The Bitterroot Valley is one of the most breathtaking parts of Montana. The Bitterroot Mountains run along the western edge, the Sapphire Mountains run east, and the Bitterroot River runs right through the middle.
The Bitterroot Valley stretches from Missoula into Idaho and is about 96 miles long. The scenic drive takes you down Highway 93, and you can stop in some charming little towns along the way. These are a few of our favorites.
Google Maps
- Lolo
Djembayz / Wikipedia Lolo sits at the far northern end of the Bitterroot Valley, serving as the gateway to the scenic drive. Home to the delicious Lolo Creek Steakhouse and the relaxing Lolo Hot Springs, this tiny town is big on charm.
- Florence
Andy / Flickr Florence is located just 15 minutes south of Lolo. While there’s not much to this little town of less than 1,000 residents, it’s a stunning place to drive through.
- Stevensville
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr St. Mary’s Mission and Fort Owen State Monument are two of the highlights of the historic Stevensville, which is known for being the first permanent settlement in the state. For a town of such a small size, there are a lot of amenities here, ranging from shops to restaurants and the iconic Creamery Antiques Mall.
- Hamilton
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr Next, you’ll continue south on Highway 93 to Hamilton, the hub of the Bitterroot Valley. This town is the central trade area for hundreds of small farms, ranches, and orchards, and it’s home to the historic Daly Mansion. Hamilton is delightfully charming and incredibly underrated.
- Darby
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr Keep heading south and you’ll reach Darby on your way to Lost Trail Pass Ski Area and Chief Joseph Pass. Walking through this Old West town feels like going back in time in the best way. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Lake Como.
Do you have a favorite spot in the Bitterroot Valley?
Google Maps
Djembayz / Wikipedia
Lolo sits at the far northern end of the Bitterroot Valley, serving as the gateway to the scenic drive. Home to the delicious Lolo Creek Steakhouse and the relaxing Lolo Hot Springs, this tiny town is big on charm.
Andy / Flickr
Florence is located just 15 minutes south of Lolo. While there’s not much to this little town of less than 1,000 residents, it’s a stunning place to drive through.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
St. Mary’s Mission and Fort Owen State Monument are two of the highlights of the historic Stevensville, which is known for being the first permanent settlement in the state. For a town of such a small size, there are a lot of amenities here, ranging from shops to restaurants and the iconic Creamery Antiques Mall.
Next, you’ll continue south on Highway 93 to Hamilton, the hub of the Bitterroot Valley. This town is the central trade area for hundreds of small farms, ranches, and orchards, and it’s home to the historic Daly Mansion. Hamilton is delightfully charming and incredibly underrated.
Keep heading south and you’ll reach Darby on your way to Lost Trail Pass Ski Area and Chief Joseph Pass. Walking through this Old West town feels like going back in time in the best way. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Lake Como.
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Address: Lolo, MT, USAAddress: Hamilton, MT 59840, USAAddress: Stevensville, MT 59870, USAAddress: Darby, MT 59829, USAAddress: Florence, MT 59833, USA
