B
uilding on a Tradition
of Excellence
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 3
Welcome to the
Bitterroot Valley
Hotel Suites
The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce would like to extend our heartfelt welcome to you and your family. We invite you to visit us and enjoy our lifestyle. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance as you discover the Last Best Place in Montana. Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce 105 East Main Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-2400 www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com localinfo@bvchamber.com Diane Wolfe, Executive Director Pat Easley, Office Manager Laurel Frankenfield, Administrative Assistant Board of Directors: Al Hill, President First Security Bank Tim Bozik, Past President Bitter Root Brewing Patti Furniss, President Elect Bitterroot Job Service Workforce Center Dee Dee McGowan Big Sky Travel Management Jim Anderson Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park Adrian Arnlund Silver Coin Sports Bar Mike Pflieger Lakeland Feeds Linda Woods Trapper Creek Job Corps Dirk Beyer Big Sky Eye Care Clinic Chris Jahnke McDonald’s Tom Pool Farmers State Bank Justine Morris KECI-TV Dave Olson Hamilton Polaris
Conference Center
65 Lodge-style Rooms Suites with Garden Whirlpool Tub & Fireplace Suites with Microwave Oven, Wet Bar & Refrigerator
Deluxe Complimentary Breakfast for Guests
Conference Center for Large or Small Meetings Weddings & Receptions
High Speed Internet
Magnificent Mountain Views
Indoor Heated Pool, Sauna, Hot Tub & Sun Deck
100% Non-Smoking
Contributing Writers: Carol Saylor Frank Wright Tawnya Mortenson Mountain Freelance Diane Wolfe Lynda Pearce Art Norby Pat Easley April Johnson Carol Smith Kim Morris Lois Klement Photos: Patrick Chaplin & Linda Glover Page 4 - Bitterroot Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Toll free 877-274-8274 139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr Hamilton, MT 59840 406-375-2525 brinn@cybernet1.com ~~ www.bitterrootriverinn.com
Table of Contents
REMLC’s SPORTSMAN’S LODGING, LLC.
REMLC’s CITY CENTER MOTEL & ANNEX “Member Sportsman’s Lodging, LLC�
Fish, Hunt, Hike, and Raft the Bitterroot
In Hamilton our Motel has 14 A/C rooms (7 Kitchenettes--one Handicapped Capable); our Annex sports 7 fully furnished, A/C Studio, 1 Bedroom and 2 Bedroom Units. The kitchenettes and our Annex units are especially suited for long term stays. Smoking rooms, Laundry Facilities, pet units, FAX service, high speed wireless Internet Cable TV w/4 movie channels and the latest DVD Movie releases are available. All Major Credit Cards, and travelers checks are accepted. Full maid services are provided for all our accommodations.
Make Your Reservation Through REMLC Sportsman’s Lodging
'BY F NBJM 3&.-$74 !BPM DPN XXX SFNMDTQPSUTNBOTMPEHJOH DPN
Visit the Bitterroot Valley Travel Information Calendar of Events Seasons Outdoor Recreation Dining Entertainment Stevensville Florence Map
Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 10 Page 14 Page 16 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20
Hamilton Corvallis Accommodations Attractions & Historical Sites Day Trips Darby Victor Community & Relocation Information
Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 25 Page 27 Page 32 Page 32 Page 33
We would like to thank all of the following contributing sponsors: A 2 Z ... page 16 A Bitterroot Retreat ... page 24 A Li’l Bit of Heaven ... page 22 Alpine Realty ... page 11 Angler’s Lodge ... page 24 Banque Club ... page 14 Best Western ... page 30 Big Sky Travel ... page 6 Bitter Root Brewing ... page 16 Bitter Root Public Library ... page 13 Bitterroot River Inn ... page 4 Bitterroot Drug ... page 8 Bitterroot Fly Company ... page 11 Bitterroot Furniture ... page 10 By Owner ... page 17 Cardinal Properties ... page 12 Claggett Construction... page 19 Coldwell Banker ... page 19 Discover Montana ... page 12 Dollar Rent-a-Car ... page 6 Evergreen Montessori ... page 33 Farmers State Bank ... page 32 Fetch Inn ... page 15 First Security Bank ... page 17 Greater Montana GMAC ... page 7 Grizzly Mountain Construction ... page 22 Hamilton Players ... page 16 Investment Center ... page 22 Joni Kearns ... page 26 Kinetico Quality Water ... page 26 Prudential Montana ... page 27 Lambros Real Estate ... page 25 Marcus Daly Hospital ... page 34 Merchants Moving & Storage ... page 27 Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry ... page 28 Montana Westgate ... page 29 Norby’s Gallery ... page 26 One Hour Photo ... page 11
One of A Kind Originals ... page 11 Paper Clip ... page 29 Patrick Chaplin ... page 29 Pigman Builders/Cornerstone Realty ... page 2 Private Properties ... page 21 Professional Consultants ... page 28 Ravalli County Bank ... page 31 Real Estate of Montana ... page 30 Realty Executives ... page 9 REMLC’s City Center ... page 5 Rocky Mountain Bank ... page 30 Rocky Mountain Log Home ... page 34 Sterling Savings Bank ... page 22 Super 8 ... page 23 Tompkins & Peters ... page 25 Town Pump ... page 3 Trapper Creek Winery ... page 13 Travellers Rest Cabins and RV Park ... page 23 Wendy Burgener ... page 36 US Bank ... page 27
PO Box 2280 Hamilton, MT 59840 ~ 406-363-5111 Northwest’s Finest Hunting Preserve Welcome to Fetch Inn, a world-class hunting preserve and retreat, located in the beautiful Bittterroot Valley of western Montana, surrounded by rugged, dramatically wild country.
Fetch Inn Lodge Fetch Inn Lodge is a hunter’s dream decorated in an outdoor theme.
The Quarry Our fast-flying, beautiful, Ringneck Pheasants provide a challenging hunt for both man and dog.
The Kennel Fetch Inn Kennel’s offers first class accommodations for your dogs when you are traveling. In floor heating, automatic watering system.
www.fetch-inn.com ~ email: sales@fetch-inn.com
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 5
Visit the Bitterroot Valley Airlines The Bitterroot Valley has two small craft airports. Stevensville Airport is on the north end of the valley at an elevation of 3, 620 feet, with a hard surface runway 3,800 feet in length. The Hamilton Airport is in the middle of the valley and at an elevation of 3,638 feet. The runway is 4,200 feet in length and is paved and lighted. The closest commercial airport, in Missoula, is 45 miles north of Hamilton. It is served by Big Sky, Horizon, United, Delta, Missoula Lolo Northwest, and Allegiant. Florence
Photo by Gift Montana
Stevensville
Mileage from Hamilton Missoula 45 miles Glacier Nat. Park 184 miles Spokane 249 miles West Yellowstone 314 miles Billings 383 miles Boise 420 miles Salt Lake City 465 miles
Victor
Hamilton
Darby
Welcome to Montana! We’re So Glad You’re Here…
15
%
OFF
USE PROMO CODE BR15
Hamilton:
Missoula:
324 S. First Street
1905 W. Broadway
406-375-9160
406-542-2311
HAMILTON & MISSOULA AIRPORT PICKUP AVAILABLE Use Promo Code BR15 when making reservations and receive 15% off time and mileage on any rental. 24-hour reservations required. Vehicles based on availability. Renter must meet DOLLAR® minimum age, driver and credit requirements. This offer may not be used with any other offer and has no cash value. Additional charges, cost recovery fees, and blackout periods apply. This offer valid at the Hamilton and Missoula locations only and expires 12/31/08.
Visit montanadollar.com for valuable Montana travel information & promotions
For worldwide reservations, book online at dollar.com or call 1-800-800-4000
Dollar features quality products DaimlerChrysler like the Dodge Durango, Chrysler 300, Chrysler Sebring and other fine cars. © 2007 Clark Fork Valley Rentals, Inc. A licensee of Dollar Rent A Car, Inc.
Page 6 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Farmers Markets
Calendar of Events Hamilton Playhouse
are held throughout the valley from May thru October. Meet your friends and purchase delicious home grown produce on Saturday.
has 5 Mainstage productions each year.
Hamilton Performing Arts Center,
Tuesday’s at 12
Located in the Hamilton High School, has performances monthly.
when you can relax in the park, enjoy great food and listen to local music during the months of June, July and August.
Chantilly Theatre
Stevensville’s First Fridays
produces 6 shows a year in Stevensville.
Every first Friday the main street in Stevensville opens it doors for fun evening gallery showings. Stores stay open late and many serve wonderful snacks and beverages.
Photo by Gift Montana
Annual Activities Corvallis American Legion Memorial Day Parade Big Sky Fiber Arts Festival – Bi-yearly – 1st weekend in June Chief Victor Days – 2nd weekend in June Western Heritage Days – Father’s Day Weekend Bitterroot Birding Festival – 4th weekend in June Sr. Pro Rodeo – Last weekend in June Bluegrass Festival – 2nd weekend in July Darby Logger Days – 3rd weekend in July Daly Days – Last weekend in July Microbrew Festival – Last Saturday in July Creamery Picnic – 1st weekend in August Tour of Homes – 3rd weekend in August Ravalli County Fair – Labor Day Weekend Apple Days – 2nd weekend in October Wine Tasting – 2nd Friday in October Hamilton Christmas – Friday after Thanksgiving Stevensville Parade of Lights/Festival of Trees – 1st weekend in December
Hamilton Office 248 W Main Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-4450 1-800-919-7625 Hamilton@GreaterMontanaRE.com
We believe in Accountability & Keeping Promises!
96% Customer Satisfaction
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 7
Seasons of Beauty . . . Summer Fun & Sun We are blessed with over 16.5 hours of sunlight that make our summer days long and warm. This gives us all the time in the world to do all the fun things that make the Bitterroot so special. The nights are comfortably cool and make for great sleeping weather. Traveling down our back roads, the air is perfumed with the refreshing scent of the new-mown hay. You can watch the eagles soar, listen to the meadowlarks sing, and see and hear the hummingbirds hovering over the flowers. Lake Como and the Bitterroot River warm to swimming temperatures during the summer days. During the summer season you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. The average temperature in July is 82.8 with a low of 49.3, so you may want to put on a light jacket in the evening. You don’t usually have to worry about getting stuck in a rainstorm as the valley only averages one inch during the month of July! Summertime is the perfect time to explore, enjoy and experience the valley. Each of our communities has special summer events that showcase the history, the culture and the artists of the area. From parades, rodeos, and art shows, to festivals of music and microbrews, there is something special happening for every age and interest. Throughout the summer, one can enjoy ongoing events including the monthly First Friday in Stevensville, on Saturday morning farmers’ markets in Stevensville and Hamilton and on Tuesday evenings in Darby. Tuesdays at 12 is a great time in Hamilton to hear local music and enjoy lunch in the park. You won’t want to miss the Ravalli County Museum’s Sunday Series program. On Labor Day weekend, end the summer with a thrill, and join us for the Ravalli County Fair and Carnival.
Autumn . . .
Autumn Harvest
Autumn is beautiful in the Bitterroot, with crisp temperatures to enjoy the leaves of red and gold. Fall brings frosty mornings and snow-capped mountains. The sky is dotted with the v-shaped formations of Canada Geese honking their way south. Tamaracks, aspens and cottonwoods splash golden patches amid the dark green pines and firs. Tree-lined streets in Hamilton and Stevens-
Your Health & Prescription Center SINCE 1890 ville explode with the vivid reds and oranges.
HOURS Mon. - Sat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 211 Main Street - Hamilton, MT
363-3611 Free Mailing & Delivery in Hamilton We Accept Most Insurance Cards
Page 8 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Harvest season brings apple trees heavy with ripe fruit and deer, elk and moose in full antler. McIntosh Apple Days recalls the glory of the apple boom in the Bitterroot and gives you an opportunity to enjoy a great small town festival. October only averages .78 inches of rain and the average high temperature in October is 58.7 with a low of 31. If you plan on hiking into the higher elevations, don’t forget to bring your winter gear. Explore the 1.6 million acres of Bitterroot National Forest and enjoy nearly 750,000 acres of protected wilderness. Hunting season opens on deer, elk, bear and moose. Don’t forget to bring a camera to take home a Bitterroot memory.
Springtime . . . Springtime in the Bitterroot As the temperatures warm, the valley awakens with new life. Fragrant apple blossoms abound in the foothills beneath snowcapped mountain peaks. Willows and cottonwoods sprout fresh leaves. The Bitterroot River swells with melted snow and gentle rain. Red-breasted robins punctuate warm breezes with song. In green-carpeted meadows, calves frolic, lambs bound, and foals try out their spindly legs. In wild woods and river bottoms, deer, elk, moose and bighorn sheep raise their young. Keep your warmer clothes nearby as nights are nippy and a morning frost is frequent. The average temperature in April is 57.9 with a low of 32.2, and it is not unusual to experience a sudden snow shower. With average rainfall of 1.05” during the month of April, you may want to pack your umbrella or rain-coat. Rain falls in intermittent drizzles and drenching thunderstorms are rare.
Take a drive to Lee Metcalf and Teller Wildlife Refuges to watch ducklings, wild swans and new fawns. Bring your binoculars for a close-up look and capture the beauty of spring with your camera. Farmers Markets start up in the spring in Hamilton, Stevensville and Darby, offering a great choice of local vegetables. Afternoons are a wonderful time to spend at the golf course, or walk, bike or skate the paved paths along the roadways to the river.
Winter . . . Winter Wonderland Bitterroot Valley is a Winter Wonderland, sheltered between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains. The valley is spared much of the harsh blizzard winds and record-breaking wind chill temperatures. Although the mercury occasionally dips below zero, Bitterroot winters are usually mild, earning the valley nickname, ‘Banana Belt of Montana.’ While snow seldom accumulates more than 6 inches on the valley floor, the annual average at Lost Trail Ski Resort is 300 inches of pristine powder. Billions of stars, meteor showers and rare displays of Northern Lights adorn the deep black night skies.
KI Corporation-an independently owned franchise
of Ravalli County
320 N. First, Suite D Hamilton, MT 59840
You need to dress warm and in layers to adjust for comfort during vigorous outdoor activity, as the high temperature in January is 34.4 with a low of 16.8. Make sure you are prepared when traveling by carrying a warm blanket, a sand bag, folding shovel, cell phone and emergency food, when driving away from populated areas. Lost Trail Powder Mountain has some of the best powder to be found anywhere, and you don’t have to worry about the crowds on the 25 runs of this family-friendly ski resort. Cross country ski trails offer spectacular views at every turn on the Continental Divide, and if you get cold you can stop at the warming huts. Emergency caches are located along the 33 groomed and un-groomed trails at Chief Joseph Pass. We also have great snowmobile trails that lead to frozen waterfalls and open meadows in the East Fork, Skalkaho and Lost Trail areas.
Welcome to the Bitterroot Valley Contact us for all your real estate needs. (406) 375-9431 Toll Free (888) 343-9431 www.ReExecs.com Office email: ReExecs@ReExecs.com Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 9
Outdoor Recreation . . . Recreation for Every Age & Ability The Bitterroot Valley is nestled between the Sapphire and Bitterroot Mountain ranges. It is home to some of the best recreation spots in the US, including hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, wildlife and nature viewing ~ you name it! Whatever takes you outdoors, you can find it here in the Bitterroot! For more information: Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce www. bitterrootvalleychamber.com 406-363-2400 Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks 406-542-5500 Bitterroot National Forest www.fs.fed.us/rl/bitterroot - 406-363-7100. Lolo National Forest - www.fs.fed.us/rl/lolo
Biking, Hiking and Packpacking All hiking and backpacking enthusiasts will find miles of terrific trails surrounding the Bitterroot Valley. Whether you are a novice looking for a simple day hike or an experienced hiker looking for multi-day trips into the backcountry, the majestic Bitterroots and Sapphire mountains will not disappoint you. The rugged terrain and beautiful peaks, offer miles of breathtaking views and simple to challenging trails for all to enjoy. The same holds true for biking trails around the valley. Information on these hiking and biking trails can be found at any Forest Service headquarters and the Bitterroot Valley Chamber.
Fishing The Bitterroot River offers one hundred miles of fishable river, 11+ fishing access sites and some of the most pristine fishing areas in Montana. The Bitterroot is famous for its dry fly trout fishing, boasting 22� plus Browns during heavy spring skwala hatches. Lake fishing is also available at Lake Como and Painted Rocks Lake. Feel free to stop into one of our many fly fishing shops for the latest information on licenses, guided fishing trips, and advice on where to go and what to use. Visit the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce for a complete list of Fishing Guides and shops to give you the best Bitterroot fishing experience!
Page 10 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Boating, Canoeing and Rafting The Bitterroot River offers over 76 miles of floatable river, from 6 miles south of Darby to Missoula. The Salmon River is just 90 miles south of Hamilton and is a good white water rafting river. Lake Como and Painted Rocks Lake are popular spots for canoes, jet skis,fishing boats, ski boats and everything in between.
Camping The Bitterroot National Forest has 28 campgrounds, many of which are open year-round. Amenities vary per site and more information is available at the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com, or any of the Forest Service information sites. We also have full hookup, privately owned campgrounds with both forest and river accesses. Anglers’ Roost - 815 Highway 93 south of Hamilton - 363-1268 Black Rabbit - 2101 North 1st St - Hamilton - 363-3744 Sula Country Store - 7060 Hwy 93 - Sula - 821-3364
Golfing For our golfing enthusiasts, the Bitterroot Valley has two public golf courses. The Hamilton Golf Course is an 18-hole course, located at 1004 Golf Course Rd in Hamilton. Call 363-4251 for tee times or just show up
on site. Driving range, plus cart and club rentals, are available at the clubhouse. Whitetail Golf Course is located near Stevensville, and is adjacent to the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Call or just stop in for a tee time, 777-3636. Driving range, plus carts and clubs, are available for rent at the clubhouse.
‘One of a Kind Originals’ Photography by Kathy Sain
Affordable photography for home or business No Duplications
406 821-4793 6830 West Fork Rd - Darby, MT 59829
Bitterroot Fly Company Main St in Darby
821-1624 Fully Authorized Orvis Shop Guided Trips Scenic Tours Gifts and Home Accents www.bitterrootflycompany.com Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 11
Tennis Tennis, anyone? Head on over to the Westview Center, Main and 9th Street in Hamilton, or Lewis & Clark Park, at the end of 1st Street in Stevensville. If indoor tennis appeals to you, visit the Canyons Athletic Center for a day pass and a chance to play on state-of-the-art courts located inside the air-controlled athletic center. The center is located at 472 Tammany Lane in Hamilton. Call 363-2816 for court reservations.
ATV Tours Guided ATV tours are available through Bitterroot Adventures. Call Bitterroot Adventures at Rye Creek Lodge at 821-3366 for package information and rates.
Horseback Riding For the true Montana experience, we have many professionals ready to give you a ride of a lifetime. There are so many equestrian experiences just waiting for you in the Bitterroot! Guided pack and hunting trips, day trips through Forest Service land will give you a true Montana scenic experience, and many other options. Please inquire at the Chamber of Commerce or visit our website www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com for a complete list of horse rental businesses and outfitters. Brought your own horses? Stock facilities are available at a number of our Forest Service trailheads and camping areas. Call the Forest Service at 363-7100 for a complete list. Many of our Bed and Breakfast’s and Vacation Rentals, have facilities for your horses also.
Swimming For those lazy, hot days in the summer - we have two outdoor pools for swimming and swimming instruction. Bitterroot Aquatic Center, 59 Kurtz Lane in Hamilton, hosts an outdoor pool, indoor 90 degree pool, lessons, open swim, water exercise and therapy classes, bathhouse, showers, and lifeguards. Call 375-8200 for more information. Stevensville Public Pool is an outdoor pool open during the summer. It includes a bathhouse and is located in Lewis & Clark Park at the end of 1st Street in Stevensville. The Canyons Athletic Center, has an indoor heated pool with swim lanes, hot tub, shower, steam room and sauna. Open swim times are available. Call 363-2816 for day pass and/or membership information.
Check Our Website for Long & Short Term Rentals www.cardinalproperties.net TWO OFFICES TO SERVE YOU
320 S 2nd - Hamilton - 363-4430 111 W 3rd - Stevensville - 777-4430 Page 12 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Recreation for People With Disabilities Enjoy the Bitterroot’s majestic forests and wildlife or country atmosphere with nature trails throughout the valley, that are wheelchair accessible and paved for all to enjoy. Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge has amazing bird watching opportunities among is many nature trails. River Park is a wheelchair accessible path that parallels the Bitterroot River and Centennial Grove, on Skalkaho Hwy, is also wheel chair accessible. Bitterroot Therapeutic Riding has horseback riding for people with disabilities, with professional trainers that can assist at any level. Call 880-2877 for more information. Westview Center also hosts special Rollerblading sessions for people with disabilities. Call 375-9588 for session times.
Bird and Wildlife Watching There are over 230 species of birds that can be found throughout the season, utilizing the Bitterroot Valley and its surrounding mountain counterparts. Some of the most notable species found here are the Blue Grouse, Long-billed Curlew, Flamulated Owl, Black Swift, Calliope Hummingbird, Williamson’s Sapsucker, Black-backed Woodpeckers, Cordilleran Flycatcher, Violet-green Swallow, Pygmy Nuthatch, Rock Wren, Varied Thrush. Cassin’s Vireo, MacGallivray’s Warbler, and Cassin’s Finch. Many of these species can be found at sites along the Bitterroot Birding and Nature Trail. Wildlife is plentiful and available for viewing at Centennial Grove, 12 miles south of Hamilton on Skalkaho Highway. A self-guided trail skirted with 200-year old ponderosa pine, meanders close to Skalkaho Creek. Big Horn Sheep can be viewed on the slopes of the East Fork, and west of Darby. Larry Creek Fire Ecology Trail, near the Charles Waters Campground, explores the beneficial effects of fire. The Willoughby Environmental Education Area is a one-mile interpretive trail that encompasses a wide spectrum of Montana landscape - from sagebrush to pine forests with streams located on the trail. A picnic shelter and restroom facility is located there as well, just 10 miles east of Hwy 93 off Bell Crossing.
For The Younger Set Got Kids? Check out the Trout Fishing Pond and the Lewis and Clark interpretive trail in Hieronymus Park, at the north end of Hamilton. There is also the Canyons Hideaway Playground at Claudia Driscoll Park - the perfect picnic spot for the family. Kiwanis Park has a playground and is right next to River Park, offering paved trails for biking and walking and river access for splashing or floating. Lewis & Clark Park in Stevensville has a swimming pool, playground, and tennis courts. Victor and Darby also have city parks with playground equipment. Don’t forget to visit Darby’s skateboard park, a 6,600 squarefoot cement park with stairs, 5-foot ramp, launching platform and ice skating in the winter. It is located near the rodeo arena northwest of Darby. Florence has the famous Hideout Mountain, an 8,000 square-foot playground with a mountain maze, three slides, climbing wall and toddler area. Visit Kids First at the Westview Center for information on skate night, poetry contests, concerts, computer lab and summer day camps. Call 375-3636. Qwivals is a new addition to the Bitterroot and offers great fun for the entire family. Enjoy go-karts, putt-putt golf, laser tag, arcade, birthday party facilities and much, much more. When the corn is in harvest, get lost in the Corn Maze at Qwivals. Several mazes are cut out and available during September and October, including haunted mazes. Located north of Hamilton on Hwy 93. Call 363-4464 for more information or stop by the Chamber of Commerce.
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 13
Dining . . .
The Banque Club Wed. - Sat. 4:30 to 10:00 Sun. 4:30 - 9:00
In The Bitterroot The Bitterroot Valley has fabulous dining for everyone’s tastes! Whatever your preference for the day, you can find it at our many restaurants that work with the Chamber. Enjoy our great bakeries to start your day off with a mouth-watering experience. Enjoy the casual atmosphere of a brewpub, casino, or Nap’s world famous hamburgers. Dinners can be from the elegant atmosphere of the Banque Club, to the more casual fare of our other great dinner restaurants. Whatever your taste; you can find many options for a great dining experience.
The Exchange Mon. - Sat. 11:00 am to 10:00 pm 406-363-1955 225 W. Main Street Hamilton, MT
MENU
PRICE
CREDIT CARDS
RESERVATIONS
MEALS SERVED
GAMBLING
COCKTAILS
BEER/WINE
CATERING
Area Dining A PLACE TO PONDER 215 Marcus - Hamilton 406-363-0080
American Deli
$1.25 - $7.25
Y
N
B-L
N
N
N
Y
Family friendly breakfast pastries & lunch
BACK DOOR DELI 105 S. 3rd St - Hamilton 406-363-4480
American Deli
$1.25 - $7.25
debit
N
B-L
N
N
N
Y
Homemade soups, specialty sandwiches
BANQUE CLUB 225 West Main St - Hamilton 406-363-1955
American
$8.50 - $28.50
Y
Y
D
N
Y
Y
Y
THE EXCHANGE 225 West Main St - Hamilton 406-363-1955
American
$6.00 - $26.00
Y
Y
L-D
Y
Y
Y
Y
BJ’S RESTAURANT 900 N 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-4650
American
$5.00 - $17.00
Y
Y
B-L-D
N
Y
Y
N
BITTERROOT BISTRO 105 N 2nd St - Hamilton 406-375-2375
Unique Cuisine
$6.00 - $9.00
Y
Y
B-L
N
N
N
N
$14.00 - $24.00
Y
Y
D
N
N
Y
N
$3.25 - $17.00
Y
N
B-L-D
N
N
N
N
BROAD AXE LODGE 1237 Eastfork Rd - Sula 406-821-3878
American
COFFEE CUP CAFE 500 S 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-3822
American
Page 14 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Elegant dining private dining in the vault
Casual lunch and dinner with speedy service Prime Rib Daily Homemade soup Great breakfast Fresh fish daily Great salads and sandwiches Homemade bread & desserts Wild life viewing Homemade pie and 12 page menu of delicious home cooked food
CORNER SPORTS BAR 1013 S 1st St - Hamilton 406-375-0200
American
THE EDGE 140 Bitterroot Plaza Dr - Hamilton 406-375-0007
American
FIGARO’S PIZZA 1151 N 1st #B - Hamilton 406-375-0164
Pizza/Pasta
FRONTIER CAFE 3954 Hwy 93 N - Stevensville 406-777-4228
American
GRUBSTAKE 1017 Grubstake Rd - Hamilton 406-363-3068
American
GRUMPY’S BARBEQUE 310 S 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-4230
American
MAGGIE’S 217 W Main - Hamilton 406-363-4567
French Mediterranean American
MCDONALDS 707 N 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-6644
Fast Food
NAPOLITANI’S 315 S 3rd St- Hamilton 406-375-2307
Italian
PIZZA HUT 1002 N 1st St- Hamilton 406-363-1502
American
Catering
Beer/Wine
Cocktails
GAMBLING
MEALS SERVED
RESERVATIONS
CREDIT CARDS Y
N
B-L-D
Y
Y
Y
N
Burger and Beer to enjoy watching your favorite sporting event
$2.75 - $26.00
Y
N
L-D
Y
Y
Y
N
Fine dining or a fun sports bar
$2.00 - $17.00
Y
N
L-D
N
N
N
Y
$3.00 - $12.00
Y
N
B-L-D
N
N
N
Y
Homemade goodies and daily specials
$12.00 - $27.00
Y
Y
D
N
N
N
N
Dinner with a view of the Bitterroot Valley
$4.00 - $20.00
Y
N
L-D
N
N
N
Y
$6.00 - $20.00
Y
N
B-L-D
Y
Y
Y
N
$6.00 - $30.00
Y
N
B-L-D
N
N
N
Y
Bistro Style Dining with a view of the Bitterroots
$2.00- $8.00
Y
N
B-L-D
N
N
N
N
The place to make the kids feel right at home
$15.00 - $25.00
Y
Y
D
N
N
Y
N
$8.50 - $28.50
Y
N
L-D
N
N
N
N
Just Another Day In Paradise
$6.00 - $26.00
Y
N
B-L-D
N
N
N
N
Breakfast - Dinner and everything in between
$5.00 - $20.00
Y
N
L-D
N
N
Beer
N
$10.00 - $30.00
Y
Y
L-D
Y
Y
Y
y
American
Pizza
ROCKY KNOB 6065 Hwy 93 S- Connor 406-821-3520
American
SIGNAL GRILL 131 W Main - Hamilton 406-375-9099
America Pizza Sushi
SUBWAY OF HAMILTON 1146 N 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-4609
Sandwich Soup
Photo by Gift Montana
$3.50 - $12.00
Southern BBQ
LOST HORSE CREEK 1000 Lost Horse Rd - Hamilton 406-363-1460
NAP’S GRILL 220 N 2nd St - Hamilton 406-363-0136 PERKINS 1285 N 1st St - Hamilton 406-363-0140
PRICE
MENU
Area Dining
Eat in or take home ... Also delivery
Great BBQ for eating in or on the go
Family friendly We do it all!
The flavor of authentic Italy in Hamilton
Delicious pizza good wherever you go
Best smoked BBQ ribs in the valley $6.50 - $25.00
Y
Y
L-D
N
N
Y
N
Always fresh - cooked the way you like it
$3.00 - $8.50
y
N
L-D
N
N
N
N
Healthy sandwiches and soup for the entire family
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 15
Entertainment ...
Let us Entertain You ~
Along with gorgeous scenery and outdoor activities, the Bitterroot Valley offers you a plethora of entertainment opportunities, including movies, live theater, music, dance, rodeos, festivals, and more. We invite you to .....
Experience The Talent In The Bitterroot Valley - Performing Arts
Community Theater At Its Finest!
The Band Shell is an outdoor stage with the Bitterroot Community Band performing the 2nd and 4th Thursdays during the summer at 8:00 p.m. The Band Shell is located at the Claudia Driscoll Park, 910 West Main Street in Hamilton.
Chantilly Theater has 99 seats and showcases local talent in 6 productions per year. The Chantilly is located in Stevensville at 319 Main Street, 777-2722.
Hamilton Players Inc., is a 186 seat air-conditioned year-round theater. They have 5 Mainstage productions, special events, guest artists, youth theater camps, and workshops. The Playhouse is located at 100 Ricketts Road, Hamilton - 375-9050.
Hamilton Performing Arts Center, is located in the Hamilton High School, at 317 Fairgrounds Road. The PAC is a 700 seat, stateof-the-art facility. They present monthly performing arts series of various music genres, dance and theatre, a family world music series, classical recital series, and student and community performances. Call 375-6060 ext. 6294.
A2Z Personnel/Nolan Temps www.a2zpersonnel.net
842 S 1st • Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-0723 • Fax 406-363-0714 and 115 W. 3rd St #106 Stevensville, MT 59870 406-777-1662 Fax 406-777-1664
Jaime Devlin - General Manager
Page 16 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Light Industrial - Sales
Bookkeeping - Technical
Tuesday’s at Twelve is home to great outdoor concerts including local musicians in Legion Park, every Tuesday from noon to 1:00 p.m.. beginning in June.
Data Entry • General Labor
Take a break from the outdoors and relax - We have 2 movie theaters for your enjoyment. One has two screens, matinees and evening showings of first run films, the other has six screens, Egyptian style architecture, cup holder armrests with high-back chairs and stadium seating.
The
Hamilton Playhouse 100 Ricketts Road, Hamilton
Bringing you the best year-round live theater. Let us entertain you! For show and ticket information call
375-9050
There is Always Something
Happening in The Bitterroot! Fairs, Festivals and Rodeos Apple Days at the Ravalli County Museum is held in October 363-3338.
Still Looking For Something To Do? Look to these other entertainment options. Browse Antique Shops, stop by and pick up the antique shop brochure and spend the day checking out all our great stores.
Bluegrass Festival is held at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in July – 381-0135 or www.bluegrassfestival.org Bitterroot Birding and Nature Festival held at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife refuge. Check out the website for all the workshops and field trips and programs. This year even offers a juried art show, check out the website at www. bitterrootbirdfestival.com
Tour our local home-town brewery. Bitter Root Brewing has its own local brews for you to sample and a great restaurant for you to enjoy. It also has wireless Internet to give you a fun way to check your emails in a relaxed atmosphere.
Farmer’s Market are in Stevensville and Hamilton on Saturdays mornings and in Darby on Tuesday evenings. Fourth of July Fireworks Display is at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. For a good old fashioned county fair, come to the Ravalli County Fair on Labor Day weekend. It boasts great exhibits of animals, plants, art and homecrafts, night shows, carnival, and rodeo events.363-3411
We also have a local winery that you can tour and see how they make their great mead wine. Check out Trapper Creek Winery and sample mead wine and bring home a unique gift for your friends and family.
Treasure State Invitational Art Show is held every other year at the Daly Mansion www.treasurestateartshow.com
If The Bitterroot Lifestyle Appeals To You... Let Us Help Make It A Reality! Real Estate Professionals Andy Past President, Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors® Committee Member, Montana Association of Realtors® Committee Member, National Association of Realotrs®
Teri Andy & Teri Polumsky Brokers/Owners
Past President Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors® Director, Montana Association of Realtors® Realtor® Of The Year 2001 Realtor® Of The Year 2004
410 N. First Street Suite A Hamilton, MT 59840 363-1606 www.byowner-mt.com bitterroot@byowner-mt.com
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 17
Stevensville M
ontana’s first permanent settlement is thriving as a great little community - overflowing with small town charm. The Stevensville Main Street organization, working with all of the community businesses, strives to ensure that the community grows and prospers. The first Friday of every month residents and visitors enjoy ‘First Friday’ when the Main Street Businesses stay open late and show you their Stevensville hospitality. In the summer there are many community events, including Western Heritage Days, and the Creamery Picnic. Photo by Gift Montana
Historic St. Mary’s Mission: Where Montana began! Captain William Clark’s last official government act was to sign the passport for Father Pierre DeSmet to come to this territory, and thus establish Historic St. Mary’s Mission in 1841. It was Montana’s first permanent settlement. St. Mary’s Mission was established because of the determination of several Native American tribes seeking ‘blackrobes’ as their teachers. Father Anthony Ravalli was recruited from Italy and built the log chapel that stands today. The interior of the chapel has been restored to the original colors of the 1880 era. Its furnishings are the handiwork of Father Ravalli, Montana’s first medical doctor. The attached study and dining room, as well as Father Ravalli’s house/ pharmacy, are completely restored and furnished with items made by him. Chief Victor’s cabin houses a Native American museum. The beautifully landscaped DeSmet Park offers a picnic area. Father Ravalli rests with the Salish Indians in St. Mary’s Cemetery. The handicapped-accessible Visitor Center incudes a gift shop, museum, art gallery, research library, and public restrooms. Photo by Gift Montana
History: John Owen built the Fort Owen Trading Post, near Stevensville. John R. Winslett and J.K. Houk, two traders that came off the Emigrant Road in 1863, started Stevensville. They had a string of 65 packhorses and mules. They tried to find a site near Fort Owen, but were unable to, so they went south for about a mile and built Stevensville’s first store. On May 12, 1864, the settlers there named the little community Stevensville after Isaac Ingells Stevens, the first governor of the then Washington Territory. This was officially proclaimed by President Abraham Lincoln. The original Stevensville-townsite was platted in 1879 by G.A. Kellogg. In 1893, Missoula County was divided in two. The portion lying in the Bitterroot Valley was named Ravalli. Photo by Gift Montana
Page 18 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Florence The American Legion sponsors a north valley baseball team called the Bitterroot Bucs. The Florence Park is one of the nicest in the valley, with lots of room for baseball, softball, soccer, and tennis. A new addition to the park is Hideout Mountain, a playground with lots of surprises. Florence hosts a Renaissance Fair every other summer and also has a Harvest Festival in the fall. Both events are locally sponsored and help develop a sense of community. If you like walking, biking or riding; Florence has great trails. Along Highway 93 you can go north to Lolo onto Chief Looking Glass Campground (on the Bitterroot River) or you can go south to Stevensville Bass Creek Campground or Poker Joe River Access. The Doug Vulcan trail runs from Florence to the Bitterroot River where the Fish, Wildlife & Parks, maintains a river access. On the west side of the Bitterroot River, you can follow the Lewis and Clark trail where Clark and his men returned from Oregon in 1806. History: 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 and livery stable, school, several stores, a small creamery and, of course, saloons.
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 19
Page 20 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Hamilton I
n the middle of the Bitterroot Valley, in Ravalli County, is the county seat of Hamilton. Hamilton is home to over 4,400 people, and the immediate area around the town has somewhere over 12,000 people. Downtown Hamilton has several historic buildings with unique shops and restaurants. Looking west on Main Street is a beautiful view of the mountains. Newly re-done street scape, trees, and street lamps make way to enjoy the unique downtown shops. Highway 93, which goes all the way through town, also boasts unique shops, grocery stores, and gas stations. The Chamber of Commerce is located on the corner of Main 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 the streets. The local businesses hold their annual sidewalk sales, games for the kids, and just a block away at the park the Chamber of Commerce holds its annual Micro-Brew Festival; all this makes for a weekend of events, sharing, reminiscing with old friends, and meeting new friends. Daly Days has a good ‘old fashioned’
street dance in the middle of town bringing the seniors and youngsters an opportunity to dance the night away together in a family atmosphere. The town of Hamilton hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year including the Senior Pro Rodeo, which brings contestants from all over the United States and Canada, the Blue Grass Festival, Apple Days, and the Ravalli County Fair, are just a few of the events. Thanksgiving weekend brings the Christmas light parade complete with caroling, burning wood barrels to warm your hands, and hot cider for all to enjoy. History: 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, Daly bought up small sawmills west of the present site of Hamilton and almost overnight had established a lumber making industry on the bank of 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. Daly named Hamilton after James Hamilton and the town was incorporated in 1894; Mr. O’Hara was named the first mayor. Daly’s town had a bank, stores, school, four churches - a ready made Hamilton!
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 21
Corvallis . . . C
orvallis has often been called ‘ The Heart of the Bitterroot Valley.’ Known for its rich background in farming, Corvallis is a village due to the fact that it has never officially been incorporated. This friendly community takes pride in its agricultural past and is much more than your typical village. Take a step back into history at The Brooks or see how many species of birds you can find at the nearby Teller Wildlife Refuge. Don’t miss the American Legion Memorial Day Parade, that World War I veterans first organized after they returned from Europe. The community comes alive with this moving event, which honors men and women who have died in our nation’s service. Corvallis is an unincorporated town with 859 residents at an elevation of 3,404. The most exciting community project is their new Community Events Center. There were several issues concerning the condition of Corvallis football field and track field facilities. The track was not regulation length and therefore no high school meets could be held locally and no times from this track were official. The closest quality track and field facility is in Missoula, which is almost 50 miles away. Likewise, their football field was also in serious need of reconstruction. Phase I of the project was the development of new soccer fields, including fencing of the fields, security fences and bridges across an irrigation canal, a new well, and a sprinkler system for the fields. This was completed in the fall of 2004.
Phase II of the project will involve development of the track and field complex and new football field. This will include an eight lane all-weather track with ten lane straightaways field event venues, a crowned football field with under-ground sprinkling, crows nest, warming and concessions building, restrooms, bleachers expansion and parking area improvements. The Corvallis Community Events Center Foundation, while focused at this time on the Events Center project, has a broader mission to the Corvallis community, to encourage healthy lifestyles in the community among the children.
History: When Corvallis was originally settled, it was a few miles from the present site and was called Chaffinville. Elijah and Margaret Chaffin and their children and others first came to the valley in 1864 and passed the winter on a site several miles from where Corvallis is now situated. After traveling to Oregon, the Chaffins returned in 1866 and settled on land that is the present site of Corvallis. Corvallis is still unincorporated. It was platted in 1879.
A Li’l Bit of Heaven Sula, MT 59871 406) 821-3433
www.alilbitofheaven.com
2 Beautiful Fully Equipped Log Cabins
Borders Forest Service Near Bitterroot River Complete Solitude Is Yours
How Do You Make Your Money
GROW FASTER or more SAFELY? See John Bailey, CFP Located at
Sterling Savings Bank 711 South First - Hamilton, MT 59840 email: john.bailey@investmentcenters.com Investment Centers of America, Inc. (ICA), member NASD, SIPC, a registered Broker Dealer, is not affiliated with Sterling Savings Bank. Securities and insurance products offered through ICA and affiliated insurance agencies are * not insured by the FDIC or any other Federal Government agency * not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by any bank or their affiliates * subject to risk including the possible loss of principal amount invested.
Page 22 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Accommodations Bed & Breakfasts Bitterroot River Bed & Breakfast
south of Stevensville 406-777-5205
ROOMS & CABINS
HOT TUB & JACUZZI
4 Rms.
N
N
Y
4 + 2 cabin
Y
N
2 Rms.
N
4 Rms.
RATES
C.CARDS
N
$$
Y
Y
Y
$$$
Y
N
Y
Flexible
$$
N
N
N
Y
N
$-$$
N
36 Rms.
Y
Y
Y
Y+fee
$-$$
Y
12 Rms.
N
N
Y
N
$-$$
Y
65 Rms.
Y
Y
Y
N
$$-$$$
Y
16 Rms.
Y
N
Y
Y
$-$$
Y
21 Rms.
N
Y
Y
Y
$-$$
Y
7 Rms.
Y
N
Y
Y
$$-$$$
Y
40 Rms.
N
Y
Y
N
$-$$
Y
7 cabins
N
N
Y
Y
$-$$$
Y
63 Rms.
Y
Y
Y
Y
$-$$
Y
12 Rms.
N
N
Y
Y
$-$$
Y
70 spaces
N
Y
N
Y
$
Y
60 spaces
N
Y
N
Y
$
Y
19 spaces
Y
N
Y
Y
$
Y
16 spaces
N
N
Y
Y
$
Y
15 spaces
N
N
Y
Y
$
Y
DISABLED
NON SMOKING
PETS
www.bitterrootriverbb.com ~ Tranquil setting in a small town
Deer Crossing Bed & Breakfast
south of Hamilton 406-363-2232
www.deercrossingmontana.com ~ Lodging for you and your horse
Happy Horse Ranch Bed & Breakfast
north of Hamilton 406-961-6893
www.happyhorseranch.net ~ Sits on 10 acres amidst meadows, & pines
Haus Raustika
north of Stevensville 406-777-2291
www.hausrustika.net ~ Country charm with international flavor
Motels Best Western Hamilton Inn
Hamilton 406-363-2142
www.bestwestern.com/prop_27053 ~ Restaurants & shopping near by
Bitterroot Motel
Hamilton 406-363-1142
~ Newly refurbished, weekly & monthly rates
Bitterroot River Inn
Hamilton 406-375-2525 INDOOR POOL
www.bitterrootriverinn.com ~ The best in traveling comfort
Deffy’s Motel
Hamilton 406-363-1244
www.hamiltonmontana.com ~ Clean, comfortable, close to town
REMLC’S City Center Motel
Hamilton 406-363-1651
www.remlcsportsmanlodging.com ~ Standard rooms & kitchenettes
Stevensville Hotel
Stevensville 406-777-3087
www.stevensvillehotel.com ~ Discover historic comfort where Mt. began
Super 8
Hamilton 406-363-2940
www.super8.com ~ See you along the way ...
Traveller’s Rest Cabins
Darby 406-821-3282
Rest where Lewis & Clark did
TownHouse Inn Hamilton 406-363-6600 www.montana-motels.com ~ Relax in the hot tub at the end of the day
Wilderness Motel Darby 406-821-3405 www.wildernessmotel.com ~ Just minutes away from the river
R.V. Anglers Roost RV Park Hamilton 406-363-1268 www.anglersroost-montana.com ~ On the Bitterroot River
Black Rabbit RV Park Hamilton 406-363-3744 www.blackrabbitrv.com ~ Rest and relax and watch the rabbits
Sula Country Store RV Park south of Darby 406-821-3364 Relax in our hot tub after a long day
Traveller’s Rest RV Park
Darby 406-821-3282
goldcreek@gci.net ~ Rest where Lewis & Clark did
Wilderness RV Park
Darby 406-821-3405
www.wildernessmotel.com ~ Just minutes away from the river
travellers rest Cabins and RV Park
“Spend a relaxing night along the Lewis and Clark Trail.” 601 N Main – Darby, MT 406-821-3282 www.travellersrestmt.us
HAMILTON, MT 1325 N 1st 406-363-2940 800-800-8000 Pride of Super 8 Smoke Free Queen Beds Mountain Views Free Local Calls SuperStart Breakfast 25” Color Cable TV - HBO Friendly 24 Hour Desk
$ = $20-60, $$ = $61-100, $$$ = over $100. Room rates are based on double occupancy for the 2005 summer season, and are subject to change. Advance reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons.
See next page for Vacation Rentals Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 23
Vaction Rentals A BITTERROOT RETREAT
HOT TUB & JACUZZI
DISABLED
1 cabin
Y
N
Y
N
$$$
Y
2 cabin
Y
N
Y
Y
$$$
Y
3 cabins
N
N
Y
$$$
Y
6 cabins
N
N
Y
$$
Y
3 cabins
N
Y
Y
Y
$$
N
5 cabins
Y
Y
Y
Y
$$$
Y
1 loft
N
N
Y
Y
$$
Y
8 cabins
N
N
Y
N
$$$
Y
4 cabins
N
Y
Y
N
$$-$$$
N
3 bdrm
N
N
Y
Flexible
$$$
N
4 rms + 2 cabins
N
N
Y
N
$$$
Y
5 bed. house
Y
Y
Y
Flexible
$$$
N
1 lodge
N
N
Y
Y
$$
N
1 cabin
Y
Y
Y
Y
$$$
Y
1 cabin
N
N
Y
N
##
N
18 cabins
Y
Y
Y
Y
$$
Y
3 rms.
N
Y
Y
N
$$-$$$
N
5 rms.
N
N
N
Flexible
$
Y
6 cabins
Y
N
Y
Y
$$$
Y
4 lodges
N
N
Y
Y+FEE
$$$
N
6 cabins
Y
N
Y
Y
$$$
Y
3 cabins/guest house Y
N
Y
Y
$$-$$$
Y
19 cabins
Y
Y
Y
$$$
Y
rooms & cabins
south of Stevensville 406-777-1322
NON SMOKING
PETS
RATES
C CARDS
www.abitterrootretreat.com ~ Spectacular views
A LI’L BIT OF HEAVEN
south of Darby 406-821-3433
www.abitterrootretreat.com ~ Spectacular views
Alta Ranch
south of Darby 406-349-2142
www.alta-ranch.com ~ A great hide-a-way with fantastic views
Anglers Lodge
Hamilton 406-363-0980
www.visitmt.com ~ Individual lodges overlooking your private lake
Big Sky View Vacation north of Hamilton 406-961-2435 www.hamlinmedia.com/sky ~ Offering an abundance of restful sights
Bitterroot Cabins south of Hamilton 406-363-5528 www.bitterrootcabins.com ~ Some of the most unique rentals in Mt.
Bitterroot Fishing Loft west of Hamilton 406-363-5334 www.bitterrootfishingloft.com ~ A peaceful mountain setting
Bitterroot River Lodge south of Hamilton 406-363-0708 www.bitterrootriverlodge.com ~ The mountains & river at your porch
Broad Axe Lodge south of Darby 406-821-3878 Cabins close to nature
Bunkhouse at Camp Creek Inn south of Darby 406-821-3407 Located on a working cattle ranch in the Sula Basin
Chief Joseph Ranch south of Hamilton 406-821-0894 www.chiefjosephranch.com ~ Breathtaking views of the mountains
East Fork House east of Sula 406-821-3559 www.eastforkhouse.net ~ On the bank of the East Fork of the BR River
Fetch Inn west of Hamilton 406-363-5111 www.fetch-inn.com ~ The northwest’s finest pheasant hunting
Harlin Cabin south of Hamilton 406-363-6265 www.harlincabin.com ~ Elegant tranquility in the heart of the Bitterroot
Kickback Cabins north of Hamilton 530-673-7837 www.visitmt.com ~ Country cabin, adventurous or restful
Lost Horse Creek Lodge south of Hamilton 406-363-1460 www.losthorseceeklodge.com ~ Pristine wilderness & adventure
Rainbow Point Lodge south of Hamilton 406-363-0346 www.rainbowpointlodge.com ~ The name says it all ...
Rocky Knob Lodge south of Darby 406-821-3520 www.rockyknob.com ~ Enjoy dinner and a great room
Rye Creek Lodge south of Darby 406-821-3366 www.ryecreeklodge.com ~ A Montana hide-a-way with luxurious cabins
Teller Wildlife Refuge Corvallis 406-961-3707 www.tellerwildlife.org ~ A 1200 acre sancutary for study & wonder
Tin Cup Lodge south of Darby 406-821-1620 www.tincuplodge.com ~ Luxurious mountain top retreat
Trapper Creek Lodge south of Darby 406-821-4970 www.trappercreeklodge.com ~ Quite seclusion & lots of recreation
Triple Creek Ranch south of Darby 406-821-4664
Y
www.tripplecreekranch.com ~ Luxurious accommodations
Wildlife Adventures Guest Ranch west of Victor 406-642-3262
9 rms.
Y
Y
Y
Y
$$$
Y
www.wildlifeadventuresinc.com ~ Everything from big game to family
The Willow House north of Corvallis 406-642-6400
1 House
N
N
Y
N
$$$
Just the place for quiet, relaxing vacation
Vacation Cabin
406-777-1322 Reservations www.abitterrootretreat.com Hike from your doorway, horseback ride on the scenic trails, explore the Lewis & Clark Trail. Stay in the heart of the beautiful Bitterroot Valley in a fully equipped cabin. • Private Setting • Wildlife • Pond • Pasture for horse • Walking trails • Fishing
Page 24 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
Angler’s Lodge OPEN ALL YEAR Completely furnished log cabins with full kitchens Pets Allowed ~ Rentals by day, week or month 815 B Hwy 93 S - Hamilton, MT 59840 - www.visitmt.com
406-363-0980
N
Attractions and Historical Sites ....
Sightseeing
The most impressive attraction in the Bitterroot Valley is of course, the breathtaking scenery. From the first glow of morning to the star studded blanket of night, the valley offers one picturesque landscape after another. Capture the delicate pink petals of the Bitterroot Flower with a micro camera lens, or take in the whole expanse of the valley from the seat of a chartered aircraft. There are endless ways to rediscover the Bitterroot Valley. The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce is the “first best place” to gather information about the valley and sight seeing opportunities. They offer numerous brochures from outdoor activities to a cultural tour guide to help make your visit Historical more enjoyable and to help you make sure you don’t miss anything. Photo by Gift Montana Call 363-2400 or visit the web site at www.bitterrootvalleychamber. Sites com. The Daly Mansion, built in the late 1800’s, was originally called Riverside by the family and was the summer home of Copper Lost Trail Pass Visitor Information Center is the Chamber’s branch King, Marcus Daly. Daly, an Irish immigrant, made his fortune office at the top of Lost Trail Pass on the Montana/Idaho border. just as copper was coming into use for telegraph and electric The center is at the state rest area and is open from Memorial Day to wire. The Georgian-Revival style mansion has 25 bedrooms and Labor Day. 15 bathrooms covering 24,000 square feet. The three story mansion is on 50 treed acres off the Eastside Highway. Included on Cessna 172 aircrafts are rented by the hour for up to three pasthe mansion grounds are a tennis court, swimming pool, greensengers, year round when the weather is permitting. Call Selway house, playhouse, and a laundry building. The Daly Mansion is Aviation at 544-5979. open daily for tours and is host to special events, weddings and reunions. www.dalymansion.org If you choose a slower pace; Pioneer Carriage provides horse drawn wagon and trolley rides at some of the festivals. The Belgian horses Fort Owen is the site of the first permanent white settlement in and wagons are also available for weddings and special events. Montana. Major John Owen’s frontier trading post and Indian Agency is located half a mile west of Stevensville. Self guided tours are available to see the preserved structures of the original Fort. St. Mary’s Mission was founded in 1841 by Father DeSmet in response to the local Native Americans request for “Black Robes”. The chapel was built in 1866 by Father Ravalli, Montana’s first physician, surgeon and pharmacist. This versatile man also taught classes in the Native Salish language and built Montana’s first gristmill and sawmill. Mission grounds include the chapel, Chief Victor’s cabin, Father Ravalli’s residentce and pharmacy, and the dove coot build by the Father. St. Mary’s Visitor Center has a gift shop, museum, art gallery and research library. It is located at the west of 4th Street in Stevensville. www.saintmarysmission.org
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 25
Attractions and Historical Sites .... Museums The Historic Forest Service Museum and Visitor Center in Darby displays Forest Service and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) artifacts. It is located next to the Darby Ranger Station on Highway 93. Also in Darby is the Pioneer Museum that houses a collection of historical photos and items from pioneer home-stead life and CCC camps. It is open Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Ravalli County Museum is located in the former turn-ofthe-century courthouse in Hamilton. The collections include the Lewis and Clark Discovery Room, Ricketts Tick Research room, and rooms displaying scenes of Pioneer Life. The museum also houses exhibits of natural history, fly fishing, historical photographs, Native Americans, veterans, agriculture, timber and various rotating collections. Gifts may be purchased at the museum’s Emporium and bookstore. The museum hosts special events throughout the year as well as Sunday programs of cultural or historical significance. www.rcmuseum@cybernet1.com Stevensville is home to the Historical Museum and has exhibits of early Stevensville history and pioneer home life. It is located on Main Street in Stevensville.
Page 26 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
The Heritage Museum in Victor includes artifacts of Chiefs Victor and Charlo, a railroad room and other rotated exhibits. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, located at Blake and Main in Victor.
Art We invite you to enjoy our local Galleries. In the heart of our Bitterroot Valley we have distinctive and unlimited, wide variety, featuring noted artist from Montana and around the world. The selection is endless, with a lot of one-ofa-kind “Montana Made”. The galleries offer bronze sculpture, wood carvings, Native American, cultural items – you are only limited by your imagination (and possibly your time) in this multi-talented valley. Things change frequently so visit more than once and find Photo by Gift Montana that special treasure. Better yet! Stop at the Chamber to get a list of all the unique art and Gift Galleries in our talented valley.
Day Trips Many places of interest are within a day’s drive of the Bitterroot. To name just few . . . North Along the Lewis & Clark Trail North of Hamilton on US Hwy 93, Travelers’ Rest State Park is situtated just south of Lolo, at the location of a Native American campsite which Lewis & Clark and their Corps of Discovery used in 1805 and 1806. Lewis wrote in his diary about the “fine, bould stream” nearby “Travellers Rest.” Programs are presented by interpretive staff, all knowledgeable in Lewis and Clark history. Self guided tours include the trail to cross the bridge over the creek, stand in the heart of the Lewis and Clark campsite, or to listen to the voices of history. Picnic spots are available. Following the trail of the Corps of Discovery, turn west near Lolo on Hwy 12 towards Lolo Hot Springs Resort. The Indians knew of the hot springs long before the arrival of Lewis and Clark. It was a mineral lick for wild game, and an ancient meeting place and bathing spot for the Indians. The springs were not only a landmark but also a rendezvous point for early explorers and trappers. Today, everyone can enjoy the soothing waters. There is a restaurant, art gallery, RV Park, campground and teepees, water, electric hook-ups, and dump station.
Enjoy the food and the incredible view overlooking the Lochsa River, before returning to the beauty of the Bitterroot Valley.
In the K-Mart Parking Lot 1265 North First St Hamilton, MT 59840
406-363-6700 www.usbank.com
Continuing on Hwy 12 towards Idaho, Lolo Pass Visitor Information Center is at the top of Lolo Pass at the Idaho/Montana border. The center serves as one of the many historical landmarks off Highway 12, also known as the Lewis & Clark Highway and has information on the explorers’ journey across the Bitterroot Mountains, the 1877 flight of the Nez Perce Indians and historical, natural, and general information about the area. Picnic tables and a public restroom are available. In winter, Lolo Pass area serves as a major trailhead for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Visitors can find winter usage information and may purchase parking permits and maps. Continuing on Hwy 12 into Idaho, the road hugs the beautiful Lochsa River. Twelve miles west of the Lolo Visitor Information Center is the Lochsa Lodge. Rebuilt in 2002 after a fire destroyed the original building, this remote lodge along the Lochsa River, offers 20 rooms, a mini-mart and restaurant. The restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 27
Day Trips The Eastside Highway Leaving from the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce, and turning right onto Marcus Street will take you north from Hamilton on MT –269, referred to by locals as The Eastside Highway. About one mile out of town, as you head up the hill and head north, Tammany Lane will be on your right and Tammany Castle to the south of the road. Now a private residence, Tammany Castle is the luxurious brick stable Marcus Daly built as a special home for his race horses, and named for his favorite, Tammany, who was one of Daly’s big winners in many races in this country. A mile north on the left, you will find the historic Daly Mansion, built in the late 1800’s by Marcus Daly, to be his family’s summer residence. The family referred to their mansion as Riverside. In 1910 his widow, Margaret, renovated the mansion to its present Georgian-Revival style. Visitors may take tours of the mansion’s 56 stunning rooms, with 25 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, and 7 fireplaces -5 of which have imported Italian marble. The three-story, 24,000-square-foot mansion is situated on 50 tree-planted acres in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley. The Daly Mansion is a National Historic Site owned by the State of Montana and operated and maintained by the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust. Teller Wildlife Refuge is the only private wildlife refuge in the state of Montana. Otto Teller, an avid sportsman and lifelong conservationist, and a summer resident of the Bitterroot for over fifty years, started acquiring smaller properties, such as the original Chaffin and Slack family homesteads, and reconsolidating them as theTeller Wildlife Refuge. A public access trail is available along the Bitterroot River and access is by written permission only. Please contact the main office, 406-961-3507 or mainoffice@tellerwildlife.org to sign up before using the trail. Visit their online events calendar at www.tellerwildlife.org to find out what is currently happening on the Refuge or stop by the office for public access information.
Continuing north, Eastside Highway becomes Main Street in Stevensville. The town holds the distinct honor of being the place “Where Montana Began”. Upon entering town from the south, you will pass the Stevensville Museum, located on the west side of the street at 517 Main. It is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and offers a great deal of information about the settlement of Stevensville and the entire Bitterroot Valley. Also in Stevensville, St. Mary’s Mission is the site of the first permanent settlement in Montana, a delightful experience for history buffs. Established in 1841 by Fr. Pierre DeSmet a Jesuit priest, at the request of the Salish Native American people who were seeking the “Black Robes” as teachers. Visit the Chapel with attached living quarters, Father Anthony Ravalli’s log house with pharmacy, Chief Victor’s cabin, and Native American burial grounds, DeSmet Park. All buildings have been restored to the 1880 era and are furnished with items built by Fr. Ravalli, Montana’s first medical doctor. Chief Victor’s cabin houses a Native American museum. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge is located along the Bitterroot River, and offers viewing opportunities of the landscape and wildlife. Wildlife sightings on the refuge include white-tailed deer, muskrats, bald eagles, Lost At Sea, the 2006 Montana Best of Show by Tanna Roths, 18, received ospreys, waterfowl, and Honorable Mention in the 2006 many native birds. The Federal Junior Duck Stamp Contest Wildlife Viewing Area provides 2½ miles of hiking trails, with a half-mile wheelchair accessible path, leading to the Bitterroot River Recreation Area that has a picnic area with accessible tables, pavilion, grill and outhouse. A self-guided auto drive along a county road (Wildfowl Lane) stretches through the refuge providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape and abundant opportunities to view wildlife on the refuge.
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A Day in Itself
T
he Lake Como Recreation Area, just north of Darby, offers a variety of day, overnight, extended backpacking, motorized and non-motorized use. Pack a cooler for lunch; take your towels, umbrellas, water toys and swimsuits. Don’t forget the sunscreen. There is an accessible day-use area, which requires Day passes for parking while using the facilities. Passes are available at several locations in Hamilton and Darby. Swimming, fishing, boating and water skiing are popular sports at the lake. The swimming area has beach access and is roped off from the rest of the lake. Lake Como is a large irrigation reservoir, which lies in a beautiful canyon. During irrigation season it is drawn down and activities may fluctuate according to water levels. Restrooms, drinking water, a pay telephone and garbage removal services are
provided. There is a hikers’ trail, which leads along the north side to an unimproved campground above some falls at the head of the lake. A day at the lake is a great opportunity to relax with family and friends. Enjoy yourself! Take the short drive back to town for a short nap and head out early in the evening to enjoy at hearty meal at one of the great restaurants in the area.
Hamilton 2134 N. First Street 406-363-4700
South on the Lewis & Clark Trail
Following Highway 93 south towards Darby, visitors will see signs to Lake Como Recreation Area. Early-day settler W. B. Harlan, who was reminded of a painting of Lake Como in Italy when he first saw the lake, coined the name. Three miles west of Highway 93, it’s a wonderful spot for picnics or getaways. There is a protected swimming beach, day-use picnic areas, a boat launch, campgrounds with water and restrooms, a handicapped accessible trailhead and miles of roads and trails for hiking, horseback riding and dirt biking. All vehicles parked at the lake must displaya recreation pass, as Lake Como is a U. S. Forest Service day-use fee test area. Continuing south into the town of Darby, visitors will see the historic Darby Ranger Station and Visitor Center, on the left side of the road. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, having been restored to its 1930s era condition when it was the district office. Pick up visitor information on valley attractions, as well as wood permits, maps, day-use passes for Lake Como and campground information. It is open throughout the summer season. Historians will love to visit Darby’s Pioneer Memorial Museum located in one of the first hand-hewn homestead cabins built in the area. In 1958, an interested citizen purchased the building and paid to have it moved to its present location, adjacent to the city park in the center of Darby. Make sure to see the pride and joy of the Darby, the Darby Community Library. Walk through town to check out some of the fun shops and stores in Darby, truly a step back in time. Leaving Darby, look to the west into the Bitterroot Mountain Range, and see Trapper Peak, the highest peak in the Range, rising to 10,157 feet above sea level at the summit. There is a spot to pull off to the right the highway with an interpretive sign for some photo opportunities. (The more adventuresome can take the steep hiking trail that goes to the top of the peak, where they may enter their names in a record book. This hike is definitely a full day trip in itself, and for the serious hiker. Details can be found through the Ranger District.)
Stevensville 4037 Highway 93 406-777-0057
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Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 29
Day Trips Seventeen miles south of Hamilton, turning west onto Montana Highway 473, will take you along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, then 23 miles southwest on your way to Painted Rocks State Park. The lake is a man-made reservoir originally built as an irrigation project that put hundreds of men to work in the 30’s. This area offers 25 sites with vault toilets, grills, fire rings, picnic tables, a boat ramp, drinking water, and limits of RV/trailers to 25 feet. For those in hopes of seeing some Montana wildlife, continue driving south on Hwy 93 to Sula. Turning left onto MT Hwy 472, or East Fork Road, your drive will follow the East Fork of the Bitterroot River to the Broad Axe Lodge, which has been designated a Montana Wildlife Viewing Area. Dinner guests often see Bighorn Sheep and other wildlife on the hillside from the binoculars on each table. Continuing down Highway 93 will bring you to the Montana-
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Continuing down Highway 93 will bring you to the MontanaIdaho border at Lost Trail Pass. The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Big Hole Tourism Association, and the Salmon Chamber of Commerce, operate a Visitor Information Center at the pass. Stop to stretch your legs at the foot of Lost Trail Powder Mountain Ski Area before continuing your journey, or call it a day and head back to the valley for some rest. Taking Highway 38 to the east at Lost Trail Pass, drive 17 miles to the Big Hole National Battlefield, operated by the National Park Service. This site memorializes the bravery of the Nez Perce and U.S. soldiers and volunteers who fought here during the epic flight of the Nez Perce in 1877 and preserves the scene of one of the most famous battles of the Indian Wars. Entry fees apply in summer only: two dollars per person or four dollars per family. Golden Age, Golden Access and Golden Eagle Passes will be honored. The visitor center houses a small museum with exhibits of the Nez Perce, military clothing and equipment, a 12 minute introductory video presentation, books sales, area information, and a Junior Ranger activity program for first through eighth grade school children. A minimum of four hours is recommended to view the museum exhibits, and film and walk the battlefield trails. Take a Self-Guided walk through the battlefield from sunrise to sunset. Guided walks are offered during the summer months.
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Office/Cell 406-381-4112 Residence 406-961-5539 kathyh@realestatemontana.com
A Montana Adventure through the Sapphire Mountains Montana Highway 38, also known as Skalkaho Highway, starts about three miles south of Hamilton and heads east through the Sapphire Mountains for 54.3 miles to Porter’s Corner. This is a well-maintained dirt-gravel road for most of the way, but has quite a few narrow and harrowing spots for the unaccustomed. Skalkaho Falls is a spectacular water scene about 25 miles into the trip on the one-lane portion of the road. The falls flow down the side of the mountain, under the highway and down into the canyon below, creating a damp but beautiful site in early summer, but leaves only a hint of its glory in the later months. Many visitors will be pulled off on both sides of the road to view the falls, so ‘caution’ is the word. Beyond the falls you climb to Skalkaho Pass. There are few areas to pull off for a picnic or rest until you reach the pass. From the pass, it’s a much easier drive down to the Flint Creek Valley to Porter’s Corner. Take Montana Highway 1 south to Georgetown Lake or north to Philipsburg.
Phillipsburg & Georgetown Lake If you travel over the Sapphire Range via Skalkaho Highway, you will come to Porters Corner. Turning south here on Montana 1 will take you to Georgetown Lake, a popular recreation area for boating, fishing, camping and windsurfing. The Flint Creek Range to the north and the Pintlers to the south surround the lake. Kokanee Salmon is the most sought after species, followed by Rainbow Trout. There is access to lodging, restaurants, casinos and a marina at the lake. Or you can travel over the Sapphire Range via Skalkaho Highway, when you come to Porters Corner, turning north here on Montana 1 will take you to the quaint town of Phillipsburg. If the adventure of Montana’s back roads is not your forte, drive through Missoula and east on I-90 about 55 miles to Montana Highway 1, (Exit 153) another 25 miles brings you to the town of Phillipsburg which has named itself “A town for all seasons!” Once a thriving 1890s silver boom town, antique enthusiasts, candy lovers and gemologists will enjoy walking through the renovated business district now listed on the National Historic Register and Montana’s Prettiest Painted Places.
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 31
Darby
Victor
T
T
ake a trip to the south end of the Bitterroot Valley to visit the quintessential old-time western town of Darby. You will have a chance to experience boardwalks and false fronts, shadowed by the Sapphire and Bitterroot Mountains. On Main Street you will find charming shops filled with treasurers from soaps, candles and books to custom-made hats, antiques and candy. No stopover in Darby is complete without checking out the Darby Community Library. It is a reflection of the spirit and culture of this community.
hey say Montana is the ‘Last Best Place’, but our small town might just be the ‘Last Best Town’. An unincorporated township, Victor has been slow to change. Since the completion of the renovation of the 100 block of Victor Main Street in the summer of 2005, there have been many changes. Farmer’s Sate Bank was renovated last year. There are several murals of the old ‘Box Elder Cafe’, ‘Livery Stable’, and the ‘Ice Cream Fountain’, takes you back to the wonderful days of old. The Historical Museum will give you a walk through the past, and is located in the old Northern Pacific Depot near the East Side Highway at Victor Crossing. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and can be open on special request by calling 642-3997.
History No one was consulted about what to name the town, when 1888 Postmaster James Darby named it Darby. Earlier names were Doolittle and Harrison. Darby has survived three fires that destroyed its main street, as well as surveys (the latest in 1975) which predicted Darby would never grow into a town of importance. The ups and downs of its economy have affected Darby’s growth. In the early 1900’s, when mining and fur trade slowed, the logging boom from Anaconda Mining Company interests gave the town a boost. Then along came the ‘Apple Boom’. Since then there has been a slow, but steady growth of agriculture, cattle ranching and timber harvesting. Today, Darby also offers numerous recreational opportunities with a variety of guest ranches, hunting outfitters, and fishing guides.
10 0 ting a r b e Cel
years of service to wester
Victor’s History 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. Blade was the first elected State Legislator from Missoula County. At that time Victor was part of Missoula County. Victor was originally platted as Garfield, after President James Garfield, but was later named Victor after Chief Victor of the Salish Tribe.
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Registered Representative of and securities and insurance products offered through INVEST Financial Corporation (INVEST), member NASD, SIPC, a registered broker dealer, is not affiliated with FSB Investment Services. Securities and insurance products offered through INVEST and affiliated insurance agencies are: Not FDIC Insured - May Lose Value - No Bank Guarantee.
Community Information
The Bitterroot Valley is in Ravalli County and lies between the
Sapphire Mountains on the East and the Bitterroot Mountains on the West. Ravalli is Montana’s 7th most populous county with an estimated 39,940 residents in 2005. Hamilton, the county seat , is the state’s 19th largest city with a population of 4,443 in 2005. Other towns in Ravalli County include Stevensville, Darby and Pinesdale. In the 1990’s Ravalli County was the fastest growing county in Montanan, with a population increase of 43% (25,010 to 35,811 residents) from 1990 to 1999. Retail Trade is the biggest sub sector of the county. Other significant sub sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, Manufacturing, and Accommodation & Food Services. However, it is the small subsectors that have seen the most growth in recent years. With Wholesale Trade, Arts, Entertainment & Recreation; Mining; and Construction all showing double-digit growth from 2004 – 2005. Ravalli County contains 1,850 square miles of public forest lands, which has played a significant role in its economic development. Historically, these lands have primarily contributed to the economy through lumber and wood products manufacturing. Today, these public forests are considered an important draw for tourism and migration to the area. Lumber and wood products manufacturing still play an important role, however, and Ravalli County was one of only a few counties to experience growth in this economic sub sector in recent years.
Another draw to our valley is its proximity to the city of Missoula. Estimates suggest that roughly 15 to 20 percent of employed residents work in Missoula County. Ravalli County now has five elected County Commissioners. The Valley is 96 miles long and 25 miles wide at the widest spot. Encompassing 2,394 square miles that is 74% public ownership and only 26% privately owned. The average per capital personal income in the county in 2005 was $25,328 and $29,155 for the state. On the north end of the valley is Florence, at an elevation of 3,218. It is an unincorporated community with approximately 901 residents. Going from north to south, Stevensville is the next community with an elected Mayor and City Council. Their elevation is 3,370 with approximately 1,855 city residents. Next is another unincorporated community, Victor. It is at an elevation of 3,404 with approximately 859 residents. Corvallis, south of Victor, is also unincorporated with 943 people with an elevation of 3,477. Hamilton, the county seat, has an elected mayor and city council in a community of 4,443 in the city limits and sits at an elevations of 3,572. Darby is incorporated and is the farthest town to the south, with an elected mayor and city council. It has an elevation of 3,887 and approximately 835 living in the town.
Schools The Bitterroot Valley is home to seven school districts and has five private schools. District Phone Number K-2 Enrollment Corvallis 406-961-4211 1,362 Darby 406-821-3841 533 Florence 406-273-6751 922 Hamilton 406-363-2280 1,574 Lone Rock 406-777-3314 305 (K-8 only) Stevensville 406-777-5481 1,041 Victor 406-642-3221 350 The University & College of Technology in Missoula is approximately 46 miles from Hamilton. In May, 2007 Ravalli County passed a ballot measure to start a Community College for the county.
Private Schools Blodgett View Christian School K -8 Hamilton Christian Academy K-8 Parochial Pines Academy K-6 Evergreen Montessori – Pre K – 1st Grace Lutheran Preschool PreK
406-375-0733 406-363-5434 406-961-3055 406-363-7279 406-363-1924
Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine - Page 33
More Info The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) was established by the County Commissioners in 1997 to promote, stimulate develop and advance the general welfare, commerce, economic development and prosperity of Ravalli County, State of Montana, and its citizens. The RCEDA consists of 7 appointed commissioners and an Executive Director. The EDA is currently working to establish an Entrepreneurship center. The facility seeks to enable scientists and other types of entrepreneurs to build their businesses within a collaborative, entrepreneurial community with access to cutting edge laboratories, business services and office space. The RCEDA assists Valley businesses and start-ups with technical assistance for planning and financing. They are located in the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce office building, 375-9416 www.rceda.org The Monday – Friday paper is called the Ravalli Republic www.ravallirepublic.com. We also have a weekly paper, the Bitterroot Star www. bitterrootstar.com .The Missoulian is a daily paper with news from all of Western Montana. www.missoulian.com The Valley has approximately 60 churches of all denominations. The Bitterroot Valley is connected with state-of-the-art technology including fiber optic phone cable, satellite and internet service providers linked worldwide through full T1 lines. An important item to remember is that when shopping or eating in the Bitterroot Valley that we have ‘No Sales Tax.’
Hospital/Medical Care With a friendly and caring staff of professionals, Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital (MDMH) is a growing rural hospital focused on quality patient care. Located at 1200 Westwood Drive in Hamilton, the Hospital provides many key services: 24 hour a day Emergency Care, General Medical and Surgical Care, General Intensive Care, Pediatric Medical and Surgical Care, Obstetrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Eye Surgery and other specialized services. MDMH has an extensive physician’s network of 17 medical clinics and over 30 medical doctors. Some of the other services include: a state-of-the art all-digital Radiology Department, a full service onsite diagnostic Laboratory, Cardiac Rehab Services, Hospice and Palliative Care, Home Health Services, Pharmacy and a Registered Dietitian. In addition, the Rehabilitation Services cater to both adults and children with outpatient and inpatient care in Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy. The Hospital’s Surgery Center is stateof-the-art and has achieved perfect scores for patient friendliness and is recognized and proud of the low infection rate. The Emergency Department is staffed by physicians and in the summer of 2008 there will be a new emergency department more then double the size of the current department. For those non-emergent medical needs, there is Convenient Care, located on the hospital campus.
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Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is the valley’s choice for quality, accessible, personalized healthcare. (406) 363-2211, www.mdmh.org Page 34 - Bitterroot Valley Relocation & Tourism Magazine
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