The Molala traditionally occupied the western slopes of the Cascade Mountain range. Relocating to portions of the Willamette Valley, the Molala had to contend with groups of Cayuse warriors that occasionally attacked their settlements for slaves. During the last known Cayuse raid, likely in the late 1820s, a Molala nobleman was killed. A Clackamas man was used as an intermediary between local Molala soldiers and the Cayuse raiders to arrange for a second battle. The fighting was likely held at Minto Pass, and lasted for two days, the Molalas considering it a victory.