Bitterroot Valley Vista 2014

ista BITTERROOT VALLEY 2014

activities & events in the

April 2014

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Vista 2014 - Page 3

contents lorence......................... 5 tevensville.................. 10 ictor............................ 18 orvallis....................... 24 PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

vista

is published by the Ravalli Republic Newspaper Publisher Jim McGowan Editor Sherry Devlin General Manager Jim Coulter COVER PHOTO David Erickson

alley Map.............. 32-33 amilton....................... 34 arby, Conner & Sula.... 44 almon......................... 50 alendar of events........ 58

Production & Design Dara Saltzman Project Sales Frannie Cummings Kathy Kelleher Jodi Lopez Justine Morris Bitterroot Valley Vista 2014 is a publication of The Ravalli Republic, a division of Lee Enterprises. Copyright 2014 by the Ravalli Republic.

232 W Main, Hamilton, MT 59840 • 406-363-3300 www.ravallirepublic.com

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

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PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

WELCOME TO THE BITTERROOT VALLEY! All of us here at the Ravalli Republic love sharing the beauty and vitality of our communities with all the friends, neighbors and newcomers who visit our valley each year.

Inside this edition of Vista, you’ll find a guide to our towns and the many events that fill our days. Ice cream socials. Rodeos. An awesome county fair. Cultural festivals, and music. Dance and theater. Sporting events and recreational pastimes.

Over the years, we’ve all found our favorites - those dates on the calendar we look forward to each season. Who doesn’t eagerly await

the fresh-baked apple pies on Apple Days in Hamilton? Or the Creamery Picnic and its sweet dairy treats in Stevensville? Or the looks on the faces of the 4-H kids during judging at the Ravalli County Fair?

And best of all, there are new events added each year, and new twists on old favorites. So off we go to enjoy another year out and about in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley of western Montana. Enjoy!

Sherry Devlin Editor, Ravalli Republic

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PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

lorence

The town of Florence, named for the wife of lumber titan A.B. Hammond, sits at the northern edge of Ravalli County on Highway 93.

The prominently Irish-settled area had previously been referred to as One Horse.

Hammond was instrumental in the development of the timber industry in the Bitterroot, and also brought the railroad into the area.

The town of Florence was established in 1888, and later merged a northern neighbor called Carlton, still seen in the name of the FlorenceCarlton School District. During its heyday as a farming area, as many as 100 carloads of wheat a day were shipped out of Florence.

Surrounded with stunning scenery, the Florence area has ample opportunity for outdoor recreation, including hunting, hiking, biking and wildlife observation.

Bass Creek Recreation Area The 1,600 acre Bass Creek Recreation Area south of Florence provides myriad options for getting outdoors. Its popularity is evidenced

by the more than 50,000 people who visit the area annually.

Bass Creek contains six trailheads, ranging from quarter mile loops to longer routes exceeding 7.5 miles. The trails are also a popular destination for horseback riders. It is the perfect stop and use the picnic tables for a meal, while enjoying the stunning nature of the Bitterroot. The Charles Waters Campground is open from April through September for those wishing to stay overnight.

Bass Creek Recreation Area can be reached by taking Bass Creek Road four miles south of Florence on Highway 93. Call 406-777-5461 or drop by a ranger station for more information.

Chief Looking Glass Fishing Access Visitors to the Bitterroot area are always looking for a way to enjoy the Bitterroot River.

The Chief Looking Glass fishing access northeast of town is just one of the easy and convenient ways to get to the water.

Whether putting in to float, swim, fish, or just looking for a place to take a break, Chief Looking Glass is a convenient way to do it. Just turn off on Chief Looking Glass road north of Florence on Highway 93 at mile marker 77. Another fishing access is located just east of Florence on the Eastside Highway, just before crossing the bridge.

Artists Along the Bitterroot Some people would be surprised at how many extremely talented artists live and work in the Bitterroot Valley. To give them a better platform to showcase their work, a group of Ravalli artists has come together to organize the annual Artists Along the Bitterroot, a studio tour where the public can meet 30 different area artists and see their work. Learn about the work that goes into making a piece

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of glass, a collection or photography or how a leatherworker plys their trade.

Artists Along the Bitterroot, in its sixth year, will have open studio tours from June 6-8.

Studios are located throughout the Bitterroot Valley. Visit artistsalongthebitterroot.com for studio locations, as well as information about the artists and samples of their work.



Open All Year!

Hideout Mountain Park Hideout Mountain Park, located on Florence Carlton Loop, is a kids playground in the town of Florence. Children can climb up into turrets, run across bridges connecting different areas of the park, or use slides to let loose some pent-up energy.

A water park feature is also open during the spring and summer months. Hideout Mountain is a great place to stop for a rest, picnic, or just to let kids run around. Scenic backdrops and plenty of shade mean parents will enjoy the stop as well.



Parsons Pony Farm Parsons Pony Farm, located near Florence, is the perfect way to introduce children to riding. Young riders will learn about grooming, hoof care and saddling before being taken on a ride led by an experienced guide.

Bring a camera during the ride up into the Pony Wood Forest on the property, situated up against the Bitterroot Mountains. Parsons offers one and a half hour rides for kids, with parents welcome to walk alongside or wait at

shaded picnic tables.

Ponies are available year round but rides require a reservation in advance. Contact Parsons Pony Farm for directions and reservations at parsonsponies.com or by calling 406273-3363.

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PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

Caffe Firenze Caffe Firenze, just off Highway 93 on the Eastside Highway in Florence, is some of the best dining around. Serving authentic old world Italian cuisine, and with stunning views of the Bitterroot Mountains, cap off a day with wine and osso bucco or a locally brewed beer and pizza.

Opening by 10:00 a.m. means customers can also enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch as well. Take out and drive through are also an option.

See caffefirenze.com for details, including a menu, or call them at 406-273-2923.

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, located between Florence and Stevensville along the Eastside Highway, is a birdwatchers dream location.

Established in 1963 as a habitat for migratory birds, Lee Metcalf has come to be a home for many varieties of animals and more than 235 species of birds in the Bitterroot Valley.

The refuge provides everything from wildlife observation and photography to limited hunting and fishing. The extensive list of animals and birds on the refuge include osprey,

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PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

bald eagles, great horned owls and tundra swans, as well as elk, wolves and beaver.

Drive through the park on the road or walk the 2.5 miles of nature trails in the refuge. See fws.gov/leemetcalf or call 406-777-5552 for details.

Whitetail Golf Course The Whitetail Golf Course, situated up against the Lee Metcalf Wilderness between Florence and Stevensville, is a nine-hole course with more than 2,800 yards of golf.

In addition to the course itself is the setting,

with panoramic views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountain ranges. It also has cart and club rentals. Other courses in the area include the 18-hole Hamilton Golf Club, and the Montana Pro Golf in Florence.

Call 406-777-3636 or visit whitetailgolfcourse.net.

Kootenai Creek Trail The Kootenai Creek Trail dips back and forth along its namesake, and is one of the more popular in the region. The creek has several small pools of water along the way,

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making Kootenai Creek Trail a perfect fit to walk and stop to put your feet in the water before heading back.

The trail ends at Kootenai Lakes, nine miles in, but the journey there is spectacular, so walk as much as you like. The last six miles get steeper.

To get to the trailhead, take Kootenai Creek Road west from the highway south of Florence, just before the cutoff to Stevensville.

Go up the road two miles to reach the start of the Kootenai Creek Trail.Head in to a ranger station for maps and other hikes in the Bitterroot.

Threemile Wildlife Management Area The Threemile Wildlife Management Area sits east of Florence, and is more than 6,000 acres of natural habitat for everything from elk and deer to grouse and black bears. It is now

a popular spot for hunting and wildlife observation in the Bitterroot.

The Threemile is open from May 15 until the start of December. It is an excellent place for hiking, biking or horseback riding, and of course, nature and bird watching. It is also a great place to camp, or to set up a quick picnic. Just remember, if you pack it in, pack it out. Hunting is allowed in the Threemile area, which also has limited access for two-wheel drive vehicles when the weather is dry.

To reach the Threemile Wildlife Management Area, take the Eastside Highway from Florence for 6 miles, before turning onto Threemile Creek Road. Call 406-240-0558 or visit fwp.mt.gov for more information.

Explore the Estate of a King Visit the summer home of Copper Baron and Millionaire Marcus Daly, his wife Margaret and their four children.

Tours Mother’s Day through Mid-October 10am to 3pm on the hour.

$9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children, 6 & under free

251 East Side Highway, Hamilton

363-6004 • www.dalymansion.org

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PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

tevensville

Stevensville is the genesis of Montana. With the St. Mary’s Mission, founded by an Italian priest in 1841, Stevensville is recognized as the first permanent settlement in the state.

The mission was later improved by Antonio Ravalli, who the county is named after.

In the 1850s, Fort Owen, a trading post, was established in the town, and in 1863,

the town’s first store was built. Stevensville is named after Isaac Stevens, who had been the governor of the Washington Territory at the time.

The town of Stevensville is flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains, and holds frequent festivals and activities, especially through the summer. The place has no shortage of small town charm.

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Farmers market Every Saturday from May through October, there are farmer’s markets in the park in downtown Stevensville from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Local food and art producers set up tables and booths to sell their wares, and wandering the farmers market is a great way to see the people of Stevensville and take home a memento of what makes the town unique.

Farmer’s markets start in the morning and continue through the early afternoon. Food vendors also set up there, so it is a great way to grab a quick lunch as well. Anyone interested in being a vendor can call Stacie at 406381-6145.

St Mary’s Mission/Founders Day St Mary’s Mission is likely the most historic location in all of the Bitterroot, the capstone

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of Stevensville’s claim as “Where Montana Began.”

In 1841, forty eight years before Montana became a state, Pierre Jean DeSmet, a Jesuit missionary, established the mission for the Native American Salish and Nez Perce tribes.

It was the first church in the Pacific Northwest and the first pioneer settlement in the state.

Several years later, after being attacked by Blackfeet, the mission was abandoned.

In 1866, Fr. Anthony Ravalli, an Italian who had served at the old mission, built a new church near the original, which still stands today. It is a testament to the pioneer spirit of early Western travelers.

Every year, Founders Day is celebrated at the mission. This year, it falls on Sept. 28. This year, Founders Day honors John Owen, who in 1850 established one of the oldest Native American trading posts in the region.

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Guided tour of the mission are available from April 15 until Oct. 15, Tuesday through Saturday.

St Mary’s Mission is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, and is located at the west end of 4th Street in Stevensville.

More information can be found online at saintmarysmission.org or by calling 406-7775734.

august 1st and 2nd, 2014

Lewis & cLark park, stevensviLLe Includes parades, kids games, live entertainment, brew fest, Milk Run, craft and food vendors, and the 13th Annual MT State BBQ Championship. FREE shuttle.

CREAMERyPICnIC.CoM

Presented by Stevensville Civic Club - stevensvillecivicclub.com

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Founders day

Sunday, September 28, 2014 at 2pm Historic St. Mary’s Mission, Stevensville W End of 4th St, Stevensville • 406-777-5734 • saintmarysmission.org This is truly a community event applicable to residents of Stevensville, the Bitterroot Valley, and all of Montana. Learn of the many “firsts” for Montana which took place here. We guarantee that you will be entertained and amazed at the contributions of the Salish Indians and the early pioneers. The Celebration is free of charge.

Schedule of eventS

2 p.m. Ringing of St. Mary’s chapel Bell A ReEnactment of the events on September 24, 1841, as the Salish Indians welcome the “Blackrobe” Missionaries.

The beginning roots of Montana’s first pioneer settlement Stevensville “Where Montana Began” 3 to 4:30 p.m. BBQ and Antique collectibles Auction 1 to 4 p.m.

Guided tours at reduced rates 1 to 5 p.m.

Museum and Gift Shop open Sponsored by Stevensville Civic Club & Historic St. Mary’s Mission, Inc.

A Montana Country Christmas Celebrate the holiday the Montana way when Stevensville’s annual Christmas celebrations are held Dec. 5-6. Montana Country Christmas features a parade of lights, pictures with Santa and caroling down Main Street.

The town decks the halls with holiday decorations and lights adorning the downtown area. Local businesses hold open houses with Christmas treats and decorated trees, and horse and wagon and hay rides occur throughout the evening. More information can be found online at mainstreetsstevensville.com Creamery Picnic In its 102nd year, the Creamery Picnic is the staple event of Stevensville. From August 1-2, enjoy a parade, barbecue contest, music, food and beer. The family event also has ice cream, locally crafted goods for sale, and even a car show.

The main event of the Creamery Picnic is a mobile dairy that shows off how milk products are made. Visitors haven’t really experienced Stevensville until they have been to the Creamery Picnic, which draws more than 7,000 people.

The event started in 1907 when local dairymen came together to form a coop creamery.

The creamery was destroyed by a fire in 1911, and the coop’s manager said if the town

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party all the same.

The Creamery Picnic is held at the Lewis and Clark Park in Stevensville. More details can be found online at creamerypicnic.com

RUSS LAWRENCE / Ravalli Republic

could rebuild it in 30 days, he would hold the biggest event Stevensville had ever seen.

Slough the reconstruction went slightly long, the manager decided to put together the

Big Sky Renaissance Faire Each year, the Big Sky Renaissance Faire in Stevensville, provides family friendly entertainment including jousting and armed combat out on by the members of the Warlord and Order of Epona. A fairy queen will be telling stories, and a group of gypsies will have a series of games for kids.

With a turkey leg in one hand and a flaggon of mead in the other, visitors will feel like they landed in the middle of King Arthur’s court, including vendors in traditional outfits. Visitors are encouraged to don their own medieval garb, if they so choose.

This year, the fourth annual festival will be

• FREE Breakfast Buffet with Fresh Waffles • 24 Hour Indor Pool, Sauna, Spa & Fitness Center • Free High Speed Wireless • Conference Facility For All Occasions • Pet Friendly

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held June 27-29, off Highway 93 just north of Stevensville. Look for the colored flags to know you have found the right place. Tickets are $6 for adults or $15 for a full weekend pass. Family passes are also available for $18. See mainstreetstevensville.com for details.

Blacksmith Brewing Company This brewery, on Main Street in Stevensville, was, as the name implies, previously a Blacksmith’s shop. Every time he had made a brand, he had burned the symbol into one of the walls. All of those brands still decorate Blacksmith Brewing Company, which opened in 2008.

Come by for a pint or a taster glass of each of Blacksmith’s brews. Two beers that shouldn’t be missed are the Brickhouse

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

Phone: (406) 961-3001 Fax: (406) 961-3230

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Web: www.ravallielectric.com Email: service@ravallielectric.com

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Blonde, a wheat beer with hints of banana, clove and honey, and the Pulaski Porter, a strong dark beer that tops the location’s list for alcohol content. If you want to take some home, buy and fill up a growler with your favorite brew.

Blacksmith’s tap room is open Sunday through Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and Friday and

Saturday from noon until 8:00 p.m.

Blacksmith brewery also has a rotating selection of seasonal beers and live music.

Details can be found online at blacksmithbrewing.com.

Scarecrow Festival The annual Scarecrow Festival is the town of Stevensville’s premier art event. Locals decorate scarecrows, which are then put on display and judged to receive prizes. The public can also cast votes for a series of people’s choice awards.

The Scarecrow Festival coincides with the First Friday celebration in October, this year on Oct. 3, and scarecrows are kept on display around town for the following week. There is also a pumpkin carving contest and horse-drawn wagon rides on the Friday kickoff.

Call 406-777-3773, or look at mainstreetstevensville.com for more information.

Western Heritage Days Western Heritage Days celebrates Stevensville’s and the surrounding area’s western roots. Running two days, from June 20-21, the festival includes

PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

Bitterroot Arts Guild

Art in the Park

D owntow n S tev en Sv il l e

Friday, June 20th 5-9pm & Saturday, June 21St 10am -10pm

HistoricHometour wagonRides&BarnyardGames

July 25th & 26th, 2014 • 9am - 5pm

2nd & Bedford HAmilton Lots of arts & craft booths!

for more information call mary lockwood @ 821-4678

Parade • CalCutta cHuckwaGon cook-off vendors • food • beer garden

live muSic withShoDown

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First Friday The first Friday of every month, downtown Stevensville plays host to an arts and culture show that spans the whole town. Local businesses each host an artist on Friday evening, and let them have a live showing and the ability to sell their work.

First Fridays also have live music and food venders as most businesses stay open late at night, making it the perfect setting to walk to blocks and see just what all Stevensville has to offer.

Visit mainstreetstevensville.com or call 406-777-3773 for details.

a parade or cowboys, cowgirls and Native American PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic representatives, and floats honoring the traditions and history of the town. Members of the Salish tribe provide a demonstration of of drumming, singing and dancing.

Heritage Days also has a series of “barnyard competitions” sidewalk sales and a chuck wagon cook off. A trolley wagon pulled

by Belgian horses runs through the town sharing the history of Stevensville’s position as the place where Montana began.

The event is held throughout downtown Stevensville and the St. Mary’s Mission. Visit mainstreetstevensville.com or call 406-7773773 for details.

Fort Owen State Park Fort Owen State Park, celebrates the history of the 250-foot by 125-foot log cabin that was built in the mid-1800s, and now sits on a one acre park at the site of the original St Mary’s Mission.

In 1850, Major John Owen moved to the area, and established the fort as a trading post with the Native Americans and immigrants. It is also the location of the state’s first sawmill, grist mill, and first settler school.

The site now contains period furnishings and artifacts that have been put on display in the restored east barracks. Interpretive signs and exhibits detail the park’s historical significance. Fort Owen is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.

Fort Owen State Park is located just north of Stevensville. Call 406-542-5500 or visit stateparks.mt.gov/fort-owen for more information.

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DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

ictor

The town of Victor once had to change its name from Garfield, after President James Garfield, to the name of a chief of a Salish Native American tribe. The new name came when the town attempted to establish a post office, only to find the name Garfield was already taken.

The town was founded in part by A.S. Blake and his Native American wife, who came to

the area in the 1860s. Blake was later elected the first state legislator of Missoula County, a part of which would later become Ravalli County.

In any direction from Victor, there is something to do, from a horseback and hiking trails, to river access and more. Visit the Victor Heritage Museum, stop by a farmers market, or stay at one of the many lodges and bed and breakfasts near the town.

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Victor Heritage Museum The Victor Heritage Museum is located in a building at the corner of Blake and Main that had once been the Victor train depot.

Originally built in 1928, it was moved to its current location in 1990. It now houses the history of the region told through artifacts of Native Americans, the railroad, churches and agriculture.

The museum gives a tangible look at what the lives if the people who had lived in the area were like, from school to the mines, ranching to the expansion of the telegraph lines. A gift shop sells books that were written about the history of the area and in some cases penned by its inhabitants. This includes the Bitter Root Trails series, chronicling the history of area pioneer families.

The heritage museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and is open

from 1:00-4:00 Tuesdays through Saturdays.

More information can be found online at victorheritagemuseum.org or by calling 406-6423997.

Victor Heritage Museum Annual Chocolate Tasting Party The first Monday in December, the Victor Heritage Museum holds an annual fundraising event in the form of a silent auction and chocolate tasting. For a $5 fee, a participant can sample locally made sweets, and have the chance to bid on items donated by local businesses, from goods and gift cards to overnights packages at area hotels and lodges.

For more information, see victorheritagemuseum.org.

Highway 93 Bike Path A paved bicycle path connects Hamilton to

45 Microbrews and Select Wines from Montana & the Northwest Best Community Outdoor Party of the Year!

Come vote for your Favorite Beer!

Victor Heritage Museum Celebrating our 25th Anniversary!

Historic Northern Pacific Depot Main & Blake, Victor • (406) 642-3997 P.O. Box 610, Victor, MT 59875

20

OPEN Memorial Day (May 25th) through Labor Day (Sept. 1st), Tue - Sat 1-4pm

2014 EVENTS SchEDuLE “Lighting the Way to Victor’s Past” Watch for Summer Program Dates

August 31st, Noon - 3PM: 10th Annual Ice cream Social Alumni Display During Victor School homecoming Date TBA - Open 9AM-Noon Dec. 1st, 4-9pm: 18th Annual chocolate Tasting & Silent Auction Purchase a history of Victor, “Bitter Root Trails IV” at the Victor Heritage Museum gift shop.

To become a member or for more information on the Victor Heritage Museum please contact: Suzanne 363-3165 • Joann 363-1509 • Angie 642-3924 victorheritagemuseum.org • victormuseum@cybernet1.com

2014

Saturday, July 26th • 3-10pm, Legion Park, Hamilton, MT Food, Fun & Live Music starting at 3pm

Headlining Band - “Shakewell” $20 for 5 tastes & a commemorative glass

(406) 363-2400

b i t t e r r o o t c h a m b e r. c o m • b i t t e r r o o t b r e w f e s t @ g m a i l . c o m

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Lolo in a 45 mile stretch that runs along Highway 93. The bike path is relatively new and is kept in great shape.

The path is a smooth ride for anyone who prefers road bikes over mountain bikes. The Eastside Highway that connects Florence and Hamilton is another fantastic option for seeing the Bitterroot on a bike. Ride through the valley, experiencing the rugged peaks of the Bitterroot Mountains, the serene waters of

the Bitterroot River, or the rolling fields and hills to the east.

Make a full day of it and head from one end to the other, stopping in towns like Florence and Victor along the way. During the summer in particular, dozens of bikers take to the path each day to enjoy being outdoors in the Bitterroot.

Local bike stores, including Red Barn Bicycles in Hamilton, are a great place to get more information or to inquire about renting DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic bikes. Red Barn Bicycles can be contacted at 406-369-0487 or redbarnbicycles.com

ILTON WN HAM O T N W DO

Y L A D J U LY

2 0 1 4

Days sponsored by Hamilton Downtown Association

Hamilton’s annual Heritage Celebration

JULY 25th & 26th

Downtown: Where Hamilton Happens!

IN-STORE SALES & SPECIALS • Historical walking tour & events with the Ravalli County Museum • CRAFT & FOOD VENDORS • Street dance with live music BITTERRODDER’S CAR SHOW • Kids’ activities Historical re-enactments at the Daly Mansion Hamilton Soroptimist Events: “Kiss the Pig” contest, wiener dog races and more!

360-9124 • hamiltondowntownassociation.org

Lifeline Farm Lifeline Farm in Victor is a dairy operation comprising more than 400 Brown Swiss cows and more than 20 sheep, and a farming outfit producing vegetables, herbs and flowers. The dairy puts out cheese and milk products, as well as selling beef throughout the state, and at the farm itself.

The farm has been in the Victor are for 35 years, growing from a small vegetable farm to the full-scale dairy and produce operation it is today. Lifeline also raises pigs, and sells pork cuts and sausage.All of Lifeline’s products are certified organic. Tours of the operation can be arranged by calling ahead.

Lifeline Farm is located at 2533 Pleasant View Dr. in Victor. Call 406-642-9717 or visit lifelinefarm.com.

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Hidden Legend Winery The Hidden Legend Winery in Victor is an award-winning purveyor of locally-sourced wines and meads made with ingredients from the Bitterroot Valley.

The winery has more than a dozen styles of mead made with local honey or berries, and several varieties of wine. While it’s products can also be found in a variety of local stores, the tasting room also provides tours to customers on the process behind the drinks.

The Hidden Legend Winery tasting room is open for free tastings and tours Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

The Hidden Legend Winery

is located at 1345 on Highway 93, at the junction with Sheafman Creek Road, in the Sheafman Corner Plaza. More details can be found at hiddenlegendwinery.com or by calling 406-363-6323.

Redsun Labyrinth The Redsun Labyrinth, located four miles west of Victor, is modeled after the design of an 800-yearold pattern from the Chartres Cathedral in France. At the Redsun, more than 25 tons of field stones were used to recreated the pattern, an excellent way to have a quiet, meditative stroll as you look out on the beautiful landscape of the Bitterroot.

The Redsun Labyrinth is one of

FILE PHOTO / Ravalli Republic

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the largest in the United States, at more than 100 feet in diameter. It can be found by turning west on 5th Street in Victor, then taking a left onto Pleasant View Drive and following the signs.

Walking the full labyrinth path takes about a half hour, so be sure to set aside a bit of time if visiting. See redsunlabyrinth.com for details.

Cowboy Troy’s Cowboy Troy’s bar in Victor is all about two things, drinks and dancing. If you are looking for a place to put on your boots and hat and cut loose, you’ve come to the right place.

Cowboy Troy’s is located at 2359 Highway 93 in Victor. The bar was last year’s winner in the Bitterroot’s Best awards for best cowboy bar. Cowboy Troy’s features margarita specials on Tuesdays, and dollar Pabst Blue Ribbon on Wednesday’s with live music and karaoke throughout the week.

Rocking L Alpacas Tour an alpaca farm at the Rocking L Ranch, located just off the highway between Victor and Hamilton. The Rocking L is a great place to bring kids to learn about these creatures,

ZENO WICKS / Ravalli Republic

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as the Rocking L has more than 30 Drive. Almost four miles down alpacas on its land.

Pleasant View, look for the Alpacas, a South American marked junction with forest animal that looks similar to road 1325, which ends at a small llama, are friendly the trailhead. creatures whose fleece is Stop into a ranger staused in the textile in partion for maps and other ticular as a popular fabric hikes. The Bear Creek Trail similar to wool. in the same area is another There is also a store sellgood pick for a day hike, ing products made from or for the more adventurous, the alpaca’s fleece. To reach the four mile hike to the sumthe Rocking L Ranch, turn west off mit and fire lookout at St. Mary’s Highway 93 at mile marker 56 and PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic peak. go down the road about 2 miles.

Call 406-642-3085 for more details, or see the Sweathouse Creek Climbing Rocking L Alpacas Facebook page.

The Bitterroot is quite a destination for rock climbers in the area. Sweathouse Creek west Bear Creek Overlook Trail of Victor is no exception, and contains dozThe Bear Creek Overlook Trail southwest ens of large rocks perfect for short boulder of Victor provides scenery that is unforgetroutes. table, especially in the summer. The views of To get to Sweathouse Creek, go west the Bear Creek drainage and the Bitterroot on 5th Street in Victor. When the street Mountains should not be missed. hits a junction, take a right, then turn on to The 2.8 mile round-trip has a slight elevaSweathouse Creek Creek road and follow it to tion gain but has only a moderate degree a designated parking area. of difficulty and is a good choice for a more Lost Horse Canyon south of Hamilton, as simple day hike. well as Blodgett, Kootenai and Mill Creek To get to the trailhead, take Bear Creek canyons are also very popular for their climbRoad west from Highway 93 a few miles south ing. Whether testing your own limits or just of Victor. Turn north at Red Crow Road and watching others chalk up and hold on, these continue until heading west on Pleasant View climber favorites are worth the trip.

• Fresh Cheese Curds • Cream on Top Milk • Farmstead Organic Beef & Pork • Organic Half & Half • Organic Light Cream

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Page 24 - Vista 2014

orvallis

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

Corvallis Corvallis was first settled by Elijah and Margaret Chaffin, who named the area Chaffinville. Explorer John Mullan had previously used an area near Corvallis as a location for a winter base. The town was later renamed Corvallis after a town in Oregon in 1866.

Corvallis has a long history in agriculture, with some of the most fertile land in the region, and is home to the Western Montana

Agricultural Research Experiment Station.

Numerous old farm houses dot the roadside of the Eastside Highway.

The town of Corvallis is home to the Teller Wildlife Refuge, which sits along four miles of the Bitterroot River. Head out of town for a chance at seeing wildlife, or grab a quick meal at the Memories Cafe.

Vista 2014 - Page 25

Drive the Eastside Highway If you are approaching Corvallis from the north, you have already seen the stunning landscape. If you are coming up from the south, you’re in for a treat. The Eastside Highway offers some of the best views in the Bitterroot and is worth turning off the highway for if you are in the area to sightsee.

The Eastside Highway was the main road between Hamilton and Florence before Highway 93 was constructed.

Turn off in Florence or in Hamilton to experience the majesty. A number of historic locations and buildings, listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, dot the landscape, including St. Mary’s Mission, the Brooks Hotel, Fort Owen and Tammany Castle, which was once the stables of Marcus Daly.

Swanson’s Mountain View Apple Orchards The Swanson’s Mountain View Apple Orchards, just north of town, connect visitors not just with the tradition and history of the Bitterroot valley and its apples, but the farm also makes some very tasty cider that is for sale as well.

During the apple season, usually running from August until December, the orchard is open from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. seven days a week, and is open to the public to see all of the process behind making the cider. Visitors can view everything from picking and grating the apples to the actual pressing and bottling of the apple cider.

Even when the apple season is over, the distillery, making various apple-based spirits, is still running year round, and people can stop by to peruse the selection or see how the distillation process works. The orchard asks that

Voted bitterroot’s best steak Located in Corvallis, at the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, The Wild Mare restaurant is open Wednesday thru Saturday from 5-9 p.m for dinner.

montana’s best steakhouse CheCk our webSiTe for evenTS & SpeCialS! 283 2nd St | Corvallis, MT 59828 (on the corner of 2nd & Market) www.thewildmare.com | 406-961-8938

Page 26 - Vista 2014

Memorial Day parade This annual Corvallis staple, which winds its way through the town, draws in visitors from around the Bitterroot and beyond. It includes demonstrations and participation from the local post of the American Legion, a sponsor of the parade, local The Wild Mare school children, as well as Anyone looking for a floats and music, such as special dinner to cap a bagpipe band that off a weekend in the comes into town from Bitterroot should Missoula. stop in to The Wild It also includes a Mare. The Wild pancake breakfast, Mare is the curas well as other rent holder of the food venders, and Bitterroot’s Best a small carnival. award for Best The parade begins Steak, and whether at 10:00 a.m. after its the rib eye, filet a pancake breakfast, mignon or the flat and events continue iron, this place knows into the afternoon. its meat. Even if you’re Members of American not hungry for steak, The Wild Legion Corvallis Post 91 read Mare still has you covered, with a DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic the names of the more than 500 broad menu that includes burgveterans buried in the Corvallis ers, salads, chicken and pasta. If you’re in the cemetery, some of whom date back to 1848. area and looking for a great meal, drop in on With Memorial Day on May 26 this year, the The Wild Mare on Second Street in Corvallis Corvallis Memorial Day parade is where all on Wednesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. the local from miles around are going to be. to 9 p.m., or check out a full menu online at thewildmare.com anyone planning on stopping by out of season calls ahead, to make sure someone will be there to greet them when they arrive, at at 406-961-3434 or 406-369-3184. More information can be found at Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard’s Facebook page.

406.426.2651 Boards • Trucks • Wheels 354 Cooper Lane, Hamilton, Montana 59840

406.363.3735 hfbc@qwestoffice.net

Sunglasses • Accessories

AM & PM services every Sunday 10:45 & 6:30 Bible Study and Prayer Meeting every Wed. at 6 PM AWANA from Sept. to Apr. on Wed. at 6:15-8:00pm

Hats • Shorts

Pastor Darrell Schoppa

SUMMER EVENTS

July 20th - 6:30pm - Proclaimers Concert July 21st-25th -Vacation Bible School

Tees • Hoodies and more!

164 S. 3rd St. #A (alley entrance), Hamilton • Mon-Sat. 10-5

Vista 2014 - Page 27

Teller Wildlife Refuge The Teller Wildlife Refuge, which runs along four miles of the Bitterroot River, is a 1,200 acre wildlife conservation area of one of Montana’s best riparian habitats.

More than 50 acres of the area are open to the public.

The opened areas include the mile long Teller Trail, which is perfect for hiking, bird watching and fishing. The wildlife refuge is located just north of Corvallis on the Eastside Highway.

There are a limited number of cabins and restored farmhouses for rent at the Teller, including renovated versions of two of the oldest and most historic farmhouses in the area. The Teller Wildlife Refuge PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

Home of the Fast, Friendly, Full Service

OIL CHANGE

15 years serving the Bitterroot Valley

• Free pick up and delivery in the Hamilton area • Transmission, radiator and all other fluid services available • Now servicing Air Conditioning

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Page 28 - Vista 2014

also has limited deer, pheasant and bird hunting available. Call 406961-3507 or visit theteller.org.

recently putting into service an anaerobic digester that produces energy from captured methane gas, reducing greenhouse gases and creating energy for the dairy. The digester also produces a nutrientrich fertilizer called Afterburner Boost, which the dairy bags and sells.

Call 406-961-8887 or visit hulsdairy.com for more information or to set up a tour.

Huls Dairy Huls Dairy, located at 1769 Simpson Road north of Corvallis, has been in the Bitterroot since 1908, and is the largest milking operation in the area. The dairy offers tours of its milking carousel, which can automatically identify cows, measure PHOTO PROVIDED milk quantities, and sort cows leaving the facility. The carousel has large viewing The Brooks Christmas and Gifts areas so the public can safely observe the It’s always Christmas at The Brooks, a yearprocess. round holiday and home decor shop located Even though it has been around for so long, in the middle of Corvallis. Specifically, it the dairy is constantly pushing boundaries, sits on the corner of Willow Creek road and

Hamilton Golf Club •18 Hole Golf Course •Pro Shop •Full Practice Facility •Great Food and beverages

Fishing Schools Before July

Professional instruction for women, children and well-behaved men.

Women’s gear and fishing apparel headquarters at

BEST Fly FiShing

gUiDE

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For 7 yEarS rUnning

2007-2013

1004 Golf Course Rd., 406-363-4251 www.hgcmt.com • Like us on Facebook

kingfisherflyshop.com/blog/fly-fishing-classes

Vista 2014 - Page 29

voted Bitterroots Best Sports bar best waitress- tina sherwood dining

11am - 10pm everyday

SportS Bar hourS 11am - 11pm everyday

caSino

8:30am - 11pm everyday

reservations accepted

375-0007

Voted Best Wine Selection!

spirits, Beer, wine, mixers

375-0006 the edge restaurant and hamilton wine & liquor 140 Bitterroot PlaZa dr, hamilton, mt.

Page 30 - Vista 2014

the Eastside Highway inside of a charming Victorian-style house built in 1894.

The Brooks will open for the season in April, and invites customers to come on in and get a little of that Christmas spirit, Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

After ornament shipments have arrived, the shop holds an annual Christmas in July event, starting the holiday season as early as they can. If you are in the area, drop in and take home a little bit of Montana with gifts made by local artists. Call 406.961.6895 or visit robbinsonmain.com for more details.

a l paca s

Montana Suri Alpacas Ranch Visit an animal most people never get to see at the Montana Suri Alpacas ranch outside Corvallis The ranch has a herd of more than 70 alpaca, and invites locals to come out and see

Fish Around Corvallis There is ample fishing opportunity Bitterroot River. Near Corvallis, one of the favorite places to put in or fish is at the Woodside Bridge, on Woodside Crossing just west of town.

Another is north of town, at Tucker Crossing. Fishing shops, like Western Flies and Guides, Montana Hunting and Fishing

L

The Rocking Over 30 beautiful, friendly alpacas

the whole operation. Alpacas, a cousin to the llama, are prized for their fleece, which is valued by the textile industry.

Stop in to the Alpaca Hill Drygoods ranch store for a chance to buy a range of alpaca goods, including socks, hats, bags and shawls.

It really is a field to fashion experience.

The ranch is located south of Corvallis on Bass Lane. Visit the ranch’s website, montanasurialpacas.com, or call 406-381-0409.

Ranch

complimentary Tours Great Fun for the Kids Ranch store featuring a variety of alpaca products Come spend some time with these gentle creatures!

Visit us on acebook/Rockinglalpacas Between Victor & Hamilton • Turn west off Hwy 93 at mile 56, 2.2 miles to the ranch!

1760 Red Crow Rd, Victor MT 59875 • 406-642-3085 • Your hosts: Erv & Mo Lischke

Vista 2014 - Page 31

Adventures, or Osprey Outfitters Fly Shop in Hamilton can give maps of the area with special recommendations on where the best spots are at.

Flying Horse MT Flying Horse MT is the Bitterroot Valley’s newest location for your special occasions; indoors and out, casual or formal.

Flying Horse MT is situated on a 30 acre estate just east of Corvallis, Montana. It is a unique location that exceeds most expectations.

Flying Horse MT is an ideal setting for your next class reunion, Christmas party, graduation, wedding, birthday party, or celebration.

They provide a one-of-a-kind experience for your event. The location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains. These mountains create a beautiful backdrop for some of life’s most special moments.

Flying Horse doesn’t just provide the location. The event staff can even help you get in touch with everyone you need to plan your wedding or event.

Willow Creek #300 Hiking Trail A great hike in the Corvallis area is the Willow Creek #300 trail east of Corvallis.

The 3.5 mile trail starts as an old jeep road, and follows along the side of the creek. It goes past cliffs and rock spires, making it great for photography buffs, and is also right in the middle of Rocky Mountain Goat habitat.

The trail is located at the Willow Creek trailhead. To reach it, take Willow Creek Road east from Corvallis, and travel for 11 miles to the first switchback and the trailhead. Stop by a ranger station for maps or suggestions for more day hikes in the area.

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Ravalli County Museum

Victor Heritage Museum

The Daly Mansion

Historic St. Mary’s Mission

Map provided by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Darby Pioneer Museum

Page 34 - Vista 2014

amilton

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

HHamilton is the largest town in the Bitterroot Valley and the hub of its activities.

In the late 1800s, Marcus Daly, one of Montana’s Copper Kings who had made a fortune in mining in Butte and Anaconda. He purchased sawmills west of what would be the town, and had two town planners, including James Hamilton, for whom the town is named, in to start the town. The other planner, Robert O’Hara, was Hamilton’s first mayor.

The house built by Daly and later renovated

by his wife, the Daly Mansion, sits in town, and is the grounds for several events during the year, as well as being open for tours.

Hamilton holds events all year round, but their frequency and size ramp up during the summer. The Ravalli County Fair brings in more than 20,000 people each year. But at all times of the year, Hamilton has a lively downtown, a strong arts community, and is the perfect jumping off point for a trip in the Bitterroot.

Vista 2014 - Page 35

Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering place during the festival. Almost 3,500 The Bitterroot Celtic Games & people attended the festival last Gathering promote awareyear. ness and pride in the Vendors will sell not only Celtic heritage of the traditional Celtic food, locals, and is held in but hand-crafted artlate August every year. work and recordings Two of the town’s of music as well. most famous people This year’s came from these Bitterroot Celtic backgrounds. John Games & Gathering Hamilton, was a Scot, will be held August and Marcus Daly, an 23-24 at the Daly Irishman.

Mansion grounds.

There will be tradiThis year enjoy family tional Celtic music, pipe friendly prices and a free and drum competitions, and shuttle from Hamilton High highland dancing. In addition, a School. For more details, see series of Highland games competi- DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic the website bcgg.org or call 406tions, including the shot put, ham274-8886. mer toss, caper toss and kids’ events take

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Page 36 - Vista 2014

Bitterroot Chamber Micro Brewfest Daly Days Every year, the Bitterroot Chamber of Daly Days is Hamilton’s annual heritage Commerce holds a fundraising event in celebration, held July 25-26 this year. The the form of the Bitterroot Chamber Micro event, sponsored by the Hamilton Downtown Brewfest at the end of July. The Association, puts a spotlight on festival offers the chance to Hamilton for the weekend. sample more than 40 types Events on Main Street of beer from Montana include craft and food and the Northwest, as vendors on Friday well as several varietand Saturday, ies of regional wine along with sales and mead, as well at most downa local food ventown stores. Kids dors. Live music is activities include provided by bands a bounce house from around the and events on Northwest.

Saturday. Friday Twenty dollars night offers a buys a commemostreet dance, with rative glass and five live music and full different beer tastings. bar service. Saturday, The event coincides with the Bitterrodders sponthe annual Daly Days celsor a car show on Main ebration.

Street, and the Hamilton DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic The Brewfest is held in downSoroptimists sponsor a series of town Hamilton across from Legion Park on events including wiener dog races, a “kiss the Saturday, July 26. This will be the festival’s pig” contest, and live music onstage. A con20th year. More information can be found test sponsored by the Ravalli County Museum online at bitterrootchamber.com or call 406will help people re-connect with Hamilton’s 363-2400. roots as a “company town,” founded by Marcus Daly.

A Gallery of Unique of Gifts Liquor Store- Full Casino Daily Drink Specials

Live Music Regularly Outdoor Patio Check out our Weekly calendar Open 7 days ~ 109 West Main Hamilton ~363-6969

nd

2Street M•a•r•k•e•t

175 S. 2nd St., Downtown Hamilton 363-9708

Vista 2014 - Page 37

At the Daly Mansion, historical re-enactors will re-create the everyday life of 100 years ago on Saturday. Carriage and pony rides are available as well, along with demonstrations of antique farm equipment. Admission to the Mansion is $5, but children get in free.

Call 406-360-9124, or visit hamiltondowntownassociation.org for more information.

Ravalli County Museum The Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton contains exhibits ranging from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to a large collection of the photography from Montanan Ernst Peterson, with more than 36,000 prints and negatives.

This year, the Ravalli County Museum will have exhibits including a collection of photographs submitted for an Ernst Peterson competition, as well as one on Montana’s gold camps and ghost towns and in November, an exhibit on the Nez Perce Native American tribe.

The building the museum was in was designed by the Montana architect A.J. Gibson in 1900, and was the county courthouse until 1979. The brick building is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Ravalli County Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday. Its website, with more information, is brvhsmuseum.org and its phone number is 406-363-3338.

RUSS LAWRENCE / Ravalli Republic

comfort food meets fine dining full service restaurant serving lunch and dinner

open tuesday- saturday 11am-3pm / 5pm-8pm

• Levis • Wranglers • Carhartt • Silver Jeans • Stetson and Bailey Hats • Columbia

• Billabong

• Woolrich

• Fox

• Filson

• Keren Hart

406. 361. 0223

facebook.com/bouilla111 South 3rd Street, Hamilton

Page 38 - Vista 2014

Ravalli County Fair tional, bull riding, team roping, and cowboy Held the week before Labor Day weekend, bronc rides. The rodeo is included in the gate the Ravalli County Fair is the signature end fee for the fair. of the summer celebration for the Bitterroot.

To make sure the event is as family-friendly It is also the largest annual event in the area, as possible, the fair is a dry event. See ravalli. drawing in more than 20,000 people every us/200/Fairgrounds for more details, or call year.

406-363-3411.

This year, the Ravalli County Fair will be held from Senior Pro Rodeo August 27-30. This real Part of a larger deal, old fashioned nationwide cirfair is a showcase cuit, the Senior event for the Pro Rodeo in strong agriculHamilton is the tural 4H proplace for some grams in the serious cowvalley, with boy action. barns and Running buildings from June filled with 27-28, with livestock a kickoff projects. concert the But there is night before, something for the rodeo feaeveryone at the tures competifair, which also tors from not just has carnival rides the Bitterroot but and food fenders, around the country in a with sales going to benslew of rodeo events, from efit nonprofit organizations bareback and bull riding to in the community, and live music DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic barrel racing, over the course of performances in the evenings. This year, the two nights at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds. fair is bringing in an elephant, which will have Earlier in the week, the rodeo will also have performances twice a day and are also availtwo performances in Darby. able for fairgoers to have a ride on.

Some of the participants of the Senior Pro In addition, the fair also has a large display Rodeo have been performing for more than of quilts, photography, arts and crafts, as well 50 years. While a few jokingly refer to the as a building filled with horticultural and floral event as the “old timer’s rodeo,” don’t be displays. fooled, these cowboys and cowgirls are highly On Friday and Saturday night it’s usually skilled and at the top of their game. standing room only during the full gamut of The family-friendly event also lets kids get rodeo events, which include a youth invitainvolved, where they can try their hand at

Vista 2014 - Page 39

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Ravalli County FaiRgRounds 8 ab li s h ed 1

2014 event schedule January 11 - Wedding & event fair January 18 - neW Year’s resolution expo January 25 - Br Motor sports Winter festival February 1 & 2 - BBia hoMe and ranch trade shoW February 8 - Bitterroot coWBoY Ball February 14-16 - sports connection gun shoW February 22 - rc fish & Wildlife fundraiser/dinner March 1 - friends of nra fundraiser/dinner March 15 - spring thaW vendor Marketplace March 22 - everYthing spring Business fair March 29 - Br Youth hoMe fundraiser/dinner april 5 - rMe foundation fundraiser/dinner april 12 - Biggest indoor garage sale april 20 - coMMunitY easter egg hunt april 26 - 4-h coMMunitY carnival May 2 - farM fair

May 16 & 17 - Bitterroot geM & Mineral societY shoW May 24 - Bitterroot gYMkhana cluB May 30 & 31 - MY kid’s closet spring sale June 7 & 21 - Bitterroot gYMkhana cluB June 27 & 28 - senior pro rodeo august 27-30 - ravalli countY fair & rodeo septeMber 13 - eMMa’s house fall fashion shoW septeMber 19-21 - sports connection gun shoW septeMber 27 - rcrcc dinner OctOber 3-5 - MY kids closet autuMn sale OctOber 31 - coMMunitY harvest partY nOveMber 7 & 8 - artrageous shoW & sale nOveMber 15 - Bitterroot BountY fair nOveMber 21 & 22 - Bitterroot art guild shoW & sale DeceMber 5-7 - sports connection gun shoW DeceMber 31 - neW Year’s eve partY

100 Old corvallis road, hamilton 363-3411 • rc.mt.gov/fair/

Page 40 - Vista 2014

being a cowboy by attempting to ride sheep or small calves out of the bucking chutes at the rodeo grounds. For more information on the Senior Pro Rodeo, see ravalli.us/200/ Fairgrounds.

Annual McIntosh Apple Day Called the Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky, Apple Day features produce from local farmers as well as food arts and crafts from around the Bitterroot. The biggest highlights include a bake sale including more than 700 apple themed treats and apples in every form imaginable,

from pies to butter.

Apple Day is held at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton. Come enjoy a bowl of buffalo chili or a caramel apple while listening to live music or letting children play games. Be sure to load up on as many apple goodies as possible. This is the 35th annual Mcintosh Apple Day, which celebrates the apple boom in the area that occurred in the early 1900s.

This year, Apple Day will be held on Saturday, Oct. 4. See brvhsmuseum.org or call 496-363-3338 for more information.

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

337 W. Main, Hamilton

363-4552

M-F, 6:30-5:30 Sat, 8-4 • Sun, 8-2

gourmet or build-your-own sandWicHes • delicious cookies and desserts • made-to-order specialty coFFee drinks • free wireless internet

Vista 2014 - Page 41

Daly Mansion To get to the trailhead, go west on Main In 1886, Marcus Daly, an Irish immigrant Street in Hamilton past where it becomes turned mining Copper King, bought West Bridge Road. Turn left of a homestead and build a home Blodgett Camp Road and look for him and his wife in what is for the signs for the Canyon now Hamilton. The estate Creek Trailhead. Stop in to was part of Daly’s 22,000 a ranger station for maps acre Bitter Root Stock and other Farm.

After Daly’s death, his Montana Professional wife Margaret renovated Artists Association’s the mansion, with the 10th Annual Art Show help of famed Montana & Sale architect A.J. Gibson, to The Montana its present Georgian-Revival Professional Artists style. The 24,000 square foot, Association shows yearly in three story mansion has 25 bedHamilton at the Bitterroot River FILE PHOTO rooms, 15 bathrooms and 7 fireInn and Conference Center. Each places. The house was boarded up when Mrs. year this show is highly anticipated by the Daly died, but was reopened to the public in art-loving public, and this year even more so!

1987, after more than $2 million of renovation work was done to the property and grounds.

An arboretum and garden named after the uS late Mrs. Daly, house more than 400 trees over cio freSh i l S e y 26 acres of land. The mansion and grounds d now serve as an educational and cultural hub for the preservation of one of Montana’s biggest names.

Tours of the Daly Mansion, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, are available from May through October.

See dalymansion.org or call 406-363-6004 for more details.

• Pasta Blodgett Canyon Blodgett Canyon is one of the most picturesque areas of the Bitterroot. To get a great view of it and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, hike the 3-mile round trip Blodgett Overlook Trail. Blodgett Canyon is often referred to as Montana’s Yosemite.

yS

alWa

alWa

Variety is the Spice of Life.

• Steak • Seafood • Beer & Wine

363-4433 TheSpiceInHamilton.com 163 South 2nd Street, Hamilton

ECLECTIC CAFE

Lunch M-F 11-2 • Dinner W-Sat 5-9

Page 42 - Vista 2014

Celebrating their 10th Anniversary Show, June 13, 14 & 15, 2014, the statewide Association is throwing a party! A FREE barbeque dinner with all the fixin’s is in store for their Friday night reception at 6pm. A real old-timey chuck-wagon will be there, along with singers, guitars and a good time for all. The public is invited to the barbeque…grab a plate and dig in! As always, there is a no-host bar at the show. Opening at 6pm until 10pm Saturday there will be painters by the pond, demos by the artists and more music. Open at 10am until 7pm.

Sunday, come on back and choose that art work you’re hankering to own; chat with the artists from 10am until 4pm.

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

Historic Preservation Lewis & Clark

Check our website for current information on exhibits, events and educational programming!

Trappers/Miners Bitter Root Valley Cowboy Music & Poetry

Life in the West

Natural History

Bertie Lord

Peterson Photo Contest

through

&

Education

Historic Festivals

Baroque Music

Annual Festival

Veteran's Day

Concerts

Ghost Tours

Children's Room

Coming Soon!

205 Bedford Street, Hamilton • 406.363.3338 • brvhsmuseum.org : Ravalli County Museum • : ravallimuseum

Vista 2014 - Page 43

Sapphire’s Summer Concert Series & Shakespeare In The Park

By DOMINIC FARRENKOPF

Sapphire Lutheran Homes will celebrate This will be a very interactive concert, geared this summer with their Second Annual towards children and families, but Chip’s music Summer Concert Series. is timeless and enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

Mike and Tari Conroy will kick off the season LeGrande Harvey and the Spirit of Montana at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 21 with their oldBand will play on Friday, August 8 at 7 p.m. style, traditional bluegrass music. They’ll be LeGrande Harvey, is singer and songwriter of pickin’ and you’ll be grinnin’ as they harmonize the Montana State Ballad, Montana Melody, as in sweet melody. Mike will be on the banjo well as many other country and western songs. and mandolin with Tari on the guitar. They’ll Born from a love of the land and the simple life, be joined by their neighbor, Tim Ezzell on the LeGrande is a versatile artist who has considerstand-up bass and also by Fiddlin’ Ellie Nuno able experience, having shared the stage with who will round out this lively bunch. such artists as Michael Martin Murphey, Kris Cedar Ridge will perform Tuesday, July 1 at 7 Kristofferson, Hoyt Axton, John Anderson, Ricky p.m. Cedar Ridge offers a Bitterroot blend of Nelson, Willie Nelson and many others. His bluegrass, country, folk and contempowestern music is sure to delight and will be rary music. The talented, local a great closing act of the concert duo of Gary Bladen (guitar/ series. vocals) and Rob Chapman Shortly after the concert (mandolin/fiddle) will series, Shakespeare in have you tappin’ your the Parks will perform toes and singing Tuesday, August 19 at along to favorites by 6 p.m. We are excited musical greats such to announce that As as John Denver, You Like It will open Steve Earle, and the 42nd season Dan Fogelberg. of Shakespeare in Afterwards, local the Parks. Directed pyrotechnic expert,

by Artistic Director, Steve Boshae Kevin Asselin, and set of Cow Palace in 1917 Montana, As Fireworks, will light You Like It tells the story up the night sky with a of Rosalind and Orlando, pre-Independence Day who, exiled, must find fireworks display at dusk. their way - and love - in a new Chip Jasmin acclaimed, local world. All of these events are freephoto provided by msip musician will grace our campus on and-open to the public. Sapphire Friday, July 18th at 7pm with his acoustic folk Lutheran Homes is located at 501 N. 10th Street music. Chip will play original songs and some in Hamilton. Call Dominic at 363-2800 for more from others. He will play many instruments information. including: fiddle, guitar, accordion, and banjo.

Page 44 - Vista 2014

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

arby, Sula & Conner

TheThe towns of the Darby, Sula and Conner occupy a region at the lower end of Ravalli County commonly called the South Valley area.

Darby contains some of the oldest buildings in the Bitterroot, including the museum, which was one of the first hand-hewn

cabins built in the region. The quiet town of slightly less than 1,000 is also the home of the National Museum of Forest Service History.

Each Summer, Darby holds Logger Days, paying tribute to the timber industry that was responsible for the town’s boom.

Conner is a small community located off Highway 93 south of Darby, and sits on

Vista 2014 - Page 45

the edge of the Bitterroot National Forest.

Trapper Peak stands nearby, with a summit of 10,157 feet.

Sula is the place where the Lewis and Clark expedition first encountered the Salish Native American tribe in 1805. The tribe outfitted the explorers with horses and helped guide them through the Bitterroot Mountains. Sula is named for the first white child born in the area, Ursula.

A painting by Charlie Russell of a view near Sula hangs in the Montana State Capitol Building.

The South Valley area has some of the best boating and fishing in the region, including Lake Como to the north and Painted Rocks State Park to the south. To the south is a ski hill and hot springs. Visit darbymt.net for more information.

Darby Farmers Market Every Tuesday from May through October, local growers bring their wares into town and set up for a farmer’s market that lasts from morning through the afternoon.

The farmer’s market is the best way to get ahold of local produce, as well as handmade sweets and artistic goods. It’s a traditional weekly event dating back for years.

The Darby farmer’s market is located right in the center of town, in the park next to city hall on Main Street in Darby.

Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum This pioneer museum houses home life and business artifacts of historic Darby, as well as early photos showing the history of Darby and its inhabitants.

The building that houses the museum was one of the first hand-hewn cabins in the area, originally built in 1886. In 1958, it was moved from its original location at Tin Cup to its cur-

Sapphire’s 2nd Annual Summer Concert Series

Mike & Tari Conroy

Saturday, June 21 at 7pm Old-style, traditional bluegrass

Cedar Ridge

Tuesday, July 1 at 7pm Bitterroot Blend of bluegrass, country folk and contemporary Stay after for a pre-Independence Day fireworks display!

Chip Jasmin

Friday, July 18th at 7pm Acoustic folk music geared towards children and families, but fun for all ages!

LeGrande Harvey and the Spirit of Montana Band

Friday, August 8 at 7pm Country western singer and songwriter of the Montana State ballad

LATER THIS SUMMER… Shakespeare in the Parks “As You Like It” Tuesday, August 16 at 6pm

ALL OF THESE EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

501 North 10th Street, Hamilton • 363-2800

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rent location in Darby. The museum contains photos of the cabin at its first location. It also has handwritten letters, deeds, and documents from schools and churches to give a glimpse into the everyday life of the Darby area’s past.

The museum opens for the season on Memorial Day and is open through Labor Day. It is located behind City Hall just off Main Street in Darby. Call for information at 406821-3753.

Old West Gallery This one block long shop in the middle of Darby is a one stop shop for everything from area gifts and souvenirs to local antiques and art. But the real draw, as the sign above the door won’t let you forget, is the large candy shop that takes up one side of the building.

The Old West makes its own fudge and

chocolate that it sells on premises, and contains more than 400 types of candy that can be bought in bulk. From jelly beans and taffy to throwbacks like Big Hunk and Abba Zaba, a trip through Darby isn’t complete with filling up on sweets.

The Old West Gallery is open every day and is located on Main Street. Look for the sign with “Candy” in big letters, it’s tough to miss.

Darby Logger Days Darby Logger Days is an annual lumberjack competition event held at the South Valley Veteran’s Memorial on the south end of Darby.

This year, the 13th annual event will be held Friday and Saturday, July 18-19.

The first day’s afternoon events will include boxing over water competitions, Ma & Pa races, chain saw tossing and kids races.

Saturday the logging competition is the all-

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day attraction. Celebrating the tradition of Reservoir. the logging industry, the timber sport compeThe park is named for the colored lichen tition includes axe throwing, pole that covers the rocks walls, givclimbing and cut cross sawing, ing them green, yellow and just to name a few. Both orange hues. Big Horn days will have food and Sheep can often be seen retail vendor booths from the cliffs suropen. rounding the park.

Live music will There are also 25 be featured at the campsites, with event both nights, fire pits and picnic starting in the evetables, meaning ning and continuit is also ideal for ing on until midswimming and night. Organizers overnight stays. say last year more To get to Painted than 3,000 people Rocks, take the West attended Darby’s Fork Road from from Logger Days. Sales of Highway 93, north of tickets, available at the Conner. More information event,benefit the veteran’s can be found online at statememorial. Entry for the live music DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic parks.mt.gov/painted-rocks/ or both nights of Logger Days can be by calling 406-273-4253. purchased separately, or as a part of the entry button price. More information is located Lake Como Recreation Area online at the event’s website darbyloggerThe Lake Como Recreation Area is the most days.com. popular outdoor spot in the Bitterroot area.

Lake Como features beaches with roped off Painted Rocks State Park swimming areas, and a boat launch and picPainted Rocks State Park on the West Fork nic area. It also has the Rock Creek Trailhead, of the Bitterroot River, offers boating and with several hiking trails available. Snowfishing opportunities with the Painted Rocks covered mountains, whose melt off feeds the

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Page 48 - Vista 2014

lake, rise up sharply at the end of the lake. form. Music starts Friday night at 6:00 p.m. and Camping options for overnight stay are continues all weekend long. Bring your own available, including hookups for RVs. The his- chair and enjoy some tunes. toric Woods cabin, located on the lake shore, To get to the festival, go north on Highway can be rented year round (call 1-87793 from Darby, and turn at mile marker 444-6777 or visit recreation.gov).

37 to Forest Hill Road. Tickets Summer weekends are are $12 for adults, $6 for busy at Lake Como, with kids. More information plenty of swimmers, can be found by going motorboats and jet to hardtimesblueskis on the water. In grass.com or calling winter, Lake Como 406-821-3777. is a great place for snowshoeing Lost Trail and ice fishing, Powder and has several Mountain groomed cross Spring and country skiing summer in the tracks.

Bitterroot is beauLake Como is tiful, but it’s during located four miles the winter when one up the paved Lake of the real gems of the Como Road off Highway South Valley is available 93 between Hamilton and for use. Lost Trail Powder Darby. From Memorial Day Mountain, which at the border DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic between Montana and Idaho through Labor Day, all vehicles at Lake Como must have a recreation pass, which south of Darby. can be purchased at the recreation area. See Named after the trail where Lewis and Clark fs.usda.gov/bitterroot for more information. became lost on the way to the Continental Divide, the ski hill has something for beginners Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival and experts alike. Five chairlifts and three rope The annual Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival will tows provide easy access to the more than bring together 11 bluegrass bands from across 1,800 acres of skiing terrain. The lodge also the Northwest, as well as solo acts. This year, offers great food and drinks. the festival takes place July 25-27.

Lost Trail gets more than 300 inches of This family-friendly event also has food and snow annually, and is known in the area for drink vendors present all of the days of this cel- its low ticket prices and short lift lines. With ebration of traditional bluegrass music, which more than 50 marked trails from bunny hill to includes performances by the Red Desert glades, a ski and boarding school for first timRamblers from Salt Lake City and Spring Thaw ers, and equipment rentals, Lost Trail Powder from Missoula. “Kids in Bluegrass” a collection Mountain is a perfect winter destination. of youth just learning how to play, will also perVisit losttrail.com for details.

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Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort south of Sula provides lodging, dining, and of course, a natural, chemical-free outdoor hot springs swimming pool and hot tub.The hot springs is open year-round with cabins and lodge rooms to rent.

In the winter, the pool area is covered by a dome, so guests can continue to enjoy it at any time. During the winter, Chief Joseph Cross Country Trails just to the east provides more than 25 miles of groomed trail and the hot springs, as well as snowmobile routes.

See its Facebook page or website at losttrailhotsprings.com, or call 406.821.3574.

Big Hole National Battlefield A bit of a journey, but worth it for one of the most historic places in the state. Travel south from Darby to the Idaho border, then head east in MT-43 for 17 miles to reach the Big Hole

National Battlefield.

Scene of the 1877 Battle of the Big Hole, the largest battle of the Nez Perce War between the Native American tribe and the U.S. government, who had pushed them off their land in Oregon to an Idaho reservation. The Nez Perce decided to attempt to escape to Canada after some of their members killed white settlers.

U.S. forces attacked the Nez Perce encampment at Big Hole. During a two day battle, more than 60 Nez Perce, including women and children, were killed. The U.S. Cavalry lost almost 30. Two months later, the Nez Perce surrendered, only 40 miles from the Canadian Border.

Big Hole was designated a national battlefield in 1963. A visitor center, museum and bookstore provide more historical insight to the area. Ranger guided tour are available in the summer.

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Page 50 - Vista 2014

almon

PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS

Salmon sits in Lemhi County in Idaho, which is famous for the a rush of gold miners in the late 1800s. The Lewis and Clark expedition also crossed the Continental Divide at Lemhi Pass, southeast of Salmon. Salmon, home of Sacajawea, also has a historic center that opened in 2003 dedicated to preserving the history of the area.

The Lewis and Clark expedition dubbed the Salmon River the “River of No Return� after attempting to use it to continue their journey to the Pacific.

Salmon is now known as one of the best

whitewater areas in the world, with visitors flocking to the town in the spring and summer to get on the water. But other recreational options abound, from hunting and steelhead fishing to mountain biking and horseback riding.

To the north, at the Idaho-Montana border, there is also a ski resort, Lost Trail Powder Mountain. Several ghost towns in the area can be visited with a short drive on some of the most scenic roadways in the Pacific Northwest.

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Sacajawea Interpretive, Lewis and Clark expedition and the Cultural and Educational Native American tribes that Center inhabited the area. Artifacts Salmon, being the from the Lewis and Clark birthplace of the only expedition, along with woman that was informational dioramas part of the Lewis and videos inform visiand Clark expeditors about the expetion, is also home dition, and the role to the Sacajawea the Salmon area and Interpretive, Cultural, Sacajawea played in and Educational it.

Center.

There is also a porThe grounds of the tion of the center showSacajawea Center cover ing the history of the 71 acres that includes walkAgai’dika Lemhi Shoshone ing trails with interpretive signs people.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS about the area’s environment The center is open from and history.

Memorial Day through the end of September, Inside the center, there is a small gift shop 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. selling history books about Sacajawea, the (noon to 5:00 on Sundays). The outdoor

Open 7 Days a Week With over 300 inches of snowfall every year, these still undiscovered slopes await your visit.

Enjoy the uncrowded slopes of the Rocky Mountains’ hidden jewel.

Come enjoy our LunCh and fuLL dinner menu

Prime Rib Nightly Smoked Ribs New Management Same great service and atmosphere

Affordable Family Skiing at the top of the Continental Divide. www.losttrail.com • 406-821-3211 Located 1/8 mile off Hwy 93 & 43 at the MT/ID border

Located in the Bitterroot Valley since 1945

6065 Hwy 93 South, Conner • 821-3520

Page 52 - Vista 2014

trails are open year round. Entrance to the Sacajawea Center is $12 per family, $5 per person. Tours are also available. Visit sacajaweacenter.org or call 208-756-1188 for details.

InterpretIve Center Open MeMOrIal Day thrOugh SepteMber Mon-Sat 9aM -5pM; Sun 12:30-5pM, (208) 756-1222 Interpretive trails open year-round during daylight hours

Agai’dika Heritage Days Every year, the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural and Educational Center holds an event called Sacajawea Heritage Days to celebrate the history of the Salmon region and its people.

Heritage Days, which will be held Aug. 16, brings culture to the community. Whether it is the Agai’dika Lemhi Shoshone dancing or a dutch oven cooking competition, visitors will learn more about history and have fun doing it.

The all-day, free event includes games for children, and interactive programs, like demonstrations on knot tying to showing how expedition saddle horses are packed. There will also be yarn dyeing, spinning and weaving, as well as candle making.

Salmon Outdoor School June thru august Primitive Skills Classes and Demonstrations thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays

Interested in experiencing life in the West when Lewis and Clark were traveling through?

Sign up for our 10-day 1805 experience August 8-17. Space is limited.

agai’dika heritage Days August 15-16th native american Dancing Spiritual Walk/Run Dutch oven Gathering Heritage Craft Demonstrations

Visit www.sacajaweacenter.org for more information or call (208) 756-1188

PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS

Vista 2014 - Page 53

A Native American feast, including the town’s namesake salmon, and a dance finish off the evening. For more information, see sacajaweacenter.org or call 208-756-1188.

It also has daily specials, so there is always something new to try. The Junkyard Bistro is open every day for lunch and dinner.

Relax inside or sit out and enjoy a meal or a drink on the patio.

See the Junkyard Bistro’s Facebook page or call 208756-2466 for more details.

Lemhi County Fair For a week every August, the town of Salmon revolves around the county fair.

This year, Salmon the fair will Whitewater be held Rafting from August It’s hard to 16-23, and even think will include a of Salmon rodeo, horse without thinkracing, livestock ing of being out showings from 4H enjoying all the and FFA. outdoor recreation Every night, there options the town and is another main event to area offer. As one of the experience, in addition to whitewater capitals of the PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS rides, food vendors, and art world, a visit to Salmon is galleries. Local favorites include horse shows, not complete without getting onto the waters dog races, and a pie making contest. There of the Salmon River. is no gate admission for the fair and carnival, There are many rafting companies in town although the rodeo on Aug. 22-23 does have that can set up guided floats or rent out gear. an entrance fee.

Idaho Adventures, located downtown, has The event is held at the fairgrounds in been in the business for more than 40 years, Salmon. Details and schedules can be found and offers guided whitewater and scenic online at lemhicountyfair.com floating trips, as well as steelhead fishing expeditions.

Junkyard Bistro They also have guided bike rides, as well Few things cap a long day in Salmon off as equipment rentals for all of their services better than a stop in to the Junkyard Bistro on available. For those looking for tips on where Main Street in Salmon. From sandwiches to to go, whether on the water or on the trails, wraps, noodle bowls and more, the Junkyard Idaho Adventures can supply directions to a makes for a great, affordable meal. good time to any visitors, regardless of skill

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level.

For more information, see idahoadventures.com, call them at 1-800-789-9283 or drop in and visit them on Main Street in Salmon.

Visit ridesalmon.com for more information about the events, and for trail maps of great places to get out and ride in the Salmon area.

Lemhi County Mountain Biking Historical Museum As one of the The Lemhi ultimate outdoor County Historical towns, Salmon Museum houses has a dedicated various exhibits that biking community. provide a sense of Every year, the town the history the comhas multiple events for munity of Salmon has. cyclists, from races for the Through preservation and pros to long tour rides. interpretive history of artifacts One of these events is found in the Salmon area, the PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS 12 Hours of Disco featuring museum strives to build its singletrack racers from around the region. historic collection.

12 Hours of Disco will take place on May 17 Some of the exhibits include the largthis year. The endurance race takes place at est collection of Lemhi Shoshone artifacts Discovery Hill near Salmon. The event also available anywhere in the country, as well as has live music, food and drinks all day long. artifacts and photographs from the Chinese Another prominent annual event is the Lemhi immigrant community. There is also a wing Valley Century Ride, which will take place dedicated to the discovery of gold and other on June 21. The century ride allows bikers minerals in the area, along with the westward to go on either a 100 mile or 100 kilometer expansion that gave rise to cattle, sheep and ride through the Lemhi Valley along Idaho timber industries.

Highway 28, with prepared rest stops and a The museum is open Monday through barbeque celebration at the end.

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October, and on Wednesdays the rest of the year, and by appointment.

The Lemhi County Historical Museum is located at 210 Main Street. For additional details, visit lemhicountymuseum.org, or call 208-756-3342.

Salmon Marathon Biking, rafting or running, Salmon doesn’t care how you get out and about, only that you do. The race day for this year’s Salmon Marathon is September 6, when about 300 runners will be out to attempt the half marathon or the full 26.2 miles. The races also includes a kids run, so families with children can get in on the fun, and live music and food at the finish line. This year will be the marathon’s sixth race.

Proceeds from this year’s race will go to the Whitewater Therapeutic Riding Association, which works to allow disabled and special needs individuals be able to ride horses as a form a therapy. Visit salmonmarathon.com for more information.

5th Annual Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering August 23-24

Saturday 9-7 • Sunday 9-4 Lower ticket prices and ticket packages available!

Free Shuttle from Hamilton High School

• FEATurinG •

Highland & Irish Dancing Professional, Amateur & Kids Athletic Competitions International Pipe & Drum Bands Vendors and Live Music!

Tickets available online.

Ceilidh Saturday at 7pm - FREE

Daly Mansion Grounds

251 Eastside Hwy, Hamilton, MT

PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS

www.bcgg.org (406) 274-8886

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Purple Easel Gallery Salmon River-Sawtooth Scenic Byway This artist co-op in downtown Salmon Ranked in the top 10 best drives in the includes work from 50 local artists, from Rocky Mountain area, this scenic road woodwork and glass to paintthat runs through Salmon is a ing, sculpture and even can’t miss drive to see the hand-crafted knives. beautiful landscape of The gallery, open Idaho.

Monday through Mirroring the Saturday from Salmon River and 10:00 a.m. until running through 6:00 p.m. In areas like the all, the works Sun Valley and of more along sevthan 50 eral national artists are forests, the contained Salmon inside the Rivergallery.

Sawtooth In addition Scenic Byway to painters is the best and sculptors, reason to get the gallery also in the car or on features the phothe motorcycle tography of Jerry and just go. Craters Slagle, whose landscape of the Moon National and wildlife photography Monument and the Ernest capture the beauty and spirit PHOTO PROVIDED BY RAWHIDE OUTFITTERS Hemingway memorial are of the Salmon area. just a few of the attractions The Purple Easel gallery is located on Main you will find along the route.

Street in Salmon. For further information, visit More information can be found at drivethpurpleeaselgallery.com or call 208-756-8839. etop10.com

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Vista 2014 - Page 57

10th Annual Blues, Brews & BBQ’s Festival The Salmon Arts Council is celebrating its tenth annual Blues, Brews & BBQ’s Festival on August 2nd! Featuring the Bill Magee Blues Band, several local musical talents, lots of great food, local artist vendors, craft demonstrations, a kids’ art tent, and, of course, a wide array of regional beers to enjoy, this is a full day of fun and entertainment for the whole family!

To celebrate our 10th year, the Salmon Arts Council is hosting a citywide juried exhibition of local art that will open on Friday, August 1st with an Art Walk on Main Street! Come stroll the street, enjoy some of the fine artistry of Lemhi and Custer County’s artists, and browse our Main Street boutiques.

Pre-sale tickets will be available June 1st through August 1st at www.salmonartscouncil. org

Salmon Arts Council Summer Events The Salmon Arts Council hosts concerts and events for the whole family throughout the summer in the city of Salmon. This year will include an outdoor concert at the Sacajawea Center’s amphitheater, kids’ art activity days at the weekly Saturday farmers’ market, and Montana Shakespeare in the Parks’ presentation of “As You Like It” on August 28th.

To get the latest information on upcoming events and to buy tickets, visit www.salmonartscouncil.org or call 208-756-2987.

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Page 58 - Vista 2014

alendar of events

MAY 2014 May 16-18

May 26

Between the Worlds Psychic Fair at Between the Worlds on Main Street in Hamilton Corvallis American Legion Memorial Day Parade – 10am

JUNE 2014 June 6-8

June 13 – 15

June 20 - 21

June 27 – 28

June 27-29

June 28

Artists Along the Bitterroot Studio Tour & Sale

10th Annual MPAA Art Show & Sale at Bitterroot River Inn & Conference Center in Hamilton

Western Heritage Days on Main Street and Fifth in Stevensville National Senior Pro Rodeo at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton 4th Annual Big Sky Renaissance Faire off Hwy 93 just north of Stevensville 34th Annual Bitter Root Day – 9am to 3pm at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

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Vista 2014 - Page 59

JULY 2014 July 12

July 18-19 July 25 – 26 July 26

July 25-27

Elite Bull Connection / Pink Bull Explosion in Darby Darby Logger Days in Darby Daly Days, Bitterrodders & Art in the Park Bitterroot Valley Chamber Micro Brewfest Bitterroot in downtown Hamilton Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival on Forest Hill Road off Hwy 93, Mile marker 37, North of Darby

AUGUST 2014 pERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

August 1-2

August 15-16

102nd Annual Creamery Picnic in Stevensville Agai’dika Heritage Days at the Sacajawea Center in Salmon, Idaho

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August 16-23

August 23 -24

August 27-30

Lehmi County Fair at the fairgrounds in Salmon, Idaho Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering at the Daly Mansion in Hamilton Ravalli County Fair & Rodeo at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton

SEPTEMBER 2014

September 6 Salmon Marathon in Salmon, Idaho September 28 Stevensville Founders Day celebrated at St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville

OCTOBER 2014

e e r h s c

October 3 Scarecrow Festival in downtown Sevensville

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Vista 2014 - Page 61

October 4 – 35th

Annual McIntosh Apple Day from 9am to 3pm at the Hamilton Farmers Market

NOVEMBER 2014 November 7-9

ARTrageous – Bitterroot Valley November 28 Christmas Stroll in Downtown Hamilton

DECEMBER 2014 December 1 -

December 5 – 6

Victor Heritage Museum’s Annual Chocolate Tasting Party in Victor A Montana Country Christmas in downtown Stevensville

PERRY BACKUS / Ravalli Republic

We apologize for any incorrect information or omissions pertaining to events.

To be included in next year’s publication, please contact the Ravalli Republic at 363-3300.

Page 62 - Vista 2014

advertiser index 2nd Street Market............................. 36 Access Ability Solutions, Inc............ 63 Alpine Realty & Bitterroot Fly Co.... 46 Alta Ranch......................................... 47 Angler’s Lodge.................................... 6 Artists Along The Bitterroot............. 22 Between The Worlds........................ 61 Big Sky Renaissance Faire................ 59 Bitterroot Arts Guild Art in the Park................................. 15 Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering..................................... 55 Bitterroot Chamber Micro Brewfest............................... 19 Bitterroot River Inn & Conference Center........................ 13 Blacksmith Brewery........................... 11 Bouilla................................................ 37 Cheers Unlimited, Inc....................... 60 Coffee Cup........................................ 23 Coldwell Banker Western States..... 56 Daly Mansion...................................... 9 Dons Home Center.......................... 21 Downtown Hamilton Events............ 35 Eskay Bridal....................................... 17

First Baptist Church.......................... 26 Flying Horse MT............................... 57 Fords Department Store.................. 37 Frontier Auto....................................... 2 Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival........... 46 Hamilton Downtown Association Daly Days......................................... 20 Hamilton Golf Club.......................... 28 Hamilton Mortgage Services Inc..... 49 Hamilton Packing.............................. 56 Hamilton Players............................... 58 Joni Zinkovich, Realtor..................... 58 Kingdom Skate Shop........................ 26 Lifeline Creamery Farm Store.......... 23 Lost Trail Powder Mountain............. 51 Lube Quick & Quick Wash............... 27 Mikesell’s Fine Jewelry..................... 54 Montana Professional Artists Annual Art Show & Sale................. 64 Montana Westgate Real Estate....... 21 Pioneer Carriage Services.................. 6 Ravalli County Fairgrounds.............. 39 Ravalli County Museum.................... 42 Ravalli Electric Coop......................... 14 REMLC Rental Properties................. 54

River Rising Bakery........................... 40 Rocking L Ranch Alpacas................. 30 Rocky Knob Lodge........................... 51 Rocky Mountain Bank....................... 11 Sacajawea Center............................. 52 Sapphire Lutheran Homes............... 45 Sapphire Quilt Club.......................... 57 Silver Coin Casino & The Office...... 36 Spice Of Life...................................... 41 Stacy Jennings Flyfishing School.... 28 Stevensville Civic Club Creamery Picnic.............................. 12 Stevensville Main Street Western Heritage Days.................. 15 The Edge Restaurant and Hamilton Wine & Liquor......... 29 The Wild Mare.................................. 25 Townhouse Inn, Hamilton................ 40 Victor Heritage Museum.................. 19 West Fork Mountain Crafts.............. 47 Western Montana Clinic................... 31 Wild Rose Emu Ranch...................... 14 Wimps Body Works Inc.................... 62

Your Car Deserves the Best repair serviCe availaBle

tom Kimp, owner Body shop & Collision Center & auto repair

Free loaner Cars!

• auto Body repair - 24/7 towing services - roadside services

363-4050 • 998 N. 1st (Hwy 93), Hamilton www.wimpsbodyworks.com 45 years serving the Bitterroot Valley

DAVID ERICKSON / Ravalli Republic

access ability

Montana Professional Artists Association

10 Art Show th

Anniversary

at the Bitterroot River Inn 139 Bitterroot Plaza Dr. Hamilton, MT

&Sale

June 13,14 & 15

We’re Having A Party!

and You’re Invited!

Music Free BBQ Dinner Authentic Chuck-Wagon

Friday BBQ Reception: 6pm to 10pm Sat.: 10am to 7pm Sun: 10am to 4pm

www.MontanaProfessionalArtistsAssoc.com