Bitterroot Range Mountains

Hours: Open access

Admission: Free (open access)

The Bitterroot Range is a subrange of the Rocky Mountains that runs along the border between Idaho and western Montana. It is part of the northern Rocky Mountain chain and contains extensive forested and alpine terrain.

Alpine ridges, glacier-scoured cirques and numerous trails draw hikers, climbers and backcountry users; the range includes long stretches of remote wilderness and designated areas for recreation and conservation. Key features include high peaks, steep river valleys and large tracts of national forest.

Geologically the range was uplifted as part of the Rocky Mountains and was later sculpted by glaciation; human use has included traditional use by Indigenous peoples, followed by hunting, timber harvest and recreation. Large portions are now managed for conservation and public access.

Geographically the range straddles north-south between central Idaho and western Montana, rising above valleys such as the Bitterroot Valley to the east and river systems to the west, and is accessed from towns on both sides of the border.

• Location and protection: The range forms a significant portion of the border region between Idaho and Montana and is covered by extensive national forest lands and designated wilderness.
• Highest point: Trapper Peak is the range’s highest summit at 10,157 feet (3,094 meters), and it is a common objective for hikers seeking panoramic views.

What to See#

• Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness: A large federally protected wilderness area that covers much of the central Bitterroot Range and adjoining lands, providing long-distance trails, backcountry campsites and roadless terrain.
• Bitterroot Valley: A broad agricultural valley running along the eastern flank of the range that provides common trailheads and town services for access into the mountains.

• Most trail access comes from the Bitterroot Valley on the west side - towns such as Hamilton and Darby serve as practical bases with parking and trailhead access to western approaches.
• Avoid busy summer weekends by starting alpine hikes very early or choosing midweek; for any multi‑day routes consult the Bitterroot National Forest ranger station for current trail, river‑crossing and bear‑activity information.