Recreation includes hundreds of miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, fishing on the Bitterroot River or many high mountain lakes, or boating on two nearby reservoirs. Bicycling is popular, thanks to a new trail paralleling Highway 93 between Missoula and Hamilton. Downhill and cross country skiing at Lost Trail Pass is some of the best in Montana! Lake Como, south of Hamilton, is a popular destination for residents and vacationers, as are the many U.S. Forest Service campgrounds throughout the area. There are thousands of acres ready to be explored.

The Bitterroot Valley is surrounded on the west by the spectacular Bitterroot Mountains, featuring multiple canyons with streams that join the Bitterroot River. Every canyon has a trail to the west that enters either the Selway Bitterroot or the Frank W. Church wilderness areas. These two areas combine to total 3,714,471± acres. The highest peak in the Bitterroot Range is Trapper Peak at 10,157 feet. The Sapphire Range to the east side of the Valley also has protected areas with the highest peak in this range being Kent Peak with an elevation of 8,999 feet. The Two Feathers Ranch is located in the foot hills of the Bitterroot Mountains with stunning views of both ranges.

Bitterroot Valley equestrians enjoy easy access to the mountains, rodeos, and training events throughout western Montana. There is a County Rodeo in Hamilton and a larger event in Missoula every year. Darby has a Bull Riding competition and senior events that bring high quality riders for large purses annually. The Saddle Tramps offers new comers a chance to meet other trail riders every week to explore various trails throughout the Valley. This all gal club has been in the Valley for over 30 years. Back Country Horseman plan overnight and weekly events throughout the region. If you love horses, the Bitterroot Valley is your kind of place.