BEAVERHEAD NATIONAL FOREST
This National Forest consists of several tracts in southwest Montana, northwest of Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park. In the region are a number of spectacular mountain ranges, including lands along the Continental Divide, with some high ridges and craggy peaks over 11,000 feet.
There are also cirque basins and deep canyons, mountain meadows and grasslands, spruce and pine forests, plus many lakes, creeks, and some rivers. Wildlife includes grizzly and black bear, elk, deer, pronghorn, moose, and mountain goat.
Beaverhead has two designated wilderness areas, which extend into nearby National Forests: over 100,000 acres of the 259,000-acre Lee Metcalf Wilderness, and 73,000 acres of the 158,000-acre Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.
Activities: Backpacking and hiking are available on over 1,600 miles of trails, most of which are open to horseback riding. Mountain biking is allowed on many trails outside of wilderness areas.
Cross-country skiing is possible here in the winter, as is ski mountaineering. Fishing is widely available along many of the streams and lakes. Hunting is permitted in season.
Camping Regulations: Camping is allowed almost anywhere in the National Forest, as are campfires, except where otherwise prohibited. Permits are not required.
For Further Information: Beaverhead National Forest, 610 North Montana, Dillon, MT 59725; (406)683-3900.
