Common Wildflowers of the Columbia Mountains is designed primarily for use in the Columbia Mountains. However, the majority of the wildflowers described in this book are also common throughout the Rocky Mountains. Many flowers can be seen along the highway or within easy walking distance of roadsides and public backroads. Please remember that when traveling in the backcountry, stay on the trails. Where there are no trails be considerate of the flora as many wildflowers are very fragile and if damaged take years to heal, if ever. Unlike domesticated flowers that last a long time when picked, a wildflower will die very quickly. So please have a look, take a picture, but please don't pick the wildflowers.