Best Hiking Trails in Sawtooth National Forest

Overview

Located in south-central Idaho and extending just a bit into Utah, the Sawtooth National Forest is divided into two very different districts that are separated by the Snake River.

The Southern District, south of the Snake River, is part of the basin and range ecosystem and characterized by the desert-like landscape on par with Utah and Nevada. Lower elevations in the southern district host sagebrush and juniper stands, while higher elevations bring typical mountain conifers such as pine and fir trees along with stands of aspen.

In contrast, the district north of the Snake River, is mostly mountainous terrain, set in pine and fir forests and adorned with high alpine lakes and wild rivers. The northern district holds three wilderness areas: the Sawtooth Wilderness, the Cecil D. Andrus-White Clouds Wilderness, and the Hemingway-Boulders Wilderness. The Sawtooth Wilderness, dubbed the "crown jewel" of Idaho, hosts more than 50 peaks higher than 10,000 feet, 400 high alpine lakes and deep glacial valleys. Rich with wildlife, the northern area is home to deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, coyotes, wolves, and black bears.

Both the northern and southern districts offer an array of recreational possibilities, including hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, off-roading, hunting, camping, snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Getting Started

If you're planning to go to the southern district, try the Rock Creek Complex south of Twin Falls, Idaho. Rock Creek has eight campgrounds and 60 miles of trails accessed by three trailheads. Stop in at the Minidoka Ranger Station in Burley, Idaho for more information.

In the Northern District, head toward Ketchum, Idaho and hike or bike on the 250 miles of trail that exist within a 10-mile radius of the town or drive northwest toward the Galena summit and pick one of the many trailhead options along the way.

When to Go

The summer months draw the most visitors to the Sawtooth National Forest, and for good reason. The snow has melted and the days are long and warm. However, enjoy fewer crowds in spring and fall, although expect to encounter snow in the shoulder seasons if traveling to the higher elevations. Sawtooth National Forest is also a winter paradise with snowcapped mountains providing opportunities for snowmobiling, backcountry ski touring, and nordic skiing on groomed track.

Permits

Permits are required for all visitors in the Sawtooth Wilderness Area. Groups of eight people or more and groups with livestock are required to obtain their permits from a forest service office. All other wilderness users can get their permits at the trailhead.

Dog Info

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash when on the trails from July 1 through Labor Day.