Targhee National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · ID, WY, MT

Targhee National Forest

Targhee National Forest is a vast expanse of wilderness known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities.

National Forest1,800,0004+ Trails
DesignationNational Forest
Total Wilderness Area1,800,000
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Targhee National Forest

Targhee National Forest is a vast expanse of wilderness known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous recreational opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Targhee National Forest spans approximately 1.8 million acres across Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana, offering a diverse range of natural beauty and recreation opportunities. Established in 1891, it features expansive conifer forests, rugged mountains, and pristine rivers. The forest offers numerous trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, along with winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling. Hikers can explore trails that lead to dramatic vistas of the Teton Range and the Henry's Fork Caldera. The region is home to a rich ecosystem, hosting species like elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. Targhee National Forest is a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, making it an appealing spot for those interested in deeper exploration of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Popular attractions include Mesa Falls and Harriman State Park, providing unique sites for fishing, bird watching, and relaxation.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Targhee National Forest

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mesa Falls offers stunning views of cascading waterfalls.✦ Henry's Fork Caldera provides unique geological formations.✦ The forest is a critical habitat for grizzly bears and other wildlife.✦ Teton Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views and a memorable drive.
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Targhee National Forest

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Targhee National Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Targhee National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Targhee National Forest
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

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

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees; some areas require a day-use fee or camping permits.

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 Targhee National Forest

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Targhee National Forest

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

Ashton, Idaho
⌖ 7.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashton, Idaho

Ashton is a serene gateway for adventure seekers heading into Yellowstone and Grand Teton. With trails for hiking and biking, renowned fishing spots, and skiing areas, it’s an outdoor paradise.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Saint Anthony, Idaho
⌖ 21.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint Anthony, Idaho

Saint Anthony, Idaho offers outdoor enthusiasts a peaceful base to chase adventures from world-class fly fishing to backcountry skiing. With the Teton Mountains close by and the Snake River flowing through, this town blends outdoor thrills and small-town charm perfectly.

Late Spring through Early Fall for warm-weather activities, Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Tetonia, Idaho
⌖ 21.79 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
Island Park, Idaho
⌖ 26.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Island Park, Idaho

Island Park is an outdoor paradise in Idaho, offering incredible hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling opportunities. Surrounded by natural wonders, it's perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Alta, Wyoming
⌖ 28.18 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
Driggs, Idaho
⌖ 28.56 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Targhee National Forest

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

Full Day Yellowstone National Park Guided Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Island Park, Idaho
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Full Day Yellowstone National Park Guided Tour

Dive into Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and diverse wildlife on a full-day guided adventure with LSland Park Expeditions. Discover the park’s iconic sights and hidden gems with expert guides—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Sightseeing TourStarting at $900 • 8hrs • Ages 18+ to bookCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Arctic Cat Catalyst 800 — Backcountry Muscle in Saint Anthony
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Anthony, Idaho
SnowmobileADV Bookable

Arctic Cat Catalyst 800 — Backcountry Muscle in Saint Anthony

A focused look at riding the Arctic Cat Catalyst 800 with Adventure Idaho Rentals, emphasizing the sled’s AlphaOne Single‑Beam suspension and 600‑Class C‑TEC2 engine for backcountry terrain.

SnowmobilePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
The Deluxe Package
ADVEXPEDITION
Driggs, Idaho
Guided TourADV Bookable

The Deluxe Package

Experience the thrill and tranquility of paddling the Teton River with The Deluxe Package, designed for all ages and skill levels. Enjoy boat options from kayaks to catarafts plus a complimentary shuttle and safety briefing.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Can Am 110 Renegade Kids ATV - St Anthony ID
ADVEXPEDITION
Saint Anthony, Idaho
ATV/UTVADV Bookable

Can Am 110 Renegade Kids ATV - St Anthony ID

Hand the keys to a kid-sized Can-Am and watch them learn to read sand, lean into berms, and carve sunset laps on the St Anthony Sand Dunes. This managed, helmeted rental pairs direct dune access with instructor-led orientation—perfect for families new to motorized sand riding.

ATV/UTV1-8 and 24 Hour Rentals • renter Must Be 21+ • Seats Up to 1 child per ATVCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Helmet
ADVEXPEDITION
Rigby, Idaho
SnowmobileADV Bookable

Helmet

Gear up with top-quality helmets in Rigby, Idaho, for your next snowmobile or ATV adventure. Stay safe and comfortable while exploring Idaho’s thrilling landscapes.

SnowmobileSnowmobile/ATV HelmetCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip