Winter Sunset – Bitterroot Mountains Winter scene at Lake Como – Darby Ranger District Cow elk in the trees – West Fork Ranger District Gray Jay

 

 

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.

 

"A beautiful flower, a beautiful river, a valley, a magnificent range - such is the Bitter Root" 

   - Wheeler, 1898 -

Recent News


Features

Winter in the Bitterroot National Forest

View from chairlift at Lost Trail

Winter is a great time to visit the Bitterroot National Forest.  From the thrill of downhill skiing and snowmobiling, to the quiet solitude of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. 


Discover the Bitterroot Store

Discover the Bitterroot Store

Looking for that unique outdoor or nature related gift?  Visit the Discover the Bitterroot store in the lobby of the Forest Service office in Hamilton.


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Spotlights

Northern Region 2012 Year in Review

The Forest Service’s Northern Region has released its 2012 Year in Review, showcasing forest and grassland successes, partnerships and research activities. 

Four Rivers Lottery

The Main Salmon, Middle Fork of the Salmon, Selway, and Snake-Hells Canyon Rivers, located in central Idaho and eastern Oregon, offer a broad range of floating and recreation opportunities.

 




Skiing the Trees: Thinning project opens up new terrain for skiers at Lost Trail

In the last few ski seasons at Lost Trail Powder Mountain, the area’s co-owner heard skiers voice their concerns about all the red trees that were showing up between the runs.

Bitterroot National Forest Native Plant and Pollinator Gardens

The next time you visit your local Ranger District on the Bitterroot National Forest, make sure you stop and enjoy our native plant and pollinator gardens.



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Fire Danger Level: Low

Highlights

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