Bitterroot National Forest

Welcome to the Bitterroot National Forest

Leave your stress behind! You will find this spectacular 1.6 million acre forest in southwest Montana and Idaho to be a priceless national heritage. Half of the forest is dedicated to the largest expanse of continuous pristine wilderness in the lower 48 states -- the Selway Bitterroot, Frank Church River of No Return, and the Anaconda Pintler. Much of its beauty can be attributed to the heavily glaciated, rugged peaks of the Bitterroot Range. Drainages carved by glaciers form steep canyons that open into the valley floor. The abundance of natural resources offers a wide range of opportunities for recreation, grazing, wildlife, fisheries, timber, and minerals. Come enjoy the magnificent mountains, the serenity of wilderness, the miracle of spring flowers, majestic big game, and the sounds of birds here in our land of multiple uses.

Areas of Interest

Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project Update #2

March 13, 2007 - Read about what has been accomplished to date in the Middle East Fork Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project and what to expect in the next few months. Past updates will be available for viewing by clicking on the respective link below.

February 23, 2007 - Update #1

Bitterroot National Forest Recreation Site Facility Master Planning

Many of the Bitterroon National Forest’s developed recreation facilities were built 30+ years ago. Since then, visitor preferences and demographics have changed. Some sites no longer serve projected demand, some facilities are in poor shape and do not meet visitor’s expectations.

To respond to these conditions and national direction, the forest is implementing the Recreation Site Facility Master Planning (RSFMP) process for developed recreation sites. The result of RSFMP is a program of work with a list of prioritized actions to more effectively manage these recreation sites.

Environmental Management System (EMS)

In order to address priority environmental issues and continually improve environmental performance we are establishing an Environmental Management System.

Forest Service Mission, Motto,Vision and Guiding Principles

The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

Special Events