The Bitter Root area has been discovered and a number of well to do people have purchased homes. The towns of Hamilton(elev. 3,638 feet)population just about 4000 folks. http://www.montanabirdingtrail.org/maps/r1/t2/s6/r1t2s6.htm Stevensville(Stevi)population just under 2000 are towns which have homes located on both sides of the river. Hamilton, Stevensville, Corvallis(just about 500 folks),Florence(about 1000 folks), Victor(about 900),and Darby(800 folks), Sula(100)and Conner(200 folks)are all located in this Bitterroot watershed.There are hundreds of homes located through out the valley which are not counted in the population I previously mentioned.

Ravalli county was named after a Priest who did good work for the settlers and Indians that traveled and lived in the area.St. Mary's Mission is the oldest church still standing. It was built in 1841 where the town of Stevensville is now located. There is a great wildlife viewing area north of towm called Lee Metcalf after the senator.Hamilton was built by Marcus Daly, a rich and wise man who made his fortune in Copper Mining in the Butte area. He built his summer home near what is now the town of Hamilton. He later layed out the town and with its wide streets, canals for irrigation and lovely homes.

To reach the Bitterroot take Hwy. 93 South from Missoula or East from Salmon Idaho and cross the Idaho line.The lower valley can be reached on Hwy 43 from Wisdom, Montana over Lost Trail Pass north towards Sula,Montana.

The river is not large compared to the Clark Fork but does hold a lot of fish. The river is open year around.The fishing includes Westslope Cutthroat, Brown Trout and Rainbows are the main fish.Whitefish are also popular. There are numerous places to access the river.

There are lovely golf courses, and lots of wildlife near by with all the mountain ranges and green valley foliage. Many of the jobs in the area come from Missoula. Each town seems to be attracting more folks. There are a large number of subdivions proposed. The commute is worth the time it takes to be part of the beauty of the area.

The Bitteroot River is commercially navigable from the confluence of its East and West forks to the confluence with the Clark Fork River. Therefore, the state claims ownership of the Bitterroot between these two points.

Beware Ravalli county is in the process of establishing stream and river setbacks. These rules will determine where structures can and can not be built.

Homes in the area are scattered through out the valley. The river front homes can be found on both sides of the river. In Hamilton the river runs to the west of downtown and flows near a beautiful parks. It is becoming harder but possible to find lesser quality home just under $250,000. but most run considerable higher. If you go south towards Darby and Sula the prices will decrease a little. The proximity to towns and Missoula will drive up the price. A reminder there are listings on East Fork and West Fork of the Bitterroot as well as numerous streams and creeks in the area.To see go to the Montana State Map on our site under LISTINGS and select Glacier country. The red diamonds are where creeks, ponds and streams as well as the Bitterroot River are located.

http://www.flyanglersonline.com/bitterroot