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Salmon-Challis National Forest

Sawtooth National Forest

Weed Free Hay Order 04-2021-03

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, storing, or transporting non-pelletized hay, straw, or mulch in the Intermountain Region, unless it is certified as weed free by the state where the product originated.

Sawtooth National Forest

Fireworks and Spark Arrestor Order 04-2021-01

Prohibited by this order: Possessing, discharging, or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device. 36 CFR §261.52(t)Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order as described…

Sawtooth National Forest

Explosives and Exploding Target Order 04-2021-02

This order prohibits the use of explosives and exploding targets on National Forest System lands within the Intermountain Region.

Overview

The Salmon-Challis National Forest covers over 4.3 million acres in east-central Idaho and is currently open for year-round recreation. The forest features the 1.3 million-acre Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness, Idaho's highest peak (Borah Peak at 12,662 feet), and the Wild & Scenic Salmon River and Middle Fork of the Salmon River. As of the latest updates, there are no major forest-wide closures, though specific localized closures are in effect: Forest Road #40303 (Capehorn Burrow Road) is closed through August 29, 2025, and Stoddard Bridge construction closure through July 31, 2025. Winter access is typical for the season—many forest roads are snow-covered and impassable without snowmobiles or skis. The forest offers 26 developed campgrounds with over 260 sites plus extensive dispersed camping opportunities. River floating season runs June-September, with shoulder seasons requiring cold weather preparation and winter (December-March) significantly limiting floating opportunities. Fire restrictions are not currently in place, though prescribed burns may occur periodically. For winter recreation, cross-country skiing is available at Williams Creek Summit. Four Rivers permits (Main Salmon, Middle Fork, Payette, Hells Canyon) require advance lottery applications and are highly sought after. Road construction delays are expected along Salmon River Road and Boundary/Dagger Creek areas (FR #579 & #568) during 2025.

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