Salmon-Challis National Forest

The Salmon-Challis National Forest is an adventurer’s paradise in east-central Idaho that offers endless adventures to satisfy every type of outdoor explorer. This natural sanctuary is unrivaled in its beauty, a landscape characterized by vaulted granite peaks, montane meadows, dense woodlands, wild waterways, and countless alpine lakes. Boasting the ideal opportunity to indulge in any of your recreational pursuits, a trip to the Salmon-Challis National Forest is a staple when visiting the Gem State.

Full of wonderment, the Salmon-Challis National Forest is one of the largest national forests in the lower 48, encompassing 4.3million acres of land, including 1.3million acres of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness—which is the largest wilderness area south of Alaska. Known for its soaring crests and rivers, the Salmon-Challis is home to the highest summit in the state—Mount Borah, the Wild and Scenic Salmon River, and Middle Fork Salmon River. Within the forests’ boundaries, you will find mountains in the Lemhi, Bitterroot, Pioneer, and Lost River Mountain Ranges—this expansive and diverse landscape is an outdoor lover’s playground!

Immerse yourself in Idaho’s untouched backcountry, abundant with a diversity of flora and fauna, and reconnect with nature. Woven with a network of scenic trails, the hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, horse riding, and off-roading pursuits are plentiful! The summer months also see wonderful camping, climbing, and water recreation opportunities. Fishermen and swimmers are drawn to the crystalline alpine pools, and intrepid rafters and paddlers explore the untamed rivers. The winter months in the Salmon-Challis are equally as exciting, providing several snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, snowmobiling routes, and alpine skiing.

No matter the season, adventure is around every corner in the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Hike, bike, swim, or ski, and you can enjoy the outdoors and escape the stressors of the real world. When in Idaho, a trip into this pristine national forest is worth the detour—just don’t forget your camera; the scenery is quite photogenic.