Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness

Friends of Scotchman Peak Wilderness

 

The Scotchman Peaks have been passed down to children and grandchildren for as long as people have lived in the Inland Northwest. They are the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, and the Kalispel Tribe.

The Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness is committed to saving this land for generations to come. The mission is simple: using every available tool to save the wild Scotchmans.

There are many ways the Friends pursue that goal. One of the most important is advocating for designated Wilderness status. While the Scotchman Peaks region is managed as recommended wilderness, it takes an act of Congress to create the Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. Saving the land for years to come.

That’s just the beginning of what the Friends do. The organization also works to connect community members with their wild backyard. Volunteers generously give their time to maintaining the trails that keep wilderness accessible to everyone. They educate adults and kids alike on the natural world and why it matters. Perhaps most importantly, they inspire others through their passion and enthusiasm for wild places.

The fact is that wilderness matters. It provides crucial habitat to wildlife, plants and trees. It attracts tourists that drive the local economy. It’s a wonderland for hikers, hunters, fishers and nature lovers. And it provides people an escape from the stress of modern life. The world needs country left untamed. And, for Idaho and Montana, Scotchman Peaks is that wild place.

The Scotchmans

scotchman peak wilderness map

The proposed Scotchman Peaks Wilderness area is National Forest land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The 88,000-acre area is roadless, making it a great place for wildlife and people to find solitude.

The Scotchmans are the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa Nation, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, and the Kalispel Tribe. The area is currently managed by the U.S. Forest Service as a roadless area. We believe that a Congressional Wilderness designation is the best way to ensure the area stays wild forever.

The Scotchmans are uniquely diverse – containing everything from high alpine ecosystems to moist cedar groves, to ponderosa pine forests. There are countless trails, peaks, and creeks awaiting your exploration!

 

To learn more about the Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness, visit their website.