Discover the Bitterroot Valley: Living Along Highway 93

Just south of Missoula, Highway 93 winds through the Bitterroot Valley, connecting a string of communities. Each town along the route offers a different personality, pace of life, and sense of place. For anyone considering buying a home in Western Montana, this stretch of highway presents a wide variety of lifestyles, landscapes, and histories.

Let’s take a journey from Missoula down to Darby, stopping in each town along the way.

Missoula: The River City

Known as the “River City” and the cultural hub of Western Montana, Missoula is where mountain town charm meets modern convenience. For example, you may have heard of the film based on Norman Maclean’s novella A River Runs Through It. However, in Missoula, it’s more than just a movie reference. The Clark Fork River cuts right through the heart of downtown. It offers residents access to fly fishing, tubing, paddleboarding, and even river surfing, all without ever leaving city limits.

Locals adore Missoula for its vibrant art scene, growing job market, and the University of Montana, the state’s flagship university. The city offers everything from historic neighborhoods to new developments. Additionally, it boasts incredible food, rich culture, and an exceptional sense of community.

But for many, the next chapter means more space, a slower pace, and a quieter lifestyle. All of that, and more, can be found just south along Highway 93. 

Lolo: Gateway to the Bitterroot Valley

Just 10 miles south of Missoula, Lolo is where the city gives way to wide open space. Known for Travelers’ Rest State Park, where Lewis and Clark camped during their expedition, Lolo offers a unique blend of history and convenience. Many residents commute to Missoula for work; as a result, this makes it a great choice for those seeking a quieter life while still enjoying easy access to the city’s amenities.

Homes in Lolo range from newer subdivisions to high-acreage properties along the rivers and foothills. The friendly neighborhood atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventure make Lolo a wonderful place to live. And the best part? Lolo Creek Steakhouse and Lolo Peak Brewery sit right off Highway 93 and are sure to keep you full and happy every time you stop by.

Florence: Spacious, Scenic, and Serene

A short drive south of Lolo brings us to Florence. Nestled between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, it offers wide-open views and quiet peace. Once a hub for logging and farming, Florence has grown into a community of people who value space, both in terms of land and lifestyle.

Housing options often include single-family homes on larger lots, hobby farms, and properties with room for horses. Compared to Lolo, Florence feels more rural, yet still keeps you within a reasonable commute to Missoula. It’s a great option for buyers seeking open land, mountain views, and a little more breathing room.

Stevensville: Montana’s First Town

Stevensville holds a special place in Montana history as the state’s first permanent settlement, established in the early 1840s by Jesuit missionaries at the invitation of the Bitterroot Salish Tribe. Today, it’s known for its charming Main Street, historic buildings, and strong sense of community.

Homes here range from classic in-town residences with character to modern builds and small ranches on the valley floor. Life in Stevensville feels steeped in history, with local events, farmers markets, and easy access to the Bitterroot River. Overall, it offers a balance of small-town warmth and natural beauty. If you’re drawn to history, local charm, and scenic living, a Windermere agent can help you explore Stevensville’s unique housing market.

Hamilton: Heart of the Bitterroot Valley

Hamilton is the valley’s largest town and the county seat, offering more shops, restaurants, and cultural events than its smaller neighbors. Founded in the late 1800s by copper magnate Marcus Daly, Hamilton blends rich history with modern conveniences.

The housing market here is diverse, with downtown historic homes, newer neighborhoods, and riverfront estates all existing within minutes of each other. Residents enjoy a lively event calendar, from art fairs to the famous Daly Days celebration. Plus, outdoor access is never far away. If you’re looking for a balance of amenities and an authentic Montana lifestyle, Windermere can help you find the right home in Hamilton.

Darby: Wilderness at Your Doorstep

At the southern tip of the valley, Darby is where rugged mountain life takes center stage. This small town is surrounded by outdoor opportunities like Lake Como, the Bitterroot National Forest, and the Lost Trail Powder Mountain ski area are all nearby. Darby is also known for its welcoming community and local events, hosting everything from bluegrass festivals to rodeos.

Homes in Darby often include log cabins, large-acreage properties, and custom-built retreats tucked into the forest. It’s the ideal spot for buyers who value privacy, outdoor recreation, and a slower pace of life.

Finding Your Place in the Bitterroot Valley

Buying a home in the Bitterroot Valley isn’t just about finding the right property; it’s about choosing the lifestyle you want to live.

From the close connection to Missoula that Lolo offers to Darby’s deep wilderness roots, each town along Highway 93 tells its own unique story. With wide-open land and vibrant town centers, there’s a place here for everyone to feel at home.

So, if you’re ready to make the Bitterroot Valley your home, connect with a Windermere agent today and take the first step toward finding your dream property.