Welcome to the Idaho Panhandle National Forests

A land of lakes and rivers...

The Idaho Panhandle National Forests create a tapestry of land and water in the panhandle of North Idaho. Come visit us!

Vast lakes and miles of rivers support a world-class fishery. Rich in wildlife, the forest is home to large game such as elk and deer, as well as species such as grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou. From lush evergreen mountains to the shores of big waters, the Idaho Panhandle has a rich history that continues to link families and forest. Come discover us!

 

  • Find Your Adventure

    Whether it's camping, hiking, skiing, or just sight seeing, visit our recreation pages to find your next adventure!

    Recreation Pages

  • Get A Map

    The Forest Service offers multiple maps and brochures. Most can be found at our offices, and many are available digitally.

    Maps & Publications

  • Need A Permit?

    Whether you're looking for an Interagency Recreation Pass or a permit to cut firewood, or you want to film a movie on National Forest System lands, this is where you start.

    Passes & Permits

  • Know Before You Go

    Taking care of ourselves and our fellow travelers, while doing what's right for the land and the wildlife, are everyone's jobs. Visit this page for some tips before heading out into the woods.

    Outdoor Safety & Ethics

  • What's Happening Out There?

    Here you can find links to current reports on snow pack, wildfires and closures, air quality and smoke, road grooming, and stream flows.

    Current Conditions

  • Avalanche Center

    Avalanche advisories are updated weekly in winter, plus information on avalanche awareness classes, and other reference materials.

    Avalanche Conditions

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Continuing our Service to You During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Our offices are transitioning back to in-person visitation after two years of virtual customer service. Please stop by or call the office you wish to visit. Find more information at the USDA COVID-19 page.

  • Route of the Hiawatha

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    Winding through nine tunnels and over seven high steel trestles, this 15-mile route crosses the Bitterroot Mountains between Idaho and Montana, and it is open to you! 

    Visit the Hiawatha

  • The Pulaski Tunnel Trail

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    The Pulaski Tunnel Trail follows a cascading creek into a cool, green forest, belying the devastation and horror that occurred here in 1910.

    Visit the Pulaski Tunnel

  • Emerald Creek Garnet Area

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    There are only two places in the world you can find Star Garnets - India and right here on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests! 

    Visit the Garnet Area

  • USDA Civil Rights Policy Statement April 9, 2021

     

    Secretary Vilsack writes that, "At USDA, we are recommitting ourselves to the values of equity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for each other and those we serve."

    Learn More