled in the ‘Root

When Rick Trauth moved back to the Bitterroot in 2018, he was already hooked, and he needed to make a new connection. Drugs?

No, worse. Trauth had been recently introduced to the sport of pickleball, and he was looking for partners and a place to play. When he couldn’t rustle up either, he found a space, taught a clinic, and the Bitterroot pickleball boom was on.

Pickleball had its origin in 1965, and is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. With more than four million players nationwide -- and more joining their ranks every day – Trauth has plenty of company on the court these days. “It’s a great way to meet people,” he said.

Pickleball is a mash-up of tennis, badminton, and Ping-Pong, played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, reminiscent of a whiffle ball. A pickleball court is roughly a quarter the size of a tennis court, with a slightly lower net. (The sport has nothing to do with pickles – the origin of the name is a separate story!) The game is almost always played as a doubles sport, and it rewards skill more than it rewards power.

For all those reasons, the sport is a magnet for players aged 60-plus. The ball is slower than in tennis, and playing doubles on a smaller court, the players don’t have to run as far – or stress their knees as much.

Trauth says that he maintains an email list of local players with about 150 names on it, half of whom play regularly. Stevensville now has three pickleball courts at Lewis & Clark Park, open during for the summer season; in Hamilton, players utilize five courts indoors at the First Interstate building at the fairgrounds in fall, winter, and spring, and have renovated the tennis court at the Daly Mansion into four courts, available from April through September, although exact dates may vary.

The outdoor courts are available only to players who have paid membership dues to Bitterroot Pickleball ($25 per person, or $40 for a couple), and play at the First Interstate center is $5 per session. More information is available at the club’s website, www. bitterrootpickleball.net, or email bitterrootpickleball@gmail.com . Trauth, a one-time tennis pro, is an evangelist for the sport. “People learn quickly enough to start having fun right away, but then can continue to improve their whole life long.” Trauth will conduct weekly skill drills at the Stevensville and Daly Mansion courts for players of all levels. “Skill drills really level the field,” Trauth said, noting that stronger players are often outmatched by more skilled players.

The skill drill sessions Trauth teaches are by donation, with proceeds benefitting either local food banks, or SAFE. For Trauth, it’s all about building a community, whether speaking of pickleball players, or in a larger sense.

The Bitterroot College got on board with pickleball, and offers seasonal classes for beginner and intermediate players at the First Interstate building with instructor Ray McNeal. Check out the Continuing Education offerings at www.umt.edu/bitterroot-college/ . An increasing number of private courts are also popping up around the valley. In Florence, Silas Torrey created indoor pickleball courts at his Bread and Roses facility. Contact them via their Facebook page for more information. Some homeowners have installed their own courts, both indoors and outdoors.

Pickleball has a reputation as a sport that can become an allconsuming passion, but if you get hooked, at least in the Bitterroot you’ll now be in good company!

44

ABC

1075 Sleeping Child Road - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 210-7688 / www.abcacres.com

ALTA RANCH -

9203 West Fork Rd Darby, MT 59829 (406) 349-2142 / www.alta-ranch.com

ANGLER’S

815B Highway 93 South - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0980 / www.anglerslodgemt.com

ANGLER’S ROOST - RV Park

815 Highway 93 South - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1268 / www.anglersroost-montana.com

BITTERROOT RIVER INN - Hotel/Motel

139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-2525 / www.bitterrootriverinn.com

BITTERROOT TROUT FARM

2101 North 1st Street - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3744 / www.blackrabbitrv.com

BLACK RABBIT RV PARK - RV Park

2101 North 1st Street - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3744 / www.blackrabbitrv.com

CAMP SULA - RV Park

7060 Highway 93 South - Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3364 / www.sulamt.com

CITY CENTER / REMLC - Hotel/Motel

415 West Main Street Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1651 / www.remlcsportsmanslodging.com

HARLIN CABIN, THE - Cabin

2262 Old Darby Road - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6265 / www.harlancabin.com

45 406 363-2183
YOUR COMPLETE SOLUTIONS PROVIDER Solutions to internet or technology problems can be hard to find in rural areas. Grizzly Broadband offers a one-stop-shop for all of your technology needs (in the Bitterroot Valley and beyond). Rural Areas have limited access to technology solutions. • Could your business be doing better, but your network is holding you back? • Have you had a poor customer service experience elsewhere? • Are you wasting your time & energy getting the problem completely fixed? • Are you intimidated by technology? • Are you having trouble getting internet to a remote rural area? • Would you rather keep your money here in the valley? Computer Sales & Repair • Internet • Custom Jobs •Retail Store We understand how frustrating it is to not have access to the tech or solutions you need. We’re here to help. 5K+ households and businesses trust us to solve their technology problems. CALL US OR STOP BY WE’LL ASSESS YOUR NEEDS AND PROVIDE YOU WITH A SOLUTION ACCOMMODATIONS
grizzlybb.com
ACRES - Cabin-style Homes
Lodges
Lodges & Cabins
LODGE & CABINS -

LOST TRAIL HOT SPRINGS - Cabins/Lodge

283 Lost Trail Hot Springs Road, Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3547 / www.losttrailhotsprings.com

MORAINE, THE - Bed & Breakfast

2037 Silver Ridge Road Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7466 / www.themoraine.com

MOUNTAIN SPIRIT INN - Hotel/Motel

308 South Main Street - Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3405 / www.mountainspiritinn.com

QUALITY INN - Hotel/Motel

1113 North 1st Street - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6600 / www.qualityinnhamilton.com

RYE CREEK LODGE - Lodge

458 Rye Creek Road - Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3366 / www.ryecreeklodge.com

STEVENSVILLE HOTEL - Hotel/Motel

107 East 3rd Street - Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-3087 / www.stevensvillehotelmt.com

TRAVELLERS REST- Cabins and RV Park

601 North Main Street - Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3282 / www.travellersrestmt.us

WILDERNESS SPIRIT CABINS, LLC - Cabins

472 Woodcrest Lane - Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 271-4450 / www.wildernessspiritcabins.com

46

Demographics & Community Profile

POPULATION - 43,806 MEDIAN HOME VALUE - $279,300 ELEVATION - 3,570 ft MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME - $53,054 COUNTY - Ravalli County MEDIAN AGE - 49 AREA CODE - 406 HOUSEHOLDS - 17,354 LENGTH - 96 Miles MEDIAN GROSS RENT - $770

TRAVEL INFORMATION

The Missoula International Airport is the Gateway to Western Montana. It is conveniently located within one mile of the busy shopping district of North Reserve, ten minutes from downtown Missoula and the University of Montana and just 45 miles from Hamilton.

Six airlines - Alaska, Allegiant, Delta, Frontier, American Airlines and United - have operations at the airport and serve twelve nonstop destinations: Two gift shops, rental cars, a travel service, a real estate rental office, and restaurants are on-site.

Missoula International Airport is also home to the largest aerial firefighting depot in the U.S., the base of operations for the legendary 'Smokejumpers,' the Museum of Mountain Flying, Aeronautics, Homestead Helicopters, and two Fixed Base Operators: Minuteman Jet Center and Northstar Jet. www.flymissoula.com

47
BITTERROOT VALLEY
VALLEY BASICS
-
-
-
-
|
STEVENSVILLE
BITTERROOT
AVERAGE CLIMATE (low) (high)
JANUARY 15°F 33°F
APRIL 32°F 60°F
JULY 50°F 85°F
OCTOBER 31°F 61°F Thedemographicstatisticsarefromthe2019estimationsfromtheUSCensusBureau. TheclimateinformationiscitedfromtheNOAA. SULA | CONNER
DARBY | HAMILTON | CORVALLIS | PINESDALE | VICTOR |
| LOLO

CORVALLIS SCHOOL DISTRICT #1 - (406) 961-4211

- Corvallis High School - Corvallis Middle School

- Corvallis Primary

STEVENSVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT #2 - (406) 777-5481

- Stevensville High School - Stevensville Middle School

- Stevensville Primary

HAMILTON SCHOOL DISTRICT #3 - (406) 363-2280

- Hamilton High School - Hamilton Middle School

- Daly Elementary - Washington Primary

VICTOR SCHOOL DISTRICT #7 - (406) 642-3221

- Victor Public School

DARBY SCHOOL DISTRICT #9 - (406) 821-3841

- Darby High School - Darby Elementary/Middle School

LONE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT #13 - (406) 777-3314

- Lone Rock School

CARLTON SCHOOL DISTRICT #15 - (406) 273-6751

- Florence-Carlton High School

- Florence-Carlton Middle School

- Florence-Carlton Elementary School

PRIVATE EDUCATION

BLODGETT VIEW CHRISTIAN SCHOOL- (406) 363-0575

HAMILTON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY - (406) 363-4534

PAROCHIAL PINES ACADEMY - (406) 961-3055

HIGHER EDUCATION

BITTERROOT COLLEGE- (406) 375-0100

SUMMIT CAREER CENTER - (406) 777-7232

48 Thinking of Buying or Selling Real Estate? WE CAN HELP! 115 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 406.363.1250 Home of the Professionals www.coldwellbankerwsa.com
EDUCATION
jewelry for every lifestyle 201 W. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-6236 mikesellsfinejewelry.com Jewelry for every Montana Lifestyle! Traditional Modern Unique
49 Banking can build a brighter future. We believe in building vibrant, thriving communities. Whether you are buying your first home or building your forever home - we offer a variety of options to meet your home loan needs. Our personalized approach and in-house servicing reflect our commitment to values-based banking. All loans subject to approval. Federally insured by NCUA. NMLS# 447584 clearwatercreditunion.org/home-loans Heather Donnelly - Real Estate Loan Officer Clearwater Credit Union 107 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 Office: (406) 493-3599 heather.donnelly@clearwatercreditunion.org NMLS ID #2103040

BIRDING IN THE BITTERROOT

A glittering rainbow of kaleidoscope colors fill the Bitterroot Valley sky each spring and summer as the hummingbirds return to breed and nest here in Southwestern Montana.

Three distinct Bitterroot Valley hummingbird species are prevalent in this area, including the smallest breeding bird in North America, the Calliope; the feisty, rusty-backed colored Rufous; and the shy lesser seen Black-chinned. Males are quite colorful for attracting mates, where females are more gray and green to camouflage on their nests, aiding in deterring predation. There are many opportunities to view these migrating winged creatures in the valley while they linger to build fat reserves for metabolized fuel for the long journey south. It’s commonly believed by researchers that their average life span is 3 to 4 years, but amazingly, a nine-year old male Black-chinned hummer was captured and safely released along the Sapphire Range foothills in 2009.

To publicly view these Bitterroot feathered treasures, one may visit Skalkaho Steakhouse where there is a history of providing sugar-water feeders that host a marvelous variety of colorful hummingbirds. Also to relax and enjoy a wonderful meal while watching these winged wonders. The place is a buzz with the small bird’s wings beating 40-80 beats per second. A few other quick facts, normal flight speed, 30 mph. Heart rate 250 beats per minute at rest, normal body temp. 105-108 Degrees - truly amazing!

Teller Wildlife Refuge is the state’s only private wildlife refuge. It provides some diverse habitat systems for numerous birds and animals. The non-profit refuge is supported by grants and private individuals.

They are dedicated to conserving wildlife habitat living along the Bitterroot River corridor, and serving as an outdoor classroom for people to find out about conservation issues. Teller has around 1,200 acres with various species to view.

Public access is permitted from the Woodside Fishing Access. Visitors are asked to stay on the main trail to the north or to the river side (west) of the trail. Access to the area east of the trail requires permission. For more information call (406) 961-4489.

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge was established on February 4, 1964 and has 2,800 acres in the Bitterroot River Valley. The refuge is approximately 2 miles north of Stevensville. It is located in a floodplain and provides a unique wildlife experience for the public to enjoy.

Refuge habitats - riparian woodland, wetland and upland are managed for the benefit of migrating songbirds, waterfowl, water birds and raptors. Riparian woodland and wetland communities are managed to provide optimum nesting, feeding and cover habitat for these bird species.

Refuge staff manages the Refuge and there are about 267 species of birds present in the Bitterroot River watershed and 242 have been recorded at Lee Metcalf.

There are trails paved and accessible for wheelchair users. For more information on trails and access call Lee Metcalf Natural Wildlife Refuge at (406) 777-5552 or www.fws.gov/refuge/lee_metcalf.

50
Photo by Perry Backus Photo by Carol Woodring

LOCAL PARKS & WALKING TRAILS

AMERICAN LEGION - 220 South 2nd St, Hamilton

- Dogs not allowed, playground, splash deck, picnic area, benches, close to downtown, ADA accessible, restrooms available

CLAUDIA DRISCOLL PARK - 200 North 10th St , Hamilton

-Dogs not allowed, playground, picnic tables, gazebo, benches, non-motorized trails, skatepark, restrooms available, bandshell

HAMILTON DOG PARK - 843 New York Ave, Hamilton

- Visit www.cityofhamilton.net/living/parks_and_recreation/ dog_park.html for the rules.

HIERONYMUS PARK & TRAIL- 196 Hieronymus Park Dr, Hamilton

- Dogs allowed on leash, Veterans Monument at North entrance, B.E.A.R. Ropes Course, fishing pond, canopy picnic tables, non-motorized trails, Lewis & CLark Interpretive Trail Signs, wildlife viewing, river access

KIWANIS PARK - 375 South 9th St , Hamilton

- Dogs allowed on leash, playground, picnic tables, gazebo, benches, non-motorized trails, wildlife viewing, river access

RIVER PARK & TRAIL - 401 S 9th Street , Hamilton

- Dogs allowed on leash, playground, picnic tables, gazebo, benches, non-motorized trails, wildlife viewing, river access

SKALKAHO BEND PARK - 505 Bailey Ave, Hamilton

- Dogs allowed on leash, native plants along ADA trail, new ditch crossing, non-motorized trails, wildlife viewing, river access, vault toilet available

STEVE POWELL TRAIL- 4662 Steve Powell Trail, Hamilton

- Dogs allowed on leash, non-motorized trails, interpretive trail signs, benches, beach areas, wildlife viewing, foot bridge over Corvallis Canal

51

LOCAL PARKS & WALKING TRAILS

MAIN STREET PARK - 106 South Main St, Darby

- Playground and gazebo

TIN CUP PARK - 201 Tin Cup Rd, Darby

- Cooking fire pits, pine trees (no facilities)

SOUTH PARK - 201 Warren Ln, Darby

- Swings, picnic tables, cottonwoods and pine trees (no facilities)

RIVER PARK - 605 East Miles, Darby

- Foot access to the Darby Trail of Discovery the Bitterroot River (No facilities)

WAINCREST PARK - 105 South Mill St, Darby

- Gazebo, tables, play area with swings, horseshoe pit and fire pit.

Restrooms available in summer months,

DARBY SKATE PARK- 301 Rodeo Rd, Darby

- Features bowls, ramps and steps.

DARBY TRAIL SYSTEM -Darby

- A 3.5 mile loop of a non-motorized trail system that currently connects Rodeo Grounds, River Park, Darby School, and the Darby Library.

VICTOR PARK - Downtown, Victor

- Gazebo, picnic tables and trees.

FLORENCE PARK- Florence-Carlton Loop, Florence

-Playground, picnic tables, gazebo, benches, non-motorized trails, baseball diamonds, restrooms available.

DICKERSON PARK - 300 block of S. 6th St, Stevensville

- Basketball court and open space

52

LOCAL PARKS & WALKING TRAILS

FATHER RAVALLI PARK - 700 block of College St, Stevensville

-Swings, playground, basketball court, open space

LEGACY PARK- On bike path next to Stevensville

Ranger Station

- Native Bitterroot Valley plants and open space

LEWIS & CLARK PARK - W. end of 2nd St, Stevensville

- Playgrounds (2), swings, basketball court, 2 pavilions with charcoal grill, swimming pool, skate park and open space.

STEVENSVILLE BIKE PATH - Stevensville Cutoff Rd

- 1.5 mile paved bike path

TAD LANGE PARK - 500 block Main St, Stevensville

- Picnic tables and open space

VETERANS PARK - 100 block Main St, Stevensville

- Blue Star Military Memorial, benches, picnic tables.

RIVER PARK & TRAIL- Stevensville Cutoff Rd Fishing Acess, Stevensville

- Pavilion with charcoal grill, nature river trail, river access and open space

Visit the BitterrootValleyChamberofCommerce at 105 E Main Street in Hamilton for community walking and trail maps.

53
YOUR MONTANA HOME LOAN EXPERT Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender Montana’s Brand of Banking Buying, building or refinancing your Montana home? Our experienced Real Estate team can find the solution that best fits your needs. Local knowledge and expertise. Discover the difference. CAROL HOLMAN AVP, REAL ESTATE LOAN OFFICER 1713 NORTH 1ST STREET HAMILTON 406-375-5381 NMLS ID# 478584

HISTORIC PLACES

THE DALY MANSION

The Daly Mansion is located on 46 acres of lush landscape, and originally called “Riverside’, is the historic home of 19th Century American industrialist Marcus Daly.

In 1886 Marcus Daly purchased the Anthony Chaffin homestead, which included the farmhouse and had it completely remodeled by 1889. Since the Daly family did a lot of entertaining during the summer months, the mansion was again remodeled in 1897 to a Queen Anne style Victorian home. When the home was finished, it reminded Marcus of a church, so he remodeled it again. Marcus died in November of 1900 before the remodeling was begun. A few years later, Mrs. Daly contracted A.J. Gibson from Missoula to go ahead with the remodeling plans. The once Queen Anne home was turned into the new GeorgianRevival style home and the remodeling was complete in 1910. Mr. Daly, was an Irish immigrant and made his fortune just as copper was coming into use for telegraph and electric wire. After Mrs. Daly’s death in 1941, the Mansion was closed and boarded up until 1987, when it was opened to the public. Over two million dollars in restorations have been completed in the Mansion, the grounds and the outbuildings.

The three-story mansion is on 50 treed acres off the Eastside Highway. Included on the mansion grounds are a tennis court, swimming pool, greenhouse, playhouse, and a laundry building. The Daly Mansion is open daily for tours and is host to special events, weddings and reunions.

The Georgian-Revival style mansion has over 50 rooms, with 25 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, as well as 7 fireplaces, 5 of which have imported Italian marble. The home is three stories for a total of

24,000 square feet, including a full basement. Some of the main rooms include a large living room, music room, formal dining room, sun room, trophy room, which was added in 1914, and upstairs sitting room with a third floor billiard hall.

The Daly Mansion welcomes guests with disabilities. They have an elevator that travels from the 1st floor, 2nd floor and 3rd floor. There is handicap parking next to the house for state-issued parking permit holders. Much of the Daly Mansion is accessible to guests in wheelchairs, although some areas are not due to the historic architecture of the building.

Today, the Mansion is a hub of local culture, entertainment, engagement and historical interpretation. We see nearly 10,000 visitors annually, and a team of over 100 volunteers are dedicated to preserving the grounds and house for the enjoyment of all who enter. The Daly Mansion is a treasure of history and intrique, and we are thrilled to share it with visitors and community members alike. Tours are available from Mid-May through October. Fall/Winter season tours are only available if you call for week day appointments 363-6004. Adults are $9.00, Seniors $8.00, Youth $6.00 (ages 6-17) and under 6 are free.

In season, tour hours are from 10:00 am to 3:00. Tours take place at the top of the hour and last about one hour. The grounds are open during the tour season from 9:00 to 5:00.

To obtain more information or group tours and potential discounts, call (406) 363-6004 ext. 4.

55
Photo provided

FORT OWEN STATE PARK HISTORIC PLACES

Fort Owen State Park, situated in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, is the site of many “firsts” in Montana history. Located in the traditional homeland of the Selis (Bitterroot Salish) people, Fort Owen offers visitors a glimpse into pioneer life in the 1850s and beyond. Located 1/2 mile West of Stevensville, this park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A traditional winter home for the Salish, the area near Fort Owen State Park became the site of many “firsts” in Montana pioneer history. Montana’s first Catholic church was founded by Father DeSmet in 1841 near the Bitterroot River. This was the first permanent white settlement in today’s Montana. Also located here was Montana’s first sawmill, first grist mill, first agricultural development, first water right, and the first school for settlers. John Owen, who was a sutler for the U.S. military, arrived in the Bitterroot Valley in 1850 with his Shoshone wife Nancy. After purchasing the site from the Missionaries in 1850, John Owen used a rare building material for Montana, adobe, to build the East and West Barracks. Explore the standing East Barracks structure and imagine an office, boarding

rooms, and a trading post. Outside of the structures, Owen grew food, had cattle, and had many guests including indigenous peoples to trade and work at Fort Owen.

Fort Owen State Park is 1.9 acres in size and sits at an elevation of 3,398 feet, surrounded by the privately owned Fort Owen Ranch. Take a self-guided tour of the park to explore it’s history. The Park is open 9 am - 6 pm daily from March - November. A parking lot, vault toilet and picnic table are available, and all trash must be packed in/packed out. Please check the park website for current hours, information, regulations, and fees: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/ fort-owen

56
Photo provided by Montana State Parks.

ST. MARY’S MISSION HISTORIC PLACES

Historic St. Mary’s Mission stands in the shadow of St. Mary’s Peak in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana. Fr. Pierre De Smet, a Jesuit priest, founded the Mission in 1841. The State of Montana grew from those early beginnings of the settlement first called St. Mary’s and later named Stevensville. The town holds the distinct honor of being the place “Where Montana Began”. The well-preserved buildings and artifacts of the Mission Complex afford visitors a look back at the historical beginnings of the birth of the State and the settlement of the West.

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, St. Mary’s Mission is a cultural and historical icon of the early days of the American West. Historic St. Mary’s Mission, Inc., continually strives to strengthen ties with, and acknowledge its roots in Native American culture, while preserving the area’s delicate past for future generations. Formed in 1988, Historic St. Mary’s, Inc., is a non-profit organization. The goal of the organization is to preserve, restore, maintain and promote the Mission Complex founded in 1841 by Jesuit priests under the leadership of Father Pierre Jean DeSmet, S.J. The town of Stevensville and the State of Montana were formed from these early beginnings.

The Mission is administered by a seven member Board and operated by a Director. Volunteers serve as tour guides, grounds keepers, clerical workers and see to the operation of the gift shop.

The maintenance and operation of the Mission is reliant on donations, tour fees, gift shop sales and grants. Programs such as the $2 A Month Club also help support operating costs.

For travelers and local visitors alike, the old Mission affords a look back to the State of Montana’s earliest beginnings - the place where agriculture, medicine, education and religion were first introduced.

The Mission Complex is open for tours from April 15 through October 15. Groups and school tours are always welcome.

The web site provides a “tour” for those unable to visit in person. Here you will find photos, the history of the Mission Complex, and discover the roles the Salish people, Fr. DeSmet and Fr. Anthony Ravalli, S.J. played in its development.

57
Photo provided

BLENDING OF TWO CULTURES

The history of St. Mary's Mission begins with the arrival in the Northwest of twenty-four Iroquois Indians employed as trappers by the Hudson's Bay Company. During the 1823-24 season, twelve of these Iroquois remained among the Salish (Selis) in the Red Willow (now Bitterroot) Valley. They were adopted into the tribe and married the Salish women.

The Iroquois came from a nation that had been introduced to Christianity some two hundred years earlier. When they gathered around the campfire in the evenings with the Salish the Iroquois talked about white men who wore long black gowns, carried crucifixes, did not marry and whose practice it was to instruct people, bringing them to know God and all things to enable them to live after death. The Salish, together with their neighbors the Nez Perce, became so interested in these stories that between 1831 and 1839 they sent four delegations to St. Louis to obtain a Black Robe to live among them to teach them all these things to which the Iroquois referred.

On September 24, 1841, Father Pierre Jean DeSmet, together with his fellow Jesuit missionaries, Fathers Gregory Mengarini and Nicolas Point, and three Lay Brothers arrived in the Bitterroot Valley with their belongings and supplies in three carts and a wagon, the first vehicles to enter the area. They established the first white settlement in what was to become Montana, on the east bank of the Bitterroot river, immediately west of the present town of Stevensville. The new mission, as well as the river and the tallest mountain peak to the west, were named "St. Mary's". Fifty years later the name of the river was changed to "Bitterroot" by the Forest Service. The first chapel, 25x33 had two galleries to accommodate an entire tribe. Fr. DeSmet made a trip to Fort Colville and returned with supplies to get through the winter, along with wheat, oats, potatoes and garden seeds for the first crops. The news of the Black Robes’ spread and within a short time Indians from many tribes came, forcing a larger church to be built, which was built a few hundred yards east of the river. Father DeSmet returned to St. Louis, he then left for Europe to seek recruits and funds for the mission. One of his recruits was Father Anthony Ravalli, S.J., an Italian who arrived at St. Mary’s in November of 1846. He was Montana’s first physician, surgeon and pharmacist. He was also an architect, artist and sculptor. He built the first grist and saw mill. Religion classes were held twice a day. There were classes in reading, writing and arithmetic taught in the Salish language. The Indians were taught to plow, plant, cultivate, irrigate and harvest crops and to tend cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry.

A larger church was under construction in 1846, but problems with the Salish’s enemies, the Blackfoot, ended in a temporary closure of the Mission. John Owen, a former army sutler, bought the improvements for $250.00. Should the Jesuits return within two years the mills and

fields would revert to them. When they were unable to return by the designated time, the Jesuits sent word to burn the church to save it from desecration. The former mission site became Fort Owen, a trading post.

It wasn’t until 16 years later (1866) when Father Joseph Giorda, called back Father Ravalli and Brother William Claessens and re-established St. Mary’s Mission about a mile south of Fort Owen. Brother Claessens built a little chapel to which he attached a study, dining room, kitchen and a story and a half barn. Father Giorda made the new St. Mary’s the Jesuit mission headquarters. In 1879 an addition to the front of the building doubled the size of the chapel. Today the mission complex includes the restored chapel/residence, Father Ravalli’s log cabin/pharmacy and Chief Victor’s cabin (now a Salish museum). DeSmet park offers picnic facilities and a replica of a Salish encampment, the cemetery where Father Ravalli is buried and the Indian burial plot. A Visitor’s Center was added in 1996 and houses a gift shop as well as a research library, art gallery and museum that features some of Father Ravalli’s hand tools and farm equipment as well as historical documents and photographs. Recently added is a replica of the first two-wheeled carts. The carts carried belongings and supplies for the first group of Jesuits as they were escorted by the Indians to the Bitter Root Valley in 1841.

58
59 Downsize Beautifully www.riversidecrossing.org A 55+ Pocket Neighborhood Community (406) 369-4630 Neffs’ Flooring and Design 406 363 7002 201 South Second St. Hamilton, Mt. 10 am to 4 pm Mon-Fri Carpet Hardwood Tile Waterproof Flooring Window Coverings YOUR COMMUNITY-MINDED MOM AND POP STORE • Art Supplies • Teacher/Classroom Supplies • Copying & Faxing Services • Crafting & Scrapbooking Materials 228 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT | 406.363.5480
60 Shop the Bitterroot’s Premier Gifts Knick-Knacks • Smoking & Vaping Accessories Locally-Sourced Plants, Art, Mineral Bath Salts & More! CURIOSITIES 1771 US Hwy 93 N, Victor, MT 59875 406.802.4211 Conveniently located in the lobby of Heirloom Remedies cannabis dispensary. www.heirloomremediesmt.com GIFTS | HALLMARK BATH & KITCHEN GADGETS HOME DECOR OLIVELLE OILS & VINEGARS Always Something New! 406.363.1733 • 209 W Main St, Hamilton www.robbinsonmain.com Serving Our Community Since 1972 Our Services  Open Admission Animal Shelter  Pet Adoptions - Owner Surrenders  Reuniting Pets & Owners  Emergency “Hub” for displaced pets during fires & natural disasters  Community Pet Food Pantry  Micro-chipping & ID Tags for pets  City of Hamilton Dog License Sales  Humane Education Presentations  Live Animal Trap Rentals  Pet Crematorium Services  Non-profit organization Come Visit Us 262 Fairgrounds Road PO Box 57 Hamilton, MT 59840 Open Tuesday - Friday 1-6pm Saturday & Sunday noon - 5pm CLOSED MONDAYS Email: opmanager@bitterroothumane.org 406.363.5311 www.bitterroothumane.org
61 THE BITTERROOT’S lifestyle boutique CONTEMPORARY CLOTHING, HOME DECOR, ACCESSORIES, BODY CARE & GIFTS www . lovethecloset . com Conserving the place you love. 170 S 2ND STREET, SUITE B HAMILTON, MT 59840 (406) 375-0956 TO GET INVOLVED, VISIT BITTERROOTLANDTRUST ORG
62 Let Us Protect What Matters To You. Get a quote on Auto, Home, Life, Health or Business Insurance! Darcy Hansen State Farm protectingwhatmatters.net Call or stop in today! 300B Main Street Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 625-3715 Welcome to the Bitterroot Valley & our Catholic Community St Francis of Assisi 411 S. 5th Street, Hamilt on & St Philip Benizi 312 Miles Street, Darby Please jooin us. Check our Website for Mass and Special event times. www.st francishamilton.org CONCERT SERIES summer 10TH ANNUAL 2022 Fri, June 17th » 7PM RONNIE RIPTIDE & THE RIPTONES Fri, June 24th » 7PM GARTH LIVE Fri, JuLY 1ST » 7PM THE BILLY/ELTON SHOW Fri, JuLY 8th » 7PM BRITISH EXPORT (the beatles) Montana Shakespeare in the Park - FREE Tues, july 26th » 6PM twelfth night wed, JuLY 27th » 6PM king lear Family Friendly and FREE! Bring your lawn chair or blanket Call 406-363-2800 for more info / sapphirelutheran.org

BITTERROOT FOREST

HISTORY OF THE BITTERROOT NATIONAL FOREST

The Bitterroot National Forest has been occupied by humans for 8,000 years or longer, and is the traditional homeland of the Bitterroot Salish Indians. It was also frequented by other tribes including the Kootenai, Pend d’Oreille, Shoshone and Nez Perce. These hunters and gatherers harvested plants and animals throughout the year.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1805 was the first recorded contact of Euro-Americans here. After crossing the rugged divide near what is now Lost Trail Pass, Lewis and Clark descended into Ross’ Hole (located near Sula, MT) and encountered an encampment of Bitterroot Salish preparing to travel to bison hunting areas east of the Continental Divide.

Seventy-two years later when the Nez Perce fled their homeland in Idaho they retraced Lewis and Clark’s route into the Bitterroot. After passing peacefully through the valley, they were confronted by a regiment of soldiers and the Battle of the Big Hole ensued. A segment of the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, known also as the Nee-Me-Poo, can be hiked on the Sula Ranger District.

Euro-American occupation of the Bitterroot Valley accelerated in the 1860s with the discovery of gold, first in Idaho and then in Montana. The valley’s relatively mild climate and abundant water supplies were well-suited to agriculture, making it the “bread basket” for mining camps throughout southwestern Montana. Although relatively little mining activity occurred in the Bitterroot, the Overwhich-Hughes

Creek Mining District in the upper West Fork of the Bitterroot was a bustling gold district in the 1890s and early 1900s. Gold was also mined in the hills east of Stevensville during this time, and the Curlew mine near Victor produced silver, lead, zinc and gold ore well into the 20th century.

The lumber industry began its development in the 1880s. Much of the timber harvested was cut from public land until 1897, when the Bitter Root Forest Reserve was created. This made it part of a national effort to help preserve the forests in the western United States from further devastation.

In 1907, the newly created U.S. Forest Service converted these forest reserves into National Forests, marking the beginning of National Forest Conservation and management policy. The Bitter Root Forest Reserve and portions of neighboring reserves became today’s Bitterroot National Forest.

ABOUT OUR NATIONAL FOREST

The 1.6 million acre Bitterroot National Forest, in west central Montana and east central Idaho, is part of the Northern Rocky Mountains. National Forest land begins above the foothills of the Bitterroot River Valley in two mountain ranges--the Bitterroot

63
Photo by Perry Backus

Mountains on the west and the Sapphire Mountains on the east side of the valley. The nearest urban area is Missoula, Montana, located 40 miles north of Hamilton, Montana.

Elevation ranges from 3,200 feet at the north end of the Bitterroot Valley to Trapper Peak at 10,157 feet in the mountains on the south. In the Idaho portion of the Forest, elevations drop to about 2,600 feet along the Selway River and 2,200 feet on the Salmon River.

In response to the changing needs of society, land managers on the Bitterroot National Forest use the principles of multiple use and ecosystem management to develop their objectives. Based on the sound principles of biological diversity and landscape management, the forest supports productive, healthy diverse ecosystems while providing the goods, services, values and opportunities that people desire. These include recreation, wildlife, fisheries, water, cultural resources, as well as timber, minerals, and grazing.

In the drier valley floor and lower foothills there is an arid-lands mix of grasslands, shrublands, and ponderosa pine that borders cottonwood forest along rivers and streams. On grassland ecosystems, wildlife and domestic livestock share forage. These rangelands provide benefits like wildlife habitats and recreation.

Mid-elevations receive more moisture and are habitat for stands of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and western larch. Higher elevations produce Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, subalpine larch and whitebark pine.

Vegetative management of the forest provides a sustained yield of forest products including saw timber, post, poles, and firewood, while providing improved wildlife habitat, forest health and high quality watersheds.

Alpine lakes, mountain reservoirs, fast running streams and the meandering Bitterroot River offer anglers the opportunity to fish for brook, rainbow, and brown trout. Be sure to consult the current Montana or Idaho fishing regulations for details.

The Bitterroot Forest is home to many species of wildlife, from mule deer, whitetail deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, black bear, mountain lions, and moose, to many varieties of smaller animals and birds. Wildlife viewing areas offer you the opportunity to view them in their natural habitat.

Recreation opportunities abound. Try some popular activities like camping at eighteen developed campgrounds, hiking or riding on more than 1,600 miles of trails, fishing, hunting, rafting, boating, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, wildlife watching; downhill and crosscounty skiing; snowboarding and snowmobiling to name a few. Forty-seven percent of the Bitterroot National Forest (743,000 acres) is comprised of portions of the Anaconda-Pintler, Selway-Bitterroot, and/or Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.

64 A Retirement Community that o ers: •Independent Living • At Home Services •Assisted Living •Memory Care Affordable housing for all incomes Call for a tour TODAY! (406) 363-2800 • 501 N. 10th St, Hamilton sapphirelutheran.org We Are An Equal Opportunity Provider And Employer (406) 363-2800  501 North 10th St. Hamilton, MT 59840 sapphirelutheran.org A Retirement Community That Offers:
Available in Hamilton & Stevensville. Treat yourself to the relaxing and rejuvenating experience of massage. Mona Quintieri Owner & Massage Therapist (406) 291-0456 AlloraMassage@gmail.com By appointment only. BOOK ONLINE

RESTAURANTS

BACK DOOR DELI

105 South 3rd Street - Hamilton / (406) 363-4480 www.facebook.com/Back-Door-Deli-178819395576156

BACKYARD TAP HOUSE

281 Rodeo Drive - Florence (406) 830-3266 / www.backyardtaphouse.com

BAILEY’S FINISH LINE BAR & GRILL

2420 Railroad Avenue - Victor (307) 680-1995 / www.facebook.com/Baileysfinishline

BITTER ROOT BREWING

101 Marcus Street - Hamilton (406)363-7468 (PINT) / www.bitterrootbrewing.com

BJ’S RESTAURANT

900 North 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 363-4650 / www.bjsrestaurant.net

BOUILLA

111 South 3rd Street - Hamilton (406)361-0223 / www.bouilla.com

COFFEE CUP CAFE

500 South 1st Street - Hamilton (406)363-3822

COWBOY TROYS

2359 Hwy 93 North - Victor (406) 642-3380 / www.cowboytroys.com

DOMINO’S PIZZA

901 South 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 361-3030 / www.dominos.com

FIGARO’S PIZZA

144 Canyon Falls Way - Hamilton (406) 375-0164 / www.figaros.com

FINS TAP HOUSE

352 Woodside Cutoff - Corvallis (406) 370-1821 / www.finstaphouse.com

FREESTONE ICE CREAM

113 South 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 961-9800 / www.facebook.com/freestoneicecream

HIGHERGROUND BREWING COMPANY

518 North 1st Street - Hamilton (406)375-5204 / www.highergroundbrewing.com

KODIAK JAX II

109 South 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 363-5695 / www.kodiakjax.com

LITTLE BLUE JOINT

119 North Main Street - Darby (406)821-0023 / www.littlebluejoint.com

LOLO PEAK BREWERY

6201 Brewery Way - Lolo (406) 493-6231 / www.lolopeakbrewery.com

MCDONALD’S

707 North 1st Street - Hamilton (406)363-6644 / www.mcdonalds.com

MISSION BISTRO

225 Main Street - Stevensville (406)777-6945 / www.missionbistromt.com

NAPS GRILL

200 West Main Street - Hamilton (406) 363-0136 / www.napsgrill.com

PIZZA HUT

1002 North 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 363-1502 / www.pizzahut.com

RIVER RISING

337 West Main Street - Hamilton (406) 363-4552 / www.riverrisingbakery.com

SECOND STREET SUSHI

322 2nd Street - Hamilton / (406) 363-0600

SEPPI’S EUROPEAN MARKET & DELI

129 Copper King Court, Suite A - Hamilton / (406)369-0529 www.facebook.com/Seppis-European-Market-Deli

65

RESTAURANTS

SKALKAHO STEAKHOUSE

1380 Skalkaho Hwy (7 mile marker) - Hamilton (406) 363-3522

SUBWAY OF HAMILTON

1146 North 1st Street - Hamilton (406) 363-4609 / www.subway.com

SUZETTE’S ORGANICS

163 S 2nd Street - Hamilton (406) 375-5159 / www.facebook.com/suzettesorganics

TACO DEL SOL

376 US Hwy 93 South - Hamilton (406) 375-8226 / www.facebook.com/HamiltonTDS

THE CATERED TABLE

205 Main Street - Stevensville (406) 777-7090 / www.cateredtable.com

THE EDGE RESTAURANT

140 Bitterroot Plaza Drive - Hamilton (406) 375-0007 / www.theedgerestaurant.com

THE WILD MARE

283 2nd Street - Corvallis (406)961-8938 / www.facebook.com/Wild-Mare

FOOD TRUCKS

BIG SKY GRUB TRUCK

Mobile Concession (406) 880-2122 / www.bigskygrubtruck.com

CRUZ TACOS

Mobile Concession (406) 207-6803 / www.facebook.com/cruztacos406/

DOUBLE K RANCH

Mobile Concession (406) 802-4372 / www.doublekranchmt.com/food-trailer

PORTABLE PIZZA PALACE

Mobile Concession (406) 369-5296 / www.facebook.com/Portable-Pizza-Palace

REAL FLAVORS FOOD TRUCK & CATERING

Mobile Concession (406) 880-8708 / www.facebook.com/RealFlavorsFood

THE GUT BOMB

Mobile Concession (406) 381-0436 / www.facebook.com/THEGUTBOMB

66
Bitterrootdalen 4-656 Hamilton, Montana 406.381.8564 Sharing & Learning Scandinavian Culture REFACING • NEW CABINETS REDOORING • CABINET PAINTING 1 DAY TUNE-UP • AND MORE! k i t ch e n t u n e u p . c o m 406.375.0262 Locally owned and operated by Thomas Schmitt. 1 - 5 D AY KI TCHE N UPD ATE S
67 FREE PICK UP & DELIVERY IN THE HAMILTON AREA • Transmission, Radiator, AC Service & More • No appointments neccessary. • We report ALL maintenance to Carfax. FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30am - 5:30pm SATURDAY 8:30am - 12:30am 406.363.4221 1000 N. 1st Street, Hamilton OIL CHANGE IN 15 MINUTES OR LESS! EXPERIENCED & HONEST TECHNICIANS We repair ALL Makes and Models! Free AutoVitals inspections with every repair! 406-363-2360 1000 1/2 N 1st Street, Hamilton Conveniently located behind Lube Quick BRAND NEW AUTOMATIC CAR WASH CAR WASH ATTENDANT ON-SITE Tuesday - Saturday 9am-5pm 4 SELF-SERVE WASH BAYS Open 24/7

TRANSPORTATION

BITTERROOT BUS - (406) 363-7484

HUCKLEBERRY EXPRESS TAXI - (406) 369-3520

DISABLED AMERICANS VETERANS VAN - (406) 363-8396

VALLEY VETERANS- (406) 363-9838

iRIDE VAN POOL - (406) 327-8515

VALLEY COURIER SERVICE - (406)550-0001

VEHICLE/REGISTRATION

DRIVER’S LICENSE EXAMS AND RENEWALS

102 Main Street, Suite A - Stevensville Appointments preferred. (406) 444-1772 https://dojmt.gov/driving/appointments/

VEHICLE REGISTRATION/TITLES

215 South 4th Street - Hamilton / (406) 375-6585

ELECTRICITY UTILITIES

NORTHWESTERN ENERGY - (888) 467-2669

RAVALLI COUNTY ELECTRIC CO-OP - (406) 961-3001

NATURAL GAS UTILITIES

NORTHWESTERN ENERGY - (888) 467-2669

SANITATION

MUNICIPAL PLANTS IN DARBY, HAMILTON & STEVENSVILLE

- Sewer Districts in Victor and Corvallis

- Type of sewage treatment: Secondary/Extended Aeration

- Capacity: 3,000,000 gals/day

- Average Load: 1,000,000 gals/day

Most residences are served with onsight individual septic and walls

WATER

VARIOUS MUNICIPAL & PRIVATE SUPPLIERS

- Source of city water: Wells

- Average depth of wells: 60-100 ft

- Average consumption: 1.4 MGD gals/day

- Peak consumption: 2.4 MGD gals/day

- Hardness (ppm): 134

- Treated: yes

- Temperature: 50 °

68
COMMUNITY RESOURCE INFORMATION
BIG SKY COMMUNICATIONS - (406) 363-0700 TELEPHONE SERVICES BITTERROOT WIRELESS - (406) 375-9905 BLACKFOOT COMMUNICATIONS- (406) 541-5000 CENTURYLINK - (888) 912-4240 GLOBAL WIRELESS - (406) 363-5163 GRIZ WIRELESS - (406) 375-7030 SPECTRUM - (833) 267-6094

COMMUNITY RESOURCE INFORMATION

INTERNET SERVICES

GRIZZLY BROADBAND - (406) 363-2183

CENTURYLINK - (888)912-4240

SPECTRUM - (885) 243-8892

BIG SKY INTERNET- (406) 552-0100

ROCKY MOUNTAIN INTERNET - (406) 777-4088

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

SHERIFF/AMBULANCE/FIRE - 911

FIRST CALL FOR HELP (DOMESTIC ABUSE) - 211

RAVALLI COUNTY SHERIFF - (406) 375-4060

HAMILTON CITY POLICE - (406) 363-2100

STEVENSVILLE POLICE- (406) 777-3011

DARBY POLICE - (406) 821-3753

ROAD CONDITIONS- (800) 226-7623

Specializing in Residential, Ranch, Land, Investment Properties and Commercial

Julie Fillingham

Broker/Owner

406.363.5750 1591 N 1st Street, Suite 1 Hamilton, MT

POST OFFICES

CONNER - (406) 821-4776

CORVALLIS - (406) 961-3821

DARBY - (406) 821-3441

FLORENCE - (406) 273-2731

HAMILTON - (406) 363-1445

STEVENSVILLE - (406) 777-5812

SULA - (406) 821-3852

VICTOR - (406) 642-3361

RAVALLI COUNTY SERVICES

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS - (406) 375-6500

CLERK & RECORDERS - (406) 375-6550

TO BURN - (406) 363-3033

ELECTION OFFICE - (406) 375-6556

SANITARIAN - (406) 375-6565

PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT - (406) 375-6670

ROAD DEPARTMENT - (406) 363-2733

FAIRGROUNDS - (406) 363-3411

TAXES - (406) 375-6600

WEED DISTRICT - (406) 777-5842

69
70 ankford D rafting & Design Inc. Dean Lankford: Owner (406) 363-3188 “Designing your Dreams” Complete Construction Cad Drawings, since 1990 l Custom Homes l Additions l Remodels l Residential l Log l Commercial L COMMUNITY RESOURCE INFORMATION MISSOULA OFFICE - (406) 542-1580 SOCIAL SECURITY MONTANA STATE HIGHWAY PATROL - (406) 329-1500 STATE HIGHWAY PATROL MONTANA ROAD INFORMATION - (800) 226 - 7623 BITTERROOT DISPOSAL (TRASH SERVICE) - (406) 363-3630 UTILITIES VICTOR DUMP TRANSFER - (406) 642-3375 NORTHWESTERN ENERGY - (888) 467-2669 RAVALLI COUNTY ELECTRIC CO-OP - (406) 961-3001 ONE CALL BEFORE YOU DIG - 811 HAMILTON CITY WATER & SEWER BILLING - (406) 363-2131 BENEFITS & INFORMATION - (800) 827-1000 VETERANS SERVICES VALLEY VETERANS SERVICE CENTER - (406) 363-9838 HAMILTON VA CLINIC - (406) 363-3352

2022 BITTERROOT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERS

ACCOUNTING, TAX SERVICES & PAYROLL SERVICES

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES

DAVIS GROUP PLLC

178 South 3rd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2225

DAWSON’S FULL SERVICE BKG. INC

496 Woodcrest Ln, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 375-2406

HENDERSON & ASSOCIATES, P.L.L.C. 103 Bedford St #102, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6306

JCCS, PC.

400 West Main St #101, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2820

KM BOOKKEEPING LLC

716 S 1st Street, Suite F, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 830-7450

TOMPKINS & PETERS CPAs, P.C. 1659 North First St Suite 2, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0097

WEBER & VANORIO CPAs, P.C.

406 Main Street, Suite A, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-9966

PAYROLL SERVICES

A2Z PERSONNEL

186 South 3rd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0723

A2Z PERSONNEL - STEVENSVILLE 215 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-1662

KM BOOKKEEPING LLC

716 S 1st Street, Suite F, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 830-7450

ADVERTISING & MEDIA

GRAPHIC DESIGN

WATTERS EDGE DESIGN

PO Box 733, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 396-0073

MARKETING/ADVERTISING/PROMOTIONS

ALLEGRA PRINT & IMAGING

1151 North 1st St #C, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7645

BIG SKY PROMOTIONS

315 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0919

HINGSTON ROACH GROUP, INC.

PO Box 656, Stevensville, MT 59870 (208) 660-1818

KEEP IT LOCAL Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-5056

SP2M MARKETING

2320 57th St., Missoula, MT 59803 (406) 360-3321

TOUCH POINT DESIGNS, LLC

274 Old Corvallis Rd., Suite T, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-5884

WATTERS EDGE DESIGN

PO Box 733, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 396-0073

MEDIA

107.9 THE DRIVE / 106.3 MOUNTAIN FM 186 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 541-1079

BITTERROOT STAR

115 West Third Ste #108, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-3928

KLYQ AM

320 North 1st St #G, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3010

MONTANA PUBLIC RADIO

University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-4931

RAVALLI REPUBLIC

232 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3300 Joe Weston

SP2M MARKETING 2320 57th St., Missoula, MT 59803 (406) 360-3321

71

WESTERN ROCKIES RADIO INC

910 Brooks St #102, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 360-1100

PRINTING

ALLEGRA PRINT & IMAGING

1151 North 1st St #C, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7645

PLAN IT GREEN PRINTING, INC

99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor, Hamilton, MT 59840 (310) 403-2530

UPS STORE

612 North 1st Street Ste. 2, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2187

TELEVISION

KPAX

1049 West Central Ave, Missoula, MT 59806 (406) 542-4400

KTMF-TV ABC FOX MONTANA, COWLES

MONTANA MEDIA 2200 Stephens Ave, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 542-8900

WEB DESIGN

FIRST CALL COMPUTER SOLUTIONS

500 North Higgins Ave., Ste 201Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 721-6462

TOUCH POINT DESIGNS, LLC

274 Old Corvallis Rd., Suite T, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-5884

WATTERS EDGE DESIGN

PO Box 733, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 396-0073

WEB HOSTING

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

ART GALLERIES/FRAMING

ART FOCUS, LLC

215 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4112

MONTANA BLISS ARTWORKS

701 Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-2488

WIDE ANGLE ART 237 North 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7664

ART STUDIOS

MONTANA BLISS ARTWORKS

701 Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-2488

OPEN-ENDED EXPRESSIVE ARTS STUDIO

201 Daly Avenue, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 531-2553

ARTISTS

MAPS MEDIA INSTITUTE

515 Madison Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-7230

MONTANA BLISS ARTWORKS

701 Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-2488

MONTANA PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS ASSOC.

Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-3936

FILM/VIDEO PRODUCTIONS

MAPS MEDIA INSTITUTE

515 Madison Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-7230

MUSEUMS

DALY MANSION

251 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6004

RAVALLI CO MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY 205 Bedford St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3338

HISTORICAL ST MARY’S MISSION 315 Charlos Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5734

VICTOR HERITAGE MUSEUM 125 Blake, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3997

PERFORMING ARTS

BITTERROOT PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL

127 West Main Suite 108, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7946

HAMILTON PLAYERS

100 Rickets Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-9050

PHOTOGRAPHY

WATTERS EDGE DESIGN PO Box 733, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 396-0073

72 Antiques & Fine Gifts FURNITURE • COLLECTIBLES JEWELRY • FASHIONS • LAMPS VINTAGE • DECOR • BODY PRODUCTS and more! 406.363.5153 | 315 South 3rd Street, Hamilton www.montana-rose.com

BELL MCCALL

300 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2011

BITTERROOT GLASS, INC

420 North 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1044

GRENFELL GARAGE

1102 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-2424

HARPER’S BITTERROOT VALLEY TIRE CENTER 4026 Hwy 93 North, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-4667

JERRY WESSELS TIRE CENTER

211 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3884

LUBE QUICK

1000 North First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4221

MILDENBERGER MOTORS

1717 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4100

QUALITY CARS & TRUCKS

400 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0188

RELIANCE AUTOMOTIVE

1000 1/2 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2360

TIRE RAMA

500 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2995

WIMP’S BODY WORKS, INC 998 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4050

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

INDEPENDENT MERCHANT ADVISORS

Victor, MT 59875 (406) 802-2074

PLATINUM PAYMENTS

Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 369-1853

13 Orion Belt Way, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0164

HINGSTON ROACH GROUP, INC.

PO Box 656, Stevensville, MT 59870 (208) 660-1818

PEAK OBJECTIVE Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 310-9981

DIRECT SALES

DIRECT SOURCE MT INC. 210 North 1st St Ste D, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 728-8099

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

A2Z PERSONNEL

186 South 3rd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0723

A2Z PERSONNEL - STEVENSVILLE 215 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-1662

BIG SKY BENEFIT SOLUTIONS

333 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9016

JOB SERVICE MISSOULA

539 South 3rd Street W, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 728-7060

GEMOLOGIST/APPRAISAL

C.S. APPRAISALS

201 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (707) 260-9170

MAILING

KELLEY CONNECT

5650 W Harrier Dr, Unit F, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 549-6488

UPS STORE

612 North 1st Street Ste. 2, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2187

OFFICE EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES

KELLEY CONNECT 5650 W Harrier Dr, Unit F, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 549-6488

THE PAPER CLIP

228 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5480

PHONE DIRECTORIES/PUBLISHERS

THE LOCAL PAGES

4910 W. Amelia Earhart Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (888) 249-6920 X119

ZIP LOCAL

1712 SE Bay Blvd, Bldg 5 Ste 103, Provo, UT 84605 (801) 225-0801

PRINTER SALES

FISHER’S TECHNOLOGY 2825 Stockyard Rd, Unit A-19, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 370-8458

SECURITY

MISSION VALLEY SECURITY 38889 Dubay Rd, Polson, MT 59860 (406) 777-5338

STAFFING AGENCIES

A2Z PERSONNEL

186 South 3rd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0723

A2Z PERSONNEL - STEVENSVILLE 215 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-1662

COMMUNICATION SERVICES

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

COMPUTERS & RELATED SERVICES

FIRST CALL COMPUTER SOLUTIONS

500 N Higgins Ave., Suite 201, Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 721-6462

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

GRIZ WIRELESS, INC

189 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-7030

UNIVISION 2925 Stockyard Road A, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 721-8876

IMAGING

KELLEY CONNECT

5650 W Harrier Dr, Unit F, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 549-6488

73
ravallirepublic.com it’s about you!
CONSULTING/COACHING ENTREPRENEUR AMERICA
AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
COMPUTERS & TELECOMMUNICATIONS
74 EMPLOYERS: WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS RUN EFFICIENTLY Love Where You Work FIND YOUR NEW CAREER NOW! ONLINE JOB LISTINGS A2Z has many open positions and you can qualify for: 3 Health Coverage 3 Paid Time Off 3 Retirement Program Executive • Skilled • General Labor | Full-Time • Part-Time • Temporary OUR SERVICE IS FREE TO YOU – THE EMPLOYEE At A2Z, our goal is to find a position that fits your skills and schedule. Give us a call or stop by our office for your next career! a2zpersonnel.net Hamilton: 406-363-0723 | 186 S 3rd St. Stevensville: 406-777-1662 | 215 Main St. COMMUNITY BUILT STAFFING SOLUTIONS HUMAN RESOURCES • PAYROLL SERVICES SAFETY CONSULTING AND TRAINING What We Offer

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

IT SOLUTIONS

FISHER’S TECHNOLOGY

2825 Stockyard Road, Unit A-19 Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 370-8458

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

KELLEY CONNECT 5650 W Harrier Dr, Unit F, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 549-6488

SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY

ATR INC

248 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (832) 797-6851

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

FISHER’S TECHNOLOGY

2825 Stockyard Rd, Unit A-19,Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 370-8458

GRIZ WIRELESS, INC

189 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-7030

GRIZZLY BROADBAND

222 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2183

CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING SERVICES

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNS

LANKFORD DRAFTING + DESIGN, INC. 1017 Old Stage Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3188

AUTOMATED GATES

ROCKY MOUNTAIN DOORS

374 North Gold Creek Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0551

BUILDING/DESIGN SERVICES

LANKFORD DRAFTING + DESIGN, INC. 1017 Old Stage Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3188

BUILDING/CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

BECK BUILDERS, INC 110 Fabers Way, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3389

BIG SKY BUILDERS

1229 Meridian Rd, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-2440

E J BUTTS CONSTRUCTION, INC

546 Arrow Hill Drive, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-8113

H M CONSTRUCTION

312 South Fifth Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 546-3088

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF RAVALLI CO. 131 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-1926

JOHN WERST CONSTRUCTION

Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 802-4344

MOUNTAIN PEAK LOG HOMES Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 880-5749

MR ASPHALT, INC 174 Black Ln, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 531-1595

PIGMAN BUILDERS, INC 935 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3000

SCHROCK CONSTRUCTION INC 1353 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-6808

SPECIALTY WOODWORKS COMPANY 212 Pennsylvania Ave, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6353

STEWART EXCAVATING INCORPORATED Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-4059

WETZSTEON ELECTRIC, INC Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5819

BUILDING/MATERIALS

DONALDSON BROTHERS READY MIX 477 Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3600

EASTSIDE ACE HARDWARE 4054 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5525

EVANS ACE HARDWARE 714 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3351

FLORENCE ACE HARDWARE 5524 Old Hwy 93, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-4333

MASSA HOME CENTER 1600 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1922

PERMA CHINK SYSTEMS INC. 3112 Hwy 93 North, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 642-3544

PLATT ELECTRIC SUPPLY 201 B Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0792

CABINETRY

B&B CABINETRY DESIGN CO. 401 West Main Street Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5888

DIRECT SOURCE MT INC. 210 North 1st St Ste D, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 728-8099

CARPET CLEANERS & RESTORATION

A CLEAN START - GUS’ CLEANING INC 240 Wyant Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4427

DAYSPRING RESTORATION

2086 US HWY 93, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 541-4911

PURITY CLEANING, INC. 1369 US 93 STE 3, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3545

TIM’S CLEANER CARPETS & RESTORATION, INC

590 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-3636

CENTRAL VAC SYSTEMS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN DOORS

374 North Gold Creek Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0551

DOORS

SPECIALTY WOODWORKS COMPANY

212 Pennsylvania Ave, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6353

DRAIN CLEARING

SWEET PEA SEWER & SEPTIC 633 Old Corvallis Rd, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3377

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

D.J.’S ELECTRIC, INC

201A Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1972

JKL ELECTRIC

1896 North Burr Road, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 274-0687

PLATT ELECTRIC SUPPLY

201 B Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0792

WETZSTEON ELECTRIC, INC 617 South Second, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5819

EQUIPMENT SALES/SERVICE

MOM’S RENTALS

1700 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 327-1104

FLOORING

COPACETIC WOOD FLOORS, INC

1321 Red Crow Rd, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 360-1930

NEFFS’ FLOORING AND DESIGN, LLC

201 South Second Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7002

PIERCE FLOORING

1603 Brooks St, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 543-8224

GARAGE DOORS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN DOORS

374 North Gold Creek Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0551

GUTTER CLEANING

PURITY CLEANING, INC.

1369 US 93 STE 3, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3545

HANDY MAN SERVICES

H M CONSTRUCTION

312 South Fifth Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 546-3088

HEATING & COOLING

ALL VALLEY HEATING/COOLING & REFRIGERATION INC.

1111 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3526

BITTERROOT STOVES & BILLIARDS INC.

1345 US Hwy 93 North #1, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-1700

75

COMFORT SOLUTIONS INC

856 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-4328

MONTANA HVAC INC. Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 426-1950

HOME IMPROVEMENT

KITCHEN TUNE-UP OF HAMILTON Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 375-0262

HOUSE PLANS, ADDITIONS/REMODELS

LANKFORD DRAFTING + DESIGN, INC.

1017 Old Stage Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3188

KITCHEN DESIGN

B&B CABINETRY DESIGN CO.

401 West Main Street Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5888

DIRECT SOURCE MT INC.

210 North 1st St Ste D, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 728-8099

NON ELECTRIC APPLIANCES

MOM’S RENTALS

1700 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 327-1104

OASIS MONTANA, INC

436 Red Fox Ln, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-4309

PLUMBING

COMFORT SOLUTIONS INC

856 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-4328

PORTABLE TOILET RENTALS

SWEET PEA SEWER & SEPTIC

633 Old Corvallis Rd, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3377

PROPERTY CLEAN UP

PURITY CLEANING, INC.

1369 US 93 STE 3, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3545

RENTAL EQUIPMENT

MOM’S RENTALS

1700 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 327-1104

SEPTIC PUMPING

SWEET PEA SEWER & SEPTIC

633 Old Corvallis Rd, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3377

SOLAR SERVICES

JKL ELECTRIC

1896 North Burr Road, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 274-0687

OASIS MONTANA, INC

436 Red Fox Ln, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-4309

REMOTE POWER SYSTEMS

171 Fite Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 552-5260 - Melinda Fite

WASTE DISPOSAL/SEPTIC SERVICES

BITTER ROOT DISPOSAL

211 Humdinger Lane, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 363-3630

SWEET PEA SEWER & SEPTIC

633 Old Corvallis Rd, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3377

WATER DAMAGE

DAYSPRING RESTORATION

2086 US HWY 93, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 541-4911

TIM’S CLEANER CARPETS & RESTORATION, INC

590 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-3636

WATER PURIFICATIONS

CLEARWATER SYSTEMS

106 Pennsylvania Ave, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1782

CULLIGAN

2020 Ernest Ave, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 721-1991

WELL & PUMP SERVICE

EAGLE DRILLING & PUMP SERVICE

2144 Meridian Road, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-8383

ESLINGER DRILLING & PUMP SRV

897 McWilliams Dr, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-4175

ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENT & PUBLIC UTILITIES

ENGINEERING

MORRISON MAIERLE, INC

1055 Mount Ave, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 542-8880

76 Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI • 26 years experience • way cool person • award winning agent A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC Sharon Dedmon For you. For life. For real. Keeping the “real” in real estate. The Bitterroot Valley is my home, make it yours. Let’s talk! 406-360-0258 sharon.dedmon@bhhsmt.com

NORTHWESTERN ENERGY

1140 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 542-5970

RAVALLI ELECTRIC CO-OP 143 Bell Xing West, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-3001

EVENT FACILTIES & SERVICES

CATERING/CONCESSIONS

A MOVEABLE FEAST

3108 Clark Street, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 544-8390

BIG SKY GRUB LLC Florence, MT 59833 / (406) 880-2122

LITTLE BLUE JOINT/SAWMILL SALOON

119 N Main/123 N Main, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-0023

REAL FLAVORS FOOD TRUCK & CATERING Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 880-8708

THE CATERED TABLE 205 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7090

THE PATTIE WAGON Stevensville, MT 59870 / (406) 544-6009

EVENTS & EVENT CENTERS

BITTERROOT CELTIC SOCIETY PO Box 1774, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 274-8886

DALY MANSION

251 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6004

HARDTIMES BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL 338 Pine Avenue, Conner, MT 59827 (406) 821-3777

PIONEER CARRIAGE Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 961-3602

PLUMTREE EVENTS, LLC 7445 Cherokee Court, Lolo, MT 59847 (406) 830-9556

RAVALLI COUNTY FAIR

100 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3411

FAIRGROUNDS

RAVALLI COUNTY FAIR 100 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3411

SPECIALTY CAKES

artcakeMT Missoula, MT 59808 / (406) 550-0998

WEDDINGS

A MOVEABLE FEAST 3108 Clark Street, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 544-8390

PLUMTREE EVENTS, LLC 7445 Cherokee Court, Lolo, MT 59847 (406) 830-9556

ALPACA/EMU/LLAMA RANCHES

WILD ROSE EMU RANCH 284 Rose Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1710

FARM AND RANCH SUPPLIES

BITTER ROOT STOCK FARM, LLC 389 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3100

COUNTRY STORE

3673 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5527

LAKELAND FEED & SUPPLY 110 Mill St, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-2334

MURDOCH’S RANCH & HOME SUPPLY 1189 1st St South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7644

VALLEY IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 1316 Eastside Hwy, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3599

FARM/PRODUCER

DOUBLE K RANCH 3096 KK Ranch Road, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 802-4372

LOCAL BOUNTI 490 Foley Lane, Hamilton, MT 59840 /(406) 3613711

FIREWOOD/LOGGING

R & R CONNER AVIATION, LLC 5055 Sawmill Ln, Conner, MT 59827/ (406) 821-2286

HORSE SERVICES

PIONEER CARRIAGE Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 961-3602

WINGS PROGRAMS, INC. 208 Rusty Spur Way, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3346

HORTICULTURE/RESEARCH

WESTERN AG RESEARCH CENTER 580 Quast Lane, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3602

IRRIGATION/MAINTENANCE

VALLEY IRRIGATION & VALLEY LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 1316 Eastside HwyCorvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3599

MEAT PROCESSING

DOUBLE K RANCH

3096 KK Ranch Road, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 802-4372

HAMILTON PACKING CO

692 Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-3861

PERMACULTURE FARMSTEAD

ABC ACRES

364 South McCarthy Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 210-5710

TREE NURSERIES

VERN’S LANDSCAPING 649 US Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-0170

BANKS/CREDIT UNIONS

BITTERROOT COMM FED CREDIT UNION

218 South Main St - Darby MT 59829

706 South 1st St - Hamilton MT 59840 (406) 821-3171

CLEARWATER CREDIT UNION

107 Main StM Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 523-3300

FARMERS STATE BANK

103 Main St, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3431

FIRST INTERSTATE BANK 1501 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6900

FIRST SECURITY BANK

100 Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-3551 318 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 / (406)728-3115

OPPORTUNITY BANK OF MONTANA

711 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4400

RAVALLI COUNTY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

501 North First St, Hamilton, MT 5525 US Hwy 93 W, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 363-4631

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BANK

220 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5553

STOCKMAN BANK

1713 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5381

TRAILWEST BANK

224 West Pinckney St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1222

US BANK

1265 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6700

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS/PLANNING

CLEARWATER CREDIT UNION

107 Main StM Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 523-3300

DA DAVIDSON & CO

1711 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0266

EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

1716 North 1st St. # A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6645

EDWARD JONES - Debbie Gantz

620 South 1st Street, Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-3684

EDWARD JONES - Willa Carr Lande

400 West Main St #200, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1140

INVESTMENT CENTER ADVISOR GROUP

400 West Main Street #202, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6125

SWITCHBACKS CAPITAL ADVISORY Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 698-0105

77
UTILITIES
FARM &
FINANCE & INSURANCE
RANCH

AFLAC

333 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 813-0882

BIG SKY BENEFIT SOLUTIONS

333 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9016

FARM BUREAU 803 South 1st St., Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-9500

FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES - Will Johnson and Associates

213 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 961-7253

GRENFELL INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SERVICE

708 South First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0430

HUB INTERNATIONAL 201 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3655

JONES/KORMAN INSURANCE AGENCY

518 South 1st St # A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6583

MOUNTAIN AIR P&C INSURANCE 302 North First Street #1, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1350

PAYNEWEST INSURANCE- BITTERROOT 316 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5005

POTTON INSURANCE AGENCY

221 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-3626

RACHEL KRAMER INSURANCE AGENCY

127 West Main Street, Suite 10, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-8000

SCOTT L. EDMAN INSURANCE AGENCY

210 North First Street Suite A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0244

SPEAR INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SERVICES

170 South Second, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1544

STATE FARM INSURANCE - DARCY HANSEN 300 Main Street, Suite B, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 625-3715

STATE FARM INSURANCE - WEST

401 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2315

MEDICARE

JONES/KORMAN INSURANCE AGENCY

518 South 1st St # A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6583

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

SWITCHBACKS CAPITAL ADVISORY Missoula, MT 59801 / (406) 698-0105

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

REACH HIGHER MONTANA

40 West 6th Avenue, Helena, MT 59601 (406) 880-1145

SUMMIT CAREER CENTER

100 Ft. Owen Ranch Road, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7232

FOREST SERVICE

BITTERROOT NATIONAL FOREST

1801 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7100

GOVERNMENT/CITY SERVICES

BITTERROOT NATIONAL FOREST

1801 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7100

MAYOR OF HAMILTON, Dominic Farrenkopf

223 South 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2101

RAVALLI COUNTY REPUBLICANS

529 West River Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2941

RESEARCH CENTERS/LABORATORIES

GSK BIOLOGICALS - HAMILTON

553 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6214

SCHOOLS

BITTERROOT COLLEGE OF THE UM

103 South 9th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0100

78 EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY Serving the Bitterroot Valley for Over 15 Years www.EXITMT.com | 301 N 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 Your Trusted Advisor Buying or Selling We are in your corner HAMILTON•STEVENSVILLE•DARBY•POLSON•LAUREL•LOLO•MISSOULA•WEST MISSOULA•HELENA•GREAT FALLS LOCAL EXPERTISE. HIGHLY TRAINED. PROFESSIONAL. CALL US TODAY! 406-375-9251 WE L VE It Here Too! INSURANCE
GOVERNMENT & EDUCATION

DARBY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

209 School Drive, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3252

HAMILTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

217 Daly Ave, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2280

MAPS MEDIA INSTITUTE

515 Madison Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-7230

UM - ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT Davidson 002, Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-2586

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CHIROPRACTORS

BITTERROOT CHIROPRACTIC

514 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5290

DAY SPA

LORA LIN AESTHETICS

565 Merwin Trail, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 802-4351

DENTAL SERVICES

CANYON VIEW DENTAL, PC 710 North First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-1192

HEARING SERVICES

HEARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALISTS 1782 North First #A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4363

VIBRANT HEARING

299 Fairgrounds Rd, Suite 4, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 549-1951

HOLISTIC HEALTH

GROWISE BE WELL 1093 Sleeping Child Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 214-9814

MASSAGE SERVICES

ALLORA MASSAGE & SPA 3601 Sourdough Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870

LORA LIN AESTHETICS

565 Merwin Trail, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 802-4351

MEDICAL CLINICS

BITTERROOT HEALTH-DALY HOSPITAL 1200 Westwood Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2211

COMMUNITY PHYSICIANS GROUP STEVENSVILLE 3800 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-2775

FAMILY MEDICINE CENTER OF THE BITTERROOT

330 North 10th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3627

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EAR, NOSE & THROAT 120 South Fifth St #103, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3366

SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY HEALTH 316 North Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 541-0475

MEDICAL SPAS

RS AESTHETICS

293 Rodeo Drive, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 880-0804

OPTOMETRISTS/OPTICAL CARE

BIG SKY EYE CARE CLINIC

820 West Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2020

MARVEL VISION CENTER OF HAMILTON 239 North 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9611

RAVALLI FAMILY EYE CARE

1031 Main Street, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-1530

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EYE CENTER

120 South Fifth Street #104, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3366

PHARMACIES

BITTERROOT DRUG

211 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3611

FAMILY PHARMACY

3804 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5002

HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

1900 North FIrst Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6203

RIDGEWAY MAIL ORDER PHARMACY

2824 US Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-6040

79

VALLEY DRUG & VARIETY

301 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5591

SKIN CARE

LORA LIN AESTHETICS

565 Merwin Trail, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 802-4351

RS AESTHETICS

293 Rodeo Drive, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 880-0804

TWO POPPIES APOTHECARY

410 - E North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-8471

SPECIALTY MEDICAL SERVICES

BITTERROOT HEALTH-DALY HOSPITAL 1200 Westwood Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2211

HOME & GARDEN

WEED MANAGEMENT

MOUNTAIN WEST COOPERATIVE & PROFESSIONAL PASTURE SERVICE 115 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5441

WINDOW CLEANING

FISH WINDOW CLEANING 1500 West Broadway, Ste E, Missoula, MT 59806 (406) 728-5201

PURITY CLEANING, INC. 1369 US 93 STE 3, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3545

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP

BLOOM, DR. MARSHALL E. Hamilton, MT 59840

DIES, DIXIE Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 961-4812

TOWN PUMP #1010 Car Wash

1117 North First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4643

TOWN PUMP #8904 South 932 South First, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4454

LODGING ABC ACRES 364 South McCarthy Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 210-5710

ALTA RANCH, LLC 9203 West Fork Rd, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 349-2142

ANGLER’S LODGE & CABINS

797 US Hwy 93 South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0980

ANGLERS ROOST

815 Hwy 93 South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1268

FLORISTS

BIG SKY BOHO

298 2nd Street, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 640-8310

FLOWER HAPPY FLORAL & GIFTS 302 North First Street, Suite 2 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4318

GREENHOUSE

COOKS’ GARDENS, THE GREENHOUSE 177 Golf Couse Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0212

HARDWARE

EASTSIDE ACE HARDWARE 4054 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5525

EVANS ACE HARDWARE 714 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3351

FLORENCE ACE HARDWARE 5524 Old Hwy 93, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-4333

VALLEY IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 1316 Eastside Hwy, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3599

LANDSCAPING

BITTERROOT TURF FARM

425 Bailey Ln, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-1184

VALLEY IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 1316 Eastside Hwy, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3599

VERN’S LANDSCAPING 649 US Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-0170

PEST CONTROL

BUGLESS PEST CONTROL PO Box 9, Victor, MT 59875 / (406) 642-3419

PROPANE

406 PROPANE LLC 950 Airport Road, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 207-3592

SEVERSON, DAN & DEBBIE Stevensville, MT 59870 / (406) 360-3498

SIGLER-SMITH, SHERI Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 369-0614

LEGAL SERVICES

BITTERROOT RIVER INN & CONFERENCE CENTER 139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-2525

BITTERROOT TROUT FARM

158 Otter Path Lane, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4474

ATTORNEYS

DATSOPOULOS, MACDONALD & LIND, P.C. 1920 North First St #C, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0073

LODGING & TRAVEL

CAMPING/RV

ANGLERS ROOST

815 Hwy 93 South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1268

BLACK RABBIT RV PARK & STORAGE 2101 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3744

CAMP SULA 7060 Hwy 93 South, Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3364

TRAVELLERS REST CABINS AND RV PARK 601 North Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 381-7140

GAS & CONVENIENCE STORES

BOWERS MARKET 1000 Main St, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-4830

CAMP SULA

7060 Hwy 93 South, Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3364

LONE PINE INC 504 Hwy 93 South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0554

RIVERSIDE 1987 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0536

TOWN PUMP #0115 Florence 5495 Highway 93 N., Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-6685

TOWN PUMP #0920 Woodside 915 US Hwy 93 N, Victor, MT 59875/(406) 961-0121

BLACK RABBIT RV PARK & STORAGE 2101 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3744

CAMP SULA 7060 Hwy 93 South, Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3364

HARLAN CABIN,THE 2262 Old Darby Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6265

LOST TRAIL HOT SPRINGS

283 Lost Trail Hot Springs Rd, Sula, MT 59871 (406) 821-3574

MOUNTAIN SPIRIT INN 308 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3405

QUALITY INN

1113 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6600

REMLC RENTAL PROPERTY & MANAGEMENT SERVICES, LLC dba CITY CENTER MOTEL 415 W Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840/(406) 363-1651

RYE CREEK LODGE

345 Rye Creek Rd, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3366

STEVENSVILLE HOTEL

107 East 3rd St, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-3087

THE MORAINE B&B

2037 Silver Ridge Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7466

TRAVELLERS REST CABINS AND RV PARK 601 North Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 381-7140

WILDERNESS SPIRIT CABINS, LLC 472 Woodcrest Lane, Corvallis, MT 59828 (540) 271-4450

80
81 1438 N. 1st Street | PO Box 596 | Hamilton, MT 59840 | 406.363.2340 hamiltonmt@gofirstam.com

CHOICE AVIATION

528 Airport Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6471

CULTURED TRAVEL, LLC

612 N 1st Street, Suite 173, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-2540

MISSOULA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 5225 Highway 10 West, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 532-8659

MANUFACTURING,

BEER/WINE DISTRIBUTERS

SUMMIT BEVERAGE 3299 Flynn Lane, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 541-3900

ZIP BEVERAGE

1301 Scott St, Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 728-9543

NON-PROFIT,

LIBRARIES

BITTERROOT PUBLIC LIBRARY

306 State St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1670

NON-PROFIT

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

PO Box 17343, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 303-3296

BITTER ROOT HUMANE ASSOCIATION 262 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5311

BITTERROOT BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOC. 215 Marcus St #105, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-9411

BITTERROOT CASA, INC. 217 North 3rd Street Ste. H-1, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-4535

BITTERROOT CELTIC SOCIETY PO Box 1774, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 274-8886

BITTERROOT CROSS COUNTRY SKI CLUB PO Box 431, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 370-3739

BITTERROOT HEALTH FOUNDATION 1201 Westwood Dr Ste E, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-4674

BITTERROOT HERITAGE CIVIC GROUP PO Box 602, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 370-5539

BITTERROOT PERFORMING ARTS COUNCIL 127 West Main Suite 108, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7946

BITTERROOT PUBLIC LIBRARY 306 State St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1670

BITTERROOT VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 105 East Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2400

BITTERROOT VALLEY ELKS #1651

203 State Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3031

BITTERROOT VALLEY KIWANIS 612 North First St., Ste 2-417, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-4161

BITTERROOT WOMEN’S CLUB & FOUNDATION Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-6917

DALY MANSION 251 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6004

EMMA’S HOUSE 310 North 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7216

FLORENCE CIVIC CLUB (406) 529-4863

GLACIER COUNTRY REGIONAL TOURISM COMMISSION 4852 Kendrick Place, Suite 101,Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 532-3234

GREAT PYRENEES RESCUE MONTANA Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 370-3308

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF RAVALLI Co. 131 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-1926

HAMILTON DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION PO Box 424, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8182

HAMILTON SENIOR CENTER 820 North Fourth Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5181

HISTORICAL ST MARY’S MISSION 315 Charlos Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-5734

HUMAN RESOURCE COUNCIL 303 North Third, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6101

LINDA MASSA YOUTH HOME 196 Providence Way, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0619

LIONS CLUB PO Box 1564, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3879

LITERACY BITTERROOT

303 North Third Street Suite A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2900

LOADS OF DIGNITY Services provided at Fast N Fluffy 115 Pine Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-3416

MONTANA A CAPPELLA SOCIETY Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-3585

MONTANA PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS ASSOC. Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-3936

MONTANA PUBLIC RADIO University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812 (406) 243-4931

RAVALLI COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING

310 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5690

RAVALLI COUNTY OFF ROAD USER ASSOC. PO Box 72, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 531-3104

RAVALLI COUNTY REPUBLICANS

529 West River Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2941

RAVALLI SERVICES CORP 219 Pennsylvania Ave, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5400

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRANGE #116 1436 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 544-8586

ROTARY CLUB OF HAMILTON PO Box 278, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 351-0073

SAFE 150 Morning Star Way, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2793

SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY HEALTH

316 North Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 541-0475

SONS OF NORWAY (BITTERROOTDALEN 4-656) PO Box 206, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 381-8564

SOROPTIMISTS OF HAMILTON PO Box 1012, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-3902

STEVENSVILLE CIVIC CLUB PO Box 676, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 531-8401

SUMMIT CAREER CENTER 100 Ft. Owen Ranch Road, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7232

SURAJIT KHANNA’S POST INCARCERATION JUSTICE INITIATIVE 241 1/2 N 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 802-4663

THE O’HARA COMMONS 111 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 240-1768

VALLEY VETERANS SERVICE CENTER

217 North Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-9838

VETERAN’S VICTORY ALLIANCE

2846 East Fork Road, Hamilton, MT 59840 (719) 661-9369

WINGS PROGRAMS, INC.

208 Rusty Spur Way, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 363-3346

PERSONAL SERVICES & CARE

ALTERATIONS/SEAMSTRESS

JUDY’S CUSTOM TAILORING

618 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (209) 770-1769

BEAUTY SALONS

RED’S STUDIO SALON & BOUTIQUE

205 West Main, Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1415

82
TRAVEL SERVICES
PRODUCTION & WHOLESALE
COMMUNITY & CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS

SALON 21

214 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0021

DRY CLEANING & LAUNDRY

BITTER ROOT LAUNDRY

113 Foxfield #A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1231

EASI CLEANERS

115 Pine St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1344

PETS & VETERINARY

DOG BOARDING

WIND RIVER CANINE PARTNERS 5353 E Carlton Creek Road, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-4899

DOG TRAINING

WIND RIVER CANINE PARTNERS 5353 E Carlton Creek Road, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-4899

PETS/PET CARE SERVICES

BITTERROOT DOG-O-MAT, LLC

285 1st Street, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 396-4429

WIND RIVER CANINE PARTNERS 5353 E Carlton Creek Road, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-4899

VETERINARIAN

VALLEY PET CLINIC, P.C. 1420 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5390

WILLOW MOUNTAIN VETERINARY CLINIC, PC 1039 Main Street, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3077

COOPERATIVE HOUSING

RIVERSIDE CROSSING COTTAGE COOPERATIVE 326 Mansion Loop, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4630

MOVING/STORAGE/FREIGHT

A TO Z STORAGE SOLUTIONS, LLC 1130 South First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5727

MARCUS STREET MINI STORAGE

281 Marcus Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-9400

MERCHANTS MOVING & STORAGE - Agents of Wheaton Worldwide Moving 1410 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4314

VALLEY MINI STORAGE

Golf Course Rd & Werth Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-5090

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

ALPINE REALTY

808 North Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3771

CARAS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

1986 North First St, Suite H, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-4663

CARDINAL PROPERTIES INC.

320 South 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4430

REAL ESTATE/AGENTS & BROKERS

ALPINE REALTY 808 North Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-3771

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY - SHARON DEDMON 120 South 5th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-0258

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY MONTANA PROPERTIES 120 South 5th St #201, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0166

BITTERROOT VALLEY BOARD OF REALTORS 224 North 4th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2000

BITTERROOT VALLEY REAL ESTATE 217 N 3rd Street, Suite C, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8233

BY OWNER/POLUMSKY PROPERTIES, INC. 410 North 1st St #A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1606

CLEARWATER MONTANA PROPERTIES 333 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-3663

COLDWELL BANKER WESTERN STATES ASSOC 115 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1250

DARBY REALTY INC. 3246 Hwy 93 N, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 381-5024

ENGEL & VOLKERS WESTERN FRONTIER 100 Pinckney, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5556

ERA LAMBROS REAL ESTATE 514 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6668

EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY 301 N 1st Street, Unit 1, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-9251

HINGSTON ROACH GROUP, INC. PO Box 656, Stevensville, MT 59870 (208) 660-1818

JONI Z REAL ESTATE 175 South Second St., Ste B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 531-6038

KERRY A. MORRIS-HANSON, PURE WEST CHRISTIE’S REAL ESTATE BROKER 140 Cherry Street, Suite 101, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-9800

LIVE LOVE MONTANA REAL ESTATE PO Box 271, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 880-2335

MARIA LAUGHLIN, THE LAUGHLIN GROUP 150 N 4th Street, Unit 1070, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-9427

MONTANA WESTGATE REALTY, INC 2134 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4700

PURE WEST REAL ESTATE Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 596-4000

PUREWEST CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

140 Cherry St., Ste 101, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-9800

ROD FREEMAN - ASSOCIATE MEMBER 3170 Buckhorn Trail, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 369-0320

WANDA SUMNER, REALTOR

120 S. 5th Street, Suite 201, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0166

WEST MONTANA HOMES

716 S 1st Street, Suite D, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 777-0710

WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE

1920 North First St #A, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3222

REAL ESTATE OFFICES

BITTERROOT VALLEY REAL ESTATE

217 N 3rd Street, Suite C, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8233

CREAMERY, THE 400 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (702) 739-2000

DRISCOLL REALTY LLP

109 North 4th #101, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2233

EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY/ STEVENSVILLE 300 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 375-9251

PURE WEST REAL ESTATE

Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 596-4000

RE/MAX ADVANTAGE

1591 North First Street #1, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5750

WEST MONTANA HOMES

716 S 1st Street, Suite D, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 777-0710

TITLE COMPANIES

FIRST AMERICAN TITLE CO

1438 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2340

FIRST MONTANA TITLE 250 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2661

STEWART TITLE OF RAVALLI COUNTY

1920 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7004

RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA) 171 Lewis Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2964

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

1220 West Main, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1232

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH & LEARNING CENTER 275 Hattie Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-1924

HAMILTON ASSEMBLY OF GOD

601 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2510

83
REAL ESTATE, RENTAL AGENCIES, MOVING & STORAGE

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH

411 South 5th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1385

ST PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

600 South 3rd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3025

RESTAURANT, FOOD & BEVERAGE

BAKERIES

ALBERTSONS

1313 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4555

BACK DOOR DELI

105 South 3rd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4480

GARY & LEO’S FRESH FOODS

5537 Hwy 93 North, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-2791

HAMILTON’S MARKET PLACE 600 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840/(406) 363-5720

RIVER RISING

337 West Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4552

SUPER 1 FOODS - HAMILTON

1131 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6200

SUPER 1 FOODS - STEVENSVILLE

39 Stevensville Cutoff Rd West,Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7300

BARS/CASINOS

BAILEY’S FINISH LINE BAR & GRILL

2420 Railroad Avenue, Victor, MT 59875 (307) 680-1995

COWBOY TROY’S

2359 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3380

LITTLE BLUE JOINT/SAWMILL SALOON

119 North Main/123 North Main, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-0023

RAINBOW BAR & POKER ROOM INC.

113 North Second Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-3783

RAVALLI FUN CENTER

300 Skeels Avenue, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6172

THE EDGE

140 Bitterroot Plaza Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0007

BREWERIES

BANDIT BREWING CO INC (BRIGAND)

308 East Tanner Ave, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 646-6003

BITTER ROOT BREWING

101 Marcus St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7468 (PINT)

BLACKSMITH BREWING COMPANY 114 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-0680

HIGHERGROUND BREWING CO

518 North 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5204

LOLO PEAK BREWING COMPANY

6201 Brewery Way, Lolo, MT 59847 (406) 493-6231

CIDER PRODUCERS

BACKROAD CIDER

98 Marcus Street, Hamilton, MT 59840

MONTANA CIDERWORKS

261 Rye Creek Rd, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 360-5078

COFFEE SHOPS

BIG CREEK COFFEE ROASTERS

301 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-7508

BITTERROOT BEANERY

1002 North First St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 381-1599

DELI

ALBERTSONS

1313 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4555

SEPPI’S EUROPEAN MARKET & DELI

129 Copper King Court, Suite A Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 369-0529

SUPER 1 FOODS - HAMILTON

1131 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6200

84 Helping you find a house to make your home INC 320 S Second | Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-4430 | cardinalproperties.net Helping you find a HOUSE to make your Home!

SUPER 1 FOODS - STEVENSVILLE

39 Stevensville Cutoff Rd West, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7300

DISTILLERIES

WESTSLOPE DISTILLERY

172 South Second Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-1266

FOOD TRUCKS

BIG SKY GRUB LLC Florence, MT 59833 (406) 880-2122

CRUZ TACOS Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 207-6803

DOUBLE K RANCH

3096 KK Ranch Road, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 802-4372

REAL FLAVORS FOOD TRUCK & CATERING Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 880-8708

THE GUT BOMB Victor, MT 59875 (406) 381-0436

THE PATTIE WAGON Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 544-6009

RESTAURANTS

BACK DOOR DELI

105 South 3rd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4480

BACKYARD TAP HOUSE

281 Rodeo Drive, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 830-3266

BAILEY’S FINISH LINE BAR & GRILL 2420 Railroad Avenue, Victor, MT 59875 (307) 680-1995

BITTER ROOT BREWING 101 Marcus St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7468 (PINT)

BJ’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE 900 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4650

BOUILLA 111 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-0223

COFFEE CUP CAFE

500 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3822

COWBOY TROY’S

2359 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 642-3380

DOMINO’S PIZZA

901 South First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-3030

FIGARO’S PIZZA 144 Canyon Falls Way, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0164

FINS TAP HOUSE AT CORVALLIS

352 Woodside Cutoff, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 370-1821

FREESTONE ICE CREAM

113 South 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9800

HIGHERGROUND BREWING CO 518 North 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5204

KODIAK JAX II 109 South First, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5695

LITTLE BLUE JOINT/SAWMILL SALOON 119 North Main/123 North Main Darby, MT 59829 / (406) 821-0023

LOLO PEAK BREWING COMPANY 6201 Brewery Way, Lolo, MT 59847 (406) 493-6231

MC DONALD’S

707 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6644

MISSION BISTRO 225 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-6945

NAPS GRILL INC. 200 West Main, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0136

PIZZA HUT 1002 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1502

RIVER RISING 337 West Main St., Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4552

SECOND STREET SUSHI, LTD 322 Second St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0600

SEPPI’S EUROPEAN MARKET & DELI 129 Copper King Court, Suite A Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 369-0529

SKALKAHO STEAKHOUSE 1380 Skalkaho Hwy 7 Mile Marker Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-3522

SUBWAY OF HAMILTON INC 1146 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4609

SUZETTE’S ORGANICS 163 S. 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5159

TACO DEL SOL - HAMILTON 376 US Hwy 93 South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-8226

THE CATERED TABLE 205 Main Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7090

THE EDGE

140 Bitterroot Plaza Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0007

THE WILD MARE

283 Second St, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-8938

TAP HOUSES

BACKYARD TAP HOUSE

281 Rodeo Drive, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 830-3266

FINS

352 Woodside Cutoff, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 370-1821

SENIOR SERVICES/HOUSING

ASSISTED LIVING

BEE HIVE HOMES OF HAMILTON

826 New York Avenue, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5464

DISCOVERY CARE CENTRE

601 North 10th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2273

SAPPHIRE LUTHERAN HOMES

501 North 10th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2800

FUNERAL HOMES

DALY-LEACH CHAPEL & CREMATORY

1010 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2010

MEMORY CARE

BEE HIVE HOMES OF HAMILTON

826 New York Avenue, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5464

SAPPHIRE LUTHERAN HOMES

501 North 10th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2800

SKILLED NURSING

DISCOVERY CARE CENTRE

601 North 10th St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2273

SHOPPING & RETAIL

ANTIQUES

BITTERROOT ANTIQUE MALL

1593 N 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-0540

MONTANA ROSE

315 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-4479

OLD WEST CANDY

202 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-4076

BOOKSTORES

CHAPTER ONE BOOK STORE

252 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5220

BOUTIQUES

BURLAP CHIC BOUTIQUE

175 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5898

COPPER POPPY BOUTIQUE, LLC

307 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8250

RED’S STUDIO SALON & BOUTIQUE

205 West Main, Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1415

THE CLOSET

164 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2735

CANDY SHOPS

BIG SKY CANDY 319 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0580

85
TAP HOUSE AT CORVALLIS

OLD WEST CANDY

202 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-4076

CLOTHING

BOB WARD’S SPORTS & OUTDOORS

1120 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6204

BURLAP CHIC BOUTIQUE

175 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5898

COPPER POPPY BOUTIQUE, LLC

307 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8250

FORDS DEPARTMENT STORE

136 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2251

FREESTONE OUTLET

305 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9900

MURDOCH’S RANCH & HOME SUPPLY

1189 1st St South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7644

OLD WEST CANDY

202 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-4076

RED’S STUDIO SALON & BOUTIQUE

205 West Main, Suite B, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1415

THE CLOSET

164 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2735

EMBROIDERY/SILK SCREENING

BIG SKY PROMOTIONS

315 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-0919

SHIRTS ETC. & WIND RELATED 931 North 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1050

THE SHIRT SHOP

740 River St, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 728-5671

GIFTS

BOWERS MARKET

1000 Main St, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-4830

BURLAP CHIC BOUTIQUE

175 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5898

FLOWER HAPPY FLORAL & GIFTS

302 North First Street, Ste 2, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4318

OLD WEST CANDY

202 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-4076

MONTANA ROSE

315 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 369-4479

THE CLOSET

164 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2735

GROCERY STORES

ALBERTSONS

1313 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4555

BOWERS MARKET 1000 Main St, Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-4830

BURNT FORK MARKET 601 Main, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-4663

GARY & LEO’S FRESH FOODS 5537 Hwy 93 North, Florence, MT 59833 (406) 273-2791

HAMILTON’S MARKET PLACE 600 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5720

SUPER 1 FOODS - HAMILTON 1131 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6200

SUPER 1 FOODS - STEVENSVILLE 39 Stevensville Cutoff Rd W, Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 777-7300

HEALTH FOODS

RAINBOW’S END NATURAL FOODS 910 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1626

HOME DECOR

BITTERROOT FURNITURE 223 Pinckney St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1943

BY DESIGN INTERIORS INC. 400 West Main Street #104, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4473

VALLEY FURNITURE 146 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5659

JEWELRY

MIKESELL’S FINE JEWELRY 201 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6236

MONTANA GEMS OF PHILIPSBURG 204 West Broadway, Philipsburg, MT 59858 (406) 859-6725

LIQUOR/RETAIL

CHEERS UNLIMITED 501 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3751

HAMILTON WINE & LIQUOR 140 Bitterroot Plaza Dr, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-9071

SUMMIT BEVERAGE 3299 Flynn Lane, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 541-3900

ZIP BEVERAGE 1301 Scott St, Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 728-9543

RETAIL SHOPS

BITTERROOT FURNITURE 223 Pinckney St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1943

BITTERROOT STOVES & BILLIARDS INC. 1345 US Hwy 93 North #1, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 961-1700

BOB WARD’S SPORTS & OUTDOORS

1120 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6204

COPPER POPPY BOUTIQUE, LLC

307 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-8250

ELAINE’S ENGRAVING

123 South 5th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5193

FORDS DEPARTMENT STORE

136 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-2251

FREESTONE OUTLET 305 West Main Street Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 961-9900

HEIRLOOM REMEDIES

1771 Hwy 93 North, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 544-4404

MAINSTREET TOYS

213 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-5155

MONTANA GEMS OF PHILIPSBURG

204 West Broadway, Philipsburg, MT 59858 (406) 859-6725

MURDOCH’S RANCH & HOME SUPPLY 1189 1st St South, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7644

OLD WEST CANDY

202 South Main St, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-4076

ROBBINS ON MAIN - HALLMARK

209 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1733

THE CLOSET 164 South Third Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2735

THE PAPER CLIP 228 West Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5480

THE SHIRT SHOP

740 River St, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 728-5671

VALLEY BICYCLES & SKI

219 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-4428

VALLEY FURNITURE

146 North 2nd St, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-5659

VERN’S LANDSCAPING

649 US Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-0170

YOURS MINE & OURS KID STORE 933 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 361-0561

SPORTS & RECREATION

FISHING & HUNTING SERVICES

ACCURATE OUTFITTERS

1943 Middle Bear Creek, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 370-5210

86

BITTERROOT FLY COMPANY

808 North Main Street #2, Darby, MT 59829 (406) 821-1624

FREESTONE FLY SHOP 701 South 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-9099

GO WEST OUTFITTERS, LLC 621 North Fourth Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-2644

MONTANA HUNTING & FISHING ADVENTURES 870 Sleeping Child Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-3510

SALMON RIVER RECREATION LLC DBA Kookaburra 3 Goodman Lane, Salmon, ID 83467 (208) 756-4386

FITNESS SERVICES

BITTERROOT CROSSFIT LLC 484 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 360-1828

IRON HORSE ATHLETIC CLUB 99 Marcus Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-0300

THIELE FITNESS 406 304 Buck Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 / (406) 686-7471

GOLF

STOCK FARM CLUB 1428 Stock Farm Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 375-1887

GUNS/AMMO

BOB WARD’S SPORTS & OUTDOORS 1120 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-6204

HORSEBACK RIDES

ACCURATE OUTFITTERS 1943 Middle Bear Creek, Victor, MT 59875 / (406) 370-5210

INDOOR RECREATION

RAVALLI FUN CENTER 300 Skeels Avenue, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-6172

MOTOR SPORTS

AL’S CYCLE 619 Hwy 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-3433

MONTANA POWER PRODUCTS 759 US Hwy 93 N, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 375-9903

MOTORCYCLE GARAGE 283 Marcus Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 360-6520

RAVALLI COUNTY OFF ROAD USER ASSOC. PO Box 72, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 531-3104

OUTDOOR RECREATION

BITTERROOT CROSS COUNTRY SKI CLUB PO Box 431, Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 370-3739

BITTERROOT NATIONAL FOREST 1801 North 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-7100

GO WEST OUTFITTERS, LLC 621 North Fourth Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 360-2644

LOST TRAIL HOT SPRINGS 283 Lost Trail Hot Springs Rd, Sula, MT 59871 / (406) 821-3574

LOST TRAIL POWDER MOUNTAIN PO Box 311, Conner, MT 59827 / (406) 821-3211

SALMON RIVER RECREATION LLC DBA Kookaburra 3 Goodman Lane, Salmon, ID 83467 / (208) 756-4386

87

OUTFITTERS

ACCURATE OUTFITTERS

1943 Middle Bear Creek, Victor, MT 59875 / (406) 370-5210

BITTERROOT FLY COMPANY

808 North Main Street #2, Darby, MT 59829 / (406) 821-1624

FREESTONE FLY SHOP

701 South 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 363-9099

SKIING & RELATED SERVICES

BITTERROOT CROSS COUNTRY SKI CLUB PO Box 431, Corvallis, MT 59828 / (406) 370-3739

LOST TRAIL POWDER MOUNTAIN PO Box 311, Conner, MT 59827 / (406) 821-3211

VALLEY BICYCLES & SKI

219 South 1st St, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 3634428

SWIMMING POOLS

BITTERROOT AQUATIC CENTER

59 Kurtz Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 / (406) 375-8200

TRANSPORTATION

AIRPORTS

CHOICE AVIATION

528 Airport Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6471

MISSOULA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

5225 Highway 10 West, Missoula, MT 59808 (406) 532-8659

AVIATION/HELICOPTER SERVICES

AV8-ORR HELICOPTER SERVICES INC 275 Airport Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-7509

CHOICE AVIATION 528 Airport Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-6471

R & R CONNER AVIATION, LLC 5055 Sawmill Ln, Conner, MT 59827 (406) 821-2286

OTHER

BITTERROOT BUS 310 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-7484

PIONEER CARRIAGE

Corvallis, MT 59828 (406) 961-3602

VALLEY COURIER SERVICE (406) 550-0001

YOUTH SERVICES

CHILD CARE

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH & LEARNING CENTER 275 Hattie Ln, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1924

shop local

Bitterroot

GIVE

ART ART FOCUS MONTANA BLISS ARTWORKS

AUTOMOTIVE AL'S CYCLE HARPER'S BV TIRE CENTER JERRY WESSELS TIRE CENTER TIRE RAMA

BUTCHER SHOP/PROCESSING HAMILTON PACKING COMPANY

FOOD & BEVERAGE

2ND STREET SUSHI BITTER ROOT BREWING BOUILLA BJ'S RESTAURANT COFFEE CUP FIGARO'S PIZZA FREESTONE ICE CREAM HIGHERGROUND BREWING NAPS GRILL SEPPI'S EUROPEAN MARKET & DELI SUZETTE'S ORGANICS TACO DEL SOL THE CATERED TABLE THE EDGE RESTAURANT

GAS

BOWERS MARKET RIVERSIDE CONOCO LONE PINE CONOCO TOWN PUMP

GROCERY STORES

ALBERTSONS BOWERS MARKET GARY & LEO'S FRESH FOOD HAMILTON'S MARKET PLACE RAINBOW'S END NATURAL FOODS SUPER ONE FOODS

HARDWARE

EASTSIDE ACE EVANS ACE FLORENCE ACE

HEALTHCARE/BEAUTY

BIG SKY EYE CARE

BITTERROOT CHIROPRACTIC BITTERROOT DRUG VALLEY DRUG & VARIETY

LODGING QUALITY INN

SERVICES

A2Z PERSONNEL BITTER ROOT LAUNDRY JCCS CPAS

RETAIL

BITTERROOT FURNITURE

BOB WARD'S SPORTING GOODS

BURLAP CHIC BOUTIQUE

CHAPTER ONE BOOK STORE

COPPER POPPY BOUTIQUE

FORD'S DEPARTMENT STORE

FREESTONE OUTLET

FREESTONE FLY SHOP

HEIRLOOM REMEDIES

LAKELAND FEED & SUPPLY

MAIN STREET TOY

MIKESELL'S FINE JEWELRY

MURDOCH'S RANCH SUPPLY

PAPER CLIP

RAVALLI SERVICES THRIFT STORE

RED'S STUDIO SALON & BOUTIQUE

ROBBINS ON MAIN

THE CLOSET BOUTIQUE

Stop by the Chamber at 105 East Main Street in Hamilton to purchase!

88
Certificates
Gift
THAT PERFECT GIFT!
BITTERROOT CHAMBER GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE ACCEPTED AT THE FOLLOWING LOCAL BUSINESSES:
89 Visit bitterroot365.com for local event listings or submit your own! 365 B I TTE R RO O T
Features beautiful, completely furnished individual cabins overlooking our own private lake and the Bitterroot Mountains. Rentals By: DAY - WEEK - MONTH Open Year Round! 797 US Highway 93 South Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-0980 www.AnglersLodgeMT.com Great for: • Family Reunions • Romantic Getaways • Vacation Rentals • Relocation Housing

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.