Bitterroot Mountains
Traversing the Bitterroot Mountains
The Bitterroot Mountains create the border of the Idaho Panhandle and western Montana. The mountains in the Bitterroot range are not as high in elevation as other Rocky Mountain ranges, but its serrated peaks are just as impressive. Lewis and Clark crossed these mountains through Lost Trail Pass in 1805 on their way back from the difficult Snake River.
Heading toward Yellowstone National Park from eastern Idaho, the Bitterroot Mountains and Valley are a nice stop to soak in the scenery and outdoor recreation. South of Hamilton, Montana, the jagged peaks turn to forested foothills along US 93. The valley also narrows turning the landscape from farmland to woodlands and campgrounds.
The Bitterroot National Forest spans 1.6 million acres and is considered part of the Northern Rocky Mountains. The elevation in the forest varies from 3,200 feet in the valley to 10, 157 feet, the summit of Trapper Peak. There are also 2 major rivers in the forest, the Selway and the Salmon, which drops the elevation to just over 2,000 feet.
Within the millions of acres that make up the Bitterroot National Forest, there are many ecosystems. Dry and arid grasslands and shrublands dominate the valley floor, while the moister in mid-elevations foster the grows of pine, spruce, and fir trees. Alpine lakes are also abundant in the Bitterroot area.
The varied ecosystems provide sustainable habitats for a wide range of wildlife species. Whitetail deer, mule deer, bighorn sheep, elk, mountain goats, mountain lions, moose, and black bears, as well as many smaller animals thrive in the area. Many bird species can also be found here.
Recreation possibilities are abundant in the Bitterroot area. The alpine lakes provide for excellent fishing. Brook, rainbow, and brown trout are abundant in these waters. There are over 1,500 miles of trails making for exceptional hiking and horseback riding, and biking. Rafting and kayaking are available in the summers while the winters yield skiing and snowmobiling. Hunting is also permitted during certain months.
Other Online Resources
Jackson Hole Wyoming and Grand Teton area lodges.
The Pioneer Mountains run through southwest Montana and eastern Idaho.
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