Vista 2020

2020

ista

activities & events in the

BITTERROOT VALLEY

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vista 2020

contents lorence.......................................... 7 tevensville.................................. 11

is published by the Ravalli Republic Newspaper

ictor............................................ 16

Publisher Jim Strauss

orvallis........................................ 22

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Perry Backus

amilton....................................... 25

COVER PHOTO Perry Backus INTERIOR PHOTOS Perry Backus Production & Design Dara Kilian Project Sales Erica Hurt Kathy Kelleher Annie Mead Jack Ryan Bitterroot Valley Vista 2020 is a publication of The Ravalli Republic, a division of Lee Enterprises.

Copyright 2020 by the Ravalli Republic.

arby, Conner & Sula.................... 36 ireworks at the Fairgrounds........ 37 ummer Concert Series................ 46 t. Mary’s Mission......................... 49 itterroot National Forest.............. 52 hred the ‘Root............................. 60 alendar of events........................ 60

232 W Main, Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-3300 www.ravallirepublic.com

itterroot Parkway Bike-Ped Path Map...................... 66

Bitterroot365.com is a comprehensive and user-friendly events site for the Bitterroot Valley community.

Events are free to post and free to navigate!

Check it out!

Bitterroot365.com is hosted by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce.

OUR NEW WEBSITE IS LIVE Get informed. Search our members. Find local events. Network your business.

bitterrootchamber.com

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WELCOME TO THE BITTERROOT VALLEY! Every year, we at the Ravalli Republic have the privilege to share our wonderful communities, beautiful vistas and a wealth of incredibly fun festivals with our friends, newcomers and visitors to our gorgeous valley.

Let this year’s Vista serve as your guide for your adventures in exploring our friendly communities, blue ribbon fishing and endless miles of trail into the stunning backcountry.

While some events have been canceled this year due to the pandemic, there is plenty of backcountry to explore, friendly people to meet

and some fun events to enjoy. Be sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss the fun that comes with events like Apple Days in Hamilton, Elite Bull Connection in Darby, Daly Days at the Daly Mansion or the Ravalli County Fair.

So buckle up and get ready. Summer and fall are wonderful times to be in the Bitterroot Valley of western Montana. Make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Perry Backus Associate Editor, Ravalli Republic

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lorence The town of Florence, named for the wife of lumber titan A.B. Hammond, sits at the northern edge of Ravalli County on Highway 93. The prominently Irish-settled area had previously been referred to as One Horse.

Hammond was instrumental in the development of the timber industry in the Bitterroot and also brought the railroad into the area. The town of Florence was established in 1888. It later merged with a northern neighbor called Carlton. Today, the school district is called FlorenceCarlton. During its heyday as a farming area as many as 100 carloads of wheat a day were shipped out of Florence.

Surrounded with stunning scenery, the

Florence area has ample opportunity for outdoor recreation, including hunting, hiking, biking and wildlife observation.

Bass Creek Recreation Area The 1,600 acre Bass Creek Recreation Area south of Florence provides a number of options for getting outdoors. More than 50,000 people visit the area annually. Bass Creek contains six trailheads, ranging from quarter-mile loops to longer routes over 7.5 miles long. The trails are also a popular destination for horseback riders. It is the perfect stop to use the picnic tables for a meal while enjoying the stunning nature of the Bitterroot. The Charles Waters Campground has 26 paved campsites,

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electric hook-up, water, and vault toilets for those wishing to stay overnight.

Bass Creek Recreation Area is located four miles south of Florence on Highway 93. Call 406-777-5461 or drop by a ranger station for more information.

Chief Looking Glass Fishing Access Visitors to the Bitterroot area are always looking for a way to enjoy the Bitterroot River. The Chief Looking Glass fishing access northeast of Florence is just one of the easy and convenient ways to get to the water.

Whether putting in to float, swim, fish, or just looking for a place to take a break, Chief Looking Glass is a convenient way to

do it. Just turn off on Chief Looking Glass road north of Florence on Highway 93 at mile marker 77. There are 25 campsites, toilets, water (May through September), and a boat launch available. There is fee and a seven-day stay limit. Another fishing access is located just east of Florence on the Eastside Highway just before crossing the bridge.

Hideout Mountain Park Hideout Mountain Park, located at 5458 Florence Carlton Loop, is a playground in Florence. Children can climb up into turrets, run across bridges connecting different areas of the park, or use slides to let loose some pent-up energy.

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A water park feature is also open during the spring and summer months, and in the winter, there’s a free-to-use ice skating rink. Hideout Mountain is a great place to stop for a rest, picnic, or just to let kids run around. Scenic backdrops and plenty of shade mean parents will enjoy the stop as well.

Whitetail Golf Course The Whitetail Golf Course is nearly surrounded by the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge between Florence and Stevensville. It is a nine-hole course with more than 2,800 yards of fairway. The course has panoramic views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountain ranges.

It also has cart and club rentals.Call 406777-3636.

Kootenai Creek Trail The Kootenai Creek Trail dips back and forth along its namesake and is one of the more popular in-and-out hiking trails in the region. The creek has several small pools of water along the way, making Kootenai Creek Trail a perfect fit to walk and stop to put your feet in the water before heading back to the trailhead.

The trail ends at the Kootenai Lakes, nine miles in, but the journey there is spectacular. Walk as much as you like. The last six miles get steeper.

To get to the trailhead, take Kootenai Creek Road west from US Highway 93 south of Florence, just before the cutoff to Stevensville. Go up the road two miles to reach the start of the Kootenai Creek Trail.

Ranger stations have maps of other hikes in the Bitterroot.

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Threemile Wildlife Management Area The Threemile Wildlife Management Area sits east of Florence. It contains nearly 6,500 acres of natural habitat for everything from elk and deer to grouse and black bears. It’s a popular spot for hunting and wildlife observation in the Bitterroot.

Threemile is open from May 15 until the start of December. It is an excellent place for hiking, biking, or horseback riding, and of course, nature and bird watching. It is

also a great place to camp or to set up a quick picnic. Just remember, if you pack it in, pack it out. Hunting is allowed in the Threemile area, which also has limited access for two-wheel drive vehicles when the weather is dry.

To reach the Threemile Wildlife Management Area, take the Eastside Highway from Florence for 6 miles, before turning onto Threemile Creek Road. Call 406-542-5500 or visit fwp.mt.gov for more information.

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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 406777-3773.

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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 midOctober, Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, visit saintmarysmission. org or call 406-777-5734.

Fort Owen State Park The original site of St. Mary’s Mission was sold in 1850 to John Owen, who developed it as Fort Owen. At present day Fort Owen State Park, you can imagine a bustling trading post as you view interpretive displays and remnants of the original adobe and log fort. The site now contains period furnishings and artifacts that have been put on display in the restored east barracks. In 1863, the town’s first store was built. Stevensville is named after Isaac Stevens, who had been the governor of the Washington Territory at the time. Fort Owen is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. Fort Owen State Park is

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located just north of Stevensville. Call 406542-5500 or visit stateparks.mt.gov/fortowen for more information.

Bitterroot Trail The Bitterroot Trail is a 50-mile paved path that connects Missoula and Hamilton–and the quaint towns along the way (including Stevensville)–following U.S. Highway 93 and the rugged Bitterroot Mountains. A paved path connects downtown Stevensville with the Bitterroot Trail, beginning here at Veterans Park and following the Stevensville Cut-Off Road 1.5 miles northwest to U.S. 93.

Stevensville Museum Photographs, artifacts and displays illustrate the unique history of Stevensville

and the surrounding area. Learn about the early account of the Salish (Flathead) Indian homeland, Lewis & Clark’s journey, Fort Owen, local schools, the historic Creamery Picnic, and the era of the Apple Boom. For details, visit StevensvilleMuseum. com.

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge For walking on developed nature trails, birding, biking, and wildlife viewing, visit the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge right on the edge of Stevensville. The Refuge is home to diverse wildlife from warblers to wapiti. Established in 1963 for the management of migratory birds and focused on waterfowl and waterbirds, the Refuge hosts more than 235 species of birds, 37 species of mammals, and 17 spe-

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Pictured L to R: (top) Roger Gantz & Bob Pauley (bottom) Jennifer Jessop & Madeline Silvas

1920 N 1st St Hamilton, MT 406.363.3222

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cies of reptiles and amphibians. Abundant opportunities to observe and photograph wildlife, learn about native and managed habitats, hike, hunt, and fish are available at the Refuge and its Visitor Center.

For information about the Refuge and updated events, time and dates visit www.fws.gov/refuge/lee_metcalf.

Lewis & Clark Park Pool, Bear Mountain Playground, and Skate Park Lewis & Clark Park, on 2nd Street two blocks from Main Street, features the Town’s swimming pool, picnic tables and shelters, the Bear Mountain playground, and skate park. For details, visit TownofStevensville.com/parksrec.

First Fridays in Downtown Stevensville First Friday events are held in February,

May, October, and December, with smaller First Friday activities in other months March-November. Downtown Stevensville hosts live music, food, libations, and special events in various businesses and venues such as the library and Stevensville Playhouse. Businesses stay open late to welcome visitors. Visit StevensvilleMT.org or call 406-777-3773 for details.

Farmers Market on Saturdays Every Saturday from May through the second weekend in October (weather permitting) farmer’s markets are open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 3rd Street adjacent to Main Street. Local food and art producers set up tables and booths to sell their wares. Wandering the farmers market is a great way to see the people of Stevensville, grab a quick lunch, and take

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home a memento of what makes the town unique. Anyone interested in being a vendor can call Stacie at 406-381-6145.

Scarecrow Festival Beginning the First Friday in October, the annual Scarecrow Festival is a premier art event—and tons of fun! Families, businesses, and organizations create scarecrows that line Main Street. Visitors of all ages vote for their favorites. Kids also enjoy a straw bale maze, bouncy houses, and a pumpkin decorating contest. Saturday afternoon and evening, “big kids” enjoy Oktoberfest featuring local brews and music. Scarecrows are kept on display for a week. For details, visit StevensvilleMT.org.

A Montana Country Christmas Stevensville celebrates A Montana Country Christmas the first weekend in December. This festive celebration begins with the “Parade of Lights.” and has caroling down Main Street, the Christmas Story, and open houses. Decoration and beautiful lights adorn the historic town. Open houses at the businesses with complimentary wonderful Christmas treats, horse and wagon rides throughout the evening, and a hayride to boot! Santa arrives for pictures and everyone has a great evening with fun memories. Join Stevensville for an old fashion “Montana Country Christmas.”

For more information, visit StevensvilleMT. org, or call Stevensville Main Street Association 406-777-3773.

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ictor The town of Victor once had to change its name from Garfield, after President James Garfield, to the name of a chief of a Salish Native American tribe. The new name came when the town attempted to establish a post office only to find the name Garfield was already taken.

The town was founded in part by A.S. Blake and his Native American wife, who came to the area in the 1860s. Blake was later elected the first state legislator of Missoula County, a part of which would later become Ravalli County.

In any direction from Victor, there is something to do, from a horseback and hiking trails, to river access and more. Visit the Victor Heritage Museum, stop by a farmers market, or stay at one of the many lodges and bed and breakfasts near the town.

Victor Heritage Museum The Victor Heritage Museum is located in a building at the corner of Blake and Main that had once been the Victor train depot. Originally built in 1928, it was moved to its current location in 1990. It now houses the history of the region told through artifacts of Native Americans, the railroad, churches and agriculture.

The museum gives a tangible look at what the lives if the people who had lived in the area were like, from school to the mines, ranching to the expansion of the telegraph lines. A gift shop sells books that were written about the history of the area and in some cases penned by its inhabitants. This includes the Bitter Root Trails series, chronicling the history of area pioneer families.

The heritage museum is open from

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Memorial Day through Labor Day and is open from 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and on other special occasions. More information can be found online at victorheritagemuseum.org or by calling 406-642-3997.

Highway 93 Bike Path A paved bicycle path connects Hamilton to Missoula in a 45-mile stretch that runs along Highway 93. The bike path is relatively new and is kept in great shape.

The path is a smooth ride for anyone who prefers road bikes over mountain

bikes. The Eastside Highway that connects Florence to Hamilton is another fantastic option for seeing the Bitterroot on a bike.

Ride through the valley, experiencing the rugged peaks of the Bitterroot Mountains, the serene waters of the Bitterroot River, or the rolling fields and hills to the east.

Make a full day of it and head from one end to the other, stopping in towns like Florence and Victor along the way. During the summer in particular, dozens of bikers take to the path each day to enjoy being outdoors in the Bitterroot.

Local bike stores are a great place to get more information or to inquire about

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renting bikes. Contact Chad DeVall at Red Barn Bicycles 406-363-2662 or Randy Leavell at Valley Bicycles & Ski 406-3634428 both in Hamilton.

Lifeline Farm Lifeline Farm in Victor is an organic and biodynamic dairy with a herd of about

350, dual purpose (beef and dairy), Brown Swiss, cows, calves, heifers, steers and bulls. Started in 1978, the dairy was added in 1980. All milk produced is used to make cheese, bottled milk and butter at their Creamery. Lifeline’s dairy products, grass-fed beef, sausages and “whey good” pork can be found at various loca-

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tions throughout the state. Farm tours can be arranged by calling ahead. Lifeline’s Creamery and Farm Store is located at 2427 Meridian Rd. in Victor. Call 406-6429717 or visit lifelinefarm.com.

Redsun Labyrinth The Redsun Labyrinth, located four miles west of Victor, is modeled after the design of an 800-year-old pattern from the Chartres Cathedral in France. At the Redsun, more than 25 tons of fieldstones were used to recreate the pattern.

Strolling the labyrinth is an excellent way to have a quiet, meditative walk as you

look out on the beautiful landscape of the Bitterroot.

With a diameter of more than 100 feet, the Redsun Labyrinth is one of the largest in the United States. It can be found by turning west on 5th Street in Victor, then taking a left onto Pleasant View Drive and following the signs.

Walking the full labyrinth path takes about a half hour, so be sure to set aside a bit of time if visiting. See redsunlabyrinth. com for details.

Rocking L Alpacas Tour an alpaca farm at the Rocking

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L Ranch, located just off the highway between Victor and Hamilton. With more than 30 alpacas, the Rocking L is a great place to bring kids to learn about these unique animals.

Alpacas, South American animals that look similar to a small llama, are friendly creatures whose fleece is used in the textile in particular as a popular fabric similar to wool.

The annual Rocking L annual shearing will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday. May 18.

There will be artisans demonstrating felt-

ing, spinning, dying, knitting, weaving, carding and a photographer. There will be complimentary hot dogs and hamburgers. Kids can get involved with the dying and weaving and if adults would like to try a hand and help with skirting the fleece (removing grass) is always welcome. Will be partnering with the Victor Volunteer Fire Department who will have a fire there that day.

To reach the Rocking L Ranch, turn west off Highway 93 at mile marker 56 (Bear Creek Road) and go down the road

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about two miles to Red Crow Rd. Call 406-642-3085 for more details, or see the Rocking L Alpacas Facebook page.

Bear Creek Overlook Trail The Bear Creek Overlook Trail southwest of Victor provides scenery that is unforgettable, especially in the summer. The views of the Bear Creek drainage and the Bitterroot Mountains should not be missed.

The 2.8-mile round-trip has a slight elevation gain but with only a moderate degree of difficulty, it’s a good choice for a simple day hike.

To get to the trailhead, take Bear Creek Road west from Highway 93 a few miles south of Victor. Turn north at Red Crow Road and continue until heading west on Pleasant View Drive. Almost four miles down Pleasant View, look for the marked junction with forest road 1325, which ends at the trailhead.

Stop into a ranger station for maps and other hikes. The Bear Creek Trail in the

same area is another good pick for a day hike, or for the more adventurous, there is the four-mile hike to the summit and fire lookout at St. Mary’s peak.

Sweathouse Creek Climbing The Bitterroot is quite a destination for rock climbers in the area. Sweathouse Creek west of Victor is no exception, containing dozens of large rocks perfect for short boulder routes.

To get to Sweathouse Creek, go west on 5th Street in Victor. When the street hits a junction, take a right, then turn on to Sweathouse Creek road and follow it to a designated parking area.

Lost Horse Canyon south of Hamilton, as well as Blodgett, Kootenai and Mill Creek canyons are also very popular for their climbing. Whether testing your own limits or just watching others chalk up and hold on, these climber favorites are worth the trip.

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orvallis Corvallis was first settled by Elijah and Margaret Chaffin, who named the area Chaffinville. Explorer John Mullan had previously used an area near Corvallis as a location for a winter base. The town was later renamed Corvallis after a town in Oregon in 1866.

Corvallis has a long history in agriculture, with some of the most fertile land in the region, and is home to the Western Montana Agricultural Research Experiment Station. Numerous old farmhouses dot the roadside of the Eastside Highway.

The town of Corvallis is home to the Teller Wildlife Refuge, which sits along four miles of the Bitterroot River. Head north out of town for a chance at seeing wildlife, or

grab a quick meal at the Memories Cafe.

Drive the Eastside Highway If you are approaching Corvallis from the north, you have already seen the stunning landscape. If you are coming up from the south, you’re in for a treat. The Eastside Highway offers some of the best views in the Bitterroot. It’s worth turning off the highway if you are in the area to sightsee.

Prior to the construction of Highway 93, Eastside Highway was the main road between Hamilton and Florence.

Turn off in Florence or in Hamilton to experience the majesty. A number of historic locations and buildings, listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, dot the landscape, including St. Mary’s Mission,

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the Brooks Hotel, Fort Owen and Tammany trail is open to the public year round.

Castle, which was once the stables of Marcus Daly.

Fishing Around Corvallis There are ample fishing opportunities Teller Wildlife Refuge in the Bitterroot River. Woodside Bridge, In the heart of Western Montana’s just west of Corvallis, is one of the favorite Bitterroot Valley, near the small town of places to put in or fish. Another is north of Corvallis, lies the Teller Wildlife Refuge, town at Tucker Crossing. Fishing shops can a 1,300 acre river bottom and farmland give maps of the area with special recomdedicated to conservation, education, mendations on the best fishing spots. and recreation. Teller, encompassing a three-mile stretch of the Bitterroot River, Willow Creek #300 Hiking Trail provides habitat for wildlife, a veritable A great hike in the Corvallis area is the outdoor classroom for visitors of all ages, Willow Creek #300 trail east of Corvallis. and diverse recreation opportunities. The The 3.5-mile trail starts as an old jeep Teller Trail is located at the north end of road and follows along the side of the the Woodside Fishing Access. The 1.5 mile creek. It goes past cliffs and rock spires,

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making it great for photography buffs.

It’s also right in the middle of the Rocky Mountain goat habitat.

The trail is located at the Willow Creek trailhead. To reach it, take Willow Creek Road east from Corvallis and travel for 11 miles to the first switchback and the trailhead. Stop by a ranger station for maps or suggestions for more day hikes in the area.

Swanson’s Mountain View Apple Orchards The Swanson’s Mountain View Apple Orchards, just northeast of town, connect visitors with the tradition and history of the Bitterroot Valley and its apples, as well as making some very tasty cider that is for

sale.

During the apple season, usually running from August until December, the orchard is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. seven days a week, and is open to the public to see all of the process behind making the cider. Visitors can view everything from picking and grading the apples to the actual pressing and bottling of the apple cider.

If you are planning on stopping by out of season, call ahead at 406-961-3434 to make sure someone will be there to greet you when you arrive. More information can be found at Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard’s Facebook page.

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amilton Hamilton is the largest town in the Bitterroot Valley and the hub of its activities.

In the early 1890s, Marcus Daly, who made a fortune in copper mining in Butte, brought in two town planners to lay out what would become the town of Hamilton. The town was named after one of the planners, James Hamilton. The other planner, Robert O’Hara, became the town’s first mayor.

The Daly Mansion built by Marcus and

later renovated after his death by his wife, sits just east of the town. The mansion’s grounds are the setting for several events during the year as well as being open for tours.

Hamilton holds events all year round, but their frequency and size ramp up during the summer. The Ravalli County Fair brings in more than 20,000 people each year.

Hamilton has a lively downtown, a strong arts community, and is the perfect jumping off point for a trip in the Bitterroot.

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Blodgett Canyon Blodgett Canyon is one of the most picturesque areas of the Bitterroot. To get a great view of it and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, hike the three-mile round trip Blodgett Overlook Trail. Blodgett Canyon is often referred to as Montana’s Yosemite.

To get to the trailhead, go west on Main Street in Hamilton past where it becomes

West Bridge Road. Turn left of Blodgett Camp Road and look for the signs for the Canyon Creek Trailhead.

Bitter Root Humane Association The Bitter Root Humane Association provides caring, compassionate shelter and enrichment for homeless companion animals, finds loving lifelong homes, reunites

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pets and owners, promotes population control, and advocates for all animals.

Circle 13 Skatepark Constructed in the fall of 2018, the Circle 13 Skatepark is a wonderful addition to Claudia Driscoll Park, located at 200 N 10th Street in Hamilton. The park provides a healthy, active space for skaters of all ages and abilities. Located next to a playground, picnic tables, and open space, it’s a great space for families.

Ravalli County Museum The Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton contains many exhibits featuring local history and beyond.

The building the museum was in was designed by the Montana architect A.J.

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Gibson in 1900 and served as the county courthouse until 1979. The brick building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Signature events include Ernst Peterson Photo Contest, Bitter Root Day, McIntosh Apple Day, Liquid Cider Night, Ghost Tours: Paranormal Investigations, Veteran’s Day Ceremony, Gallery of Trees and A Cowboy Christmas.

An Antique Auction will be held on July 25 from 1 to 5 p.m. The auction features antiques and collectibles donated by local patrons. Nothing from local collection is included in the sale.

McIntosh Apple Day, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Oct. 3 is called the Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky and features produce from local farmers as well as food arts and crafts from around the Bitterroot

“Your Bitterroot Valley Department Store”

• Levis • Wranglers • Carhartt • Silver Jeans • Columbia • Woolrich • North River

• Filson • Stetson and Bailey Hats • Angie • Fox • Keren Hart

Downtown Hamilton Corner of Main & 2nd • 363-2251

Mon - Sat 8am-6pm

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and beyond. Highlights include a bake sale including more than 600 made-fromscratch apple pies, apple butter, pork with apple chutney, caramel apples, apple cider, and fresh apples.

Liquid Apple Night, from 5-9 p.m. on Oct. 3, is the relaxing and refreshing evening under the stars to close out Apple Day. Sample delicious hard cider created by cider makers from the Rocky Mountain northwest, while enjoying local food and music. You must be 21 or older to participate. This is a ticketed event.

Ghost Tours: Paranormal Investigations, from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Oct 17,24,31 and 26. Become a paranormal investigator for the night - gathering evidence and exploring rooms in the museum that are

not on the regular tour. The event is done in the dark, with flashlights and special ghost hunting equipment. Bring your own camera. Local Intuitive, Sarah Monson, will also be on hand for readings throughout the evening. Tickets will be available in September. Children age 14 to 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No one under 14 admitted.

Veteran’s Day Observance Ceremony and Gallery of Trees Opening, Monday, Nov. 2.

In honor of our Veterans, Ravalli County Museum hosts an annual observance. A silent auction of stunning trees decorated by local businesses and organizations will open on the same day. Choose from a wide variety of both tradition and patriotic

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trees. Bid on a tree that can be given to a deserving person or for a veteran family currently serving in the military!

A Cowboy Christmas, Dec. 4, features live music, cowboy poetry and the conclusion of our Christmas tree silent auction.

The Ravalli County Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday and hosts children’s programming during Farmers Market on Saturdays 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. which runs May through October. For more information call 406-363-3338 or visit online at www.ravallimuseum.org.

Daly Mansion In 1886, Marcus Daly, an Irish immigrant turned mining Copper King, bought a

homestead and built a home for him and his wife just east of Hamilton. The mansion was part of Daly’s 22,000 acre Bitter Root Stock Farm.

After Daly’s death, his wife Margaret renovated the mansion, with the help of famed Montana architect A.J. Gibson, to its present Georgian-Revival style. The 24,000 square foot, three story mansion has 25 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms and 7 fireplaces. The house was boarded up when Mrs. Daly died in 1941, but was reopened to the public in 1987 after more than $2 million of renovation work was done to the property and grounds.

An arboretum and garden houses more than 400 trees over 26 acres of land. The

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mansion and grounds now serve as an educational and cultural hub for the preservation of one of Montana’s biggest names.

Tours of the Daly Mansion, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Sapphire Lutheran Homes Summer Concert Series (Dominic will write) Sapphire Lutheran Homes will celebrate the summer of 2020 with their Eighth Annual Summer Concert Series and Shakespeare in the Parks.

Hamilton Playhouse For many community members the summer is only complete if it includes a high quality production by the Hamilton Players in their 168-seat intimate community theater.

With their mission of “Putting the spotlight on education, inspiration, and community through the performing arts” the playhouse has two full-length summer productions, camps and workshops for kids and a biennial fundraising gala.

Daly Days Daly Days, July 27, is Hamilton’s annual heritage celebration. The Daly Days Festival, named for the areas famous copper king Marcus Daly, is fun for the entire family.

This year’s event will be held exclusively on the expansive grounds at the Daly Mansion. The Bitterroot Ragtime Society will be the event’s musical guests. There will numerous re-enactors offering insights into the mansion’s historical past.

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Bitterroot Aquatic Center Bitterroot Aquatic Center is a year-round facility, providing fitness classes, competition, water safety and recreational opportunities.

The summer’s 2020 swim lessons are scheduled to begin on July 6th. Three sessions are planned. Bitterroot Aquatic Center is at 59 Kurtz Lane in Hamilton.

For more information and an up-to-date schedule visit www.bitterrootaquaticcenter@yahoo.com or call 375-8200.

Bitterroot Secret Garden Tour The 2020 tour celebrates the 6th anniver-

sary of combining instant gratification with longer-term charitable community investment.

The instant gratification is two-fold, tickets come packaged in a re-useable canvas garden-goodie bag filled with coupons, seed packets and other small gifts designed specifically for gardeners and participants tour six quite diverse, lovely and local gardens.

The longer-term community investment is that the majority of proceeds are donated to a local non-profit. This year, the Ravalli County Museum will receive up to a $5,000 donation.

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This year the tour features the six gardens and landscapes of Jan and Alan Abel, Joanie and Dan Huls, Lisa and Andy Kehmeier, Nanette and Greg Seltzer and Judi and David Vannatta.

The Secret Garden Tour happens on July 18, tickets go on sale on May 1 and often sell out quickly.

Tickets cost $40 each and are available at Moeller’s Nursery, Cooks’ Gardens, Bitterroot Nursery, K&S Greenhouses and Chapter One Book Store For more information visit online facebook.com/ BitterrootSecretGardenTour.

Bitterroot Brewfest Festival Every year, the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce holds a fundraising event in the form of the Bitterroot Chamber Micro Brewfest at the end of July. The festival offers the chance to sample more than 40-types of beer from Montana and the Northwest, several varieties of regional wine and cider, as well as food from local vendors. Live music is provided.

The event coincides with the annual Daly Days celebration.

The 26th annual Brewfest

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Festival will be held at the Daly mansion.

Date and location may be subject to change More information can be found online at bitterrootchamber.com or call 406-3632400.

Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival The 12th annual Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival, 10 miles south of Hamilton, is on July 24, 25 and 26. This year’s festival features great bands from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

This year’s festival is in a new location up at the end of Forest Hill Road about 15 minutes south of Hamilton. Food vendors on site. Bring your lawn chairs. Bluegrass Gospel on Sunday morning. Band con-

test. All dogs on leash. Admission: adults for weekend-$30, kids (6 to 12 years) $15, adult day pass Friday or Saturday - $20, Sunday only - $15, children day pass Friday or Saturday - $10 and Sunday only $7. Dry camping $25 for weekend.

For more information 406-821-3777 or www.hardtimesbluegrass.com Bitter Root Water Forum Events Support, clean, and celebrate the Bitterroot River with two days of events August 9 – 10.

The “Run for the River” 5K is a unique race to benefit the Bitter Root Water Forum. The run starts at 7 p.m. on Friday, August 7. The course starts and finishes in River Park in Hamilton and winds along the

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beautiful Bitterroot River. Come out for this one of a kind experience in the Bitterroot Valley.

Saturday, August 8 is the “Bitterroot River Clean Up.� Each year volunteers for the Water Forum pull thousands of pounds of trash from the Bitterroot River. Volunteers are assigned stretches of the river from Sula and Painted Rocks to the confluence at the Clark Fork in Missoula. The efforts are rewarded with a volunteer appreciation barbecue 5 to 8 p.m. at River Park in Hamilton.

Volunteers are welcome to help run both events. A variety of tasks and times are available to pick from on both Friday and Saturday. Contact Emilie for more

information at bswc.member@brwaterforum.org or 406-375-2272. Register to run and/or clean up at https://www.brwaterforum.org/events.

Ravalli County Fair Held the week before Labor Day weekend, the Ravalli County Fair is the signature end of the summer celebration for the Bitterroot. It is also the largest annual event in the area, drawing in more than 20,000 people every year.

The Ravalli County Fair will be held Sept.

2-5. This real-deal, old-fashioned familyfriendly fair is a showcase event for the strong agricultural 4-H programs in the valley, with barns and buildings filled with live-

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stock projects.

There is something for everyone at the fair, including carnival rides and food vendors, with sales going to benefit nonprofit organizations in the community.

The fair features a large display of quilts, photography, baked and canned goods, arts and crafts, as well as a building filled with horticultural and floral displays.

On Friday and Saturday night, it’s usually standing room only during the full gamut of rodeo events, which include a youth invitational, bull riding, team roping, and cowboy bronc rides. The rodeo is included in the gate fee for the fair.

To make sure the event is as familyfriendly as possible the fair is a dry event.

See https://ravalli.us/200/Fairgrounds for more details, or call 406-363-3411.

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arby, Conner, Sula The towns of the Darby, Sula and Conner occupy a region at the lower end of Ravalli County commonly called the South Valley area.

Darby contains some of the oldest buildings in the Bitterroot, including the museum, which was one of the first handhewn cabins built in the region. The quiet town of slightly less than 1,000 is also the home of the National Museum of Forest Service History.

Each summer, Darby holds Logger Days, paying tribute to the timber industry that

was responsible for the town’s boom.

Conner is a small community located off Highway 93 south of Darby, and sits on the edge of the Bitterroot National Forest.

Trapper Peak stands nearby, with a summit of 10,157 feet.

Sula is the place where the Lewis and Clark expedition first encountered the Salish Native American tribe in 1805. The tribe outfitted the explorers with horses and helped guide them through the Bitterroot Mountains. Sula is named for the first white child born in the area, Ursula.

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A painting by Charlie Russell of a view near Sula hangs in the Montana State Capitol Building.

The South Valley area has some of the best boating and fishing in the region, including Lake Como to the north and Painted Rocks State Park to the south. To the south is the Lost Trail ski hill and hot springs. Visit darbymt.net for more information.

Darby Farmers Market Every Tuesday from May 28 through October 1, local growers bring their wares into town and set up for a farmer’s market that lasts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The farmer’s market is the best way to grab local produce as well as handmade sweets and artistic goods. The Darby farmers market is located right in the center of town, in the park next to city hall on Main Street.

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Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum This pioneer museum houses home life and business artifacts of historic Darby, as well as early photos showing the history of Darby and its inhabitants.

The building that houses the museum was one of the first hand-hewn cabins in the area, originally built in 1886. In 1958, it was moved from its original location at Tin

Cup to its current location in Darby. The museum contains photos of the cabin at its original location. It also has handwritten letters, deeds, and documents from schools and churches to give a glimpse into the everyday life of the Darby area’s past.

The museum opens for the season on Memorial Day and remains open

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through Labor Day on a volunteer basis.

It is located behind City Hall just off Main Street in Darby. Call for information at 406821-3753.

Darby Library The Darby Community Public Library, unique in its interior architecture with small diameter roundwood beams and trusses, is a hub for activities in the Southwest corner of the Bitterroot Valley. Along with the tradition book services, WiFi and free computer access, the Library has a free meeting room for group use and the library puts on several recurring community-wide events all year.

Among those are their summer reading program activities starting in June. Every Tuesday throughout the summer, kids and families are invited to a free lunch in the park outside the library, and after lunch there will be an activity related to this year’s theme, “A universe of stories.”

Lunch starts at 11:30 a.m., and the library also hosts free lunch at the park throughout the summer on Thursday.

The library is open Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s located at 101 S Marshall Street in Darby.

Last Fridays in Darby Enjoy art, local vendors, hometown pours and great music from 5-8 p.m. on the Last Friday of June and September in Darby’s Main Street Park. To host a booth or sponsor the event, contact Darby Parks and Recreation at 925-405-2811.

Strawberry Festival The Strawberry Festival is a relaxing evening of music, strawberry shortcake, raffles and visiting that serves as the

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annual fundraising event for the Darby Fire Department always on the third Saturday in July. According to Fire Chief Duane Horvath the Strawberry Festival has been happening since 1940.

behind the rodeo grounds and accessible from the Darby Trail. There is an annual Skate Park Jam in September for riders of all ages and abilities.

Darby’s Pocket Park In 2017, the South Valley Civic Group worked with an artist to commission a bronze statue of Sacagawea to be placed in the new pocket park. The park is located in the center of town, and is a wonderful place to sit down and enjoy a break from strolling historic downtown Darby.

Darby Trail For over 10 years, a group of local trail enthusiasts have worked to build a lovely loop trail in Darby. It follows the roads, winds down to the river, and up by the school, skatepark, and rodeo grounds.

This 3.5 mile loop is a great way to take in the sights of Darby whether you run, walk, wheel, or skip. Maps available at Town Hall and other community businesses.

Darby Skate Park Constructed in spring 2017, this park is a great community resource. It is located

Darby Rodeo Association The Darby Rodeo Association will host several events in one of the best rodeo

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photo courtesy of kathy hamilton

arenas to get close to the action. “Those horses buck around sometimes only about five feet from (spectators),” said Darby Rodeo Association president Cal Ruark.

The Broncs and Bulls are, of course, behind a fence, but the rodeo events never disappoint. In addition to DRA’s main events, the arena is the home arena to the Ravalli County Jr Rodeo Club, the Bitterroot Valley Gymkhana Club and will be host arena to a new summer barrel racing series. To learn more about the summer’s fun, go to www.darbyrodeo.org, look them up on Facebook.

The Elite Bull Connection pits some of the best bovine athletes against the best bull riders. The 2019 competition will include the Elite Professional Bull rider’s top talent on July 10-11.

The 406 Rodeo will be held August 21, 22 and 23. Kids age 6-18 will compete in ranch rodeo events including the “Mutton Bustin’ 1,000,” the “biggest mutton bustin’ in the Northwest,” according to Ruark. The plan is for riders to buck sheep with over 60 head of sheep expected to be taken for a ride.

Bronc Bustin and Barrel Burnin is set for

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Aug 15. The event brings top notch bronc riders and barrel racers to Darby for two days of action. There will also be 40 head of rough stock – 20 bulls and 20 saddle broncs, including an exciting women’s saddle bronc event.

Painted Rocks State Park Painted Rocks State Park on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, offers boating and fishing opportunities with the Painted Rocks Reservoir.

The park is named for the colored lichen that covers the rocks walls, giving them green, yellow and orange hues. Bighorn Sheep can often be seen on the cliffs surrounding the park. There are also 25 campsites, with fire pits and picnic tables,

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offering an ideal place for both swimming and overnight stays.

To get to Painted Rocks, take the West Fork Road from Highway 93, north of Conner. More information can be found online at stateparks.mt.gov/painted-rocks or by calling 406-273-4253.

Lake Como Recreation Area The Lake Como Recreation Area is the most popular outdoor spot in the Bitterroot area. Lake Como features beaches with roped off swimming areas, and a boat launch and picnic area. It also has the Rock Creek Trailhead, with several hiking trails available. Snow-covered mountains, whose melt off feeds the lake, rise up sharply at the end of the lake.

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Camping options for overnight stay are available, including hookups for RVs. The historic Woods cabin, located on the lake shore, can be rented year round (call 1-877-444-6777 or visit recreation.gov).

Summer weekends are busy at Lake Como, with plenty of swimmers, motorboats and jet skis on the water. In the winter, Lake Como is a great place for snowshoeing and ice fishing, and has several groomed cross country skiing tracks.

Lake Como is located four miles up the paved Lake Como Road off Highway 93 between Hamilton and Darby. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, all vehicles at Lake Como must have a recreation pass, which can be purchased at the recreation area. See fs.usda.gov/recarea/bit-

terroot/recreation for more information.

Lost Trail Powder Mountain Spring and summer in the Bitterroot is beautiful, but it’s during the winter when one of the real gems of the South Valley is available for use. Lost Trail Powder Mountain is south of Darby at the border between Montana and Idaho.

Named after the trail where Lewis and Clark became lost on the way to the Continental Divide, the ski hill has something for beginners and experts alike. The summit is 8,200 feet, the lodge is at 7,000 feet and the base is 6,400 feet. Five chairlifts and three rope tows provide easy access to the more than 60 marked trails on 1,800 acres of skiing terrain.

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Lost Trail gets more than 300 inches of snow annually and is known in the area for its low ticket prices and short lift lines.

With more than 50 marked trails from bunny hill to glades, a ski and boarding school for first timers, and equipment rentals, Lost Trail Powder Mountain is a perfect winter destination. Visit losttrail. com for details.

Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort south of Sula at the base of Lost Trail Pass provides lodging, dining and a natural, chemicalfree outdoor hot springs swimming pool and hot tub. In the winter, the pool area is covered by a dome, so guests can continue to enjoy it at any time. During the winter, Chief Joseph Cross Country Trails just to the east provides more than 25 miles of groomed trail and the hot springs, as well as snowmobile routes.

Big Hole National Battlefield The Big Hole National Battlefield is a bit of a journey, but worth it to see one of the most historic places in the state. To reach the Big Hole National Battlefield travel south from Darby to the Idaho border then head east in MT-43 for 17 miles.

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ireworks

at Ravalli County Fairgrounds Saturday, July 4th, 2020 at DARK. FREE to the public DOMINIC FARRENKOPF FOR THE RAVALLI REPUBLIC

Please join the City of Hamilton in celebrating Independence Day at Ravalli County Fairgrounds! Traditionally, the 4th of July has been enjoyed with backyard barbeques and fireworks. This year put your feet up, let us do the cooking and enjoy an amazing Fireworks show! Enjoy the open space, fresh air, delicious food available for purchase from our local vendors, while visiting your neighbors, friends and family. Come and celebrate your independence at the Fairgrounds!

Steve Boshae is the pyrotechnician who provides and detonates the fireworks for the display.

“As a licensed pyrotechnician who has helped prepare Hamilton’s Independence Day fireworks show for the past several years, I believe the unifying celebration of our nation’s freedom contributes to the

strength of our community,” Boshae said.

“The fun for me and my crew is knowing that Bitterroot families are on their picnic blankets or are together in their cars and will share the delight of the beautiful colors and designs. Especially this summer. It feels like we need to pull out all the stops.”

“Each year the City of Hamilton attempts to have the fireworks display funded privately,” said Dominic Farrenkopf, Mayor of Hamilton. “If you would like to contribute to this year’s show, please mail a check to City Hall. You could also drop off a donation at City Hall. All amounts are greatly appreciated.

We’re looking forward to an incredible fireworks display.”

If you would like to donate funds for the show, send to the City of Hamilton, 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 Memo: Fireworks

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ummer concert series

& Shakespeare in the parks 2020 DOMINIC FARRENKOPF FOR THE RAVALLI REPUBLIC

Sapphire Lutheran Homes will celebrate the summer of 2020 with their Eighth Annual Summer Concert Series and Shakespeare in the Parks‌with a twist.

The Summer Concert Series will only hap-

pen if Governor Bullock declares Phase Three in the reopening of the state following the Covid-19 pandemic. Shakespeare in the Parks will NOT be touring, Sapphire will participate by sending videos of Hamilton to Montana Shakespeare in the Parks.

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The events include: * “406” begins the season on Friday, July 31, at 7:00 pm. 406 is comprised of Mark Duboise, Checkers Barker, John Parr, Tom Nash and Stu Jackson. These country rockers hail from Missoula, MT and bring a unique style and energy to the cover songs you will be sure to recognize. This is Montana grown, hot rockin’ country, whiskey soaked Southern rock with some slow dance tunes. Music made with care and talent to spare. Come and join in the fun! * Friday, August 7, at 7:00 pm “Who Dat” will perform. From Minnesota to the high line of Malta, Montana...California to the Colorado Rockies, and ‘way down

yonder in New Orleans’. The members of Who Dat! have assembled from across this land right here in the Bitterroot Valley.

They bring a diverse and eclectic range of musical experience that, for some, dates back to the 1970’s. With their mix of guitars, fiddle, keys, and percussion, blended with the sweet vocal harmonies, this group rocks it out when they perform songs by The Eagles, Zac Brown Band, The Beach Boys, Alabama, The Doobie Brothers and many more. Who Dat! truly is, “a Montana band with a southern rock sound.” * Friday, August 14, at 7:00 pm “Band In Motion” will perform. Band In Motion is a Missoula based group that started in 2013

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and have been captivating audiences with their high-energy performances and by transforming their dance music and musicianship and fresh grooves of today’s funk and yesterday’s pop sound. Band In Motion has played the Hamilton area 2019 Stock Farm summer shows and has been a favorite at Cowboy Troy’s during the 2019 summer season. Band In Motion brings the fun and tunes to groove to. Band In Motion…let’s dance!

Sapphire Lutheran Homes is located at 501 North Tenth Street in Hamilton. These events are free and open to the public but subject to change. Call 406-363-2800 or visit sapphirelutheran.org for up-to-date information.

Sapphire Lutheran Homes will NOT host Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, however Hamilton will participate in a REVERSE TOUR! What is a Reverse Tour? (Explained by Susan Miller of MSIP.) If we can’t come to your town, perhaps you can bring your town to us? This summer, under the umbrella of MSIP LIVE, we’d like to feature YOU and your town for a larger audience. Our region is so vast, diverse, and beautiful. We’d love to fea-

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ture it in a series we’re calling “Voices from the Road” (subject to change). We’re asking that you take a short video (smartphone videos work great!) of you or someone from your town speaking to what’s great about your town and reciting a short piece of Shakespeare. We’ll send you suggestions! The videos can be anywhere between 1-10 minutes long depending on how much you’d like to include.

WHY? First of all, we already miss you. But secondly, we are looking at this as a way to bring communities together- virtually. Our audiences may have only ever seen a show in Miles City and have no idea what life in Driggs is like – or vice versa. We think of this as a fun and positive way to showcase the wonderful towns and people we normally tour to each summer, all while celebrating our favorite playwright, Shakespeare.

Sapphire Lutheran Homes’ Community Life Director, Dominic Farrenkopf will coordinate the Reverse Tour for Hamilton. For more information, visit: shakespeareintheparks.org.

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t. Mary’s Mission:

Montana’s First Best Place PHOTO PROVIDED

Colleen Meyer

Historic St. Mary’s Mission Executive Director

The history of the Bitterroot Valley is rich in Indian culture. For as long as the Salish Elders tell their stories, the Salish People will know the Bitterroot Valley was their ancestral homeland. This was sacred land, where the spirits of their ancestors dwelled, and where the earth nurtured their families.

In the early 1800’s Iroquois Indians from Canada found their way onto the Salish lands while trapping for the famed Hudson Bay Company. They told their new Salish

neighbors of “black robes” who buried their dead and believed in an everlasting life. Their teachings suited the Salish traditions and they became determined to have their own “black robes” in the Bitterroot Valley.

Over an eight-year period, the persistent Indians sent four separate delegations over 1,500 miles to St. Louis requesting missionaries to come to their homeland.

Their determination paid off when, on September 24, 1841, Father Pierre DeSmet, S.J., along with five Jesuit missionaries arrived in the Bitterroot Valley to establish St. Mary’s Mission.

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PHOTO PROVIDED

Four years later, Father Anthony Ravalli, S.J. arrived. A true renaissance man, he was not only a priest, but also a physician, pharmacist, architect, artist, mechanic, carpenter, farmer and teacher. The compassionate man cared for the Indians and settlers of the region for 24 years. He left an indelible mark on all the people he served, while initiating several of the celebrated first occurrences in Montana. Ravalli County is the namesake of this remarkable man. Today, visitors to St. Mary’s Mission are amazed to see Father Ravalli’s incredible artistic and creative skills.

With the establishment of St. Mary’s

Mission in 1841 a noteworthy number of “firsts” began to occur. St. Mary’s Mission was known as the “Mother of Missions” as it was the first of many missions in the Pacific Northwest. St. Mary’s was much more; it was the first pioneer settlement.

Here the first apple orchard and vegetable gardens were grown with the help of Montana’s first irrigation ditches The first wheat was harvested and ground in Montana’s first gristmill. Corrals were constructed, the first cattle were raised and marked with the “Cross on a Hill” brand, thus the beginning of the cattle industry in Montana. The first logs were sawn

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and Montana’s first clapboard buildings were assembled. Here was the first doctor’s office and dispensary for medicine, which can be seen today. The first classes in reading, writing, and arithmetic were taught in the Salish language. The first band played numbers by German and Italian composers. In Missoula County the first conveyance of property in Montana is registered between St. Mary’s Mission and John Owen.

A guided tour of St. Mary’s Mission brings the visitor into living history. The photo gallery and artifacts in Chief Victor’s Cabin reveal a sense of the 19th century when the Indian and European cultures merged.

St. Mary’s Chapel with living quarters, Father Ravalli’s log cabin and pharmacy are all restored and furnished with items

hand crafted by Father Ravalli. The Salish Encampment represents the ancestral homeland of the Bitterroot Salish Tribe.

Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum shares the story of remarkable people in a turbulent time, with the assimilation of two very different cultures against the backdrop of the American Frontier. Walk through history; see, touch and hear this fascinating and significant chapter of our nation’s past.

St. Mary’s Visitor Center hosts a Museum, Western Art Gallery and Gift Shop.

Visit us Tuesday through Saturday.

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elcome to the Bitterroot National Forest Leave your stress behind! You will find this spectacular 1.6 million acre forest in southwest Montana and Idaho to be a priceless national heritage.

Half of the forest is dedicated to the largest expanse of continuous pristine wilderness in the lower 48 states -- the Selway Bitterroot, Frank Church River of No Return, and the Anaconda Pintler. Much of its beauty can be attributed to the heavily glaciated, rugged peaks of the Bitterroot Range. Drainages carved by glaciers form steep canyons that open into the valley floor.

The abundance of natural resources offers a wide range of opportunities for

recreation, grazing, wildlife, fisheries, timber, and minerals. Come enjoy the magnificent mountains, the serenity of wilderness, the miracle of spring flowers, majestic big game, and the sounds of birds here in our land of multiple uses.

Visit the Bitterroot National Forest website: www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot and ‘Like Us’ on Facebook www.facebook.com/discoverbitterrootnf for further information.

Camp out and play in the mountains of Montana Summer is a great time to visit the Bitterroot National Forest. There are 26 developed campgrounds in the Forest,

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hiking on more than 1,800 miles of trails, fishing for brook and rainbow trout in crystal-clear Alpine lakes, boating, biking, horseback riding and more. There are many species of wildlife including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and moose, plus many varieties of smaller animals and birds. There are two easily accessible Recreation Areas on the forest, Bass Creek and Lake Como, which provide wide varieties of outdoor recreation opportunities in beautiful mountainous settings.

Bass Creek Recreation Area, located just north of Stevensville, lies adjacent to Bass Creek and is located at the base of the Bitterroot Mountains. Adventures visitors can pursue include camping, picnicking, horseback riding, nature trails, fire ecology trails, mountain biking, hik-

ing, group camping, fishing, Wilderness access, and cross-county skiing in the winter time.

Lake Como Recreation Area also provides visitors with a wide array of outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can camp in one of the three campgrounds, rent a group site for family reunions or gatherings, take watercraft on the 900 acre lake, swim in the designated swim area, play at the sandy beach, or hike/ bike/run/ride horses on the lake trail.

A pass is required during the summer months to help pay for operations and amenities the recreation area has to offer. For more information go to www. fs.usda.gov/bitterroot or contact the Darby-Sula Ranger District at 406-8213913.

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Revel in spectacular hiking in the Bitterroot Mountains The Bitterroot Mountains offer many choices for the avid hiker. For spectacular views of the massive cliffs and rock spires of Blodgett Canyon, hike along Blodgett Creek. For short hikes with scenic views, try the Bear Creek Overlook near Victor or Blodgett Overlook near Hamilton.

For an easy and scenic hike, try the first three miles of Bear Creek Trail with its pools, falls and natural waterslides. For grand views of the valley and rugged crags of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, hike four miles to the summit of St Mary’s peak west of Stevensville which has a fire lookout. For a challenging trail hike, try Trapper Peak, the Bitterroot’s highest at 10,157’.

For more information, visit the Bitterroot

National Forest website at www.fs.usda. gov/bitterroot for locations and descriptions of many hikes or visit any Forest Service office.

Local bookstores also carry excellent guidebooks.

Visit historic forest ranger stations or “camp” at a rustic guard station Did you know the Bitterroot Valley is home to the oldest surviving Forest Service Ranger Station? The historic Alta Ranger Station is located on the West Fork of the Bitterroot and was built in 1899. This one- room log cabin with a sod roof gives visitors a good feel for the rigors and hardships faced by the earliest rangers.

The Bitterroot National Forest offers visitors a unique recreational experience at one of its many rental cabins and look-

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outs. Get away with family or friends and enjoy an experience from yesteryear.

A night spent in a Forest Service fire lookout or cabin can be a unique and memorable experience! There are three rental lookouts that provide stunning views of the surrounding Sapphire, Bitterroot, and Anaconda Pintler mountain ranges. Four rustic cabins offer a serene and relaxing getaway.

With the exception of a few cabins, do not expect the modern conveniences that we have become accustomed to. Two of the cabins that can be rented out are the East Fork Guard Station on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River near Sula and the Magruder Ranger’s House on the Selway River in Idaho. These rustic, historic cabins

offer easy access to fishing, hiking, nature viewing, and pure relaxation. Rental fees are used by the Forest Service to manage and maintain these historic facilities for the public to enjoy.

For more information on how to rent one of the lookouts or cabins, call 406-3637100, or visit www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot or www.recreation.gov.

Bicycling on the National Forest The Bitterroot National Forest offers mountain bikers miles of roads and trails on which to ride. There are wide, quiet roads for beginners to get acquainted with their bikes, and there are challenging, arduous trails that will test the advanced rider.

If you plan to strike out on your own to

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explore with your bike, it would be wise to buy a National Forest map (available at any Forest Service office). Please respect the rights of private landowners, and always ask permission before you ride on their land. Also be aware of the wilderness boundaries when you are riding on the trails. Bicycles are not allowed in the wilderness areas.

Remember to wear protective gear when riding your mountain bike; helmet, gloves and sturdy shoes. Also plan on taking food, water, sunscreen, and a basic tool kit on all of your outings. Always maintain control of your bicycle and be ready to stop. Watch for traffic on forest roads.

Be aware of hikers and livestock along trails. As a courtesy, please step off your bicycle on the downhill side of the trail and allow livestock to pass. Some stock

may be afraid of your bicycle, so stay in plain view and speak softly. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors on your national forests. View the wildlife and the scenery.

Keep in mind that the forests and meadows are fragile lands, so please practice low impact, tread lightly techniques.

Off-Highway vehicle riding on the Darby Trails System The Bitterroot National Forest along with the Ravalli County Off Road User Association, is inviting the public to ride the ‘Darby Trails’ on the Darby/Sula Ranger District. The ATV trail system, which opened in 2018, is located east of Darby in the Sapphire Mountains and boasts nearly 50 miles of motorized routes on the forest open to motorcycle and ATV travel. The trails, which are part of the

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recent Darby Lumber Lands Watershed Improvement and Travel Management Project, include spectacular panoramic views of the Bitterroot Valley and Sapphire and Bitterroot Mountains.

They feature both 28-mile and 15-mile loop routes. All ATV’s must be 50 inches or under and machines should be clean and free of weed seed. The trail system utilizes formerly abandoned logging roads along with forest roads and newly constructed connector trails. The land, which was originally granted to the railroads around the turn of the century, was acquired by the Forest Service in 2005, and had extensive road systems built decades ago for logging. Unfortunately, many of the low standard roads and clear-cutting had negative impacts on the local watersheds by chronically elevating sediment levels.

The Darby Lumber Lands project is helping improve watershed and stream health while also creating a sustainable motorized access system. The new routes were also designed to be suitable for all riders.

For more information and to see maps of the trails visit https://go.usa.gov/xwWCR or www.ravallioffroad.org.

Fire prevention chipmunk leads adventure on a new Agents of Discovery Mission The franchise of Agents of Discovery missions hosted by the Nez Perce National Historic Trail (NPNHT) has grown to five missions.

Current missions-all in the Bitterroot Valley and developed last season, can be found at Travelers Rest State Park, Lolo; St. Mary’s Mission, Stevensville; River Park in Hamilton, and Lake Como in the

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Darby area. The new mission is located at the Bass Creek Nature Trail within the Bass Creek Recreation Area on the Stevensville Ranger District.

Agent Anna, Fire Prevention Chipmunk was specially designed for the Larry Creek Mission with the focus on Fire Ecology.

Agents of Discovery is an augmented reality, geo- triggered app that gets you outside, active, and engaged in the world around you. With Agents of Discovery, you become a top-secret Agent, dedicated to solving the greatest mysteries of science, culture, technology, and nature.

This app is free, and provides a great way

for kids to explore and learn about our area.

To play Agents of Discovery Missions, download the FREE app from the App Store or Google Play and select the Bass Creek Mission.

Help prevent wildfires The Bitterroot National Forest has a history of large wildland fire activity. While lightning sparks most fires on the forest, the five year average for human-caused fires is approximately 22%. The number one contributor to human-caused fires is abandoned campfires.

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Forest officials are asking recreationists to be extra vigilant this summer to prevent wildfires. Human-caused fires can be prevented. One less spark can mean one less wildfire. Please do your part to prevent wildfires by following these safety tips:

• Make sure vehicles and tires are in good working condition, and safety chains and other trailer equipment are not dragging. Chains dragging on the road creates sparks and can cause fires.

• Always carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle, as well as plenty of water and a shovel to put out fires.

• Make sure all motorized equipment, including chainsaws, all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles have approved spark arrestors to prevent a spark.

• Always discard cigarette butts in ashtrays inside a vehicle or a building.

Cigarettes can start fires long after they have been dropped or thrown away.

a l paca s

• Make sure your campfire is completely out. If your fire is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave. Take a shovel and plenty of water to put out your fire. Pour water on your fire and stir. Repeat until the fire is cool to the touch. Use a gas stove if windy conditions are predicted.

• Don’t stop or park your vehicle in tall grass or over small shrubs, where a spark or hot engine parts can start a fire.

L

The Rocking Over 30 beautiful, friendly alpacas

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complimentary Tours Great Fun for the Kids Ranch store featuring a variety of alpaca products Come spend some time with these gentle creatures!

Visit us on acebook/Rockinglalpacas Between Victor & Hamilton • Turn west off Hwy 93 at mile 56, 2.2 miles to the ranch!

1760 Red Crow Rd, Victor MT 59875 • 406-642-3085 • Your hosts: Erv & Mo Lischke

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hred the ‘Root BRIAN DUFRESNE

FOR THE RAVALLI REPUBLIC

The Bitterroot Valley with its quaint towns, towering mountains, miles of wilderness trails, blue ribbon trout streams, and abundant wildlife, offers a rather unexpected experience- three top notch skateparks within 38 miles. Nestled in the towns of Darby, Hamilton, and Stevensville the parks were crafted by Evergreen Skateparks. Major funding came from

Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament and the Montana Pool Service, and the park’s designs were influenced by Jeff as well.

At the south end of the Bitterroot Valley, the Darby Skatepark combines three bowls interconnected with hips that provide ample opportunity for carving banks and coping. Along with this transition section, the park boasts a solid street section featuring two pyramids, a fun box, and rails. It also has a lot of flat ground, so if you are a beginning skater, Darby’s park

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provides an excellent opportunity to learn.

Tucked behind the rodeo grounds, the Darby Skatepark seems like a secret discovery in the small, rural town.

17 miles north, in the thriving town of Hamilton sits the Circle 13 Skatepark at Claudia Driscoll Park. The biggest park in the chain of three, Hamilton’s park features a big, aggressive series of connected bowls, hips, and banks. Skaters and bikers will find endless lines and plenty of speed in the transition section; it’s steep and deep. It also provides a classic pool, and a street arc with rails and a fun box.

Located right in the middle of town, the park is next to a playground and within easy walking distance of downtown businesses.

Specializing

in

21 miles north of Hamilton in the beautiful town of Stevensville rests the first park built in the Bitterroot Valley. Stevenville’s park features a wonderful pump track that surrounds a deep, pool style bowl. It also includes a small patch of flatground.

Located at Lewis and Clark Park and next to a playground and plenty of field space, it’s a great family stop.

The Bitterroot Valley skateparks offer joy for all levels of skater. Each features postcard backdrops of the Bitterroot-Selway Mountains, and a variety of other amenities nearby. Whether looking for a serious skateboard road trip or hoping to fill an afternoon with family fun, the surprising skateparks of the Bitterroot Valley offer the unique opportunity to shred the ‘Root.

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alendar of events July July 4 – Fireworks at Ravalli County fairgrounds.

July 10-11 Twisted Nut Bull Riding event at Darby Arena. Some of the best bulls and bull riders will be on hand to participate in this event whose proceeds will donated to testicular cancer testing. (www.darbyrodeo. org) July 18 Strawberry Festival in Darby.

Annual fundraising event for Darby Fire Department that includes music, raffles and,

best of all, strawberry shortcake.

July 18 Bitterroot Secret Garden Tour.

The ticketed event offers a look at some of the finest gardens in Ravalli County.

July 24-26 Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival, Hamilton. The annual threeday festival attracts bluegrass bands from four states.

July 25 Ravalli County Museum Antique Auction, 1 to 5 p.m.

Auction features antiques and collectibles donated by local patrons.

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July 27

July 27

July 31 August Aug. 7

Aug. 7

The Daly Mansion will host the annual Daly Days celebration that will feature Bitterroot Ragtime Society and a number of living history exhibits.

Bitterroot Brewfest Festival at Daly Mansion. The 26th annual event features beer, wine and cider from breweries around the northwest.

Live Music with 406 at Sapphire Lutheran Homes Bitter Root Water Forum hosts “Run for the River” 5k race.

Course starts and ends at Hamilton’s River Park. To register go to https://www.brwaterforum.org/events.

Live Music with Who Dat at Sapphire Lutheran Homes

free consultation for new clients

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Aug. 8

Bitter Root Water Forum’s annual Bitterroot River Cleanup event brings volunteers together to clean trash from the Bitterroot River (406-375-2272) Aug. 14 Live music with Band in Motion at Sapphire Lutheran Homes.

Aug. 15-16 Bronc Bustin and Barrel Burnin, Darby arena brings top notch bronc riders and barrel racers to Darby for two days of action.

Aug. 21-23 The 406 Rodeo at the Darby Arena is a ranch style rodeo for kids ages 6-12. (www.darbyrodeo.org) September Sept. 2-5 Ravalli County Fair is the county’s largest event of the year. It often draws more than 20,000 people to the Hamilton fairgrounds.

October Oct. 3 McIntosh Apple Day at Ravalli County Museum, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Called the “Biggest Bake Sale under the Big Sky,” event features sale of over 600 made-fromscratch apple pies.

Oct. 3

Liquid Apple Night, 5 to 9 p.m., Sample delicious hard cider citer from the northwestern Rocky Mountains, while enjoying local food and music.

Oct. 9 Scarecrow Festival – Stevensville (StevensvilleMT.org) Oct. 17, 24, 31 Ghost Tours: Paranormal Investigations at Ravalli County Museum from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Become a paranormal investigator for a night. (www.ravallimuseum.org) Oct. 24 Ravalli Republic Ultimate Indoor Garage Sale & Swapmeet at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds November Nov. 2 Veteran’s Day Observance and Gallery to Trees Opening at Ravalli County Museum. (3633338) December Dec. 4 A Cowboy Christmas at Ravalli County Museum.

Dec. 5 A Montana Country Christmas, including Parade of Lights.

Stevensville (777-3773)

Vista 2020 - Page 65 HIKE BIKE RUN

Bitterroot Bike-Ped

The Bitterroot Park 45-mile easy route th from Lolo to Hamilton Community Center an Trail.

The Pathway has the river; the Stevens Woodside to Corvallis access to the fishing to the different trailhe Travelers’ Rest State Highway 12 Pathway.

The Bitterroot Park numerous rest areas Many of the restauran route are open seven cyclists. Motorized ve pathway with the exc

itterroot Parkway Bike-Ped Path

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ADVERTISER INDEX Big Cat Cafe...........................................

Massa Home Center..............................

Bitterroot Chamber Of Commerce.....

Montana Quality Structures..................

Cheers Unlimited....................................

Montana Westgate...............................

Coffee Cup Cafe...................................

Old West Candy Store...........................

Coldwell Banker Western States...........

Ravalli County Fairgrounds...................

Conner Store & Deli...............................

Rocking L Ranch Alpacas.....................

Ennis Chamber Of Commerce.............

Sapphire Lutheran Homes.....................

Fords Department store.........................

The Edge Restaurant.............................

Hamilton Mortgage Svcs Inc................

The Walker Group..................................

Kitchen Tune-Up.....................................

Westslope Distillery.................................

M & M Trans & Auto...............................

Wilderness Spirit Cabins.........................

Manners, Please.....................................

Windermere Real Estate........................

Over 50 vendors

Delicious

food & drinks

available $1 entry or

can of food for donation

Rain or Shine!

saturday, october 24th • doors open at 8 a.m. first interstate building, Ravalli county fairgrounds, Hamilton hosted by:

for more info call 363-3300

summer 8th annual

2020

Concert Series Friday, JuLY 31 »« 7PM Featuring 406

Montana Grown Hot Rockin’ Country, Whiskey Soaked Southern Rock, and Slow Dance tunes. Music made with care and talent to spare. Come and join in the fun!

Friday, AUGUST 7TH »« 7PM Featuring WHO

DAT

From Minnesota to the high line of Malta, Montana...California to the Colorado Rockies, and ‘way down yonder in New Orleans’. The members of Who Dat! have assembled from across this land right here in the Bitterroot Valley. They bring a diverse and eclectic range of musical experience that, for some, dates back to the 1970’s. With their mix of guitars, fiddle, keys, and percussion, blended with the sweet vocal harmonies, this group rocks it out when they perform songs by The Eagles, Zac Brown Band, The Beach Boys, Alabama, The Doobie Brothers and many more. Who Dat! truly is, “a Montana band with a southern rock sound.”

Friday, AUGUST 14TH »« 7PM Featuring BAND

IN MOTION

A Missoula based Group that started in 2013 and has been Captivating audiences with their high energy performances transforming their dance music and musicianship and fresh grooves of todays funk and yesterdays pop sound. Band In Motion has played the Hamilton area 2019 Stock Farm summer shows and has been a favorite at Cowboy Troys during the 2019 summer season… Band In Motion brings the fun and tunes to groove to.. Band In Motion let’s Dance!

Join us at Sapphire Lutheran Homes 501 N. Tenth Street, Hamilton

Bring your lawn chair or blanket »« Always family friendly »« events subject to change

Call 406-363-2800 for more info or visit sapphirelutheran.org