Bitterroot Valley Overview

  The Bitterroot Valley lies in a north/south protected valley with its own distinctive climate apart from the rest of Montana. Microclimates can be found throughout the valley because of the variety of elevations and bodies of water. Spring varies with its entrance, residents can get taste of early warm weather, although temperatures fluctuate greatly between March and May. June brings most of the precipitation which is much needed as the valley heads into the heat of July and August. These warm summer days often stretch well into September. Fall brings a beautiful display of colors as the temperatures drop and the days get shorter. Snow comes early in the mountains here; the west side usually will have somewhat more snow than the east side and traditionally the East Fork and West Fork areas, south of Darby, will receive a larger snow depth due to the higher elevations.

  The Bitterroot Valley has a dry climate and an average low humidity factor with an average rainfall of 13.3 inches per year. The west side of the valley generally has more pine trees and shallower soil and with a view of the Sapphire Mountains to the east. the east side of the valley is slightly warmer with deeper soil and the view is of the Bitterroot Mountain range.

  The valley floor generally has the most productive soil and has a view of both mountain ranges. Growing season 130-150 day Average Frost Free Period May 14-Sept. 20, Zone 5-6

• 25 Miles Wide
• 96 Miles Long
• 2394 Square Miles Land Area
• 6 Square Miles Inland Water