What activities are in the area?
The Bitterroot Valley is known for world class outdoor recreation! We encourage you to do your own research but here are a few favorites:
Fly Fishing – see Fly Fishing FAQ.
Hiking – The phone apps “AllTrails” and “Hiking Project” are great ways to find the best hikes for your hiking level and where the parking and trailheads can be founds. A few popular shorter hikes in the area are: Blodgett Overlook, Lake Como Loop, Sweathouse Creek and Calf Creek (just a few minutes from the house).
Rodeo – Darby Rodeo has multiple events per year (see their website for dates – https://www.darbyrodeo.org/) and Hamilton usually has a rodeo during fair season.
Hunting – The Bitterroot is well known for its big game hunting. Within the Forest, the three big game animals that are most commonly hunted are: Elk, Mule Deer, and Whitetail Deer. Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, and Moose are also hunted under special permits. See Montana FWP for information on hunting in Montana (https://fwp.mt.gov/) or talk to an outfitter to plan a guided hunt.
Winter Sports – Lost Trail Ski Area is an hour from East Ridge Ranch at the south end of the Bitterroot Valley. Cross Country Skiing, Snowmobiling, Ice Skating are Sledding are also popular winter activities.
Rivers & Lakes – The Bitterroot River runs down the middle of the valley and is popular for fly fishing, floating, tubing, swimming and paddling.
Whitewater Rafting – “Montana’s premier whitewater location is the Alberton Gorge, located just minutes from Missoula on the Clark Fork River. With class II and III whitewater this is a great trip for beginners and experts alike with lots of splash and plenty of swimming opportunities. The best time of year to raft the river is late June through early August. Plan a trip with a local river guide and take the whole family on a trip that will be remembered forever.” – VisitMT.com We suggest a half day adventure as drive times out to Alberton Gorge from East Ridge Ranch (1.5-2 hours) turn this into a full day trip.
Golf – The Stock Farm (private/members only), Hamilton Golf Club (public – 18 hole), Whitetail Golf Course (public – 9 hole).
What amenities are included in my stay at East Ridge Ranch?
East Ridge Ranch offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay, including fully-equipped kitchens, comfortable bedding, laundry facilities, and a cozy living space. Outdoor amenities include an expansive deck, multiple seating areas, gas firepit, BBQ grill, large and horseshoe pits, perfect for enjoying Montana’s natural beauty.
Can I book East Ridge Ranch for special events or gatherings?
East Ridge Ranch is not currently available for large special events, parties, and gatherings. But we are always open to small groups or use for filming and photography, please contact us directly to discuss.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Every season holds a special splendor in Montana but the high season for visitors tends to run April-October with peak season being June-September. If you are visiting for fly fishing, please discuss and take your outfitters advice on trip timing. Deer and Elk archery season in MT is September 2-October 15, rifle season is October 21-November 26, and muzzleloader season is December 9-17.
Which accommodation should I book?
It depends on your preference, group size, and budget! The three configuration options are described in more detail on the BOOK page but here are the basics:
The Owner’s Suite – Up to 2 people – 1 Suite with bathroom
The Lodge – Up to 6 people – 2 bedrooms – 1 Bunk Room – 2 Bathrooms
East Ridge Ranch – Entire property (Owner’s Suite and Lodge Combined) – Up to 8 people – 3 Bedrooms – 1 Bunk Room – 3 Bathrooms
No matter the booking configuration you choose, you will be the only guests at the property for your stay!
How can I book a fly-fishing trip?
The Bitterroot River is a north flowing freestone river starting just south of Darby, Montana and connecting into the Clark Fork River in Missoula, Montana. With over 75 miles of fishable water, the Bitterroot offers world class fishing from March to November. The cherry on top is that each month the Bitterroot flourishes with multiple dry fly hatches that even the most experienced anglers can’t get enough of.
Our preferred fly-fishing outfitter partner is Log Jam outfitters!
“What better way to spend your valuable time than on a clean professional boat catching wild trout in magnificent backdrop of the Bitterroot Valley? Being Log Jam Outfitter’s home water, our guides are finely tuned to giving you some of the top fly-fishing experiences on the river. Learn how to ethically catch and handle species like Rainbow trout, Brown trout, and Cutthroat trout. Our guides offer some of the best interactive and educational trips in the state. Call today to book your Montana fly fishing trip.”
Hamilton, Montana | Phone: 406-361-1861 | Email: logjamoutfitters@gmail.com
Are pets allowed at the property?
While we love animals, but East Ridge Ranch currently does not accommodate pets to ensure the comfort of all our guests and safety of the livestock in the area. We appreciate your understanding!
About the location?
East Ridge Ranch is located an hour from Missoula Airport (MSO) in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley. The location is ideally situated for a variety of activities including fly fishing, hiking, skiing, and exploring the scenic Bitterroot Valley. Local towns of Darby, Hamilton, Corvallis and Stevensville offer charming dining and shopping experiences.
How can I get there?
Missoula, MT Airport has year-round and seasonal direct flight options for easy area access! https://flymissoula.com/airlines-destinations
East Ridge Ranch is located about an hour from the airport so a car will be essential to your stay and enjoying everything Montana has to offer! There are rental cars available at the airport or options like “Toro” to book a car to use during your stay. We suggest booking ahead as the rental car companies will sell out during high season.
Is there internet access at the ranch?
Yes, East Ridge Ranch provides high-speed Starlink wifi internet access to all guests. Whether you’re staying for leisure or work, you can stay connected during your stay.
Where can I shop for groceries?
You can stop in Missoula at Costco, Target or any other large store on your way from the airport but there many local stores closer to East Ridge Ranch that we suggest as fresh meats and produces are one of the great things to enjoy in MT:
Stevensville – 25mins – Super 1 Foods (Large Grocery), The Sour Doe (Cafe & Farm Store), Burnt Fork Market (Small Local Grocery), Heritage Market (Amish Market and Cafe) and Stevensville Farmer’s Market (Sat Morning Seasonally).
Corvallis – 10mins – Bowers Market (Mini Grocery & Convivence) and Bar MW Meats (Butcher).
Hamilton – 15mins – Super 1 Foods (Large Grocery), Albertsons (Large Grocery), Safeway (Large Grocery), Hamilton’s Market (Small Local Grocery), Cheers (Liquor Store), Red Rooster (Cafe & Bakery), Hamilton Wine & Liquor (Liquor Store), Seppi’s European Market (Small Fine Market & Deli), Jessi’s Wine & Goods (Wine Shop), Hamilton Packing (Butcher) and Hamilton Farmer’s Market (Sat Morning Seasonally – https://www.hamiltonfarmersmarket.org/).
East Ridge Ranch 