Hamilton, Montana Vacations

Posted on Nov 19, 2008 in City

Historic Hamilton is a great base for a Montana vacation in the Bitterroot Valley

by Michele Kadison

Hamilton has some of the best Montana history in the limits of this small town, going back to the early days of copper mining. The town offers great Montana hotels, and is near to hiking opportunities in the Bitterroot valley and the cultural center of Missoula.

Named after J. W. Hamilton who secured the right of way for the Northern Pacific railway line, Hamilton, Montana is known for being a major trading point for many orchard growers, farmers, and ranchers in the Bitterroot Valley. This verdant valley, named after Montana’s state flower, the Bitterroot plant, extends from Highway 93 from Missoula, Montana to the Idaho border. Due to its setting between the Bitterroot Mountain Range and the Sapphire Mountains, Hamilton has a more temperate climate than the rest of the state, making it an ideal destination for vacationers year-round.

Hamilton is famous for Marcus Daly’s summer home, the Daly Mansion, which was built in the late 1800’s. Daly was one of the early “Copper Kings’ in the area, helping establish Anaconda with his smelting equipment as well as Hamilton with his lumber industry. This magnificent home is made up of 24,000 square feet that includes 24 bedrooms, 15 bathrooms, and seven fireplaces. The Daly Mansion sits beside the Bitterroot River surrounded by the majestic pinnacles of the Bitterroot range. The grounds are beautifully manicured and lined with old trees that give the property a further majesty.

When visiting Hamilton, make sure to visit the Ravalli County museum, located in the original 1900 Ravalli County Courthouse. The building is listed in the National Register of Historic Buildings and is considered on of the best museums located in a small city such as Hamilton. The exhibits are highly educational with displays such as the Rocky Mountain Laboratory, Native American artifacts, Victorian décor, a trapper’s cabin, and extensive archives on the history of the region.