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Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway

Riverside holiday home with kitchen and balcony

Photo gallery for Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway

Pond from back deck towards the dock - early Fall.
View of house from across our pond
Lots of places to watch the pond and wildlife...
Breezeway for looking through brochures to plan your day.
Breezeway off the kitchen for reading, dining or just relaxing.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 62250 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
  • Place, Daly Mansion
  • Place, Sawtooth Trailhead
  • Place, Stock Farm Club

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Master bedroom

1 Double Bed and 1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Master bath

Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway

Between Hamilton and Darby, this property borders the Bitterroot River, has spring-fed trout ponds and pastureland with stunning views of the Bitterroot Mountains to the west, and the Sapphire Mountains to the east.
We have high speed internet if you must work or do online school work while staying with us. Guests can gather on the expansive deck, on the screened porch, in the new pavilion, the five-acre pond or other picturesque spots. The deck and large yard are enclosed - a great play space for children.
The 1960s house has comfortable beds, remodeled bathrooms and all new kitchen appliances. A comfortable living room is ready to watch movies, play board games, and listen to music . The dining area/library/game room off the kitchen is a large room called the breezeway.
The owners have enjoyed 50 years of family gatherings for pig roasts, fish fries, weddings, reunions and many birthday parties. There are no formal gardens or landscapes, just tidy, native flora and fauna that supports a healthy ecosystem for abundant wildlife such as whitetail deer, moose, elk, beaver, mink, muskrat, river otter, wood ducks, Canada geese, osprey, hawks, eagles and turtles. (no hunting)
The rental affords a wrap-around deck and enclosed lawn area interspersed with fruit trees, alongside a pavilion/outdoor picnic area.
This house borders a five acre private pond plus 20 more acres of wetlands that was formed on an old oxbow of the Bitterroot, a blue ribbon fly fishing river.
The dock is a great place to practice your fly casting skills for the elusive Rainbow and Brook trout (we practice catch and release for trout, anything else you can keep). You can also walk across our island to get to the main branch of the river.
Gathering on the deck for morning coffee can be a great place to observe the pond or plan your day of fishing, hiking, or one of the many available activities in our area.
If you love nature, you will be enchanted with our property. It provides endless opportunities for photography, bird watching, fly casting, walking - plenty of ways to relax, renew and reconnect.
* There's an extensive library of books, high speed WiFi, internet access with Netflix, game boards, puzzles, DVD and CD collection and vintage LP records/stereo system.
* High chair, pack' n play and car booster seat available.
* It's a 10-minute drive north to Hamilton restaurants, Saturday Farmers Market and Wednesday small Farmers Market; grocery stores (4), health food store or a 15-minute drive south to Darby - their rodeo grounds and shopping.
* River fishing conditions on blog/Freestone Fly Shop in Hamilton...
* Fish our pond, catch and release with barbless hooks only (not open to public)
* Smoking outside only
* No pets because we have unpredictable wildlife
* credit cards only
" We watched from the deck while a mother raccoon and her five offspring came down a tree on the far side of the pond. She encouraged two of them to stay on the shore while she took the others on a swim to the island. The two baby raccoons did not follow her instructions to stay behind and there was a lot of chattering, swimming back and forth and general confusion which created a marvelous experience for us!"
"We have seen a moose wade into the pond to eat the pond lilies and grass; and seen a lone Trumpeter Swan gracefully feeding while Canada Geese lined up to watch as though they were in loge seats at a movie theatre!"
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Best if children understand water safety.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Sorry that we can't allow pets with all of our wildlife.
Only household garbage in the can, NO animal carcasses.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Hamilton

Located in Hamilton, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Bitterroot Valley and Bitterroot River, while Ravalli County Museum and Hamilton Performing Arts Center are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Hamilton, MT

What's nearby

  • Darby Park - 13 min drive - 19.4 km
  • Daly Mansion - 14 min drive - 17.0 km
  • Sawtooth Trailhead - 15 min drive - 11.7 km
  • Rock Creek Trailhead - 16 min drive - 15.0 km
  • Stock Farm Club - 27 min drive - 23.6 km

Getting around

  • Missoula, MT (MSO-Missoula Intl.) - 89 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Lost Horse Creek Lodge - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Domino's Pizza - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Brewskie's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Domino's Pizza - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Sleeping Child Farms - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Trout Farm ponds, wildlife corridor on creek and river - a perfect getaway located?

This family-friendly Hamilton holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 3 mi (5 km) of Bitterroot Valley and Bitterroot River. Como Swimming Beach and Bitterroot Mall are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Maureen D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved sitting on the deck overlooking the pond. My husband fished there and at the river. He and my daughter enjoyed rowing the boat. We saw a young bull moose the first night and deer each night. The house was comfortable for 5 adults. We wished we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Russell G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very family friendly, very well furnished, everything needed to cook on site was present ( you just need to furnish your own groceries). 15 minutes to Hamilton so very close to stores and shops. Laundry machines on site so you pack light for weather conditions. Deer were waiting for apples that dropped off of the trees each day. Geese and ducks were present on the trout pond each day, flying in each morning and out each evening. Private beautiful location. Sitting on the deck each breakfast our having a glass of wine, just enjoying the scenery was our favorite thing to do. Other relatives rented other locations in the area and ours was judged to be the best.
View from deck directly across the trout pond
View to North end of trout pond
Snack time!
View through trees walking around south end of the trout pond
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

House was very comfortable, had everything you could want, and an absolutely beautiful pond. And we enjoyed our stay, and would rate a five star. Great today
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

James W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Nice peaceful location and surroundings. Bob the caretaker was awesome. Not fancy, but comfortable with everything you need. Would do it again
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Delightful

A beautiful location and fantastic house. Could not have been more pleased.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Travis M., Wellesley, MA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful, special spot

What a place. Perfect for our fishing trip. Will come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jim L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We are a repeat customer staying for a third time. The house was very clean, comfortable and spacious with plenty of information on restaurants, hikes, attractions. Rae our host provided was exemplary in providing instructions on the house and its features. We loved sitting outside watching wildlife in and outside the 5 acre pond. It was fun watching 3 turtles, deer and also being able to walk around. Neighbors were friendly including the horses. We had a very restful relaxing stay, we enjoyed steak at “the edge” sports bar in Hamilton and visited 406 saloon in Darby. We also ate at Ruby’s Cafe in Missoula. We score this experience 5 / 5
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Margaret P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Little Bit of Heaven

What a beautiful place to be! All of us enjoyed our time here. So peaceful and serene. We would go back in a heartbeat. Bob was so friendly and accommodating.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

victoria p., USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Trout Pond

This property is great location right between Darby and Hamilton. It is very clean and well kept. The property manager is super friendly and great to talk to and get information on the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Kansas group

Absolutely wonderful place! Bob the maintenance guy was very pleasant to visit with. House was clean, comfortable and private. Loved drinking our coffee on the porch every morning and then eatting dinner out there also. Took nice walk down to the river. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun!

Kids had fun catching fish in the pond and walking down to the river. 30 head of elk with their calves were right by the pond, as well.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steve J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bitterroot Trout Farm

Wonderful property. Quiet, peaceful and private. The property manager (Bob) was fantastic on the history of the property and answering any questions. The owner Rae was fabulous to work with as well. I will definitely be back. Beautiful!!! Thanks again Steve
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bitterroot Beautiful

Very nice stay in beautiful surroundings. It was a visit back in time like Montana living before the hordes arrived. Bob takes pride in keeping the grounds attractive and well kept. Eagles, great blue herons, ducks, deer, and what? Turtles? The bullfrogs are croaking at all times. RW
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard D., Phoenix, AZ

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A bit of paradise….

What a beautiful spot. Geese, deer, owls, and ducks literally outside my door. Private trout pond produced several trout which were released for the next guest to catch. Simply sitting on the porch was sooooo relaxing. Enjoyed everything about the house. I have promised Bob that I will be back again next summer.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gina S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

Loved our time at this home and in Hamilton. Caught fish from the pond and near by streams on the property. We needed to leave a day early for a mixup at work, but all in all we would go back. Ps. Some of the books(TV area) look like mold maybe starting to form, a dehumidifier might work to preserve those old texts.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tom G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Could not have been better

Trout Farm Ponds is a VRBO that we would recommend to anyone and everyone -- and already have. The place was not only immaculate, but already filled with necessities that you may not have even considered. The comfort was so great that we quickly referred to the property as "home". We spent nearly every morning on the deck with a cup of coffee, and every evening on the deck with a glass of wine, or perhaps scotch. And Bob was the crowning jewel that made the place even better; we enjoyed his company and hospitality every day. Whatever that man earns, he deserves a raise!! As I said, Trout Pond Farms could not have been better. We will be back...
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robyn A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay for a family

Our family had a great time staying at this property for 10 days. The property itself is wonderful with lots of big trees, a pond, a lovely enclosed yard, and only 10 minutes drive into Hamilton one way and Darby the other. Our two boys (ages 12 and 9) loved boating on the pond, biking around the property, playing badminton, etc. I loved sitting on the sunporch and listening to the birds. The house is definitely vintage--it is almost overwhelmingly 1960s/1970s when you walk in--but we expected that from the photos. It was very clean, well stocked, and comfortable. The beds were comfortable, which is important! There is a caretaker who lives in the downstairs apartment, which was nice to have someone to ask questions, but he was unobtrusive and lives in an entirely separate space. Overall, we just had a great time, love this part of Montana, and will likely stay there again next summer because we had such a great time.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Dee B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place is quiet. It is large and there are interesting items inside the home to explore, The view is great - large pond, ducks and geese, a turtle and often a deer or two. Great place to rest and not far from Hamilton, Darby and rural life. Second time we have stayed here.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kasey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This home is a time capsule to a time that focused on family and love. If you're focused on all the modern amenities, this is not for you, but what you will receive is a home that provides relaxation, coziness, and the opportunity to make memories with your loved ones. Everything you need is provided and Rae makes sure you are comfortable and taken care of. This was the perfect place to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary and would love to return.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
HIGHLY RECOMMEND! The house has more space than pictured and we almost got lost when we first walked in. There are also fun treasures, games, and entertainment around every corner of the property. We will definitely be making this a reoccurring destination spot for our family. They thought of everything! Activities for all ages. My 10 year old daughter spent the entire time, sun up to sun down, fishing (catch and release) and catching minnows off the dock. The property is well maintained and you can feel how loved and special it is for the family who owns it.Thank you so much for providing such a beautiful property to create some wonderful family memories for our family that will last a lifetime
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Review

GERAT!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sue B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heavenly Paradise

This was one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen and having grown up in Montana and can attest that it is truly a natural treasure. We absolutely loved sitting on the deck in the morning watching the geese, ducks, turkeys and turtles along with osprey & eagles as they flew by. The house was full of reading material & collectibles and we were very comfortable staying there. We didn't fish because we didn't want to do any harm to their existence in such a pristine environment.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

K N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice location for us

The property worked for our small group, centrally located between Darby-Hamilton in the southern Bitteroot Valley.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Steve J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bitterroot Trout Farm

Fabulous property! A wonderful Montana experience. Second time we have stayed here and we will come back next year.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Clair Matthew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing stay at Bitterroot Trout Farm! The weather, views, and wildlife did not disappoint! The house and property suited our family so well, and the close proximity to Darby and the things we love to do while in Montana was perfect! Thank you for the great place to get away!
We were able to spot a young bull moose across the pond on our final evening there!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Rae

Host profile image
Our business office is at the south end of the ranch where the cairn terriers hang out - when they're not barking at the Whitetail Deer, Sandhill Cranes, wild turkeys or the occasional moose.

Why they chose this property

The Farleys bought the property to create a wildlife sanctuary and try their hand at raising rainbow trout. They also planted native trees and bushes to provide food for the abundant wildlife. Located between Darby and Hamilton, bordering the river and a creek, it's a natural wildlife corridor. The spring-fed ponds provide year-round oxygen for the trout because of a ditch that never freezes. This is a unique place in Montana, we hope you'll come experience it.

What makes this property unique

Mother Nature provides a different show every day, whether it's a star studded sky at night or storm clouds over the mountains, there is always a view to admire. Bushes budding out in the spring attract birds and wildlife to munch them plus the goslings and ducklings that are born on the pond. September shows off the vibrant fall colors of the trees, while wildlife are determined to store up food for winter.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests