Things to Do in Payette National Forest

Payette National Forest is a vast national forest in west-central Idaho, covering over 2.3 million acres. It features diverse landscapes, including deep canyons, high alpine mountains, and dense forests, with elevations reaching almost 9,500 feet. The forest borders Hells Canyon and includes parts of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness.

Payette National Forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, jogging, and touring cycling. The forest provides extensive trail systems and numerous roads suitable for various skill levels. Komoot lists 28 routes in the area, with an average rating of 4.81 out of 5 stars.

The forest boasts dramatic topography, ranging from desert grasslands to snow-capped peaks. It is home to approximately 400 lakes and reservoirs, and up to 4,000 miles of fish-bearing streams, including sections of the Wild and Scenic Salmon River. Key features include Hells Canyon, the Seven Devils Mountains, and Payette Lake.

Yes, Payette National Forest offers hiking trails for various skill levels, from challenging wilderness routes to more accessible paths. Notable hikes include the Seven Devils Loop Trail and the Loon Lake Loop Hike. For easier options, consult the Easy hikes in Payette National Forest guide.

The McCall area within Payette National Forest is a regional hub for mountain biking, offering numerous trails for all ability levels. Options include the Bear Basin network, Loon Lake Loop, and Twenty Mile Trail #085. Forest and county roads also provide hundreds of miles of routes for cycling. Find more information in the MTB Trails in Payette National Forest guide.

Yes, the extensive network of forest and county roads, both paved and gravel, makes the area suitable for jogging and touring cycling. These routes allow visitors to experience the scenic beauty at their own pace. Explore options in the Running Trails in Payette National Forest and Cycling in Payette National Forest guides.

Popular hiking routes include the Loon Lake Loop Hike and the Brundage Mountain Lookout Tower Loop Hike. The challenging Seven Devils Loop Trail also connects to the Hells Canyon Wilderness Area. For a comprehensive overview, refer to the Hiking in Payette National Forest guide.

Komoot offers several guides for Payette National Forest, including Hiking in Payette National Forest, Easy hikes in Payette National Forest, MTB Trails in Payette National Forest, Running Trails in Payette National Forest, and Cycling in Payette National Forest.

The town of McCall is located near Payette National Forest and serves as a regional hub for outdoor activities, particularly mountain biking. Other communities are also situated around the forest's extensive boundaries.

For more information, visit the official website at fs.usda.gov/payette. You can also contact the Payette National Forest Supervisor's Office by phone at 208-634-0700.

Payette National Forest is unique due to its immense size and ecological diversity, offering a blend of deep canyons, high mountains, and vast wilderness. It provides year-round recreational opportunities and supports a wide array of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and bald eagles. The forest also holds historical significance, such as the B23 Bomber Crash Site.