Idaho's mountains, primarily within the Rocky Mountain system, are a striking blend of rugged beauty and ecological diversity. Key subranges include the jagged Sawtooth Mountains, known for their sharp granite peaks and pristine alpine lakes; the Bitterroot Range, forming a dramatic border with Montana; and the remote Owyhee Mountains, with their stark, desert-influenced landscapes. Borah Peak, Idaho’s highest at 12,662 feet, towers over the Lost River Range, offering challenging climbs and sweeping views. These mountains are blanketed in dense coniferous forests, interspersed with meadows and clear streams, supporting wildlife such as elk, moose, black bears, and mountain goats. The terrain varies from steep, rocky ridges to rolling plateaus, carved by ancient glaciers and fed by snowmelt rivers like the Salmon and Payette. Vast wilderness areas, including the Frank Church-River of No Return, provide untouched havens for outdoor enthusiasts.
