Cities and Towns in Ravalli County, Montana
Founded in February 16, 1893, Ravalli County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Ravalli County was formed from Missoula County. The city of Hamilton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Ravalli County has a population of 45,959 and area of 2,394 square miles (6,200 km²).
List of all cities in Ravalli County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Conner, MT | 59827 | 406 |
| Corvallis, MT | 59828 | 406 |
| Darby, MT | 59829 | 406 |
| Florence, MT | 59833 | 406 |
| Grantsdale, MT | 59835 | 406 |
| Hamilton, MT | 59840 | 406 |
| Pinesdale, MT | 59840 | 406 |
| Pinesdale, MT | 59841 | 406 |
| Stevensville, MT | 59870 | 406 |
| Sula, MT | 59871 | 406 |
| Victor, MT | 59875 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Ravalli County, Montana
Hamilton
Location and History
Hamilton, the county seat of Ravalli County, is located in the Bitterroot Valley, nestled between the Sapphire and Bitterroot mountain ranges. It was founded in the 1860s during the gold rush, and its location along the Bitterroot River made it a strategic settlement for miners and early settlers. Originally named “Bitterroot,” the town was renamed Hamilton after the founder of the first permanent settlement, a local rancher and merchant named James Hamilton. Hamilton became an agricultural hub, with settlers cultivating the fertile land around the valley for farming and ranching. In the late 1800s, the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway helped connect Hamilton to regional markets, spurring its growth. The town continued to thrive throughout the 20th century, with agriculture, particularly wheat and fruit production, remaining important to its economy. Today, Hamilton is a picturesque town that attracts tourists with its charming downtown, outdoor recreation, and proximity to the Bitterroot National Forest. It has also seen growth due to its high quality of life, and its role as a regional center for retail, healthcare, and education in the valley.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.72 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 4,429
- Zip Codes: 59840
- Latitude: 46.2272° N
- Longitude: 114.1638° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hamilton is served by the Hamilton School District, which includes Hamilton High School, Hamilton Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers a comprehensive education program, including athletics and extracurricular activities. The town is home to several landmarks, including the Ravalli County Courthouse, which stands as a symbol of Hamilton’s historical significance as the county seat. Outdoor enthusiasts often visit the nearby Bitterroot National Forest for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching, while the Bitterroot River is a popular spot for fly fishing and boating. The Daly Mansion, a historic mansion once owned by copper magnate and politician Marcus Daly, is another key landmark and is now a public museum and event venue. Hamilton’s vibrant downtown area, with its local shops, cafes, and historic architecture, reflects the town’s blend of tradition and modern life. Local events, including the Ravalli County Fair and the Hamilton Farmers Market, celebrate the town’s agricultural roots and provide opportunities for community engagement. Hamilton remains a focal point in Ravalli County, offering a mix of history, education, and outdoor recreation.
Stevensville
Location and History
Stevensville, located just south of Hamilton in the Bitterroot Valley, is one of Montana’s oldest towns, founded in 1841 as the first permanent settlement in the state. Originally called “Stevensville” after the founder, Issac Stevens, the town was established as a military fort and trading post, aimed at protecting settlers and facilitating trade with Native American tribes. The fort became a central hub for the local population, which included fur trappers, miners, and agricultural settlers. In the mid-1800s, Stevensville became the first permanent community in Montana, and it quickly grew as the hub of regional commerce and agriculture. The arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway in the late 19th century further spurred its growth, although Stevensville never reached the size of nearby Hamilton. The town retains a small-town feel and a close-knit community atmosphere. Today, Stevensville remains a quiet, rural town with strong ties to its historical roots and agricultural heritage. It is also known for its proximity to the Bitterroot Mountains and the National Wilderness Area, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.07 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 2,268
- Zip Codes: 59870
- Latitude: 46.5147° N
- Longitude: 114.1024° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stevensville is served by the Stevensville School District, which includes Stevensville High School, Stevensville Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers various educational programs, including athletic opportunities, arts, and extracurricular clubs. The town is home to several landmarks that highlight its rich history, including the Fort Owen State Park, the site of the original military fort that was established in 1841. The park features historical exhibits and the remains of the fort, making it a popular spot for history buffs and tourists. Stevensville is also known for its charming Main Street, lined with historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. The nearby Bitterroot River offers outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking, and the town’s proximity to the Bitterroot National Forest provides access to some of Montana’s most scenic outdoor spaces. Stevensville hosts various community events, such as the Stevensville Main Street Fair, which celebrates local culture, food, and agriculture. The town’s blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation makes it a vibrant community in Ravalli County.
Florence
Location and History
Florence is a small town located south of Hamilton, nestled along the banks of the Bitterroot River. The town has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, with early settlers drawn to the area for its fertile land and access to water for irrigation. Originally a farming community, Florence grew slowly throughout the 20th century, with agriculture remaining its primary economic focus. The town saw increased development in the mid-20th century, particularly as nearby Hamilton grew and expanded. Florence is known for its rural charm and proximity to the Bitterroot River, which offers both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The town itself is primarily residential, with a few small businesses serving the local community. Florence remains a peaceful and quiet place to live, with a strong focus on agriculture and outdoor activities. The town has been increasingly popular as a bedroom community for those who work in nearby Hamilton and Missoula, offering a rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities. Despite its growth, Florence has retained much of its historic character, making it a desirable location for families and retirees.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.63 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 1,120
- Zip Codes: 59833
- Latitude: 46.7795° N
- Longitude: 114.0703° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Florence is served by the Florence-Carlton School District, which includes Florence High School, Florence Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers academic programs along with athletics, arts, and extracurricular activities. Landmarks in Florence include the Florence Civic Center, which hosts local events, gatherings, and community functions. The nearby Bitterroot River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking along its scenic banks. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy nearby hiking trails in the Bitterroot National Forest. The Florence area is also home to several parks and natural areas, including the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, which offers birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities. Florence’s quiet rural setting, combined with its proximity to Hamilton and Missoula, makes it a desirable place to live for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Annual events like the Florence Harvest Festival celebrate the town’s agricultural roots, bringing together local residents and visitors for food, crafts, and entertainment.
Other Communities in Ravalli County
In addition to Hamilton, Stevensville, and Florence, Ravalli County includes several smaller towns and unincorporated communities, including Victor, Corvallis, and Darby. Each of these communities has a rich agricultural and cultural history, with local events and attractions that reflect the area’s deep connection to farming, ranching, and outdoor recreation. Victor, located just south of Stevensville, is known for its orchards and local wineries, while Corvallis, east of Hamilton, is home to a thriving farming community. Darby, in the southwestern corner of the county, offers access to the nearby Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. These smaller communities, while less populated than Hamilton or Stevensville, remain vital to Ravalli County’s agricultural economy and outdoor tourism industry.