Trails and Maps
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River and Hieronymus Parks
Hamilton National Treasures
Terrific birdwatching at two parks
A stone's throw from Hamilton, learn about Bitterroot Salish culture from a series of interpretive signs at Hieronymus Park.
Download Printable Version of Site Informatione
Field Notes
Both Parks are largely natural and along the Bitterroot River – leading to great bird watching. River Park (65 acres of mowed meadows and natural cottonwood bottomlands) is on the west edge of Hamilton. See wood ducks in quiet sloughs, nesting great horned owls and osprey. Moose frequent the park, too – see the interpretive moose signs along the paved paths. Enjoy a picnic at tables overlooking the river. Hieronymus Park (60 acres of floodplain, mature cottonwoods, riparian areas and meadows) is on the north edge of Hamilton and has a fishing pond (look for waterfowl) and picnic tables on its south end. The large Corvallis Canal runs along the east side of the park and warbler species and black-headed grosbeaks can be spotted along both sides of the canal in the thick shrubbery. Osprey, bald eagles and moose can also commonly be seen in this park. A 2-mile narrow loop trail passes a footbridge over the canal (to the pond and picnic areas) and leads to the Bitterroot River, where spotted sandpipers, common mergansers and American dippers can be seen.
Back to TopCultural Link
Hieronymus Park's interpretive trail tells the story of how the Salish helped Lewis and Clark in their Bitterroot journey. Ten interpretive signs along a trail ringing the 66-acre park take a creative approach to subjects ranging from native birds to sign language and Salish games.
Back to TopViewing Tip
Early mornings spent wandering trails along the old oxbows at the southern end of River Park offer rewarding birding for warblers, osprey, black-headed grosbeaks,waterfowl and woodpeckers.
Back to TopHelpful Hint
River Park offers the choice of wide, accessible paths by the river and narrow foot trails through 65 acres floodplain forest. At Hieronymus Park, the trails are unpaved but wide and easy to follow. Dogs must be leashed at both parks.
Back to TopGetting There
River Park - Turn west at the light on Main Street off Highway 93 in downtown Hamilton. Drive 8 blocks and turn left (south) on 9th street. The park is to your right (west). Hieronymus Park - Heading south into Hamilton on Highway 93, turn right (west) into the Bitterroot River Inn (139 Bitterroot Plaza Drive). Park in the grassy field at the entrance to Hieronymus Park.
Back to TopContact
City of Hamilton, 223 S. Second St., Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1519
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