Bitterroot Mountains
The Bitterroot Mountains in Montana are located in part of the over one million acres of prime forest in the state's southwestern side. In fact, the beauty of the mountains contributes to the majority of the forest's landscape. Visitors can enjoy rugged mountain peaks, steep walled canyons and deep valleys. Many use the mountains for hiking, mountaineering, skiing and camping, but there are little streams and rivers that are perfect for fishing and white-water rafting.
Southwestern Montana is home to the picturesque Bitterroot Mountains. Vast peaks, glacial cut valleys and deep canyons dot the landscape, providing the perfect spots for fishing, camping, hiking, white-water rafting, skiing and mountaineering. The landscape is filled with an abundance of wildlife, recreation spots and serene flower filled meadows. Many visit the mountains to get away from the city rat race and to find peace and tranquility in this natural environment.
The mountains are divided into two sections, the central and the northern. In fact, the Bitterroot Range is part of the famous Rocky Mountains. They cover an area of over four thousand square miles, bordered on its eastern side in Montana by the fisherman's haven, the Salmon River and boast many high peaks.
The northern portion of the range covers almost two thousand miles. It's most popular peaks for summer and winter activities are Quartz Benchmark and Rhodes Peak. Other smaller ranges are encompassed by this section with the most endearing peak called Petty Mountain being located in the Grave Creek Range.
The central portion of the Bitterroot Range is found in the south, boasting some of the ranges' highest peaks. El Capitan, standing at over nine thousand feet, is a popular spot for mountaineering, hiking and camping. Trapper Peak, standing at over ten thousand feet, is equally as popular for the same activities, but its base is a great spot for picnics, fishing, wildlife watching and bird watching.
A sub-range of the central Bitterroots is the Como Peaks. These cover some eighty square miles of prime forest and stunning countryside.
The Bitterroot Mountains in Montana are a treasure to behold. Tourists can partake in many sporting activities or just relax by nearby rivers or take in the spectacular views that make these mountains so famous. There are also many lodgings available, including local hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and even rented summer homes. Though winter has fewer accommodations available, the warm and hospitality of the many towns and nearby villages provide a great place to start any trip into the Bitterroot Range.
Other pages you might find helpful:
Southwest Montana Climbers Coalition
The Southwest Montana Climbers Coalition is designed to educate and improve relations between climbers and land owners/managers. The organization strives to preserve climbing access to areas while abiding by area regulations.
network of Travel Guides