Spanning four season in a single day, visitors can explore the contrasts of the Payette National Forest. With 2.3 million acres of public land, our deep canyons to crisp alpine lakes make up the centerpiece of outdoor recreation in Idaho’s Heartland. This spectacular land is bordered by two of the deepest canyons in North America: the Salmon River Canyon to the north, and Hells Canyon to the west. To the east lies the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, one of the largest congressionally-designated wilderness areas in the lower 48. Connected with other public lands, the forest is part of an expansive and uninterrupted landscape that provides superb habitat for an exceptional array of big game, upland birds, and other wildlife. The forest is nationally recognized for dramatic landscapes, from craggy mountain peaks and shimmering lakes to plummeting river canyons. Vast expanses of back country provide solitude, although facilities and amenities are nearby. Come and visit your national forest!