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Benewah County Forest adventures

Benewah County Forest Adventures

Benewah County Forest offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities with abundant forestland, wildlife habitats, and trails appealing to hikers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts in northern Idaho.

Approximately 40,000
Acres Protected
25+
Miles of Trails
Estimated 15,000–20,000
Annual Visitors
1970s (established as county forest management area)
Year Established

About Benewah County Forest

 

Benewah County Forest is a managed forest area located in Benewah County in northern Idaho. Spanning tens of thousands of acres, the forest is characterized by its mixed coniferous stands, rolling hills, and abundant streams. This region supports a wide variety of native wildlife including deer, elk, black bears, and numerous bird species, making it popular for wildlife viewing and hunting. The area’s history is rooted in timber management and conservation efforts that balance sustainable logging with preservation of native ecosystems. Visitors to the forest can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, and hunting. Trails interlace portions of the forest, offering moderate terrain through scenic wooded areas and riparian zones along creeks and small rivers. While the forest does not have large-scale developed amenities, it provides a more rustic outdoor experience favored by local residents and outdoor enthusiasts seeking less crowded natural settings. Hunting is a significant seasonal use of the land, regulated by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Anglers can find several small streams and ponds stocked or naturally supporting trout and other fish species. The forest is accessible via local county roads and forest roads, some of which may require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles depending on weather conditions. Benewah County Forest embodies northern Idaho’s characteristic mix of working forest and recreational land, making it an important regional natural resource and outdoor destination.

Highlights

Highlight

Benewah Creek Trail – A scenic trail following a riparian corridor popular for birdwatching

Highlight

Dense stands of Douglas-fir and Western Red Cedar providing classic northern Idaho forest landscapes

Highlight

Wildlife viewing opportunities including elk and black bear sightings

Highlight

Secluded primitive camping areas offering quiet access to nature

Notable Natural Features

Benewah Creek

A clear stream supporting native fish and riparian habitats, with scenic access points along its course.

Mixed Conifer Forest

Large tracts of Douglas-fir, Western Red Cedar, and Ponderosa Pine form the predominant forest cover.

Benewah County Wildlife Habitats

The forest provides essential habitat for elk, white-tailed deer, black bears, and a diversity of bird species.