Ennis Montana Visitor Information

Ennis lies in the heart of the Madison Valley in the southwestern corner of Montana. A small, authentic western town, Ennis is oft described as having a population of 1000 people and 11,000 trout. Why? Because Ennis is surrounded by three ranges of the Rocky Mountains - the Madison Range, the Gravelly Range, and the Tobacco Root Mountains. All of which means "blue ribbon" fly fishing on some of America's top-rated trout streams, rivers and lakes.

ENNIS - A BRIEF HISTORY

Prior to the arrival of the white man, Shoshone, Flathead and Bannack Indians hunted the Madison Valley each spring. Lewis and Clark found their way into the Madison Valley back in 1805. It can be assumed that some of their party came through Ennis on their journey.

Two months after gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in 1863, William Ennis homesteaded the site along the Madison River that quickly became the town of Ennis. The town's favorable location and climate soon attracted ranchers, farmers and businessmen. Horse, sheep and cattle thrived here, wild game was plentiful and White Cloud's tribe of Bannack Indians were valued friends of the settlers.

William Ennis homesteaded the site that quickly became the town of Ennis.

ENNIS TODAY

Today, Ennis remains primarily cattle country. Prize Herefords and Black Angus are raised here along with rotating crops of hay and grain. Timber is harvested from the nearby national forests, and gold mining is making a comeback in the area.

Surrounded by three million acres of the Beaverhead National Forest, Ennis is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Within these pristine acres lie the Madison Range, the Gravelly Range, and the Tobacco Root Mountains. The combination of forested mountains along with access to the beautiful Madison River, yields exceptional opportunities for recreating.

Considered the fly fishing capital of the world, Ennis offers first-class trout fishing on the Madison River. Anglers from all over the country migrate to Ennis to put their casting and tying skills to the test.

Breathtaking scenery in every direction as you enjoy first-class trout fishing.

The Madison River also offers whitewater for rafters and kayakers. There are many quieter sections of the river suitable for family float trips and canoeing, too.

For those who prefer land, Ennis offers spectacular hiking and camping opportunities. Mountain biking options are also abundant. The varied terrain and uncrowded trails make biking in Ennis an adventurous and pleasurable experience.

But, whether you're on a boat, a bike, or on foot, wildlife viewing is virtually inescapable. Grizzlies, elk, trumpeter swans, mountain goats, deer, and more can be glimpsed in their natural habitat.

Hiking, biking, camping ... it's all to be found in Ennis.

OLD WEST ENNIS

As a cowboy town, Ennis also provides an Old West flavor with lively boardwalks on the weekends. Modern amenities such as movie theaters and playhouses are also available in downtown Ennis.

Adventure, fun or quiet, Ennis has it all. You'll love it here, whether you stay for a day, a week, a month ... or forever!

Adventure, fun or quiet, Ennis has it all.