Hamilton Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking trails, and more in the stunning mountain town of Hamilton, Montana.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Hamilton, Montana

Located in the northwest corner of Montana’s stunning Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton is a beautiful and charming mountain town that boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails the state has to offer. From adventurous outdoor activities to exploring the town’s rich history and culture, there is something for everyone in Hamilton. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, the top things to do, hiking and biking routes, food and drink recommendations, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Hamilton

Here are some of the must-visit places in Hamilton:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Daly Mansion: This historic home was built in 1886 and provides a glimpse into the life of one of the richest men in Montana’s history. The mansion is surrounded by picturesque gardens and offers guided tours of the interior.
  • Ravalli County Museum: Housed in a renovated courthouse, the Ravalli County Museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the Bitterroot Valley.
  • Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum: The Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum, located in the nearby town of Darby, features exhibits on the history of the town and the surrounding area, including mining and logging.

Natural Attractions of Hamilton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Blodgett Canyon: Located in the Bitterroot National Forest, Blodgett Canyon offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
  • Lake Como: Popular among hikers and fishermen, Lake Como is the perfect spot to spend a lazy afternoon.
  • Bitterroot River: The Bitterroot River provides world-class fishing opportunities, as well as opportunities for floating and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hamilton

For outdoor enthusiasts, Hamilton has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the state:

  • Blodgett Canyon Trail: A moderately strenuous hike that leads you to stunning views of the canyon’s towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
  • Tin Cup Trail: A challenging hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding Bitterroot Mountains.
  • Bitterroot Trail: A popular biking trail that stretches 50 miles along the Bitterroot River, offering scenic views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Hamilton: Activities and Tours

  • Fly-fishing: With the Bitterroot River running right through town, Hamilton is a great spot for fly-fishing enthusiasts.
  • Mountain biking: Hamilton’s surrounding mountains offer some of the best biking trails in the state.
  • Flyovers: Helicopter tours of the Bitterroot Valley offer a unique perspective on the stunning mountain scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hamilton

If you’re planning a week-long stay in Hamilton, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Hike the Blodgett Canyon Trail
2 Visit the Daly Mansion and spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding gardens
3 Take a fly-fishing trip on the Bitterroot River
4 Rent a bike and cycle the Bitterroot Trail
5 Explore the town of Darby and visit the Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum
6 Take a helicopter tour of the Bitterroot Valley
7 Relax and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery at one of the local hot springs

Food and Drink Scene of Hamilton

No visit to Hamilton is complete without sampling the local cuisine and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bitterroot Brewery Pizza: One of the best spots in town for pizza and beer.
  • Stock Farm Club Grilled Cheese: This upscale grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect comfort food.
  • Stevensville Steakhouse Prime Rib: Mouthwatering steak cooked to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Bitterroot Brewing: A local brewery offering a range of craft beers.
  • Higherground Brewing: A family-owned brewery that prides itself on using only locally sourced ingredients.
  • Fieldheads Coffee: A charming coffee shop that serves up some of the best coffee in town.

Where to Stay in Hamilton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hamilton has a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences:

  • Bitterroot River Inn & Conference Center: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the town.
  • Angler’s Roost Bed & Breakfast: A cozy bed and breakfast that offers stunning views of the Bitterroot Mountains.
  • Bell Field Bed & Breakfast: A charming guesthouse located on a working cattle ranch.

What to Buy in Hamilton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some local products and souvenirs to take home:

  • Montana-made Soaps & Lotions: Handcrafted soaps and lotions made with natural ingredients.
  • Huckleberry Jam: A local berry that can be turned into a delicious jam.
  • Handmade Crafts: Unique crafts made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Hamilton

The people of Hamilton are friendly, open, and welcoming. It’s important to respect the local customs when visiting the town, including:

  • Dress Code: Dressing modestly is appreciated when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Smoking: Smoking is not allowed in public areas.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants and for tour guides.

Best Time to Visit Hamilton

The best time to visit Hamilton is from May to September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hamilton

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and historical sites.
  • Do take advantage of the local outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.
  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trails.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t disrespect local customs and beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hamilton

Hamilton is a generally safe town to visit; however, it’s always wise to take common safety precautions such as:

  • Staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Locking your car and hotel room doors.
  • Using caution when hiking and biking on unfamiliar trails.

Health in Hamilton

There are medical facilities and hospitals in the town, but it’s always a good idea to have health insurance and get a medical check-up before traveling.

Getting to Hamilton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hamilton is located about 60 miles south of Missoula, Montana, and is accessible by car, bus, and plane.

Airports Near Hamilton

  • Missoula International Airport (MSO)
  • Ravalli County Airport

Bus Stations Near Hamilton

Hamilton has a bus station located downtown.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a taxi to get around.

How to Get Around in Hamilton

Renting a car is the most convenient way to get around town; however, there are also taxi services and bike rentals available.

Where to Go Next from Hamilton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for more adventure or want to explore more of Montana, here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Missoula: A vibrant college town with a rich arts and culture scene.
  • Glacier National Park: A stunning national park known for its soaring peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes.
  • Yellowstone National Park: An iconic national park famous for its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, Hamilton, Montana, has something for everyone. With stunning mountain scenery, welcoming locals, and a rich history and culture, Hamilton is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Montana. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your next adventure to this charming mountain town.