- 1300 miles of trails to hike, bike, or horseback ride.
- 7,600 miles of waterways excellent for fishing and other water recreation.
- Over 2.6 million acres of breathtaking Idaho forest and wilderness.
- The forest is just a few miles southeast of McCall.
Overview
One of Idaho’s most spectacular areas is the vast Boise National Forest. Within this natural paradise are mountain peaks towering nearly 10,000 feet, pristine alpine lakes and streams, and three major rivers. Majestic Ponderosa pines, lodge pole pines, Engelmann spruce, and Douglas fir fill the thick, verdant forest. Parts of two scenic designated wilderness areas are included in this 2.6 million acre Idaho forest as well. It’s no wonder that Boise Forest is a popular destination for anyone who wants to experience the great outdoors.
Location & Information
Boise National Forest covers a large area of central Idaho, just southeast of McCall. It is accessible year round.
Contact information: (208) 373-4100 or visit their website here.
Activities
Camping and Exploring
With 70 different campgrounds, Boise NF offers plenty of scenic spots to pitch your tent. There are numerous rustic cabins for lodging as well. 1,300 miles of trails throughout the forest are just waiting to be explored via hiking, horseback riding, biking, or four-wheeling. During the winter, bring your skis or snowmobile to experience a true winter wonderland.
Recreation on the Water
With three major rivers flowing through the forest as well as multiple lakes and streams, opportunities on the water are abundant. Avid anglers can fish for ocean-going steelhead and salmon. Rafters and kayakers can experience the thrill of some of the best whitewater rapids.
Viewing the Native Wildlife
The forest boasts significant diversity which makes it home to a vast variety of incredible wildlife including mountain lions, mule deer, black bears, Rocky Mountain elk, wolverines, otter, and badgers. Birdwatchers may spot majestic golden eagles, lazuli bunting, osprey, white-headed woodpeckers, and peregrine falcons.
Hunting
Avid sportsmen are drawn to Boise National Forest to hunt big game and birds in the areas that are open to hunting.
Fun Facts
- Two designated wilderness areas - Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness and Sawtooth Wilderness – overlap the forest.
- The Boise, Payette, and Salmon rivers flow through the forest.
- Boise National Forest has over 7,600 miles of waterways, and more than 250 reservoirs and lakes.
- Sacajawea’s bitterroot is a recently discovered plant that grows only in central Idaho.
