Quick Facts

• Population: 1,337 (town) / 16,082 (Stevensville Census County Division)
• County: Ravalli
• Founded: 1841 (St. Mary's Mission) / 1864 (town)
• Elevation: 3,323 ft
• Known For: Montana's first permanent non-Indigenous settlement; St. Mary's Mission; Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
• Nearby Landmarks: Bitterroot Mountains, Sapphire Mountains, Bitterroot River, Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness
• Fun Fact: Stevensville was founded 48 years before Montana achieved statehood, making it truly "where Montana began."

Notable People & Pop Culture

• Huey Lewis – Iconic rock musician and frontman of Huey Lewis and the News who has called Stevensville home since 1987, drawn to the area's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle.
• Lee Metcalf – Influential U.S. Senator from Montana (1961-1978) whose conservation legacy lives on in the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge located near Stevensville.
• "A River Runs Through It" connections – While not filmed in Stevensville specifically, this iconic Montana-based film showcases the Bitterroot River region, bringing attention to the spectacular fly fishing opportunities in the area.

Top Things to Do in Stevensville

• ✧ St. Mary's Mission & Museum – Step back in time at Montana's first permanent settlement, exploring the restored chapel, pharmacy, and living quarters where Father Pierre-Jean De Smet established the mission in 1841.
• ✧ Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge – Traverse interpretive trails through 2,800 acres of wetlands and riparian habitat, where over 235 species of birds, deer, and other wildlife can be spotted against the backdrop of the Bitterroot Mountains.
• ✧ Fort Owen State Park – Discover Montana's earliest permanent settlement site, where Major John Owen established a trading post in 1850 after purchasing the abandoned St. Mary's Mission.
• ✧ Bitterroot River Recreation – Embark on world-class fly fishing adventures, thrilling rafting expeditions, or peaceful kayaking journeys on one of Montana's most scenic waterways, whose course was shaped by ancient geological forces.

Local Industry & Economy

Stevensville's economy reflects the resilient, independent spirit of Montana's frontier heritage while embracing modern opportunities. Agriculture remains a cornerstone, with family farms and ranches dotting the valley, producing hay, grain, and livestock. The town has evolved into a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation businesses, with outfitters, guides, and gear shops catering to fishing, hunting, and wilderness adventures. Small manufacturing operations, artisan crafts, and a growing number of remote workers drawn to the area's natural beauty contribute to a diverse economic landscape. Tourism plays an increasingly important role, with visitors exploring historic sites, wildlife refuges, and mountain trails, while supporting local restaurants, boutiques, and accommodations. The proximity to Missoula, about 30 miles north, provides additional employment opportunities while allowing residents to maintain their cherished small-town lifestyle in the shadow of the Bitterroot Mountains.

History & Heritage

Stevensville's story begins with the Salish (Flathead) Native Americans, who called the fertile Bitterroot Valley home for generations before European contact. The valley's rich soil and abundant water, shaped by ancient geological forces, made it an ideal location for settlement. The pivotal moment in the town's history came in 1841, when Jesuit priest Father Pierre-Jean De Smet established St. Mary's Mission at the request of the Salish people, creating what would become Montana's first permanent non-Indigenous settlement. The mission introduced agriculture to the region, including Montana's first cattle herd and the state's first harvest of wheat and oats.

In 1850, Major John Owen purchased the abandoned mission site and established Fort Owen, a vital trading post that served as a lifeline for early settlers. The town was officially named Stevensville in 1864, honoring territorial governor Isaac Stevens. When the Salish were forcibly removed to the Flathead Reservation in 1891, it marked a tragic chapter in the area's history. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Stevensville grew as a center for agriculture, logging, and commerce, with the arrival of the railroad in 1888 further connecting this frontier outpost to the wider world.

Today, the town proudly preserves its historic buildings and cultural heritage, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into Montana's pioneering past while maintaining its authentic small-town character.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

• Spring/Summer: Fly fishing on the Bitterroot River, hiking in the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, wildlife viewing at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, mountain biking, horseback riding, and exploring the farmers' market for fresh local produce.
• Fall/Winter: Spectacular fall foliage viewing, elk and deer hunting seasons, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and cozy evenings at local restaurants and breweries.
• Annual Events: Creamery Picnic (August) - a century-old tradition celebrating the town's agricultural heritage with parades, food, and entertainment; Western Heritage Days (June) - featuring rodeo events, cowboy poetry, and historical reenactments; Scarecrow Festival (October) - where creative scarecrows line Main Street; and Bass Creek Fishing Derby (June) - a family-friendly fishing competition.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Stevensville is conveniently located just 30 miles south of Missoula along Highway 93, making it easily accessible for travelers. The nearest major airport is Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), offering connections to major cities throughout the United States. For road-trippers, the scenic drive through the Bitterroot Valley is an attraction in itself, with stunning mountain views accompanying you along the way.

Nearby destinations worth exploring include Hamilton (15 miles south), the largest town in the Bitterroot Valley with additional shopping and dining options; Missoula (30 miles north), a vibrant university town with cultural attractions and urban amenities; Lolo (20 miles north), home to historic Travelers' Rest State Park where Lewis and Clark camped; and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness (west), offering over 1.3 million acres of pristine backcountry adventure. For those seeking hot springs, both Lolo Hot Springs (40 miles northwest) and Lost Trail Hot Springs (75 miles south) provide relaxing soaks after a day of exploration.

Where to Stay in Stevensville

Stevensville offers a range of accommodations that capture the authentic charm and hospitality of small-town Montana. The historic Bitterroot River Bed & Breakfast provides a cozy, intimate setting in a restored heritage building, where guests can enjoy homemade breakfasts before heading out to explore. For those seeking more independence, several vacation rentals and cabins are scattered throughout the area, many offering spectacular mountain views and riverfront access—perfect for fishing enthusiasts or those wanting to immerse themselves in Montana's natural beauty.

While Stevensville itself has limited hotel options, nearby Hamilton and Missoula provide additional choices, including modern hotels and motels with all the expected amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts might opt for camping at nearby Bass Creek Recreation Area or Charles Waters Campground, where the stargazing is unparalleled and the connection to nature is immediate. Whatever your preference, accommodations in and around Stevensville serve as perfect basecamps for adventures in the Bitterroot Valley, offering authentic Montana hospitality with easy access to both wilderness experiences and historic attractions.

• Hotels: Find hotels in Stevensville on Expedia.
• Motels: Find motels in Stevensville on Expedia.
• Vacation Rentals: Find houses, cabins, and apartments for rent on VRBO.
• Campgrounds: Several campgrounds and RV parks are available in and around Stevensville for those who prefer to stay closer to nature.