Challis Field Office

The Challis Field Office, located in southeast Idaho, manages approximately 799,000 acres of public lands. Here in the Challis Herd Management Area, approximately 200 horses run free on some of the most breathtaking country this nation has to offer. Thompson Creek Mine, located just miles outside of Challis, is the fourth largest primary molybdenum mine in the world and, when in operation, is typically the largest employer in Custer County.

Challis handles a variety of fish issues and works hard to ensure its riparian areas are suitable for the several listed fish species within its jurisdiction. This area’s remote and beautiful expanses of land, towering mountains and scenic rivers are the backdrop for a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Approximately 96,000 visitors come through Challis annually. Most recreation centers on the East Fork of the Salmon River, the Main Salmon River and the Big Lost River System. The clear waters of the Salmon River Canyon offer outstanding steelhead and trout fishing. Other opportunities include Class I and II boating, big game hunting, nature viewing and camping along the river.

Travel management regulations are present within the Challis Field Office for the protection of resource values as regulated by the 2008 Travel Management Plan and 1999 RMP. 43 CFR 8340.5 defines an off-road vehicle as any motorized vehicle capable of, or designed for, travel on or immediately over land, water, or other natural terrain. This includes but is not limited to snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, pickups, and sport-utility vehicles.