Bitterroot Valley and Beyond

Important Requirements

Lottery Information

A lottery process is in effect for this program. Lottery entry opens July 2, 2025, and closes July 8, 2025. Selected lottery registrants will be notified via email by July 10, 2025. Any registrants who are not selected will be placed on the waitlist in case of a cancellation. Click or tap here for full details about the lottery process.

Activity Level

This tour is physically demanding. Participants must be able to meet ALL the physical requirements outlined at the bottom of this page.

Description

Immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and culture of Montana's Bitterroot Valley this autumn with OLLI at MSU. This engaging travel program offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Montana's most picturesque and historically rich regions.

Over several thoughtfully planned days, participants will enjoy a dynamic blend of guided museum visits, enlightening guest speakers, and field tours that bring the Bitterroot's vibrant past and present to life. From early Indigenous cultures and Lewis and Clark's passage to contemporary conservation efforts and local arts, the tour weaves together stories that define this remarkable region.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply enjoy meaningful travel in good company, this active tour offers plenty to discover and discuss. Come explore with us and gain a deeper appreciation for this thriving corner of the Treasure State.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable autumn journey!

This program is limited to 20 people.

Sample Schedule

Day 1

Drive your own vehicle. Optional lunch in Stevensville, MT, guided tour of historic Saint Mary's Mission, tour and appetizers at Westslope Distillery, group dinner at Bitterroot Brewing, guest speaker on Native people of the Bitterroot Valley, and spend the night in Hamilton.

Day2

Tour MSU Western Region Agricultural Station, followed by lunch provided by OLLI. Presentation on conservation and land trust work in the Bitterroot Valley, visit the Teller Wildlife Refuge to learn about their community and conservation work, take a guided tour of the Daley Mansion, take an evening tour of the Ravalli County Historical Museum, and spend the night in Hamilton.

Day 3

The tour concludes with optional sights and attractions on your route back to Bozeman.

This schedule is subject to change based on weather, field access, and other factors.

Lodging, Meals, Transportation Details:

Your tuition includes lunch on Day 2, guest speakers, entrance and tour fees for St. Mary's Mission, Ravalli Historical Museum, and Daley Mansion.

To make this travel program affordable, participants will pay for their own transportation, lodging, and most meals.

A block of rooms has been reserved at the Bitterroot River Inn in Hamilton until August 12^th at a rate of $219/ night for either a one king or two queen bed room. You are also welcome to book different lodging, bring your camper, etc.

Tuition

Tuition for a single OLLI member is $220. If you prefer to travel with a partner, register together with another traveler for $440, and email olli@montana.edu to let us know who will travel with you.

Physical Requirements

This is a moderately active trip. It involves:

• Walking and standing outdoors, exposed to elements (sun, wind, cold, rain)
• Walking and standing in museums and on tours for up to 2 hours
• Walking on uneven ground, including agricultural areas
• Driving in a personal vehicle to and from the program destination
• Extended periods of standing (up to 2 hours)
• Ascending and descending stairs in historic buildings

Portions of this class will take place in remote locations with no emergency response services or medical facilities.

Scholarship

Apply for a needs-based scholarship before entering the lottery for this program. The application deadline is June 30.

Apply for a needs-based scholarship to take this offering.