Salmon-Challis National Forest Guide
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Salmon-Challis National Forest is a hiker's paradise with over 4.3 million acres to explore. The extensive area is home to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area that comprises one-third of the forest's land and is the largest wilderness area in the U.S. Adventurers can enjoy a number of exciting activities that include fishing the lakes, streams, rivers, and ponds located within the forest along with enjoying over 30 marked and unmarked hiking and biking trails. Camping here is phenomenal as well, and its designation as a Dark Sky Reserve is perfect for stargazing.
RV Rentals Near Salmon-Challis National Forest
Salmon-Challis National Forest Hiking Trails
Middle Canyon Trail is a short and easy trek that's perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Plan on seeing some local wildlife as you enjoy the tall cliffs and forests of Middle Canyon. Once you arrive at the canyon, you can continue on to Saddle Mountain for further exploration of the area or take a more challenging route up a scree field to soak in the views from above.
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Middle Canyon Trail
Middle Canyon Trail is a short and easy trek that's perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Plan on seeing some local wildlife as you enjoy the tall cliffs and forests of Middle Canyon. Once you arrive at the canyon, you can continue on to Saddle Mountain for further exploration of the area or take a more challenging route up a scree field to soak in the views from above.
Length: 0.8
Intensity: Easy
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Burnt Aspen Trail
Burnt Aspen Trail is a popular out-and-back trail with a rapid, continual ascent that lasts for the duration of the hike. The trail features colorful wildflower meadows, amazing views, and opportunities for bird-watching. There are several open areas along the trail, so prepare for extended sun exposure.
Length: 6.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Lost River Mountain
Lost River Mountain is a challenging uphill hike that rewards you with fantastic views of the valley below. This trek takes you up the sixth highest mountain in Idaho to an elevation of over 12,000 feet. The ascent up the mountain is steep with potential sliding hazards as you near the top due to loose, angular rocks. Be prepared with the proper gear, water, and sunscreen.
Length: 4.5 miles
Intensity: Difficult
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Elk Mountain Trail
Elk Mountain Trail is a popular trek that's perfect for hiking or mountain biking and allows you to take your pup along for the adventure. Elk Mountain is a loop trail that encompasses the surrounding area around the summit, which features a breathtaking meadow, a lake, lush forests, and some rocky terrain. For best access to the trail, park near the actual trailhead unless you're up for a two-mile walk from the parking lot just to reach it.
Length: 11.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Leatherman Peak
Leatherman Peak is a great out-and-back hike through the forest with quite a bit of rocky terrain. The entire hike is moderately steep with a consistent climb in elevation. Follow the path to the east along the river to connect to Leatherman Pass and onto the summit. On the trail, there are a number of gullies and areas to explore if you're up for a few off-trail adventures.
Length: 7.4 miles
Intensity: Difficult
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Upper Vanity Lakes
The trail to Upper Vanity Lakes takes you to four of the 12 Vanity Lakes on a lightly trafficked out-and-back hike with lovely views within the Frank Church Wilderness. The short trail is unmarked and can be reached from a small pullout at the top of Vanity Pass. On the trek, you may see elk and deer as you cross the meadow near the stream bed to the first lake. If you want to continue to the other three lakes, note that there are no trails past the meadows; however, you can follow the stream bed to reach the lakes. Woodland navigation skills are recommended for exploring this trail.
Length: 2.1 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Activities in Salmon-Challis National Forest
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Identifying Flora and Fauna
Visitors can enjoy color-changing aspens, fir trees, and various types of alpine flora on the White Mountain Trail in Copper Basin, just a small portion of this huge forest which contains everything from coniferous forest habitats to the steppe habitat and shrublands.
Those who enjoy bird-watching will find great opportunities on Kane Lake Trail, Fourth of July Creek, and Sleeping Deer Mountain. Birdwatchers can catch glimpses of everything from bald eagles to the vesper and Brewer's sparrows.
You can view wildlife on the Horsethief Trail in Arco Pass and along the Brockie Lake Trail and Hurst Canyon Trail in the Antelope Canyon Area. The park is populated by gray wolves, pronghorn antelopes, Canada lynx, bighorn sheep, wolverines, and more. Rangers ask that you respect the local ecosystem and do not attempt to come into close contact with the wildlife.
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Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the Cape Horn Lakes, Beaver Creek, and Moose Lake. Anglers can catch everything from the salmon the forest takes its name from to several species of trout and steelhead. If you are planning on fishing while you visit, make sure you're up-to-date on your fishing license and know the local rules and regulations for the area.
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Geocaching
Geocaching opportunities are available on Loon Creek and the Middle Salmon River. Pre-approval is needed to place any new geocaches in the national forest.
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Stargazing
Enjoy minimal light pollution and lay out under the night sky while stargazing on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River.
How to get to Salmon-Challis National Forest
Address: 1206 S. Challis Street, Salmon, ID 83467
Fee: Day Pass, Middle Fork and Main Salmon Rivers (per person) $4.0
Salmon-Challis National Forest is an incredible place to kick back, relax and immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of Idaho. From beautiful fishing streams and rivers to challenging hiking trails and wildlife watching, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. For extended or even short stays at Salmon-Challis, an RV is an excellent way to experience the forest at your leisure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon-Challis National Forest
What is the closest town to Salmon-Challis National Forest?
Shoup, ID is one of the closest towns to Salmon-Challis National Forest. North Fork is another nearby town that has restaurants and shops where campers can grab any last-minute items they need.
What type of wildlife lives in Salmon-Challis National Forest?
The Salmon-Challis National Forest is full of wildlife, including mule deer, antelope, moose, bears, elk, and mountain goats. There is also a variety of birds and fish in the forest lakes and streams.
How many hiking trails does Salmon-Challis National Forest have?
There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in Salmon-Challis National Forest. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to strenuous treks through the forest.
What is the best time to visit Salmon-Challis National Forest?
May and June are the best times to visit Salmon-Challis National Forest! The warm weather means hikers and outdoor lovers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Spring wildflowers are also in bloom, so there's plenty to admire in the forest.
Is Salmon-Challis National Forest open all year round?
Yes, the Salmon-Challis National Forest is open year-round. In fact, the area is a good spot for winter sports like snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Some areas of the forest may be inaccessible during winter, due to the snow, however.
