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Jedediah Smith Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · ID

Jedediah Smith Wilderness

Jedediah Smith Wilderness in Idaho offers stunning alpine landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Area123,4514+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

123,451

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Jedediah Smith Wilderness

Jedediah Smith Wilderness in Idaho offers stunning alpine landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Jedediah Smith Wilderness, located in the state of Idaho, is a striking example of the rugged beauty found in the western United States. Named after the famed explorer Jedediah Smith, this wilderness is part of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and spans an area of dramatic elevations, lush meadows, and alpine forests. It lies adjacent to the western border of Grand Teton National Park, offering expansive views of the iconic Teton Range. The area's diverse ecology includes coniferous forests, wildflower-laden meadows, and alpine environments that support a variety of wildlife, including black bears, moose, elk, and numerous bird species. Established in 1984, it remains a haven for those seeking solitude and adventure through activities like hiking, horseback riding, and backcountry camping. Notable landmarks include the towering peaks of the Teton Range and the stunning wildflower displays in the high meadows during summer. This wilderness area appeals to visitors with its unfiltered natural beauty and opportunities for exploration.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Jedediah Smith Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Alpine Splendor in Driggs' Shadow★ 8.8⌖ 4 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⌖ 11 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.

The Serene Charm of Victor, Idaho★ 7.8⌖ 13 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.

Magnificent Peaks: Table Mountain in Wyoming★ 8.4⌖ 13 miHiking
Table Mountain

Magnificent Peaks: Table Mountain in Wyoming

Explore the challenging 11-mile hike to Table Mountain's summit near Alta, Wyoming. This strenuous trek offers sweeping views of the Grand Tetons and diverse wildlife. Best visited from late spring to early fall for the clearest trails.

Discover the Majesty of the Teton Crest Trail★ 9.2⌖ 13 miHiking
Teton Crest Trail

Discover the Majesty of the Teton Crest Trail

Discover the Teton Crest Trail in Grand Teton National Park, a challenging 40-mile backcountry hike near Jackson, Wyoming. Best visited in summer for camping and wildlife watching, this scenic trail offers dramatic views and frequent bear sightings.

Majestic Peaks of Teton Range★ 9.7⌖ 15 miHiking
Teton Range

Majestic Peaks of Teton Range

Explore the iconic Teton Range in Wyoming, home to Grand Teton's 13,775-ft peak. Ideal for hiking, climbing, and kayaking, it's busiest in summer. The rugged terrain and stunning vistas make it a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Grand Teton Views✦ Diverse Wildlife✦ Teton Crest Trail✦ Remote Alpine Lakes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Jedediah Smith Wilderness

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
Park Recreation

Backpacking

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Jedediah Smith Wilderness
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Jedediah Smith Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required for entry.

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 Jedediah Smith Wilderness

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Jedediah Smith Wilderness

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

Tetonia
⌖ 3.53 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
Alta
⌖ 3.96 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
⌖ 4.38 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
Eldon
⌖ 12.49 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
Teton Village
⌖ 19.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Teton Village, Wyoming

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

Winter and SummerExplore Town
Moose
⌖ 21.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Moose, Wyoming

A small, rustic town offering incredible access to the wilderness of Grand Teton National Park and an array of outdoor adventures.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Jedediah Smith Wilderness

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.