Hamilton

Hamilton is the largest town in the Bitterroot Valley, serving as the central trade hub for the small farms, ranches, and orchards that fill the valley. Founded in 1890 by Copper King Marcus Daly, Hamilton was built to support Daly’s lumber industry, which supplied timber to his mines and smelter in Anaconda. The town quickly grew, with Main Street lined with businesses that catered to the mill workers whose boots echoed on the wooden boardwalks.

Today, Hamilton invites visitors to explore its rich history and quaint downtown. Stroll through the town’s historic district, where many of the original brick and stone buildings still stand, offering art galleries, bookstores, coffee shops, and unique gift shops.

For history buffs, the Ravalli County Museum, located in the original 1900 Ravalli County Courthouse, features engaging exhibits that delve into the region’s past. Meanwhile, day tours of the Daly Mansion offer a glimpse into the opulent 24,000-square-foot summer home that Copper King Marcus Daly built in the late 1800s.

After exploring town, unwind at Bitterroot Brewing, a favorite local spot where you can sip a cold one and browse fun bike-themed merchandise. Feeling hungry? Grab a local burger at Nap’s Grill, or indulge in wood-fired cuisine at Ember for a more upscale dining experience. Hamilton is the perfect place to wrap up a long day on the Bitterroot Trail, with plenty of great eats and drinks to refuel for the ride back to Missoula.