Recreation

The Salmon-Challis National Forest is a land of rugged mountains split by untamed rivers. Escape into the backcountry in the Lemhi, Bitterroot, Pioneer, or Lost River Mountain Ranges. Visit the Bighorn Crags within the legendary Frank Church – River of No Return Wilderness and see a fantastic collection of granite peaks and alpine lakes. Raft the Wild & Scenic Rivers. Climb Idaho’s highest peak, Mount Borah. Relax at one of our campgrounds, or fish for trout or steelhead in our many lakes and streams. Enjoy miles of scenery while driving along Scenic Byways.

The forest is rich with America’s heritage. Historic cabins, ranger stations, lookouts, mining ghost towns, and the Lewis & Clark and the Nez Perce National Historic Trails link today’s visitor with the past. Visit the ghost town of Custer and tour the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge while travelling the Custer Motorway. Visit the Mackay Mine Hill to see a glimpse of the area’s copper mining legacy.

Trail information: 

Are you planning a trip to the Salmon-Challis National Forest this summer for a day hike or a backpacking trip? View an interactive map of Salmon-Challis National Forest Trails Maintained in 2025 to see trails that were maintained during the 2025 field season. If you are interested in trail maintenance planned for 2026, review an interactive map of Trail Maintenance Planned on the Salmon-Challis National Forest 2026.

Hot Springs Safety:  

The Salmon-Challis National Forest has many hot springs across national forest lands. The water and pools associated with the springs may be near or above the boiling temperature and can cause severe, possibly even fatal, burns. PLEASE BE CAUTIOUS AND TEST THE WATER TEMPERATURE BEFORE YOU ENTER!