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Caribou-Targhee National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · ID, WY, UT

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 30 miles.

The Serene Charm of Victor, Idaho★ 7.8⌖ 9 miHiking
Victor

The Serene Charm of Victor, Idaho

Explore Victor, Idaho, surrounded by the scenic Teton Valley. Enjoy various activities like hiking, fishing, and mountain biking in a peaceful setting. Close to Caribou-Targhee National Forest, it's an ideal spot for adventure seekers looking for tranquility away from bustling crowds.

Majestic Waterfalls of Caribou-Targhee★ 8.4⌖ 13 miHiking
Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Majestic Waterfalls of Caribou-Targhee

Explore Caribou-Targhee National Forest's waterfalls near Idaho Falls, ID. Ideal for hiking and fishing in spring with scenic forest trails. Drive-in access with wildlife viewing opportunities.

Alpine Splendor in Driggs' Shadow★ 8.8⌖ 15 miSkiing
Driggs

Alpine Splendor in Driggs' Shadow

Explore Driggs, ID for skiing in the Teton Range. The area offers skiing and hiking with breathtaking views. It's a great destination for adventure seekers, best visited during the winter season.

Darby Wind Caves: Nature's Majestic Gateway★ 7.8⌖ 18 miHiking
Darby Wind Caves

Darby Wind Caves: Nature's Majestic Gateway

Explore the Darby Wind Caves on a 5-mile round trip trail near Alta, Wyoming. This moderate hike features stunning views and unique limestone formations, ideal for adventure seekers and photographers. Best experienced from late spring to early fall.

Walk Through Nature's Enclave at Kelly Canyon Foot Trail★ 6.5⌖ 19 miHiking
Kelly Canyon Foot Trail

Walk Through Nature's Enclave at Kelly Canyon Foot Trail

Explore Kelly Canyon Foot Trail near Ririe, Idaho. This easy hike offers gentle terrain through diverse ecosystems, perfect for wildlife viewing and picnicking. Ideal for families, it's best visited in spring or fall for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Mountain Majesty at Jackson Hole★ 8.7⌖ 20 miHiking
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Aerial Tram Trailhead

Mountain Majesty at Jackson Hole

Explore the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Aerial Tram Trailhead for hiking with panoramic views. Located near Jackson, WY, it's a drive-in adventure for summer hikers and wildlife watchers. Watch for mountain goats and eagles and enjoy the stunning scenery.

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.

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
⌖ 8.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eldon, Idaho

A quiet, remote lakeside community offering serene water adventures, forest hikes, and peaceful backcountry exploration near the southern edge of Idaho's expansive wilderness.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Driggs
⌖ 15.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Driggs, Idaho

A frontier town that serves as the northern gateway to the Teton Range, offering year-round outdoor adventures with breathtaking scenery.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Alta
⌖ 18.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Alta, Wyoming

A quiet, stunning alpine destination perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts seeking bold mountain adventures in the Teton Range.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Wilson
⌖ 19.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilson, Wyoming

A vibrant gateway town offering rugged mountain adventures, welcoming outdoor enthusiasts with year-round alpine charm and close proximity to Grand Teton National Park.

Summer through Fall for hiking and biking; Winter for skiing and snow adventuresExplore Town
Tetonia
⌖ 20.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tetonia, Idaho

A peaceful gateway to rugged mountains and high alpine landscapes, offering a mix of quiet outdoor pursuits and thrilling seasonal adventures.

Summer through early FallExplore Town
Teton Village
⌖ 21.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Teton Village, Wyoming

An adrenaline-packed village that offers thrilling year-round adventures in the Teton Range.

Winter and SummerExplore 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.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.