Upper Crossing, ID
Bitterroot National Forest
Remote forest and river wilderness in north-central Idaho, open for paddling and backcountry exploration.
Bitterroot National Forest spans north-central Idaho near Upper Crossing, offering visitors access to wild river corridors and backcountry recreation. The forest draws paddlers, anglers, and backpackers seeking remote mountain wilderness.
The Selway River runs through the forest, providing the centerpiece for water-based adventure and a major draw for those exploring the area's river systems.
The forest sits in Idaho's rugged interior, where seasons shape access and conditions. No permit is required to explore most of Bitterroot National Forest, making it straightforward for visitors to plan trips at their own pace.
Experiences
Rivers
Explore 1 rivers location in Bitterroot National Forest.
Common Questions
What visitors most often want to know about Bitterroot National Forest.
Do I need a permit to float the Selway River in Bitterroot National Forest?
Yes, a permit is required to float the Selway River from the Paradise launch site to Selway Falls during the limited season. Outside that stretch and season, general travel in the surrounding Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness doesn't require a permit, though group size limits still apply.
When does the Selway River permit season run?
The limited floating season runs annually from May 15 through July 31. Only one group is allowed to launch each day during this window, making the permit one of the more competitive river permits in the region.
How do I apply for a Selway River launch permit?
Applications go through Recreation.gov during a set application window each winter, typically December 1 through January 31, ahead of the coming float season. Results are announced afterward, and any unclaimed or returned dates can open up later as cancellations.
What should I expect when I arrive to launch on the Selway?
Launches happen at the Paradise put-in, with just one permitted group departing per day to preserve the wilderness feel of the river corridor. Because only a single trip launches daily, arriving with your paperwork and gear ready helps keep the process smooth for the day's group.
What's nearby if I'm planning a Selway River trip?
The forest sits in Idaho near Upper Crossing, with the Selway River corridor accessible via the Forest Road that follows the river toward Selway Falls. The surrounding Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness offers additional backcountry travel for those extending their trip beyond the river itself.