Ravalli County: Mountains, Valleys, and Minds

Published: 2019
By Patrick Mangan

Nestled between two mountain ranges in western Montana, Ravalli County and the Bitterroot Valley are a haven for those who wish to live the Montana lifestyle. The 43,000 residents of Ravalli County enjoy blue-ribbon trout fishing on the Bitterroot River, hunting, hiking, and recreating in the Bitterroot National Forest, and partake in a diverse and growing local food scene. Agriculture, natural resources, recreation and tourism, construction, and small business opportunities all combine to contribute to the county economic base. There are nine small, rural communities spread through the valley. The Ravalli County MSU Extension office has four staff members offering services to all Ravalli County residents, offering a wide diversity of programs to address the county’s needs and interests.