ID HCR051

Congress approved the Sawtooth National Recreation Act on August 22, 1972, and the area was dedicated to the people of Idaho and the United States on September 1, 1972.

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area consists of 756,000 acres including more than 700 miles of hiking trails and more than 300 high-elevation alpine lakes, providing recreation opportunities for hiking, backpacking, fishing, boating, hunting, and other activities.

The area provides vital habitat for ungulates, fish species including steelhead and salmon, and serves as home to the headwaters of the Big Wood, Salmon, Boise, and Payette rivers.

The recreation area generates significant economic benefits to local communities and supports Idaho river outfitters, guides, and tourism through intact habitats and clean water.

Idaho recognizes the 50-year effort of the U.S. Forest Service and volunteers in maintaining the area's integrity and directs federal land management agencies to allocate adequate financial resources for ongoing protection and management.