Idaho is full of hidden gems that seemingly go unnoticed by the majority of people. Hiding right here in Idaho is a forest unlike any other in the entire world. The Priest River Experimental Forest sounds like some sort of crazy science project…partly because it sort of is. This gorgeous forest is unique for a variety of reasons, and you’re going to want to see it for yourself. The forest is a hidden treasure unlike any other, and it’s definitely worth a visit!

The Priest River Experimental Forest was established in 1911 and has been a functioning research forest ever since.
Charles Peterson/Flickr
It was one of the very first forests to be set aside for the sole purpose of forestry research by the Forest Service. For more than a century, the forest has been the site of important forest research in order to learn more about conserving and utilizing our world's valuable forested regions.
The forest lies just 13 miles north of the small town of Priest River, Idaho.
Jasperdo/Flickr
With a population of less than 2,000 people, Priest River is big on small town charm and even bigger on natural beauty. Nestled at the foot of the Selkirk Mountain Range, the scenery here is simply breathtaking.
Visitors of Priest River should absolutely stop by the experimental forest which is just south of the immense Priest Lake.
Idaho Fish And Game/Flickr
The forest is comprised of approximately 6,368 acres of pristine forestry, meadows, and grasslands. It's the perfect place to take in some of North Idaho's most gorgeous scenery!
A small museum is situated within the experimental forest. Here you can learn all about the forest's history and even view some of the old instruments, tools, and documents from the early days of forest research.
Visit North Idaho
The museum is open weekdays during normal business hours. However, they do request you call ahead before you visit.

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There's nothing like the feeling of trekking through this beautiful forest. The forest itself feels like one of Idaho's best kept secrets.
Juliana Aldrich/AllTrails
A lot of the forest's research is conducted at the peak of Gisborne Mountain.
Province of British Columbia/Flickr
This 5,595-foot peak is located on the southeastern side of the forest and is definitely worth the hike up to it! It provides unparalleled views of the surrounding area including Schweitzer Mountain and Priest Lake.
In order to reach the experimental forest, you'll travel south from Coolin, Idaho approximately 9 miles until you reach USFS Road 597. From here you will follow the signs that will direct you to the Priest River Experimental Forest.
Stan Peterson/Flickr
It's crazy to think such important environmental research has been taking place right here in Idaho! Thanks to our beautiful state, major breakthroughs have been made concerning the longevity of the world's forests.
Garik Asplund/Flickr

Did you know this experimental forest existed? Be sure to check out these 10 Hidden Gems In Idaho That Most People Don’t Even Know Exist!

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