Special Areas

The Cottonwood Field Office encompasses many impressive scenic and cultural landscapes. The Lower Salmon River not only offers a diversity of recreational opportunities, but the chance to view spectacular beauty along this 112-mile stretch of the longest completely free-flowing river in the lower 48 states. From the diverse landscapes of narrow basalt gorges, to the exciting rapids that plunge through its depths, the Lower Salmon River’s beauty is unmistakable. Also in this area, the Salmon River and Hell’s Canyon ecosystems converge to provide habitat for bighorn sheep, deer, elk, and a variety of raptors. Pay close attention to the terrain along the Salmon River which also are often home to pithouses, pictographs, rock shelters and other evidence of Native American occupation, which began over 10,000 years ago. For further wildlife viewing, visit the unique and remarkable area surrounding Craig Mountain, which provides habitat for a variety of large game animals, birds and fish.