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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

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,800,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse 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 30 miles.

Upper Mesa Falls: A Natural Marvel in Idaho★ 8.8⌖ 5 miHiking
Upper Mesa Falls

Upper Mesa Falls: A Natural Marvel in Idaho

Experience Upper Mesa Falls in Idaho, an awe-inspiring 114-foot waterfall. Enjoy moderate hikes and spot wildlife like moose and eagles. The area is quiet year-round, with best visits in spring and fall. Be cautious around slippery rocks.

The Rush of Cave Falls★ 8.2⌖ 16 miHiking
Cave Falls Trail

The Rush of Cave Falls

Explore the picturesque Cave Falls Trail near Yellowstone National Park. This easy hike is perfect for families and offers stunning views of the wide Cave Falls. Popular activities include fishing and camping. Best visited in spring and fall.

Alpine Splendor in Driggs' Shadow★ 8.8⌖ 29 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.

Majestic Waterfalls of Caribou-Targhee★ 8.4⌖ 32 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.

Waterfall Wonder: Moose Falls, Moran, WY★ 7.8⌖ 32 miHiking
Moose Falls

Waterfall Wonder: Moose Falls, Moran, WY

Explore Moose Falls in Moran, Wyoming. A short, easy trail leads to a serene waterfall, perfect for family visits and photography. Enjoy the tranquility and wildlife in this quiet spot, best visited in spring or fall.

Visiting the Black Sand Basin in Yellowstone National Park★ 8.5⌖ 33 miExploring geothermal features
Black Sand Basin Trail

Visiting the Black Sand Basin in Yellowstone National Park

Explore the easy 0.5-mile loop at Black Sand Basin in Yellowstone National Park to see colorful geothermal features like Emerald Pool and Cliff Geyser. Perfect for families and photography, with easy boardwalk access.

Exploring geothermal featuresView Details→

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 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
⌖ 7.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ashton, Idaho

A quiet gateway town offering easy access to the outdoor wonders of the Snake River Valley and the Yellowstone-Teton area.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Saint Anthony
⌖ 21.12 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint Anthony, Idaho

A quiet gateway town offering access to rugged mountain terrain, pristine rivers, and seasonal outdoor adventures in Eastern Idaho’s vast wilderness.

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

Island Park, Idaho

A tranquil outdoor haven offering unique landscapes for thrill-seekers and nature lovers in the Rocky Mountains.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Alta
⌖ 28.18 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
Driggs
⌖ 28.56 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
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.

12 bookable experiences

Full Day Yellowstone National Park Guided Tour | Sightseeing Tour in Island Park | Guided Tour, Attraction, WildlifeIsland Park, Idaho · 18.64 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· lsland Park Expeditions

Full Day Yellowstone National Park Guided Tour | Sightseeing Tour in Island Park | Guided Tour, Attraction, Wildlife

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.

8–10 hours

Explore this trip

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