Bad Rock Canyon

The Flathead River enters the valley through Bad Rock Canyon. According to old-timers, years ago a Blackfeet war party from the plains crossed the divide to seize cayuses and perhaps take scalps from the Flatheads, who used this area for range and bed grounds. The raiders left quickly with horses, and the Flatheads set out after them to recover their mounts and their honor. Anticipating pursuit, the departing Blackfeet took position on a projecting rib of the canyon wall and waited for the oncoming party. A fierce fight followed, and many warriors were killed. In later years, grieving relatives called that ill-omened stronghold Bad Rock.

Montana · United States