Ennis
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. more info
Ennis Listings: (add your listing)
Montana Whitewater - Run the Beartrap Canyon
Offering a unique whitewater trip down the "Beartrap Canyon" section of the Madison River north of Ennis. This trip provides excitement! See our live video of the trip!
(800) 799-4465
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.
48FOther pages you might find helpful:
Ennis Lions Club
The Ennis Montana Lions Club serves the area in and around Ennis.
Ennis Schools
The Ennis School District.
History of Ennis, Montana
A complete history of the town of Ennis, Montana.
Madison County, Montana
Official site for Madison County, Montana.
Madison Valley Public Library
Contact information for the Madison Valley Public Library.
Madison Valley Ranchlands Group
In Ennis, the Madison Valley Ranchlands Group, strives to protect the ranching way of life and maintain open spaces.
Town of Ennis, Montana
Official site for the Town of Ennis, Montana.
