tevensville The town of Stevensville lies along the sparkling Bitterroot River, tucked between the beautiful Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains, and bordered by the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. It abounds with hiking and biking trails for all ages and abilities, plus fishing, floating, wildlife viewing, golf, and fun activities for kids. The community hosts frequent festivals and activities, especially through the summer, bursting with friendly, small town charm. Enjoy ice cream at the local soda fountain, your choice of fifteen delicious restaurants from fine dining to family fare, two outstanding micro-breweries, libation establishments, and many unique shops featuring local art, gifts, furnishings, foods, and everyday items. As Montana’s first pioneer settlement, Stevensville is noted for the state’s first grain crops, first grist and saw mills, first raised cattle and pigs, the first water right, and the first registered marriage. The area’s earliest inhabitants, the Salish Indians, lived here for thousands of years and continue to honor the entire Bitterroot Valley as their
homeland. Whether this is your first visit, or you live here, every day in and around Stevensville offers a chance for a “first” – what is yours? For more information and event details, visit www. StevensvilleMT.org or call 406-777-3773.
St. Mary’s Mission and Living History Center
St. Mary’s Mission is likely the most historic location in all of the Bitterroot. Its extraordinary story began with repeated trips made by the Salish and Nez Perce Tribal Members to invite “Black Robe” missionaries from St. Louis. In response, Fr. Pierre DeSmet and his fellow missionaries founded St. Mary’s Mission in 1841. Fr. Anthony Ravalli arrived in 1845 and is the namesake of our county. Experience living history at St. Mary’s Mission! Guided tours are available 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. until mid-October, Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, visit saintmarysmission.org or call 406-777-5734.
