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Caribou - Targhee National Forest

Upper Snake Idaho
Varies

The Caribou National Forest was created in 1907 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Recently the administration was merged with the Targhee National Forest. Combined, the two forests now cover more than 2.8 million acres and thousands of miles of trails in southeastern and eastern Idaho, with small portions in Utah and Wyoming. High Country Info: Find easy access to one of four trailheads on the Caribou Loop in southeastern Idaho or western Wyoming. Explore 200 scenic miles of trail on the Caribou Loop Trail and terrain for all types of riders.. View the Caribou Loop Trail ArcGIS interactive map.

Trail Info

StatusOpen
LengthVaries
Difficultymoderate
Best Seasons
SummerFall

GPS Data

Dispersed Camping

Allowed Vehicles

Jeep/Truck

Highlights

High Country
Scenic

Getting There

Trailhead Coordinates
42.6589°N, 111.5924°W
Open in Google Maps

Safety & Regulations

  • Always check current conditions before heading out. Weather can change rapidly in Idaho backcountry.
  • OHV registration required for all off-highway vehicles in Idaho.
  • Stay on designated routes. Respect wilderness boundaries and private property.
  • Carry extra fuel, water, and supplies. Cell service is often unavailable.

Complete Guide to Caribou - Targhee National Forest

Caribou - Targhee National Forest represents one of Upper Snake Idaho's most notable offroad destinations, offering Varies of trail terrain that attracts adventurers from across the region. Located in Idaho's Upper Snake region, this route has become a destination for jeep/truck enthusiasts seeking a balance of challenge and reward.

Trail Overview and Terrain

The Caribou - Targhee National Forest is classified as a moderate trail, spanning Varies through Idaho's diverse landscape. The moderate difficulty rating indicates that while most properly-equipped vehicles can handle the terrain, drivers should have some offroad experience and maintain situational awareness throughout the route.

Current status for Caribou - Targhee National Forest is: Open. While the route is currently open, conditions can change rapidly in Idaho's backcountry. Real-time verification before departure is always recommended.

Vehicle Requirements and Preparation

Caribou - Targhee National Forest is designated for the following vehicle types: Jeep/Truck. Standard offroad preparation is recommended, including proper tires, adequate ground clearance, and basic recovery equipment.

Before tackling Caribou - Targhee National Forest, ensure your vehicle is properly maintained with particular attention to tires, brakes, and suspension. Carry sufficient fuel for the entire journey plus reserve, as Upper Snake Idaho's backcountry offers limited services.

Planning Your Upper Snake Idaho Adventure

Summer and Fall offer the optimal conditions for exploring Caribou - Targhee National Forest.

Caribou - Targhee National Forest is best suited for experienced offroaders who understand their vehicle's capabilities and limitations. While the rewards are exceptional, proper preparation and realistic expectations are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Upper Snake Idaho Experience

The Upper Snake region of Idaho offers a distinctive character that sets it apart from other areas of the state. This region showcases Idaho's remarkable natural diversity, from river valleys to mountain peaks.

Beyond Caribou - Targhee National Forest, the Upper Snake region offers numerous additional offroad opportunities, camping areas, and outdoor activities. Many visitors combine their Caribou - Targhee National Forest adventure with exploration of nearby attractions, creating multi-day expeditions through some of America's most spectacular backcountry.

Responsible Offroading and Trail Preservation

Idaho's offroad access depends on responsible users who respect the land and follow established guidelines. When exploring Caribou - Targhee National Forest, practice Tread Lightly principles: stay on designated routes, pack out all trash, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife and other visitors. These practices help ensure continued access to Idaho's remarkable backcountry for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

The unique features that make Caribou - Targhee National Forest special—including high country and scenic—are worth protecting for future visitors. By combining adventure with responsibility, offroaders can help maintain the wild character that makes Upper Snake Idaho such a remarkable destination.

Plan Your Route

Get detailed trail maps, GPS coordinates, and real-time conditions with Roam Idaho.

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