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Bitterroot National Forest

The Bitterroot National Forest spectacular 1.6 million acres which straddles in the Northern Rocky Mountains, surrounding the Bitterroot Valley in west central Montana and a portion of the Selway River drainage in east central Idaho. National Forest lands begin in the foothills above the Bitterroot River Valley in two mountain ranges: the Bitterroot Mountains on the west and the Sapphire Mountains on the east side of the valley. Much of its beauty can be attributed to the heavily glaciated, rugged peaks of the Bitterroot Range. Drainages carved by glaciers form steep canyons that open into the valley floor.

Animals: The Bitterroot Forest is home to many species of wildlife, from mule deer, whitetail deer, elk, bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain goats, black bear, mountain lions, and moose to many varieties of smaller songbirds, hawks, eagles, and owls. In shaded groves, along quiet pools and out on the windswept range, gophers, chipmunks, beaver, porcupine, woodchucks, rabbits, squirrels, etc.

Image of Bitterroot National Forest

Plants: Trere have many grasses and shrublands, Douglas fir, Douglas larch, Lodgepole pine, Engelmann, Spruce , Ponderosa pine, Subalpine fir, Subalpine larch and whitebark pine, etc.

Recreational sites include:

  • Auto Touring
  • Biking
  • Camping
  • Climbing
  • Downhill skiing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Historic & Cultural Site
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hunting
  • Interpretive Programs
  • Paddling Sports
  • Picnicking
  • Recreational Vehicles
  • Water Sports
  • Wildlife Viewing

Satellite Map:

Headquarters:  Hamilton, Montana, Missoula.
National Park Contact Information:
Bitterroot National Forest
1801 N. 1st Street
Hamilton, 59840