FAQ & Ravalli County

The Bitterroot Valley

South of Missoula, the Bitterroot Valley runs between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains along Highway 93. Here are answers to the questions Courtney hears most often from people looking at homes and land in the valley.

What are the towns in the Bitterroot Valley like?

The valley follows Highway 93 south from Missoula, and each town has its own feel:

  • Florence: The closest to Missoula and popular with commuters. It’s quiet and rural, and many homes sit on acreage.
  • Stevensville: Montana’s oldest town, with a walkable historic Main Street and a small-town community.
  • Victor and Corvallis: Small farm-country towns with open land, mountain views and a slower pace.
  • Hamilton: The valley’s hub, with a hospital, shopping, restaurants and a lively downtown.
  • Darby, Conner and Sula: The quieter upper valley, close to national forest, rivers and backcountry recreation.
How far is the Bitterroot Valley from Missoula?

Florence is about 25 minutes south of Missoula on Highway 93, and Hamilton is about an hour. Many Bitterroot residents commute to Missoula for work, shopping, and medical care.

What should I know about buying land with a well or septic system?

Many Bitterroot properties are outside town water and sewer systems. Before you buy:

  • Wells: Ask for the well log and pump details, and test the water quality and flow rate.
  • Septic: Get a septic inspection and confirm the system is permitted with Ravalli County Environmental Health.
  • Water rights and irrigation: Water rights are separate from the land in Montana. Check which rights come with the property and whether it has ditch or irrigation district shares. Ownership of water rights must be updated with the Montana DNRC after a sale.
  • Land use: Check easements, road access and any covenants, especially on larger parcels.

Courtney can help you work through all of this on any property you’re considering.

Serving Missoula County and Ravalli County: Missoula, Lolo, Florence, Stevensville, Victor, Corvallis, Hamilton, Darby, Conner, and Sula.