Chapter 28 The Lolo Trail June 10 - July 2, 1806 Summary and Analysis

The party proceeds into the mountains and encounters snow so deep there is no forage for the horses and the trail cannot be located. After a brief discussion, they turn back. Several days later, they acquire Indian guides who lead them quickly and surely through the mountains. On the far side of the Bitterroot Mountains their confidence swells out of proportion to common sense and the party determines to split up and conduct separate investigations of alternative routes. In all, the Corps of Discovery will divide into five small groups and execute a reckless and complicated series of investigatory travels. Various points of rendezvous are established and the plan is delivered to the men.