Sagebrush Buttercup - Ranunculus glaberrimus, Widespread and abundant in Montana, particularly in the western half of the state. Reference: http://fieldguide.mt.gov/detail_PDRAN0L0Z0.aspx

This is one of the first flowers to bloom in the Bitterroot Mountains after (and sometimes before) the snow has melted.
Taken March 21, 2013 at 3800 feet elevation and south of Sweathouse Creek Trailhead in the Bitterroot Mountains.
My earliest sightings over the years - just means when I was able to get out for a hike in the area where they bloom.
2009 -03-03
2010-03-25 - but fishing was so good, I just didn't hike much earlier in the month of March 2010. I took more fish photos than flower photos.
2011-03-15
2012-03-16
2013-03-17
2014-03
2015-02-15
2016-03-01