Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Grand Targhee National Forest spans over 600,000 acres across eastern Idaho and a portion of western Wyoming, primarily situated on the western slopes of the Teton Range. Characterized by lush forests of lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and Engelmann spruce, the forest supports abundant wildlife including elk, moose, black bears, and bald eagles. Established in 1908, the forest features rugged terrain with elevations ranging from 6,000 to over 10,000 feet, creating diverse ecological zones. Visitors are drawn to its extensive trail network, alpine lakes, and vistas of the nearby Teton Mountains. Key recreational offerings include hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, and winter snow sports at the adjacent Grand Targhee Resort. Popular landmarks within or nearby include the Buffalo Plateau, Black Pine Basin, and Deadman’s Basin, which offer scenic trekking and wildlife viewing. The forest is managed for multiple uses including recreation, timber, and watershed protection, making it both a natural refuge and an outdoor recreation destination. Accessibility is provided via several trailheads off U.S. Highway 20 and forest service roads. The relatively low visitation compared to nearby national parks allows for a more tranquil outdoor experience. Visitors can encounter wildflower-filled meadows in summer and deep snowpack in winter, attracting both summer hikers and backcountry skiers alike.
