
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Montana
National forestAbout
The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is the largest national forest in Montana, covering approximately 3.36 million acres across eight counties in the southwestern part of the state. Established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt as two separate forests, they were merged in 1996. The forest is divided into nine sections and includes a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests to sagebrush-covered rangelands. The forest offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking on over 1,500 miles of trails, camping at 50 campgrounds, and snowmobiling on 250 miles of groomed trails. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and elk. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and Nez Perce National Historical Trail pass through the forest. With its high mountains reaching over 11,000 feet, the forest provides breathtaking scenery and diverse ecosystems, making it a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts.