This species is a close ally of Cypripedium parviflorum, so they appear to be very similar with the main difference being pouch color.

Cypripedium montanum can be found in the northwestern United States and western Canada.

It is reported from California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Alaska.

[4][5] It is usually found at high elevation in open woods and subalpine slopes.

Meriwether Lewis noted this species during his expedition while in Western Montana near Lolo Creek.