Thinking of moving to Hamilton, MT

[seven of nine]

Look at my album of eastern Montana, you will see the prairie side of the state. No bears here, porcupines, deer, prairie dogs The other posters are giving you good advice.
Humm, the move from Portland, well I will say I am glad I am not paying tax money to the mayoral staff. I am sure you know what I am talking about. Please do not take offense to my teasing, you will learn to relax and find that some things you worried about there are not too important here. Good luck. Let us know how it is going.

[AndersonRM]

You could start by reading the Ravalli Republic newspaper. Ravalli Republic - Bitterroot Valley News: Hamilton, Stevensville, Darby, Victor, Florence, Corvallis, Lone Rock

[Clark Fork Fantast]

Originally Posted by rickers

The view of the Bitterroot Range from Hamilton is jaw dropping and the Bitterroot river is a good river for floating and fishing. I'm just sorry that I wasn't able to buy anything there, way to expensive for me.

Rickers,
You saw the view! Good for you! When we came through the Bitterroot Valley in August 2007, looking for vacation property, we never even saw the mountain range--all hidden by heavy smoke ...we have friends in Hamilton (we love the town, and the river views), and they told us that the last few years late summers have been just like that: lots of smoke from forest fires. So that was one thing that discouraged us. But we're looking forward to going back for a visit earlier in the summer! Another thing was that, at the time, the Bitterroot Valley was described on the web as one of the fastest growing areas in Montana. That may have changed.
Here's one of the pics we took in Hamilton at 6 pm Aug.16 2007...

[LostinPDX]

I visited Hamilton and fell in love with western Montana- what a state! The hospital is very nice, the town is in a gorgeous setting- what's not to like? I will let you all know if I end up moving. Thank you so much for your advice.

[Beijolady]

Hello,

My husband, our 3 kids and I lived in Hamilton for 5 years. Some of the best years of our life. Hamilton is not only beautiful but also has a milder winter than that of Douglas, WY where we moved back to. We missed family. If we could have taken the surroundings, people and our home with us we would have. You asked about the schools. Washington Elementary is a great little school with awsome teachers. My son loved it, went there for KDG and 1st. If you have not yet found a place to rent or buy, we have a great place for sale or to rent later on in the year, that you'll want to check out. It is only 2 minutes from downtown Hamilton but yet has that county living feel. We have an acre, a detached shop and over a 3,000 sq. ft. home with a 2 car garage. Beautiful mature tree's and landscape. 3 bed 2 bath up. With a space for office or nursery upstairs also. Downstairs has 3 bonus rooms and a pellet stove, so cozy. Hardwood floors, newer carpet, french doors, beautiful firplace, I could go on and on. The nieghborhood is a great neighborhood to raise kids. Retired, friendly and generous folk surround the home. A great family with a 6yr. old boy also lives across the street. Our house was ideal for raising a family in. The kids rode bike in our large paved driveway, swung on the swing set climbed the fruit trees occasionally, and even waded in the little irregation ditch out back that's clear as can be in the summer. We miss it if you can't tell. You can look at the place on realtor.com. It's listed for 249,000.00. A steel in the market today. If you interested let send us a line back and good luck with your move. You won't regret it.

Read more: http://www.city-data.com/forum/monta...#ixzz0TSwdCjCA

Originally Posted by LostinPDX

I have been lucky enough to get a great job opportunity in Hamilton. From what I have read on other posts it sounds like a nice town and I will probably be visiting soon. We love the outdoor activities available, conservative bent of Montana, and less rain compared with Portland and so I am pretty excited about it.

I am interested in how good the schools are- we have two little kids (3 months and 2 years). Are there private school options, and what do you think of the public schools? Also are there activities for little kids there, like at a rec center, gym or pool?
Any recommendations for what I should definitely check out while I'm there?
What is the hospital's reputation? (that's where the job offer is)

Thank you all in advance.

[LostinPDX]

Thank you for the great information on Hamilton. We are very excited to move there! Beijolady, your house sounds great and I am so glad that you recommend Hamilton and the schools. I will send you a separate direct message. (sorry for the delay in my reply, I don't log on very often)

[LostinPDX]

Does anyone know if Victor is also a nice place to live? Especially I'm wondering about schools and safety for kids. Thank you!