Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness

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, to 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. 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. Several designated trails enter the Wilderness, and a number of wildlife trails provide more primitive access for cross-country hiking and exploration. 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.