Salmon-Challis National Forest – Image Gallery

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Details

Salmon-Challis National Forest

The Salmon-Challis National Forest is located in the state of Idaho, encompassing over 4.3 million acres of diverse landscapes and ecosystems. It is one of the largest national forests in the United States and is known for its rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife.

Features:

• Mountain ranges: The forest is home to several mountain ranges, including the Salmon River Mountains, the Bitterroot Range, and the Lemhi Range. These mountains offer a variety of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
• Rivers and streams: The Salmon-Challis National Forest is intersected by several major rivers, including the Salmon River, the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, and the Big Lost River. These waterways provide habitat for a variety of fish species, including Chinook salmon and steelhead.
• Wildlife: The forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, wolves, and bald eagles. It is also a critical habitat for several endangered species, such as the gray wolf and the Canadian lynx.
• Wilderness areas: The forest contains several designated wilderness areas, such as the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and the Sawtooth Wilderness. These protected areas offer some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes in the country.

Ecological Significance:

The Salmon-Challis National Forest plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological health of the region. Its diverse ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are dependent on the forest for their survival.

Additionally, the forest helps to regulate the local climate, protect watersheds, and maintain soil fertility. It also provides important recreational opportunities for visitors, helping to support the local economy and promote conservation awareness.

Salmon-Challis National Forest

Points of Interest

Salmon-Challis National Forest Points of Interest

• Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness: This wilderness area is the largest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48 states and offers breathtaking scenery, rugged terrain, and excellent fishing and hunting opportunities.
• Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Known for its stunning mountain peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and countless outdoor recreation opportunities, the Sawtooth NRA is a must-visit destination within the forest.
• Salmon River: The Salmon River, also known as the "River of No Return," is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, fishing, and camping. It offers stunning views and opportunities for adventure.
• Challis Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate at Challis Hot Springs, a natural hot spring located within the forest. Soak in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Mount Borah: As the highest peak in Idaho, Mount Borah is a popular destination for hikers and climbers looking for a challenging adventure and stunning views from the summit.

Salmon-Challis National Forest – Images

Description: Helicopter on the 11 Mile fire in the afternoon. Salmon-Challis National Forest. Credit: US Forest Service.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Eclipse Viewers enjoying the Solar Eclipse near King Mountain on the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Forest Service Photo by Kelly Wickens

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Eclipse Viewers enjoying the Solar Eclipse near King Mountain on the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Forest Service Photo by Kelly Wickens

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Eclipse Viewers enjoying the Solar Eclipse near King Mountain on the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Forest Service Photo by Kelly Wickens.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Bighorn Sheep running along the banks of the North Fork Salmon River, North Fork Ranger District, Salmon-Challis National Forest. Photo taken September 15, 2016. Forest Service photo by Nancy Brunswick.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Heading back to the helicopter after completing a battery change on a fire repeater during the Rabbit Foot fire. Taylor Mountain Salmon-Challis National Forest Idaho. Forest Service photo by John Odle.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Salmon-Challis National Forest. Forest Service photo by Charity Parks.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep Rams on the Salmon-Challis National Forest. Photo by Art Mackey, 4/1/2008. Credit: US Forest Servce.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Salmon-Challis Forest Portal sign. Credit: US Forest Service.

Image by Intermountain Forest Service, USDA Region 4 Photography – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: On the right side of Montana Highway 43 at the Montana-Idaho border. The Salmon-Challis National Forest covers over 4.3 million acres in east-central Idaho. Included within the boundaries of the Forest is 1.3 million acres of the Frank Church-- River of No Return Wilderness Area, the largest wilderness area in the Continental United States. Rugged and remote, this country offers adventure, solitude and breathtaking scenery. The Forest also contains Borah Peak, Idaho's tallest peak, the Wild & Scenic Salmon River and the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The area is a highly desired destination for hunting, fishing, white-water rafting and many other popular recreational pursuits. Click here to read more about the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

Image by Raymond Hitchcock from Seattle, Washington, USA – CC BY-SA 2.0 – Wikimedia