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Our Wild Backyard


Wrote one observer in 1898 "A beautiful flower, a beautiful river, a valley, a magnificent range - such is the Bitterroot."

Let the Adventure Begin!

Welcome to the Bitterroot National Forest

Leave your stress behind!  You will find this 1.6-million-acre forest in southwest Montana and Idaho to be a priceless national heritage.  Half of the forest is dedicated to the largest expanse of continuous pristine wilderness in the lower 48 states - the Selway Bitterroot, Frank Church River of No Return, and the Anaconda Pintler.

The abundance of natural resources offers a wide range of opportunities for recreation, grazing, wildlife, fisheries, timber, and minerals.  Come enjoy the magnificent mountains, the serenity of wilderness, the miracle of spring flowers, majestic big game, and the sounds of birds here in our land of multiple uses.

Recreation

Woods Cabin Como Picnic Area view 2

The Bitterroot National Forest provides a wide range of recreational opportunities, from rugged backcountry experiences to family-friendly campgrounds. Whether you’re interested in hiking alpine meadows, fishing in mountain lakes, or enjoying a quiet night outdoors, the forest offers something for every visitor.

Reserve a Cabin or Lookout

Magruder Cabin (additional Views)

Enjoy a unique recreational experience at one of many rental lookouts and cabins on the Bitterroot National Forest.

Get permits

rafting image

Harvest personal use firewood, Christmas trees, and mushrooms.  Learn how to apply for a Selway River float permit, check the current river reading at Paradise, and more. 

Determine whether your activity requires a permit.

Recent News

Media on BNF

Keep up to date on the latest information.

Fire Information

RL Fire

Learn more about current wildfires, fuels management, prescribed burning, and fire prevention.

Have a question or concern

Let us know how we can help.

Personal-use firewood permits now available online

Split firewood.

The Bitterroot National Forest is offering personal-use firewood permits through a new online E-Permit system, providing increased convenience and flexibility to our forest users.

Features