Clearwater National Forest Guide
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Clearwater National Forest was combined administratively with the Nez Perce National Forest in 2012. Today, these national forests are known as the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and are collectively compromised of 4 million acres in north-central Idaho. These forests are the traditional home of the Nez Perce native peoples, and much of the area is designated wilderness. The forests are bordered by Oregon on the west, Montana on the east, the Idaho Panhandle National Forest on the north, and the Salmon River on the south. The habitats are diverse and range from arid canyons at the Salmon River to the humid cedar forests in the Selway region to the heavily forested Palouse area. Visitors often come to float and to raft down the Selway, Lochsa, and Salmon rivers; popular recreational opportunities include fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, boating, snowmobiling, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
RV Rentals Near Clearwater National Forest
Clearwater National Forest Hiking Trails
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Elk Creek Falls
Elk Creek Falls is a loop trail located near Elk River, ID, that has a waterfall with access views for the upper, middle, and lower drops of water. Each of these access points is gained by a spur that branches from the main trail. The upper falls path is steep and has switchbacks. The middle falls is the highest falls in Idaho, and the access trail is short and slightly elevated. The path to the lower falls is long and slopes downhill. The trail has several benches. Dogs are allowed if they are leashed.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is an in-and-out trail located near Lolo, MT, that has a waterfall. The trail ends at the location of three hot springs, one of which is called "Nates Hole." Hiking in the winter is fun when you have time to sit in the hot springs after hiking in the snow. Dogs are allowed if they are leashed while on the trail.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Feather Creek Short Loop
Feather Creek Short Loop is a loop trail located near Deary, ID, that follows a creek for a portion of the hike. The trail travels through stands of firs and cedars and is an easy and level walk for most ages and skill levels. Some hikers recommend taking the trail counterclockwise in order to end the hike with a 1-mile path through an attractive meadow. Dogs can be taken on the trail if leashed.
Length: 4.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Kelly Creek
Kelly Creek is an in-and-out trail located near Orofino, ID, that features several creeks along the way. The trail follows a creek, but there are minimal trees for shade. Hikers often like to camp beside the creek and fish. Dogs are allowed on the trail if they are on a leash.
Length: 7.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Black Mountain Lookout and Black Lake
Black Mountain Lookout and Black Lake is an in-and-out trail located near Orofino, ID, that is best undertaken over the course of two days. The last mile is a steep climb up the highest mountain in the Mallard-Larkins Pioneer area, and it ends at a manned lookout that is next to Black Lake. There is a primitive camping area at the lake. Dogs are allowed on the trails and must be leashed.
Length: 17.2 miles
Intensity: Difficult
Activities in Clearwater National Forest
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Identifying Flora and Fauna
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests contain a vast amount of rugged wilderness that is made up of canyons, lakes, rivers, high ridges, wetlands, and forests. Within these diverse landscapes, you will be able to experience five ecoregions of sagebrush grasslands, coniferous forests, shrublands, juniper woodlands, and Pacific bunchgrass. Conifers include western larch, hemlock, Engelmann spruce, grand fir, subalpine fir, western red cedar, lodgepole pine, ponderosa pine, and western white pine.
There are many species of wildlife in these forests, including mountain quail, turkey (non-native), moose, elk, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and other species. Hunting for big game like elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorns, black bears, mountain lions, and gray wolves is a big draw in this region.
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Geocaching
All national forests allow geocaching inside their preserves.
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Stargazing
These vast national forests have minimal light pollution, and visitors can enjoy exceptional stargazing as a result. A popular spot for viewing the sky is at the Bald Mountain Lookout.
How to get to Clearwater National Forest
Address: 104 Airport Rd, Grangeville, ID 83530
Fee: Entry fee $0
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests are located in northern Idaho and have large and diverse landscapes. This wilderness preserve provides unparalleled opportunities for experiencing the native habitats of northern Idaho. Choosing to drive an RV through these wild and rugged regions will allow you to access these areas readily and comfortably, and there are numerous RV campgrounds in these forests that offer various amenities and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clearwater National Forest
Does Clearwater National Forest offer free camping sites?
Yes, the Clearwater National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed in the forest area, so there are many areas where campers can spend a night, or a few days.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Clearwater National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in the Clearwater National Forest. Camping in dispersed sites is limited to 18 days total before you must move camp. A new camp must be at least five miles from the original site, and you cannot return to the original site for 45 days.
Is Clearwater National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Clearwater National Forest is open year-round. Some areas may not be accessible in winter because of snow, however.
What type of wildlife lives in Clearwater National Forest?
Wildlife in the Clearwater National Forest includes turkeys, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, bears, and other wild birds. There is a wide variety of fish in the streams and lakes of the forest as well.
What is the closest town to Clearwater National Forest?
Grangeville, ID is one of the closest towns to Clearwater National Forest. There are grocery stores, restaurants, and places to stay in town so campers can stock up or relax for a day or two.
