Fairfield Ranger District

The Fairfield Ranger District, established in 1906 with consolidation of the Shake Creek and Fairfield Ranger Districts in 1972, encompasses 420,720 acres of Forest system administered lands and contains over 680 miles of streams and more than 20 high mountain lakes. There are many mountains on the District over 9,000 ft. in elevation, with four peaks--Baker Peak, Big Peak, Two Point Mountain, and Smoky Dome that are over 10,000 ft.

high in elevation. The South Fork of the Boise River, Little Smoky Creek and Big Smoky Creek are the major river drainages. Fairfield offers seemingly endless opportunities for the backpacker, hiker, horseback rider, mountain biker and off-road vehicle user.

There are 440 miles of inventoried trails on the District, many of which top out in mountain lakes or circque basins. Snowmobiling, downhill skiing, and snowboarding are some of the more popular winter activities on the District. There are about 50 miles of groomed snowmobile trails available north of Fairfield.

Nordic skiing opportunities may be found in the backcountry through helicopter and cat ski guided trips into more remote areas. Visitors will find numerous hot springs on the District, accessable in the summer, including Worswick, Skillern, Willow Creek, Pries, and Baumgartner. Fairfield boasts (12) campgrounds.

Baumgartner Campground is fully accessible to visitors using wheelchairs and includes paved camping sites. The campground also boasts a hot pool for soaking, a children's play area and a 1/4 mile interpretive trail.