Outfitter and Guide Permits
The Forest Service authorizes outfitter and guide services on National Forest System (NFS) lands that serve the public, promote public health and safety, and protect the environment. Outfitters and guides support the Forest Service mission by providing a quality recreation experience and connection with nature. They provide access to public lands, technical expertise, responsible recreation education, and forest rules and regulations. New and existing outfitter and guide services respond to public needs, facilitate safe access, and provide opportunities for visitors to connect with and learn about the cultural and natural resources of the area.
- Temporary outfitter and guide permits are authorizations for a commercial use or activity that allows specified, short-term, non-renewable recreational use of NFS lands.
- Temporary Outfitter and Guide Permits are authorized in increments of 50 service days, up to a maximum of 200 service days for use within a 180-day period, per holder, per use area.
- Issuance of a temporary use permit does not commit the Forest Service to authorize outfitting and guiding use in the future.
- Temporary use permits are not subject to renewal. (FSH 2709.14, 53.1k).
Application Process
- Proponents must submit application packages via email to the appropriate Ranger District contact by the deadlines listed below.
- Applications must include form FS 2700-3f, Special Use Application & Temporary Permit for Outfitting and Guiding.
- The application package must demonstrate that the proponent has technical and financial ability to conduct the proposed activity.
- Proponents should also use the application package to show how the proposed activity meets one or more of the agency’s outfitter and guide program objectives.
- Proposals that require extensive environmental analysis and outside agency consultation will not be accepted due to limited capacity to process these applications.
Fees
Fees for Temporary Outfitter and Guide Permits are based on the flat fee rates for a block of use issued in 50 service day increments (FSH 2709.11, 37.21b).
Open Season Deadlines
Applications for Outfitter and Guide Permits should be submitted during open season from November 1 to January 15 each year.
The Lolo National Forest is NOT currently considering temporary outfitter and guide permit proposals for the following areas:
- Rattlesnake Wilderness and National Recreation Area
- Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex
- “The Heap” climbing area in Lolo Creek
- Crystal Amphitheater or Lolo Pass (winter)
Activities in these areas are not consistent with Forest Plan direction.
How will my application be evaluated?
Consideration of any application for use in a specific area or for a specific activity or season is at the sole discretion of the District Ranger of each administrative unit of the LNF. Forest Service policy is to authorize only those outfitting and guiding activities that are consistent with the applicable land management plan and that meet both the initial and second-level screening criteria established in 36 CFR 261.54. As part of this screening process, District Rangers will evaluate the extent to which the proposed activities meet the objectives of the Forest Service Outfitter and Guide Program as described the Forest Service Handbook (FSH):
FSH 2709.14, Chapter 53.1b – Objective
1. Provide for outfitting and guiding services that address concerns of public health and safety and that foster successful small businesses consistent with the applicable land management plan.
2. Facilitate greater participation in the outfitting and guiding program by organizations and businesses that work with youth and educational groups.
3. Encourage skilled and experienced individuals and entities to conduct outfitting and guiding activities in a manner that protects environmental resources and ensures that national forest visitors receive high-quality services.