Arlee

Arlee is located in a wide valley at the base of the Mission Mountains, defined by open space, agricultural fields and cultural landmarks. The light here is expansive, shifting across wetlands, cottonwoods and hayfields before catching the snowcapped peaks to the east, where Gray Wolf Peak rises sharply and anchors the horizon—a striking backdrop, especially during golden hour when soft light washes over the valley.

Arlee’s main corridor runs along U.S. Highway 93, where the interstate splits around the town and its businesses hold the middle ground. It’s a place of grit and resilience—homegrown services, small shops and community spaces that reflect both self-reliance and tribal identity.

The Arlee Powwow Grounds hold open-air seating, a central dance arena and an unobstructed view of the Missions beyond. This is the homeland of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and that heritage is embedded in the land itself.

Nearby, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas brings another layer of cultural perspective. This 10-acre spiritual site features a radial arrangement of 1,000 white Buddha statues encircling a monumental figure of Yum Chenmo. It’s a peaceful, rural setting, offering a meditative counterpoint to the working lands around it.

Climate

Public Lands

• Natural Resources Department of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes

Accommodations

The nearby community of Missoula offers a large number and wide array of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels, vacation homes and RV parks. Click here for options.

GARDEN OF ONE THOUSAND BUDDHAS  Photo: ANDY AUSTIN

GARDEN OF ONE THOUSAND BUDDHAS  Photo: ANDY AUSTIN

GARDEN OF ONE THOUSAND BUDDHAS  Photo: ANDY AUSTIN

JOCKO VALLEY

JOCKO VALLEY

JOCKO VALLEY

JOCKO VALLEY

ARLEE