You’re going to love the pleasant weather
The Banana Belt
The Bitterroot Valley is known as the “Banana Belt of Montana” as the weather is far less severe than in other parts of the state.
The area is well known for ideal summer conditions with daytime high’s normally in the 80’s and cool, crisp evenings that dip into the 50’s.
Current weather in the Bitterroot Valley
Spring and fall are also mild and tend to be drier and warmer than most of Montana, and are excellent times to visit the area.
Winter brings cold temperatures and snow in November, December, January and February, but again, not as severe as in most parts of the state.
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Bitterroot Valley Weather Overview
The valley floor generally receives only a foot or two of snow each year, while the Lost Trail Ski Area commonly receives in excess of 200”.
The popular foothill locations throughout the valley can easily receive several feet of snow each winter.
Microclimates can be found throughout the valley due to the variety of elevations and bodies of water.
Nights are cool throughout the year, creating comfortable sleeping conditions.
Temperatures occasionally reach 100 from late July through August, and sub-zero temperatures are expected from late November through February.
Although generally pleasant, Bitterroot Valley weather can change quickly.
Plan accordingly with lots of layers. We always recommend taking along a jacket or coat whenever you are outdoors in Montana.
Bitterroot Valley Weather Details
| Rainfall | 12 -15 inches per year |
| Snowfall at Lost Trail Ski Area | 200+ inches per year |
| Snowfall on Valley Floor | 18 – 24 inches per year |
| Sunny Days | 270 days per year |
| Growing Days | 130 – 150 days per year |
| Longest Day – June 21 | 15.8 hours of daylight |
| Shortest Day – December 21 | 8.6 hours of daylight |
| Altitude | 3,200 – 3,890 feet |
Bitterroot Valley Average Monthly Temperatures (F)
| MONTH | HIGH | LOW |
|---|---|---|
| January | 31 | 19 |
| February | 37 | 22 |
| March | 46 | 27 |
| April | 56 | 33 |
| May | 64 | 40 |
| June | 72 | 46 |
| July | 82 | 51 |
| August | 81 | 49 |
| September | 70 | 42 |
| October | 55 | 34 |
| November | 40 | 26 |
| December | 31 | 19 |
That’s a Good Question
July is the warmest month in the Bitterroot Valley with average high temperatures around 82 degrees.
December and January are the coldest months in the Bitterroot Valley with average high temperatures around 31 degrees.
Stevensville, MT recorded 107 degrees on July 23, 2003
Hamilton, MT recorded -39 degrees on February 4, 1899
Additional Resources
This page provides more detailed information about the weather in Hamilton, MT
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