Hunting

                                                               Bugling Bull Elk

Western Montana and the Bitterroot Valley have some of the best big game hunting in North America. The Bitterroot Valley and surrounding mountain ranges abound with numerous big game species including Elk, Moose, Big Horn Sheep, Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Black Bear and Mountain Lions. The area also has terrific hunting for upland grouse, wild turkeys and migratory waterfowl. Check out the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks web site for specific hunting season info, etc. The 2008 season and regs are now posted on their site. Click on the link on the right side of this page.

Fishing

                                                   West Slope Cutthroat Trout

The Bitterroot River

                                                               Fall on the Bitterroot

The Bitterroot River flows south to north from the junction of the East and West Fork just below Conner. It flows through the Bitterroot Valley past the towns of Darby, Hamilton, Victor, Stevensville and Florence for approximately 75 miles where it reaches the Clarks Fork River near Missoula.

The Bitterroots' gentle currents make it possible for both wading and float fishermen. The diverse water and quality hatches makes the Bitterroot know as one of the finest dry fly fishing rivers in the state. The dry fly fishing season usually begins sometime in March and goes through late November, depending on weather. Cutthroat, brown, rainbow, bull and brook trout can all be found in it's waters and tributaries. There are 11 well marked and maintained access points along the river.

Check out the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks web site for specific fishing season info, etc. The 2008 regs are now listed on their site. Click on the link on the right side of this page.

Painted Rocks Reservoir

 Painted Rocks Reservoir is located 15 miles up the West Fork of the Bitterroot River from Conner. Located in the scenic Bitterroot Mountains, this 293 acre park offers fishing, boating, water sports and camping. Game fish present include brook trout, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout and west slope cutthroat trout. This remote pine forest setting is prefect for a weekend get away of camping and fishing.

Lake Como

Lake Como is located 9 miles south of Hamilton on Rock Creek. This park with it's stunning mountain backdrop offers fishing, boating water sports and camping. Game fish present include rainbow trout, mountain whitefish and west slope cutthroat trout.

Skiing

Lost Trail Powder Mountain

Lost Trail Powder Mountain is located approximately 40 miles south of Hamilton. The ski area is well know for reliable snowfall and consistently good snow conditions. The 60 year old family owned ski area straddles the Montana - Idaho border in the breathtaking Bitterroot Mountains. Annual snow fall averages over 300 inches

Summit -8200'   Bottom - 6400 '   Vertical drop - 1800'  1000 skiable acres

25 runs, 45 trails, longest run 2.5 miles

20% Beginner, 60% Intermediate, 20% Advanced

5 double chairs, 3 surface tows

Check out the link on the right side of this page.

Chief Joseph Cross Country Ski Trails

Chief Joseph Cross Country Ski Trail is groomed weekly. Eight loop trails which provide a variety of lengths and skill levels. Trail system starts on north side of Highway 43 at Chief Joseph Pass. Plowed parking for 55 to 60 vehicles. Toilet and maps available at trail head. Groomed by the Bitterroot Cross Country Ski Club. Pets are not allowed on this trail. The warming hut is open December 1 - Mid-April.

Length: 24.6 km; 8 km of easiest, 14.5 km of more difficult and 2.1 km of most difficult trail

Check out the links on the right side of this page.