The Forest's 1,100 lakes and more than 3,000 miles of rivers and streams provide native trout and annual runs of salmon and steelhead. The major rivers, such as the Salmon, South Fork of the Boise, South Fork of the Payette, and the Wood River offer experiences ranging from primitive to highly developed water recreation opportunities. The Forest's Redfish Lake is one of the outstanding large mountain lakes accessible by vehicles with first class family camping opportunities. This Forest provides habitat for 354 wildlife species and 25 species of fish, including runs of steelhead and salmon from the Pacific Ocean. One-third of Idaho's mountain goat population is found here as well as one of the State's most important deer herds.
Hunters come here for deer, elk, antelope, mountain goat, bear, and mountain lion.
The Sawtooth also offers wing shooting for ducks, geese, chukar and Hungarian partridge, and forest grouse. Sightseers, bird watchers, hikers and riders of horses, trail and mountain bikes add to Sawtooth recreational traffic. So do skiers and snowmobile operators. The famous Sun Valley ski resort is here. Other downhill ski areas on the Forest are Soldier Mountain, Pomerelle, and Magic Mountain.