Another view of the incredible Bitterroot Valley. This is looking to the NE.

The vegetation in the valley has been significantly transformed. Originally it was covered in sagebrush.

The Salish had their name for the waterway prior to the captains' christening it. They called the northern part of the river “Place of the Bitterroot,” after the pink flowering plant they sought for its bitter tasting roots. A favorite source of food for Native people, Lewis brought samples back.