Caribou-Targhee National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · ID, WY, UT
Wildlife%20Viewing Guide

Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Caribou-Targhee National Forest offers a diverse array of outdoor activities across its expansive landscapes, which feature majestic mountains, serene rivers, and abundant wildlife.

National Forest3,144,5404+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

3,144,540

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Caribou-Targhee National Forest offers a diverse array of outdoor activities across its expansive landscapes, which feature majestic mountains, serene rivers, and abundant wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Spanning the states of Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah, Caribou-Targhee National Forest covers over 3 million acres of diverse ecosystems, including stunning mountain ranges, vast highlands, and lush valleys. The forest is home to part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which supports a rich variety of wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, and wolves. Historically, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes and later explored by fur trappers. Today, the forest provides a venue for a multitude of recreational activities. Hiking and camping draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round, while winter transforms the forest into a hub for snow sports. Key landmarks include the Teton Range, offering breathtaking vistas and challenging climbs. The forest is also a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, making it a strategic starting point for exploring the region’s natural wonders.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Teton Range✦ Grizzly and wolf habitats✦ Darby Canyon Wind Cave✦ Palisades Reservoir
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; some areas may require permits for activities like camping or fishing.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Calf Creek Campground

A small, peaceful spot along a stream ideal for fishing and accessing nearby trails.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Eldon, Idaho
⌖ 8.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eldon, Idaho

Eldon, Idaho offers peaceful lake paddling, excellent trout fishing, and forest trails tucked near Henrys Lake. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet, scenic basecamp in southeastern Idaho’s wilderness area.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Driggs, Idaho
⌖ 15.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Driggs, Idaho

Driggs is your adventure gateway to the Tetons, offering epic skiing, stunning hikes, and some of the best mountain biking trails around. Whether you're scaling summits or casting a line, this bustling basecamp blends rugged outdoor escapades with charming small-town vibes.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Alta, Wyoming
⌖ 18.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Alta, Wyoming

Alta is a hidden gem for adventurers, offering daring mountain pursuits against the breathtaking backdrop of the Teton Range. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or fishing, Alta delivers unmatched outdoor experiences in a tranquil wilderness setting.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Wilson, Wyoming
⌖ 19.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilson, Wyoming

Wilson, Wyoming, offers robust outdoor adventures from hiking and mountain biking in summer to backcountry skiing in winter, all framed by the dramatic Tetons. This friendly town serves as the perfect base camp for immersing yourself in Wyoming’s wild landscapes.

Summer through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snow adventures
Explore Town
Tetonia, Idaho
⌖ 20.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tetonia, Idaho

Tetonia offers outdoor lovers quiet access to the Teton Wilderness and Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and cross-country skiing, it’s a peaceful basecamp surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.

Summer through early Fall
Explore Town
Teton Village, Wyoming
⌖ 21.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Teton Village, Wyoming

Teton Village, a hub of mountain adventure, is perfect for thrill-seekers. Ski the famous Jackson Hole Resort in winter, or hike and bike stunning summer trails in the Tetons.

Winter and Summer
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Up Close with a Team: Dogs, Gear and a Cart Demo in Driggs
ADVEXPEDITION
Driggs, Idaho
DogsledADV Bookable

Up Close with a Team: Dogs, Gear and a Cart Demo in Driggs

An hour-long outdoor presentation in Driggs led by Call of the WYld Dogsled Tours that pairs hands-on sled and gear demonstrations with dog meet-and-greets and a live dog-team cart demo.

DogsledPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip