Ennis - A Fishing and Recreation Paradise

   

Picturesquely situated in the heart of the gorgeous Madison Valley, with more than 1,000 residents, Ennis is not among the biggest cities in Montana but offers all the modern comforts of city life. The nearby Madison River is a trout-fishing wonder and the most popular reason for visiting Ennis. As a matter of fact, the city is glorified as the Fly-Fishing Capital of the World. Downtown is dotted with fly-fishing shops that cater the needs of anglers. The Lee Metcalf Wilderness area and Bear Trap Canyon are splendid backgrounds not only for fishermen, but for hikers and white-water rafters, as well. Other attractive fishing points are the shores of the Ennis Lake. The entertainment options in Ennis do not end with fishing. On the contrary, the area is bursting with fun pastimes. Boating down the Madison River could be a rather inspirational activity for the panoramic scenes along the way, revealing the beauty of the Madison Range and the Gravelly Range.    

Ennis has preserved the feel of an Old West city and the historical heritage of the area. You should surely include the Beaverhead National Forest in your tourist itinerary where you can have a detailed look at the 10,000-foot Black Butte and explore the destructive impact of the earthquake in 1959. The horrific earthquake measured 7.1 on the Richter Scale, and it completely destroyed the mountain, creating in its place the 150-foot-deep Earthquake Lake.    

The bright blue skies, the fresh air, the contours of the mountain peaks and the plush, verdant fields that surround Ennis will make you instantly forget your troubles in its scenic beauty. What makes Ennis one of the most sparkling gems in the crown of Montana are the pleasant climate, access to other popular destinations, the warmhearted people and the atmosphere of relaxation.    

Only 12 miles away from Ennis, you can visit Virginia City. It is thought to be the most complete, original town of its kind in the country. A stroll along the historic landmarks and the old-fashioned streets is a trip in a time machine, taking you 120 years into the past. You can savour traditional recipes dating back to gold rush days, catch a glimpse of the work of blacksmith artisans or explore the quaint shops.     

The mining community of Nevada City is recreated exactly the way it used to look. Trying your hand at panning will enable you find real gold, and special courses can teach you how to pan for genuine rubies in Ruby Valley.    

Ennis is a proud host to many annual cultural events - summer festival, rodeos, contests and many more.