Sawtooth National Forest Is a Place of Inspiring Sawtooth NRA

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awtooth National Forest S VISITOR GUIDE

Includes the Sawtooth National Recreation Area White Cloud Mountains (© Mark Moulton) Mark (© Mountains Cloud White

Bull elk (© Wesley Aston)

Stanley Basin (© Mark Moulton) What’s Inside Get to Know Us ...... 2 Special Places ...... 3 he Sawtooth National Forest is a place of inspiring Sawtooth NRA ...... 4 beauty and contrasting landscapes. National forest Watchable Wildlife ...... 6 lands stretch from the “basin and range” of northern Scenic Byways ...... 7 Map ...... 8 TUtah to the lofty peaks of the Idaho Rockies and the Campgrounds ...... 12 headwaters of the legendary “River of No Return.” Winter Recreation ...... 14 This diversity is coupled with a contrast in seasons Trails ...... 15 creating winter wonders and Activities ...... 16 Know Before You Go...... 18 Fast Forest Facts summer “scene-sations.” Contact Information ...... 20 Elevation Range: 4,514’–12,009’ Acres: 2.1 million The forest is home for deer, elk, Alpine ski areas: 4 (27 lifts/138 runs) mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Gray wolves, wolverines, Unique features: • Largest whitebark pine in North black bear, salmon, and many species of birds also thrive America here. Trails, campgrounds, Wilderness, rivers, and scenic • Only population on the planet of drives give visitors plenty of opportunities to connect with Christ’s Indian Paintbrush • Clearest air (Sawtooth Wilderness) this special land. As an added gem, the forest also includes and longest salmon migration in the the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, commonly referred in the continental U.S. to as the “Heart of Idaho”.

Come see for yourself!

This Visitor Guide provides the information you need to make the most of your Sawtooth National Forest experience. G et to Know Us History

he first people to use the lands that are nowT the Sawtooth National Forest occupied Historic barn in Lower Stanley this area between 8,000–7,000 BC. More (© Ed Cannady) recently (after 1,700 AD) the Shoshone—or Sheepeater people—lived in small bands on the northern end of the forest, harvesting roots and tubers, fish and game, and timber and rocks for tools. Shoshone, circa 1880-1910

rappers and explorers arrived in southern Idaho by the early 19thT century and by 1849 immigrant trails were established through the southern end of the forest. Mining in Idaho started in the early 1860s and peaked in the 1880s, occasionally rebounding over the next 100 years. Cattle and sheep grazing was the primary large-scale land use on the forest for much of the 20th century. Logging activities focused on timber and firewood for homesteaders and miners.

t wasn’t long before the area became popular with Ivisitors who were drawn by the impressive scenery and recreational opportunities. The Minidoka and Sawtooth National Forests were established in 1905 by President Teddy Roosevelt and merged in 1953 as the Sawtooth National Forest. © Mark Moulton The Area

The Sawtooth National Forest has two distinct Two-thirds of the forest lies north of the Snake River geographic units separated by the Snake River Plain— Plain, where towering granite mountains are sliced by Idaho’s “potato belt”—which relies on the forest for the unfathomable rivers. These mountains are actually part water it needs to irrigate this important agricultural of five ranges—the Sawtooth, Boulder, White Cloud, region. Smoky, and Pioneer, which are part of the famous Idaho Batholith. High alpine lakes abound in this rugged South of the Snake country. Rivers are lined with colossal cottonwoods River Plain, the forest and graceful willows. The uplands are blanketed is part of the basin with lodgepole pine, and Douglas and alpine fir, and range geologic interspersed with whitebark pine and meadows province of western strewn with wildflowers in the summer. Wildlife is Utah, Nevada and plentiful with elk, deer, mountain goats, wolverines, southeastern Idaho. wolves, black bear, cougars, and a wide variety of Here, a series of birds including sandhill cranes, osprey, and eagles. north-to-south faults With the exception of the grizzly bear, just about break the country every species that was here in the days of Lewis and into mountain Clark is still here today. ranges separated by continuously widening basins. The climate Wolverine (© Wendy Nero) is desert-like, but the ranges capture snow, storing the moisture for later release into the surrounding basins of the Snake River Plain. Lower elevations host sagebrush and juniper that blend into aspen, lodgepole pine, and fir at higher elevations. Mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and sage grouse are common on this part of the forest. Sawtooth Mountains (© Mark Moulton)

The vast resources of the Sawtooth National Forest belong to all Americans. These resources must rely on the stewardship of all of us if they are to be sustained for future generations. 2 Special Places Rock Creek Ketchum Area Trails Complex More than 40 miles of world- Pioneer Cabin (© Mark Moulton) Looking south from class trails can be found within 5 Twin Falls you’ll see the miles of Ketchum. They offer easy access and unparalleled desert canyons of the views, from Bald Mountain to shimmering aspen groves in South Hills with stately Corral Creek. Fox Creek and Adams Gulch area trails are stands of cottonwood popular choices for mountain biking and day hiking. and aspen, and one of the state’s healthiest mule Increase the radius to 10 miles and you’ll find more than deer populations. The 250 miles of trails with longer, more challenging routes and a bit more solitude. The Greenhorn Gulch area has great Rock Creek Canyon Road Ross Falls winds through volcanic trails for mountain bikes and motorcycles, and is also open ash deposits (tuff) that have eroded into hoodoos and to equestrians. Pioneer Cabin Trails will take you to the pinnacles, giving the area an other-earthly feel. heart of the Pioneer Range with views of Hyndman Peak (12,009’), the highest in the forest. These hikes require a bit There are 8 campgrounds and 3 picnic areas open in more effort, but the rewards are worth it! the summer, and 3 trailheads that access 60 miles of trails (all but the 9.5-mile Rim View trail are open The Harriman Trail is a 19-mile trail connecting the to motorized use). Don’t pass up the opportunity to Sawtooth National Recreation Area-North Fork Visitor drive the two miles to the Pike Mountain viewpoint Center to Galena Lodge. It features resplendunt wildflower (7,710’) for the interpretive displays and a spectacular meadows, the rushing Big Wood River and deep green panorama of the South Hills. In winter, Rock Creek forests—all with the stunning Boulder Mountains as a Road is plowed to Diamondfield Jack Snow-park. A backdrop. The trail is open for hiking, biking, and horseback warming hut and popular trailhead provide access to riding in the summer with numerous access points along miles of snowmobile trails. Highway 75 (the Sawtooth Scenic Byway). In the winter the trail is groomed for nordic skiing. Mt. Harrison For more information on other trails on the Sawtooth National Forest, see page 15. Mt. Harrison is the northernmost South Fork peak in the of the Boise River compact Albion Range This beautiful mountain where it river rises in the shelters an Smoky Mountains of alpine lake southcentral Idaho in a glacial cirque. It dominates the central Snake where, over epochs, River Plain and is visible for miles. Lake Cleveland, it has carved a steep Thompson Flats, and Bennett Springs Campgrounds, channel through the and the Twin Lakes Horse Camp are on the road erosive granite of the to Mt. Harrison. The summit has a lookout and Idaho Batholith here. Near the old mining community of interpretive displays, and is the northern terminus for Featherville, the aroma of lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and the 26-mile Skyline Trail that connects Mt. Harrison ponderosa pine will engulf you. with the City of Rocks National Reserve to the south. The summit is also a popular launch point for hang This little visited but stunningly beautiful area has and paragliders. abundant recreation opportunities. The Bear Creek, Canyon, Kelly Creek, and Willow Creek trailheads access miles The Mt. Harrison Research Natural Area of trails and thousands of acres of roadless backcountry (RNA) and Botanical Special Interest Area for horsepackers, hikers, and OHV enthusiasts. Eight (BSIA) were established because of the campgrounds along the river are open from Memorial striking geology and an isolated high-elevation Day through hunting season, including Baumgartner ecosystem of rare plants, sagebrush-grasslands, Campground which even has a hot springs pool. and subalpine shrub communities. It also protects the only known population of This area is closed from Dec. 1-April 30 to protect Christ’s Indian Paintbrush, Castilleja christii. wintering wildlife.

3 awtooth S NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

t’s hard not to speak in superlatives when referring Redfish Lake Ito the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (NRA). Often referred to as the “Heart of Idaho,” this land is a If the Sawtooth NRA is the heart of Idaho, then Redfish mosaic of gem-colored Lake is the heart of the Sawtooth NRA. Surrounded by lakes, aspen woodlands, inviting beaches and deep evergreen forests, its glacial sagebrush flats, and waters reflect the lofty peaks of Mt. Heyburn (10,229’) and rushing streams. The Grand Mogul (9,733’) on the western end. Ice Age architecture of the stiletto peaks, steep- Redfish Lake is walled cirques, and a nursery for the tree-carpeted moraines endangered Snake delights both the River sockeye photographer and the salmon. It also geologist. supports a healthy population of Contained within its kokanee salmon, a 756,000 acres are most landlocked variety of four mountain ranges of sockeye that (Sawtooth, Smoky, Boulder spawns each fall and White Cloud), the in the streams that feed Redfish Lake. Redfish Lake (© Mike Norton) headwaters of four major McGowan Peak (© Mike Norton) rivers (Payette, Salmon, Boise and Big Wood), hundreds of alpine lakes, over On the northeast end of the lake, visitors will find Redfish 1,000 miles of streams, and at least 50 peaks over Lake Lodge, Redfish Lake Visitor Center, Fishhook Creek 10,000’ in elevation. The presence of six threatened Nature Trail, five campgrounds, two swimming beaches, or endangered species attests to the vital role the area a boat launch, and three picnic areas. On the southwest plays in conservation efforts. end is the Redfish Inlet Campground which can only be reached by trail or boat.

Redfish Lake Lodge offers a variety of recreation services in a rustic setting including rental cabins, a marina, a restaurant, convenience store, bicycle and boat rentals, the Lady- of-the-Lake boat tours and a boat shuttle that ferries people across the lake to the Sawtooth Wilderness. Mountain blue bird and meadowlark (© Mark Moulton)

© Mark Moulton For More Sawtooth NRA Information People have long enjoyed this area. Native American hunters visited The best place to start your visit is at one of the Forest Redfish Lake 9,500 years ago, using Service offices. The North Fork Visitor Center near the Redfish Rock Shelter as cover Ketchum and the Stanley Ranger Station are open year while they searched for elk, deer, round. The Redfish Lake Visitor antelope, and salmon. As European Center is open during the settlers arrived, they established summer months. Interpretive mines and ranching homesteads. exhibits, daily activities, evening campfire programs and Two National Recreation Trails outreach education are offered offer short, self-guided walks for users of all throughout the year. abilities: the Fishhook Creek Boardwalk at Redfish Lake and the Wood River Nature Trail located in Wood Sawtooth NRA Headquarters and Visitor Center River Campground.

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area was set aside by Congress in 1972 to “assure the preservation and protection of the natural, scenic, historic, pastoral, and fish and wildlife values and to provide for the enhancement of the recreation values associated therewith.” 4 Stanley and Lower Stanley White Cloud & East Fork Ranges

The “Old West” From a distance, communities the limestone of Stanley and peaks of the Lower Stanley White Clouds lie at the base resemble fluffy of the Sawtooth clouds, a clue Mountains and to the origin of surround the its name. The confluence of White Clouds Valley Creek and Elk near Stanley (© Mark Moulton) form the eastern the Salmon River. edge of the Stanley is the headquarters for float trips and other Sawtooth NRA, outdoor adventures in the surrounding mountains of and although Boulder Chain Lakes central Idaho. they see less recreation use than the Sawtooth Range, they are every While in the area, stop by the historic Stanley bit as spectacular. Numerous peaks top 11,000’. Hikers, Museum, located in the former Valley Creek Ranger horsepackers, mountain bikers and motorcyclists will be Station and operated by the Sawtooth Interpretive treated to steep cliffs and more than 125 untarnished and Historical Association mountain lakes. The “Fourth of July” and Washington (SIHA). Displays and artifacts Lakes trails are popular short hikes into the heart of this interpret central Idaho’s alpine wonderland. cultural and natural history, and in the summer you For a more challenging trip, try the Boulder Chain Lakes can enjoy lectures outside. on the east side. The drive to 10,000’ Railroad Ridge For more information, visit requires a 4-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicle, but will www. DiscoverSawtooth.org. reward you with sweeping views of central Idaho and the strikingly beautiful Chinese Wall.

Also on the east side of the White Clouds is the East Stanley Basin/Sawtooth Valley Fork of the Salmon River which is one of the premiere wildlife viewing and Connecting the communities of Smiley Creek and hunting areas within the Stanley, the picturesque Sawtooth Valley is a lovely Sawtooth NRA. Here, you combination of sagebrush flats and grassy meadows may see elk, mule deer, backed by forests of pine and aspen. The valley is the bighorn sheep, mountain headwaters of the famous Salmon River (the “River of goats, pronghorn, wolves, No Return”) which winds along its length. The Sawtooth coyotes and beaver. Mountains rise to the west while the White Cloud Range stands guard to the east. Mountain goat Much of this special valley is privately owned. However, the Forest Service has acquired conservation easements on most of these While in Sawtooth Valley you may want to properties to ensure open space, prevent take side trips to Alturas or Pettit Lakes; visit incompatible development, and maintain historic sites such as the 1909 vintage Pole public access to national forest lands. Creek Ranger Station; or see the abandoned mining town of Sawtooth City. The Sawtooth Fish Hatchery at the north end of the valley is a great place to learn about native fish in the area.

Take a scenic drive on the Nip and Tuck Road or see it by snowmobile in winter. If highway driving is more your style, you can’t go wrong here—every highway within the Sawtooth NRA is a scenic byway. Fisher Creek Trail (© Ed Cannady)

Sawtooth Valley

5 G et to Know Us

Sawtooth Wilderness

A centerpiece of the Sawtooth NRA is the 217,000-acre Sawtooth Wilderness that encompasses hundreds of jagged peaks (more than 40 over 10,000’), high alpine lakes, and tranquil basins. Secluded valleys provide habitat for abundant wildlife. Perhaps the best thing about the Sawtooth Wilderness is invisible—it boasts the clearest air in the continental United States!

There are over 270 miles of trail but much of the Wilderness is only accessible via off- trail route finding. Open fires are not permitted in some high-use regions, and group size is limited in the area to help reduce human impacts. Even in the summer, temperatures Peregrin falcon (© M. Lorenz) falcon Peregrin might drop to freezing so pack accordingly.

For more information on the National Wilderness Preservation System, visit www.wilderness.net. © Mark Moulton

Watchable Wildlife Grey wolf (© Stayer)

Here are just a few of the forest’s Birds - The Sawtooth National Forest is home for an highlights: abundance of avian species due to its wide range of elevations and habitat types. Birders may be particularly interested in Wolves - You may spot a wolf on the the South Hills Crossbill which has been seen at Porcupine north end of the forest. They tend to follow Campground and Diamondfield Jack Recreation Areas. elk herds so can sometimes be seen where elk are present. Sawtooth Valley and the Moose - These large animals can often be found standing Big Wood River are good places to search. knee-deep in rivers or swampy lakes. In the summer, moose Pronghorn (© Tyler Olson) reside throughout the forest, while winter usually finds them Pronghorn - Open sagebrush concentrated in riparian areas. On the north end of the areas are the preferred summer forest, look for them along Trail Creek and the Big Wood range of pronghorn. Dry Creek River. On the south and Langford Flat on the Cassia end, try the Howell District, and the Sawtooth Valley Creek and Sublett on the north end are great places Creek areas. to spot them.

Beaver - These large rodents live throughout the forest. Look for their dams and lodges where creeks flow through meadows. Shoshone Creek, Liberal Creek, the Big Wood River, Trail Creek, Fishhook Creek, and Deer Creek are great places to look. Moose (© Wesley Aston)

Woodpeckers - Ten species of woodpeckers Beaver (© Jason Kasumovi) make their home here. Look for hairy woodpeckers and three-toed woodpeckers in lodgepole pine forests. Red-naped sapsuckers can ildlife Viewing Ethics be found in mature aspen stands. W ¢¢ Give the wildlife their space. Use those binoculars!

Mountain Goats - These sure-footed animals ¢¢ Please leave "orphaned" or sick animals alone. Often the parents live within the mountains on the north are close by and are waiting for you to leave. end of the forest, in subalpine and alpine ¢¢ Pets must be restrained at all times. habitat above 7,000’. ¢¢ Do not feed wildlife—they can become habituated to handouts, There are viewing losing their instinctive fears of people. Often the only solution is sites along Highway to euthanize the animal. 75 in the Sawtooth NRA and along the ¢¢ Leave the area if an animal shows signs of alarm. Watch and Harriman Trail. listen for raised ears, skittish movements, or alarm calls.

Pileated woodpecker Rocky Mountain goat (© Mark Moulton)

6 Scenic Byways Sawtooth Scenic Byway Salmon River Scenic Byway

Beginning in Shoshone, The northern end Length: 162 mi./259 km. Length: 116 mi./186 km. one of the first of the Salmon River Highlights: Historical Lewis Highlights: Black Magic Canyon; Scenic Byway begins major features is the & Clark route; mining towns; lava deposits; Big Wood River on the Montana border and stunning mountain views Black Magic Canyon abundant wildlife geological attraction. at the Lost Trail Pass The route then rolls (6,995 feet). Lewis and north through lava deposits and agricultural land to the Clark came this way in 1805, and the spectacular view resort towns of Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley. from this vantage point has changed little since that famous exploration From there, the road winds its way of the West two through the Sawtooth National centuries ago. The Recreation Area, following the Big route follows the Wood River past the majestic Boulder Salmon River—the and Smoky Mountains to Galena famous River of No Summit at 8,701 feet. From Galena, the Return—through view showcases the stunning Sawtooth the Salmon-Challis and White Cloud Mountains and the National Forest spectacular Sawtooth Valley. and the historic city of Salmon. The Along the river and its forks way, wildlife serve as important © Mark Moulton watchers natural pathways into should stay Idaho’s rugged backcountry. The deer, elk, and moose alert for that often graze along the hills and meadows that line wildlife, this road provide a glimpse of the wild country beyond. including pronghorn Along the way, the town of Challis and the Land of the

© Mark Moulton © Mark antelope, Yankee Fork Historic Area are just two points of interest, deer, elk, the latter being among Idaho’s most famous mining sandhill areas. And as you head southwest along Idaho 75 toward cranes, and Stanley, you’ll begin to see glimpses of the majestic wolves. Sawtooth Mountains ahead before beholding their full splendor as you drop into town. Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway

The western end of the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway starts in Boise. It follows Idaho 21 Length: 131 mi./210 km. north to the historic mining town of Idaho City, where you can still pan for gold in a Highlights: Gold panning; river nearby stream bed. Campgrounds and fishing opportunities dot the route from Idaho views; Wilderness access City to Lowman along the South Fork of the Payette River, as you slowly climb along the byway’s northeasterly route.

At the road to Grandjean, the roadway leaves the Payette River and squeezes between two of Idaho’s wilderness areas. On the right, the Sawtooth Wilderness and its 217,000 pristine acres of majestic peaks and sparkling lakes. To the left is the 2.3-million-acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, with more contiguous acres of roadless wilderness than anywhere else in the lower 48 states.

From Banner Summit, at 7,056 feet, you descend to Stanley. As the roadway grooves through the steep foothills and thick forest, you can catch glimpses of the Sawtooth Mountains ahead. As you drop into Stanley, they come into full, magnificent view.

7 awtooth National Forest

S Red-tailed hawk Sawtooth NRA, Ketchum, & Fairfield Ranger Districts

21 Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway SALMON-CHALLIS NATIONAL FOREST

River Trap a Sheep Creek Trail a Sunbeam a Elk Creek Casino Dam/Resort Creek 75 Lakeview 455 Riverside a a Salmon a Hx! Elk Creek Whiskey Stanley a a Flats Holman Lake Inlet a Stanley River a k Salmon k Lake Stanley Mormon aa a Creek BOISE NATIONAL Museum Upper & c k ! Bend a Iron x Lower Lower Snyder Torreys Salmon River FOREST 619 Stanley Obrien Springs Hole Creek q! Scenic Byway a Scenic Stanley Byway Sawtooth Grand Info Lodge Jean Sunny Gulch Fork H a River 824 a See c Buckhorn South 21 x Sawtooth Hatchery Inset Salmon Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway

Payette 75 Salmon

Fork

River SAWTOOTH SAWTOOTH WILDERNESS NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

Sawtooth 93 Boise River Scenic Byway River

Pettit a 208 Lake Fork kc East North Alturus Smokey Bear Lake & North Shore 205 Smiley ac x Pole Creek !Creek River Alturus a 194 Lake Inlet

North Fork

215 V x Galena Lodge Wood Galena Middle Chemeketan a Overlook Fork Boise ! Atlanta a Big 146 Caribou a reviR SALMON-CHALLIS Wood a Murdock Sawtooth Easley River NATIONAL FOREST Scenic Byway a ac Sawtooth NRA BOISE NATIONAL aq Headquarters x North FOREST Bear Easley Hot Fork Wood Creeka FAIRFIELD Springs Resort RANGER DISTRICT East Fork a Baker Creek 75 162 a Boundary

River KETCHUM River ! Sun River RANGER DISTRICT Ketchum! Valley 079 Sawmill a Federal Gulch Chaparral Bird Bald Mountain 2 a Creek Canyon Wood a s a 227 118 a Willow Boise Featherville ! a a Creek Big Smoky Fork Baumgartner 085 Abbot East a a 227 Wood Fork 227 Bowns

River Copper Creek a Sawtooth 61 Scenic Byway 134 Five Deer Creek a 097 Pointsa South Little 095

Pine ! ! Hailey Pioneer a Soldier 094 Mountain2

61 055 Anderson Ranch Hunter Bellevue ! Reservoir a Creek

181

!Fairfield 20

20 8 Red-tailed hawk

93 Redfish Lake Inset Chinook Bay 21 Ponderosa Pine a efore venturing on to the Sawtooth National Scenic Byway Mountain BForest, please pickup a map with the level of detail SALMON-CHALLIS Little View NATIONAL FOREST Redfish a appropriate for your planned activities: River Trap a Sheep Lake Creek Trail a Sunbeam For motorized travel: a Elk Creek Casino Dam/Resort Creek 75 214 Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) are available at all Lakeview 455 Riverside Forest Service offices, and may be downloaded from a a Salmon a Hx! Elk Creek Whiskey Stanley a a Flats Holman www.fs.usda.gov/sawtooth Lake Inlet a Stanley River a k Salmon North Glacier k Lake Stanley Mormon aa a Creek BOISE NATIONAL Museum Upper & c k Redfish Visitor Shore a View ! Bend a Center Iron x Lower Lower Snyder Torreys Salmon River FOREST 619 Stanley Obrien Springs Hole q c For hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding: Creek q! Scenic Byway Redfish Lake c Outlet a Scenic Stanley Topographic maps are recommended. Visit the US Byway Lodge H Sawtooth Grand Info Geological Survey for online purchases: www.usgs.com/ Lodge Jean Sunny Gulch aOutlet Fork H a River 824 a Point a See c Buckhorn c Point National forest maps may be purchased at: South 21 x Sawtooth Inset Hatchery Sandy www.nationalforeststore.com Salmon k Ponderosa Pine Beach Scenic Byway Sawtooth Sawtooth NRA Payette Redfish Lake National Forest 75 Salmon a Mt Heyburn Fork Wilderness Forest Supervisor’s River SAWTOOTH SAWTOOTH Sockeye a Office WILDERNESS NATIONAL RECREATION AREA a Campground District Ranger Office Sawtooth 93 Boise River Scenic Byway c Picnic/Day Use Area River

Pettit a 208 89 U.S. Highway Lake Fork kc x Point of Interest East North Smokey Bear Alturus 143 State Highway & North Shore Lake 205 Smiley Scenic Overlook ac Creek x Pole Creek V ! 48 River Alturus a 194 Forest Route Lake Inlet k Boat Launch North Fork

215 V 549 Forest Road x Galena Lodge Wood Information Center Galena q Middle Chemeketan a Overlook Fork Boise Paved Roads ! Atlanta a Big 146 s Guard Station Caribou a reviR SALMON-CHALLIS Unpaved Roads Wood a Murdock H Lodge Sawtooth Easley River NATIONAL FOREST a c Scenic Byway or Scenic Byway a aq Sawtooth NRA BOISE NATIONAL x Headquarters Backway ¯ North 2 Downshill Ski Area FOREST Bear Easley Hot Fork Wood Creeka FAIRFIELD Springs Resort RANGER DISTRICT East Fork a Baker Creek 75 162 a Boundary

River Copper Creek a Sawtooth 61 Scenic Byway 134 Five Deer Creek a 097 Pointsa South Little 095

Pine ! ! Hailey Pioneer a Soldier 094 Mountain2

61 055 Anderson Ranch Hunter Bellevue ! Reservoir a Creek

181 © Mark Moulton

!Fairfield 20

20 9 awtooth National Forest

S To Pocatello Minidoka Ranger District

To Boise 93 To Shoshone

To Minidoka Snake River

27 ! Rupert

To Buhl 30 24 ! Twin Falls 84 86

Snake ! 93 Heyburn River ! Burley 81

27 River 77 Raft

81 a Mill Flat

565 93

Schipper a Bennett c Birch Glen Thompson Springs Flat 549 Harrington a Lake Cleveland c Fork a a Sublett a Twin Pomerelle Steer Basin Mt Harrison V c a Lakes 2 ! Malta c Third Fork a SUBLETT DIVISION 515 Oakley 77 Upper/Lower ! 548 Bear 500 a Penstemon 500 Gulch a Rock To Jackpot Creek s 2 Magic Mountain aPettit Bostetter 42 Diamondfield a a ALBION 84 a Jack Father DIVISION a & Sons Porcupine Springs

River Raft BLACK PINE DIVISION CASSIA DIVISION CITY OF ROCKS NATIONAL RESERVE

a Clear Creek 005 30

To Snowville, UT

RAFT RIVER DIVISION

10 © Zschnepf

To Pocatello

To Boise 93 To Shoshone

To Minidoka Snake River efore venturing on to the Sawtooth National BForest, please pickup a map with the level of detail appropriate for your planned activities: 27 ! Rupert For motorized travel: To Buhl 30 24 Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) are available at all ! Twin Falls 84 86 Forest Service offices, and may be downloaded from www.fs.usda.gov/sawtooth Snake ! 93 Heyburn River ! For hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding: Burley Topographic maps are recommended. Visit the US 81 Geological Survey for online purchases: www.usgs.com/ 30 National forest maps may be purchased at: www.nationalforeststore.com 27 River 77 Raft Sawtooth Sawtooth NRA National Forest 81 a Mill Flat Wilderness Forest Supervisor’s 565 Office 93 a Campground District Ranger Office Schipper a Bennett c Birch Glen Thompson Springs c Picnic/Day Use Area Flat 549 Harrington a Lake Cleveland 89 U.S. Highway c Fork a a Sublett a Twin Pomerelle x Point of Interest Steer Basin a Mt Harrison V c ! Lakes 2 Malta 143 State Highway c Third Fork a SUBLETT DIVISION V Scenic Overlook 515 Oakley 77 48 Forest Route Upper/Lower ! 548 Bear 500 Boat Launch a Penstemon 500 k Gulch a Rock Creek s 2 Magic Mountain To Jackpot q Information Center 549 Forest Road aPettit Bostetter 42 Paved Roads Diamondfield a a ALBION 84 a s Guard Station Jack Father DIVISION Unpaved Roads a & Sons Porcupine H Lodge Springs Scenic Byway or 2 Downshill Ski Area Backway ¯

River Raft BLACK PINE DIVISION CASSIA DIVISION CITY OF ROCKS NATIONAL RESERVE

a Clear Creek 005 30

To Snowville, UT

RAFT RIVER DIVISION

C See map on page 8. Sawtooth National Recreation Area

# OF RESERV- NAME SEASON AMENITIES UNITS ABLE Campsite fees range from $5-$32 depending on campsite size and season, and are subject to change.

Caribou 7 May-Sept. gLj No Toilets Easley 10 May-Sept. gZL,j- Yes Drinking Z Water g j Murdock 10 May-Sept. ZL, No Garbage Collection North Fork 28 June-Sept. gZL,j Yes L Hiking Wood River Area River Wood Wood River 30 May-Sept. gZL,jW No Trail Swim Alturas Inlet 28 June-Sept. gZLm,jk Yes m Beach Chemeketan Group Site 1 June-Sept. g( Yes - Hot Springs North Shore Alturas 15 May-Sept. gZLj No Group Site Alturas & Pettit Lake 13 May-Sept. gZLmjk No (

Pettit Lake Area Lake Pettit Boat Smokey Bear 11 June-Sept. gZLjk No k Ramp Chinook Bay 13 May-Sept. gZLj No Horse [ Facilities Glacier View 65 May-Sept. gZLmj Yes W Nature Mount Heyburn 20 May-Sept. gZLmjk No Trail Fishing Mountain View 7 May-Sept. gZLj No j Outlet 19 May-Sept. gZLm j Yes Point 17 May-Sept. gZLm j Yes

Redfish Lake Area Lake Redfish Redfish Inlet 6 June-Sept. gL,j No Sockeye 23 May-Sept. gZL,j k No Sunny Gulch 45 May-Sept. gZL Yes Salmon River Campground Elk Creek Group Site 3 May-Sept. gZL( Yes Grandjean 31 May-Sept. gZL,j No Iron Creek 9 June-Sept. gZL, No Lakeview 6 May-Sept. gZLj No Sheep Trail Group Site 4 May-Sept. gZL( Yes g j Stanley Lake & Lake Stanley Stanley Lake 19 May-Sept. ZL Yes Highway 21 Area 21 Highway Stanley Lake Inlet 14 May-Sept. gZLm,jk No Trap Creek Group Site 3 May-Sept. gZL Yes Casino Creek 19 May-Sept. gZL,j No Holman Creek 10 May-Sept. gZLj No Lower O’Brien 10 May-Aug. gZLj No

Mormon Bend 15 May-Sept. gZLjk No Glacier View Campground Riverside 17 May-Sept. gZLj No Salmon River 30 May-Sept. gZLj No Upper O’Brien 9 May-Sept. gZLj No Salmon River Canyon Area Canyon Salmon River Whiskey Flats 4 May-Sept. gZLj No

All campground units have tables and firerings, along with other amenities as noted. Pets must be on a leash in campgrounds. To make reservations, use the National Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov 12 Fairfield & Ketchum: see map on pages 8-9. Fairfield, Ketchum, & Minidoka Ranger Districts Minidoka: see map on page 10-11.

# OF RESERV- NAME FEE SEASON AMENITIES UNITS ABLE For campgrounds with fees, they range from $5-$20 depending on campsite size and season, and are subject to change. Abbot Yes 7 May-Sept. gLj No gZL- Baumgartner Yes 29 May-Sept. Yes Wj( Bear Creek No 3 May-Sept. gL[ No Bird Creek Yes 5 May-Sept. gLj No Bowns Yes 12 May-Sept. gZLj No Canyon Yes 6 May-Sept. gZL[ No Chaparral Yes 12 May-Sept. gLj No Five Points No 3 May-Sept. gL No

Fairfield Ranger District Fairfield Hunter Creek No 4 May-Oct. g [ No Pioneer No 4 May-Sept. gZL No Willow Creek Yes 5 May-Sept. gj No Willow Creek Transfer No 5 May-Sept. g [ No Camp L Boundary Yes 8 May-Sept. gLZ, No Copper Creek No 8 June-Oct. g No Deer Creek No 2 May-Oct. g No East Fork Baker Creek No 7 May-Oct. g No District Federal Gulch No 4 May-Oct. g, No Ketchum Ranger Ketchum Sawmill No 3 May-Oct. g No There are many different ways to Bear Gulch No 8 May-Sept. g No camp on the Sawtooth National Forest! Bennett Springs No 6 June-Sept. g No Bostetter No 10 June-Sept. g No Clear Creek No 14 June-Oct. g No Diamondfield Jack Yes 7 June-Oct. gZ No Father and Sons No 5 June-Oct. g No Independence Lakes No 9 July-Oct. g[ No Lake Cleveland Yes 29 July-Sept. g Yes Lower Penstemon Yes 6 June-Sept. gZ Yes Mill Flat No 7 June-Oct. g No Pettit Yes 8 June-Sept. gZ No

Minidoka Ranger District Porcupine Springs Yes 36 June-Sept. gZ Yes Schipper Yes 5 May-Oct. g No Mill Flat Campground Steer Basin Yes 4 May-Oct. g No Sublett No 9 May-Oct. g No Twin Lakes Yes 10 July-Oct. g[ No Upper Penstemon Yes 9 June-Sept. gZ No

13 A ctivities Winter Recreation

Four ski resorts operate on the Sawtooth National Forest with 28 lifts and over 130 runs: ¢¢ Soldier Mountain – Ten miles north of Fairfield, this is a family-friendly resort with a vertical drop of 1,400 feet and 36 runs with 3 lifts. A new day lodge was built in 2010 (www.soldiermountain.com). ¢¢ Magic Mountain – A small family-oriented ski area about 30 miles south of Hansen, it has a vertical drop of 700 feet, 20, runs and 3 lifts. (www.magicmountainresort.com). © Mark Moulton ¢¢ Pomerelle – With some of the most reliable and Nordic and Backcountry Skiing deepest snow in the state, Pomerelle is south of Albion and west of Malta. Popular with local skiers and snow boarders it has The Sawtooth National Forest boasts some of the a vertical drop of 1,000 driest powder, highest quality groomed tracks, and feet, 24 runs, and 3 lifts Wood River Valley most exciting backcountry skiing in the West. You (www.pomerelle-mtn.com). Winter Recreation Coalition & can find your own cross-country route in most Sawtooth Community Winter ¢¢ Sun Valley - Bald areas, or you can skate-ski on groomed trails in Mountain is the Recreation Parntership the Sawtooth Valley, the Wood River Valley, or centerpiece of this world- Rock Creek in the South Hills. The Galena Lodge famous four-season resort. In the 1990s two groups of winter and North Valley Trails system offers 78 mi./130 Sun Valley was opened in recreation enthusiasts got together km. of groomed trails at all difficulty levels and 1936 by railroad tycoon with the Sawtooth National Forest Averell Harriman as the to explore ways for motorized and several groomed snowshoe loops. You can ski with first destination ski resort non-motorized users to better share your canine friends on several of these trails. Visit in the country—and the trails in the area. The result was www.galenalodge.com for more information. with the first chair lift in the world. Baldy has two Winter Recreation Maps that a vertical drop of 3,400 delineate areas for non-motorized To get farther into the backcountry, feet, 14 lifts including 7 users and motorized users. Please Soldier Mountain offers day-long high-speed quads, and pick up one of these free maps and Sno-cat skiing adventures. Sun Valley a new gondola that honor the agreements and friendships Heli-ski offers an unforgettable accesses the historic these coalitions developed. You can experience for skiers of all abilities. Roundhouse Restaurant. find them at the Ketchum or Four additional lifts Sawtooth NRA ranger stations, serve skiers at the resort’s or at most outdoor equipment Dollar Mountain facility stores in the area. (www.sunvalley.com). Snowmobiling

The Fairfield and Minidoka Ranger Districts offer thousands of acres of snowmobile opportunities. The Wells Summit area is a popular destination for winter recreationists on the Fairfield District, with a warming hut and over 50 miles of groomed trails. © Ed Cannady The Diamondfield Jack trailhead and warming hut at the end of the plowed road in Rock Creek Canyon offer endless opportunities for snowmobilers to explore the winter Before You Go backcountry of the South Hills. As part of your winter Stanley and the Sawtooth Valley recreation plans, check the are another great alternative for Sawtooth National Forest snowmobilers. With over 200 inches Avalanche Advisory for up- of snow annually, miles of groomed to-date conditions on the trails and numerous off-trail riding Sawtooth National Forest. areas, it is an uncrowded winter Call (208) 622-8027 or visit: www.sawtoothavalanche.com. paradise. © TechWizard

14 Trails

The Sawtooth National Forest is truly a hiker and equestrian paradise. With over 2,000 miles of trails on the forest it is easy to find one to fit anyone’s fitness and experience level. Maps are available for trails in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area; other district offices have additional trail information available.

MILES TRAIL (one-way) TRAILHEAD LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS

South of Hansen on Rock Hiker/horse trail in Rock Creek portion of the Minidoka RD. Great views and good wildflower Rim View 9.5 Creek Road displays in spring. Elevation Gain: 2000’—more difficult

South of Hansen on Rock Hiking trail near the head of Rock Creek on the Minidoka RD. Pleasant walk in subalpine Eagle Trail 3.0 Creek Road near Pettit environment . Elevation gain is negligible—easiest. Campground A multi-use trail on the Fairfield RD, it accesses 35 miles of horse and hiker trails along the North of Fairfield near Big Smoky 16.0 way. Skillern and other unnamed hot springs are along this route. Elevation gain: 3,100’— most Canyon Transfer Camp difficult. This trail in the Willow Creek drainage of the Fairfield RD begins at the Willow Creek transfer East of Featherville near Willow Creek 14.0 camp and ends near the base of 9,733’ Ross Peak at Ross Fork Lakes. Evidence of recent fires Willow Creek Campground is present. Elevation gain: 3,000’—more difficult. North Fork North of Fairfield near This hiker and horse trail on the Fairfield RD is north of the Soldier Mtn. Ski area. Plenty of 5.5 Soldier Pioneer Campground shade and views of Smoky Dome (10,095’). Elevation gain: 600’—more difficult. Horse and hiking trail in the Redfish Lake Lodge area of the Sawtooth NRA. Accesses a beautiful Hwy. 75 to Redfish Lake Fishhook Creek 3.0 meadow with views of the Sawtooth peaks on the edge of the Sawtooth Wilderness. Trail passes Rd. to Redfish Trailhead through lodgepole pine and aspen stands. Elevation gain: 380’—easiest. Hwy. 75 to Pettit Lake Horse and hiking trail into the Sawtooth Wilderness. Popular with backpackers and day users, Alice Lake 6.0 Rd; 2 miles to Tin Cup provides access to an alpine lake and views of the Granite El Capitan. Expect deep and swift Trailhead water crossings in early summer. Elevation gain: 1,600’— more difficult. This steep trail on the east side of Sawtooth Valley in the Sawtooth NRA is very dry—bring Hwy. 75 to Valley Rd; 5.5 Horton Peak 2.5 water. The reward is the 360 degree views of the White Cloud and Boulder Mountains and the miles to trailhead Sawtooth Valley. An historic fire lookout is at the summit.Elevation gain: 2,750’— most difficult. Hwy. 75 to 4th of July Popular hiking and motorcycle trail in the White Cloud Mountains, Sawtooth NRA. A lovely hike Fourth of July/ 2.0 Creek Rd; 10 miles to for seeing wildlflowers, wildlife, and wonderful views of the lakes and surrounding peaks. Best Washington Lake trailhead from late June–October. Elevation gain: 450’—more difficult. Trailhead is adjacent to Discover an intriguing emerald pool in the Smoky Mountains just south of Galena Pass on the Titus Lake 2.5 Hwy. 75 south of Galena Sawtooth NRA. Elevation gain: 500’—easiest to more difficult. Summit Hwy. 75 15 miles north This alpine jewel reflects the surrounding granite peaks and offers great fishing. It is located on Baker Lake 1.6 of Ketchum; 10 miles on the Ketchum RD. Elevation gain: 846’—easiest to more difficult. Baker Cr. Rd. to trailhead Hwy. 75 15 miles north This horse and hiking trail on the Ketchum RD offers alpine lakes and a good chance of seeing of Ketchum; 7 miles on Norton Lakes 2.0 mountain goats. It is a less crowded opportunity than nearby Baker Lake. Elevation gain: Baker Cr. Rd.; 1 mile on 1,500’—more difficult. Norton Cr. Rd. to trailhead Northeast of Ketchum off This is a hiker and horse trail on the Ketchum RD. Steep and scenic the trail ends at Pioneer Trail Creek Road; east on Pioneer Cabin 4.2 Cabin, a 1937 vintage ski hut. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pioneer Peaks. Elevation gain: Corral Creek Road #137 2,560’—most difficult. to the end

15 A ctivities

Mountain Biking TRAIL NAME MILES HIGHLIGHTS The fat tire enthusiast will find exceptional opportunities Loop trail in the Greenhorn Gulch area, Ketchum Imperial RD. Scenic vistas, incredible downhill. Best from for mountain biking on the Sawtooth National Forest, 10.5 Gulch May–October. Elevation change: 1,550’—more to especially in the Wood River and Sawtooth Valleys. most difficult. Trails around Ketchum and Galena Lodge attract Loop trail in the Lake/Fox creek area, Ketchum RD. mountain bikers from around the world, and the local Varied terrain, wildflowers, and aspen. Best from Fox Creek 6.6 mountain biking community has been actively working May–October. Elevation change: 750’—easiest to on this trail system for over 20 years. Several guide more difficult. books (available at Sawtooth Interpretive and Historical Loop trail in the Galena Lodge area, Sawtooth NRA. Association sales outlets and Cherry Creek 4.0 Wildflower meadows, pine and fir forest. Best from local outdoor equipment stores) June–September. Elevation change: 310’—easiest. offer in-depth information Loop trail in the Galena Lodge area, Sawtooth NRA. on mountain biking in the Psycho 4.8 Quick and steep ride. Best from June–September. Sawtooth country. A few area Elevation change: 460’—most difficult. highlights are shown in the Loop trail in the Sawtooth Valley, Sawtooth following table: NRA. Begins with 2.3 miles of pavement on Hwy Fisher Creek 17.8 75. Views of the Sawtooths and White Clouds, Boundary Ridge (© Ed Cannady) wildflowers, varied terrain. Best from June–October. Elevation change: 1,500’—most difficult. Loop trail near Stanley Basin, Sawtooth NRA. Elk Mountain 12.4 Wildlife, wildflowers, mountains. Best from June– October. Elevation change: 450’—more difficult.

Off Highway Vehicle Use

Off highway vehicles (OHVs) are permitted only on designated trails and roads within the Sawtooth National Forest. These trails and roads are maintained to minimize the impacts of motorized use on fragile Dispersed Camping ecosystems such as meadows and riparian areas.

Camping in the undeveloped The forest has over 500 miles of motorized trails portions of the Sawtooth including numerous miles of ATV trails, mostly on the National Forest is free and is Minidoka and Fairfield Ranger Districts. a popular way to enjoy the backcountry areas. Several areas are called “designated dispersed” areas where you must camp in designated sites. Some of these have fire rings and tables to protect natural resources. These designated sites include: ¢¢ Trail Creek, Baker Creek, Corral Creek, Deer Creek, and Warm Springs drainages on the Ketchum Ranger District ¢¢ Lower Rock Creek, Sublett, Howell Canyon, and Clear Creek on the Minidoka Ranger District ¢¢ Kelley Creek on the Fairfield Ranger District ¢¢ Salmon River Canyon in the Sawtooth NRA

Elsewhere on the forest, dispersed camping with motorized Before you head out, please pick vehicles is allowed within 300’ of most forest roads and up a free Motor Vehicle Use Map within 100’ of most motorized trails. Camping is limited (MVUM) at any Forest Service to 16 consecutive days at most sites with shorter limits Office or Visitor Center. in some areas. Your Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) will provide more details.

16 Fishing Floatboating & Water Sports

Over 3,500 miles of perennial streams and nearly 7,600 Many visitors consider a river trip on the upper Salmon acres of lakes offer a variety of angling opportunities. River a must-do activity during their time on the Sawtooth The best early season fishing is in the southern forest, National Forest. Opportunities range from flat water to where rainbow and brook trout can be found in Class IV whitewater for rafters and kayakers. Water levels small mountain streams. The Big Wood River and its are highest during the spring run-off months of May and tributaries, the North Fork Wood River, Trail Creek, June, but with adequate water, can last until mid-October. and Warm Springs Creek, are stocked with hatchery rainbow trout by the Idaho Department of Fish and On the upper Game (IDFG), and offer good fishing after spring run- Salmon River, off. Big and Little Smoky Creeks and the South Fork you may choose Boise River are stocked with native redband trout. to go with one of Please contact IDFG for the latest fishing regulations. the four floatboat outfitters that have The high, cold, streams and permits with the lakes within the Sawtooth Forest Service. Valley have resident redband Floaters can use and cutthroat trout and their own gear, or

kokanee. In the backcountry, Kmeto © Pavol rent in Stanley or some of the lakes within Sunbeam Village. the Sawtooth, White Cloud, Smoky, Pioneer, and Boulder Boating on the Sawtooth NRA’s morainal lakes is also very Mountains are also stocked popular, and there are marina facilities and boat rentals at by IDFG. Redfish Lake Lodge. The lakes allow water craft as follows: ¢¢ Alturas and Pettit Lakes—have boat launches and The Sawtooth National Forest allow motorized watercraft, but personal watercraft is home to several native are prohibited fish, including westslope and ¢¢ Yellowbelly and Little Redfish Lakes—nonmotorized Yellowstone cutthroat trout, For more fishing information: uses only steelhead and redband trout, bull Visit the Idaho Department of Fish and Game ¢¢ Redfish and Stanley Lake—have boat launch facilities trout, and Chinook and sockeye and are open to motor boats and personal watercraft salmon. The forest is also a www.fishandgame.idaho.gov/ stronghold for the endemic Wood (208) 334-3700 River sculpin. Resorts Many of these native fish species are in peril. Six summer-season resorts operate Chinook and sockeye on the Sawtooth National Forest. The salmon, steelhead, and Redfish Lake Lodge, Galena Lodge, bull trout are protected Grand Jean, Easley, and Sunbeam under the Endangered resorts on the Sawtooth NRA all offer Species Act. Steelhead trout (© IDAK) a variety of food and lodging services. Some offer bicycle or raft rentals and all are located near the hub of other recreation services. The The sockeye and Chinook salmon in the Sawtooth Valley travel 900 Sun Valley Resort offers four-season recreation, including miles to the ocean as smolts. Amazingly, on their return trip they chair lift rides to the top of Bald Mountain, hiking, horseback climb back to an riding, mountain biking, and golf. elevation of 6,500 feet. Redfish Lake got its name from the Outfitters and Guides sockeye that spawn in the shoreline gravel If you have limited experience or equipment, hiring an outfitter of area lakes. may be the best approach to get to know the Sawtooth country. The Sawtooth National Forest permits 38 outfitters to operate The Indian Riffles on the forest, providing services for whitewater rafting, mountain interpretive site is a climbing, hunting and fishing trips, mountain biking, backpacking, great place to see horse riding, skiing, snowmobiling, paragliding, and heliskiing. spawning Chinook These trained professionals are licensed by the Idaho Outfitter and in late summer. Sockeye salmon Guides Licensing Board. For more information, visit www.ioga.org. (© VasikO) Chinook salmon (© Krasowit)

17 K now Before You Go

Tread Lightly!

Unpaved and primitive roads present special challenges, even in good weather. Before you head out, think about another challenge—your responsibility to “Tread Lightly.” Here’s how: T ravel only where motorized vehicles are permitted. R espect the rights of others to enjoy their activities undisturbed. ducate yourself by obtaining travel information and regulations from public agencies, E comply with signs, and ask owners’ permission to cross private property.

A void streams, lakeshores, meadows, muddy roads, steep hillsides, wildlife, and livestock. rive responsibly to protect the environment and preserve opportunities to enjoy your D vehicle on wild lands.

Be Bear Aware!

Seeing a black bear is a memorable experience. If you want that experience to be positive rather than negative, follow these tips: Fido is Welcome on the ¢¢ Keep a clean campsite. Store food and garbage in closed Sawtooth National Forest vehicles and out of sight. Dogs are welcome on the national forest. ¢¢ Never put food scraps in the campfire—it attracts bears and skunks. However, they must remain under control, and it is strongly recommended that there are no ¢¢ Don’t keep food, toothpaste, shampoo—or anything that more than two dogs per group. In developed smells—in tents or sleeping areas. campgrounds, some trailheads, and in the Sawtooth Wilderness, pets must be leashed. ¢¢ Store stoves and Dutch ovens in a vehicle or secure place when not using. ¢ When camping in the backcountry, hang food and garbage ¢ O E N TR V A from a tree limb at least 10 feet from the ground and 5 A C E E feet from the tree trunk. This tree should be at least 100 Leave No Trace L

O yards from your sleeping area. S U C T I D H OO ET ¢ Some bears also target motor oil, insect repellant, liquor, Backcountry and Wilderness R

¢ (© LianeM) and other things that look like food. Put these items away. areas deserve extra care in order to protect them for our future If bears become accustomed to human generations. You can help by following food, they may become aggressive towards the “Leave No Trace” principles: humans or cause property damage. To »» Plan ahead and prepare protect people, these bears may have to »» Travel and camp on durable surfaces be destroyed. »» Dispose of waste properly »» Leave what you find

»» Minimize campfire impacts Using a campstove on »» Respect wildlife gravel (instead of a fire in a meadow) is a great way to »» Be considerate of other visitors minimize your impact.

Fire! For current fire danger information, or to report a wildland fire, call the South Central Idaho Interagency Dispatch at For more information, visit www.BeBearAware.org. 800-974-2373 or (208) 886-7633.

18 Responsible Recreation Noxious Weeds

To sustain the beauty and health of our national Noxious weeds can rapidly displace forests, please follow these tips: native plant species that provide habitat for wildlife and food for people and Choose an Existing Site livestock. Here’s how you can help reduce Creating new campsites kills vegetation and leads to their spread: soil erosion. If possible, use an existing site. If you’re in »» Learn to recognize common weed species.

an undisturbed area, protect water quality and aquatic

» Cardina) John (© » Don’t camp or drive in weed infested knapweed Spotted habitat by keeping campsites at least 200 feet away areas. from rivers, lakes, or other wetlands. »» Don’t pick the flowers of noxious weeds and take them home—you’ll Park Away from Water spread seeds. Parking near water can lead to erosion and water »» When using pack animals, carry pollution that make it hard for aquatic life to breathe. only feed that is certified weed-free. In addition, vehicles driven onto tree roots seriously Within 96 hours before entering jeopardize the health of the tree. Please park at least backcountry areas, feed them only 200 feet (or 12 vehicle lengths) from water. weed-free food. »» Wash your vehicle, including the Use Established Fire Rings Wisely undercarriage, to remove any weed seed before driving to the forest. ¢¢ Keep your fires small and bring your own firewood. If

Dalmation toadflax you have to collect firewood, collect dead and down (© Bob Nowierski) only. Aquatic Nuisance Species ¢¢ Check at the local Ranger Station for current fire restrictions—they can change on a daily basis. When zebra and/or quagga mussels invade our local waters ¢¢ Use existing fire rings. Scrape away burnable material they damage boats, foul docks, destroy habitat and food within a 10-foot-diameter of the fire ring. for aquatic species, and clog public water pipes. Swimming areas may be closed due to sharp-edged shells washing up ¢¢ Have a shovel and bucket of water available before lighting on shore. your campfire. Once a boat has been in infested waters, it could carry ¢¢ Make sure all wood fits inside the fire ring. Don’t “feed” a large invasive mussels. Zebra and quagga mussels attach to log into the fire ring. boats and aquatic plants carried by boats. Microscopic mussel larvae, can also spread ¢¢ To put out a campfire, slowly through engine cooling or pour water onto the fire and stir with a shovel. Continue adding other residual water retained and stirring until all material is in boats. These mussels cool to touch. commonly attach to bait buckets and other aquatic ¢¢ Do not bury your fire. The coals can smolder and re-ignite. equipment.

¢¢ NEVER leave a fire unattended, You can help stop these even if there are no flames aquatic hitchhikers by present. © Noam Armonn following these steps:

1. Completely inspect your vessel and trailer, Want to Learn More? removing any visible mud, plants, animals, or other debris. The Sawtooth Interpretive and 2. Drain the water from your motor, live well, and Historical Association, Inc. (SIHA) is bilge on land before leaving the immediate area of the lake or river. a non-profit organization supporting 3. Wash the hull, bilge, trailer, truck, or any other the forest’s interpretive programs, equipment that comes in contact with infected waters helping visitors gain a better understanding and with hot, soapy water appreciation for this spectacular area. Funds are 4. Air-dry the boat and other equipment for at least five generated through book and map sales, membership days before launching in any other waterway. fees, donations, and grants. Sales outlets can be found at all Forest Service Offices and Visitor Centers. For more If you cannot perform these steps, you should have your information, visit: www.discoversawtooth.org. boat professionally cleaned.

For current regulations and fire restrictions for the Sawtooth Wilderness, please contact the Sawtooth NRA, or visit www.fs.usda.gov/sawtooth. 19 S awtooth National Forest Your Fees at Work Recreation fees have made a meaningful difference in our ability to serve our national forest visitors because America The Beautiful - National these dollars are can be reinvested into visitor services Parks and Federal Recreational Lands and facilities. For example, on the Sawtooth National Interagency Pass Program Forest, fees have been used for: The America the Beautiful Interagency ¢¢ Trail improvement and maintenance throughout the Pass Program is a suite of annual and lifetime passes forest that provides visitors a convenient way access federal recreation lands. ¢¢ Longer seasons at developed campgrounds on the Sawtooth NRA NOTE: Passes shown below are honored nationwide at all Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau ¢¢ New river put-ins on the of Reclamation, and US Fish & Wildlife Service sites charging entrance Sawtooth NRA or standard amenity fees. Entrance and standard amenity fees are not charged to persons 15 and under. Passes do not cover expanded ¢¢ New vault toilets across the forest amenity fees (such as boat launch fees or swim area fees), and may ¢¢ New parking barriers, fire pits and grills, signs, and tables not be accepted at sites operated by concessionaires. at many of our developed sites

¢¢ This Visitor Guide Annual Pass - $80.00 Not accepted for camping discounts. Volunteering on the Senior Pass - $10.00 Sawtooth National Forest Available to US citizens 62 years and older. In some areas, is good for discounts on other fees The Forest Service Volunteer Program on the Sawtooth such as camping. Must be purchased in person National Forest is very active. The jobs are exciting with proof of age, such as a driver’s license. and diverse, scenery is exceptional and Access Pass - Free co-workers are Available to US citizens that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability that friendly. For more severely limits one or more major life activities. information, contact In some areas, it is good for discounts on other fees any Forest Service such as camping. Must be obtained in person with Office, or visit written proof of disability. www.volunteer.gov/gov. For more information, visit http://store.usgs. ov/pass/index.html The Soldier Mountains show off their flowers Visit us on the web at: www.fs.usda.gov/sawtooth Contact Sawtooth National Recreation Area Headquarters and Visitor Center Information 5 North Fork Canyon Road Ketchum, ID 83340 Sawtooth National Forest (Eight miles north of Ketchum on Hwy 75) Supervisors Office (208) 727-5000 or 1-800-260-5970 2647 Kimberly Road East Twin Falls, ID 83301 Sawtooth National Recreation Area (208) 737-3200 Stanley Ranger Station HC 64, Box 9900 Minidoka Ranger District Stanley, ID 83278 3650 South Overland Ave (One mile South of Stanley on Hwy 75) Burley, ID 83318 (208) 774-3000 (208) 678-0430 Fairfield Ranger District Ketchum Ranger District PO Box 189 PO Box 2356 102 First Street East 206 Sun Valley Road Fairfield, ID 83327 Ketchum, ID 83340 (208) 764-3202 (208) 622-5371 © Mark Moulton © Mark

Visitor Guides for other national forests in the Intermountain Region may be found at 23.338.400-14.07/2010 www.fs.usda.gov/goto/r4/rec_publications Printed on recycled paper

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., 20 Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.