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Located in the Salmon River Mountains, the Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness is a diverse area ranging from sagebrush steppe ecosystems, to north-facing mid-elevations dominated by Douglas fir, and elevations above 9,000 feet dominated by short stature grasses and shrubs. Predominantly an open shrub environment of broad rolling slopes, it is punctuated by stands of conifers and riparian areas, including willows and aspen, and occasional volcanic outcrops forming hoodoos and, in the higher terrain, rugged slopes. Several designated trails enter the wilderness, and a number of wildlife trails provide more primitive access for cross-country hiking and exploration. The Wilderness provides quality habitat for elk, mule deer, moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, greater sage-grouse, bear, wolverine and wolves. The East Fork Salmon River and its tributaries support spawning and rearing habitats for Chinook salmon and steelhead trout and foster one of the longest, highest-elevation salmon migration routes in the world. Streams also sustain beaver and cutthroat and rainbow trout. Solitude is one of the area's greatest assets, as well as outstanding backcountry experiences such as hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, backpacking, skiing, and horseback riding.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Management & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Public Law 114-46
Date: August 07, 2015
Acreage: 116,898 acres
Sawtooth National Recreation Area and Jerry Peak Wilderness Additions Act - Public law 114-46 (8/7/2015) To establish certain wilderness areas in central Idaho and to authorize various land conveyances involving National Forest System land and Bureau of Land Management land in central Idaho, and for other purposes.
For more information (To download or see all affected Wilderness areas) visit our law library for 114-46 or special provisions for 114-46 or legislative history for 114-46 for this law.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.