Salmon–Challis National Forest
Salmon–Challis National Forest spans across central Idaho and western Montana, offering rugged peaks, high alpine lakes and extensive wilderness. Visitors come for backcountry hiking, fishing, and the option to access nearby protected areas like the Frank Church–River of No Return and Gates of the Mountains. The forest surrounds key trailheads and river corridors, with routes like the Salmon River and the Lochsa Trail.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific Northwest |
| Subregion | Interior Northwest |
| Country | United States |
| State | IdahoMontana |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 45.5 |
| Longitude | -113.5 |
| Maps |
7:14 PM LOCAL TIMESalmon–Challis National Forest covers approximately 8,900 square kilometers across north-central Idaho and parts of western Montana. The landscape is characterized by craggy peaks, glaciated basins, and meandering rivers such as the Salmon, Lemhi, and North Fork of the Flathead. It serves as a gateway to renowned wilderness areas and historic routes, including the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness and routes over Lost Trail Pass into the Bitterroot. Recreational activities are centered on multi-day backpacking, fly fishing in high-country lakes, wildlife viewing, and primitive camping. Trail access varies from well-used corridors to remote cross-country routes; key trailheads like those at LBJ Meadow and Trout Creek provide starting points for days or weeks of exploration. The climate is alpine and transitional, with colder winters and warm, dry summers, making gear and timing critical for backcountry travel.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM