Orchard Homes, MT

Orchard Homes is a neighborhood located in Missoula County, Montana. Its history can be traced back to the late 19th century when it was first settled by homesteaders.

In 1872, Frederick and Catherine Worden became the first residents of Orchard Homes. They bought a large plot of land and began cultivating it, creating orchards and gardens. The fertile soil and favorable climate of the area made it ideal for agricultural activities.

In the early 1900s, the neighborhood saw a growth in population and development. Many settlers from Canada and other parts of the United States came to Orchard Homes to establish their farms and orchards. Fruit trees such as apple, cherry, and peach were planted, leading to the neighborhood's name, Orchard Homes.

The community developed rapidly, with schools, churches, and businesses being established to support the growing population. The Missoula Orchard Homes Irrigation District was formed in 1909 to ensure a consistent water supply for the orchards and farms. The district still exists today and provides irrigation to the area.

During the early to mid-20th century, Orchard Homes faced challenges such as economic fluctuations and natural disasters. The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl had significant impacts on the agricultural community, and many residents struggled to sustain their farms.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Orchard Homes underwent significant changes. It gradually transformed from an agricultural hub into a residential neighborhood. Many of the orchards and farms were converted into residential subdivisions, attracting new residents to the area.

Today, Orchard Homes is a well-established and diverse community, offering a mix of suburban and rural living. The neighborhood's rich history is evident through the presence of old farmhouses, fruit trees, and the lingering sense of the agrarian past.

Preserving the neighborhood's heritage and agricultural character remains important to the residents, and efforts have been made to protect the orchards and open spaces. Orchard Homes continues to evolve while holding on to its roots as a historically significant and vibrant part of Missoula County.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

A conservation and hunting organization with a visitor center that showcases wildlife displays and educational programs, located in Missoula.

Clark Fork River

A scenic river that runs through Orchard Homes, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside picnics.

Fort Missoula Museum

A historic military post with preserved buildings, exhibits, and artifacts, providing insight into the history of the region.

Western Montana Fair

Held annually in Missoula, the fair features livestock exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and a variety of food vendors.

Missoula Art Museum

Located in downtown Missoula, this museum features contemporary art exhibitions from regional and national artists.

Greenough Park

A beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a creek, providing a serene place for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium

A unique attraction housing displays of live butterflies and various insect species, along with interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Caras Park

Situated along the Clark Fork River in downtown Missoula, Caras Park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including live music, farmers' markets, and outdoor movies.

Larchmont Golf Course

A public golf course offering 18 holes of scenic, challenging golf for players of all skill levels.

Smokejumper Visitor Center

Located at the Missoula International Airport, this center provides insights into the history and training of smokejumpers, who are parachute firefighters. Visitors can learn about their heroic efforts and view displays of equipment used in firefighting.

The climate of Orchard Homes, MT is classified as a continental climate. This means that the area experiences four distinct seasons – a moderately cool spring, warm summers, cool fall, and cold winters. Here are some key features of the climate:

Summers

Orchard Homes has warm summers with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F to the low 90s°F (mid-20s°C to low 30s°C). July is typically the warmest month, and the area receives a fair amount of sunshine during this time. It is a relatively dry period with low humidity.

Winters

Winters in Orchard Homes are cold and snowy. Temperatures can drop below freezing, with average lows in the teens°F (-10s°C). December and January are the coldest months, and snowfall is common. The area experiences occasional winter storms, and the snow can accumulate significantly.

Spring

Spring in Orchard Homes sees a gradual warming up after winter. The temperatures start to rise, and the landscape begins to bloom. During this season, temperatures range from the 40s°F to the 60s°F (around 5°C to 15°C). It is a relatively wet season with occasional rain showers.

Fall

Fall in Orchard Homes is characterized by cooler temperatures and changing foliage colors. The average temperatures range from the 40s°F to the low 60s°F (around 5°C to 15°C). It is a transitional season, with occasional rainfall and increasing cloud cover.

Overall, Orchard Homes experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cold and snowy. Spring and fall serve as transition periods between the extremes of summer and winter, and the area receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year.

Orchard Homes is a census-designated place located in Missoula County, Montana. It is a residential community that offers a peaceful and picturesque environment to its residents. While Orchard Homes is relatively small, it consists of several distinct neighborhoods:

Lower Miller Creek

This neighborhood is located in the southwestern part of Orchard Homes. It is characterized by its tree-lined streets and beautiful scenery. Lower Miller Creek offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and some multi-unit dwellings.

Upper Miller Creek

Situated to the southeast of Lower Miller Creek, Upper Miller Creek is known for its rural charm. The neighborhood is enveloped by rolling hills and vast open spaces. Many upscale homes and ranch properties can be found in this area.

Target Range

Located in the western part of Orchard Homes, Target Range is a popular neighborhood with a variety of housing types. From single-family homes to mobile home communities, Target Range offers housing options for various income levels. It is known for its proximity to recreational areas, including a golf course and the Clark Fork River.

Big Flat

It is situated in the northeastern part of Orchard Homes, close to the Missoula International Airport. Big Flat is characterized by its spacious properties, open prairies, and stunning mountain views. This neighborhood provides a tranquil setting and is often sought after by those looking for larger plots of land.

Overall, Orchard Homes offers a mix of suburban and rural living. It is known for its beautiful surroundings, convenient location, and a tight-knit community feel. Whether you prefer a quiet country retreat or a suburban dwelling, Orchard Homes has a neighborhood that suits various preferences and lifestyles.