Gospel Hump Wilderness, Protected wilderness area in Idaho County, US
Gospel Hump Wilderness is a protected area in Idaho County that covers diverse terrain ranging from river valleys to mountain ridges. The land remains roadless, accessible only by foot or horseback, with no vehicle access permitted.
Gold was discovered nearby in the mid-1800s, drawing miners to work in the region. Mining activity continued for several decades before eventually ending as operations became less viable.
The Nez Perce people have deep roots here, having used these lands for hunting and gathering across many centuries. Names and stories of this heritage remain visible in how local communities speak about the landscape today.
Bring detailed maps and navigation tools since the terrain is unmarked and remote. The warmer months offer the best conditions for travel, as snow and water crossings can be challenging during other seasons.
This area connects to an even larger neighboring wilderness, together forming one of the vast roadless spaces in western America. The combined protected lands offer continuous country where machines never go.
Location: Idaho
Inception: 1978
GPS coordinates: 45.56580,-115.77600
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43
Idaho's remote locations offer access to diverse landscapes ranging from alpine lakes nestled in mountain ranges to volcanic formations and high desert terrain. The state contains geological features formed over thousands of years, including lava tubes that preserve ice year-round, sand dunes rising hundreds of feet, and one of North America's deepest river canyons. Historic mining towns preserve architecture from the silver boom era, while natural hot springs dot the landscape alongside waterfalls that cascade through forested valleys. These destinations span from the granite spires of City of Rocks National Reserve, where climbers tackle routes on 600-foot rock formations, to Priest Lake in the northern forests, stretching 19 miles through conifer-covered wilderness. Visitors can explore the black lava fields of Craters of the Moon, spanning over 1,100 square miles, or descend into caves where ice formations persist despite surface temperatures. The Snake River carves through Hell's Canyon at depths reaching 7,900 feet, creating opportunities for rafting and fishing. Whether hiking to Sawtooth Lake at 8,800 feet elevation, observing stars from an observatory at Bruneau Dunes State Park, or walking through the Victorian streets of Wallace, these locations provide experiences across Idaho's varied terrain.
Hells Canyon
70.7 km
Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness
85.1 km
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
56.5 km
Nez Perce National Historic Trail
78.5 km
Hells Canyon Wilderness
56.5 km
Hells Canyon Dam
80.6 km
Ponderosa State Park
74.2 km
Weippe Prairie
90 km
Polly Bemis House
16.9 km
White Bird Grade
46.4 km
Blue Fox Theatre
48.1 km
Sheep Rock
81.4 km
First Presbyterian Church
73.3 km
College Creek Ranger Station
80 km
Gold Point Mill
38.3 km
Arctic Point Fire Lookout
58.4 km
Col. E. M. Heigho House
76.9 km
Deep Creek Ranger Station
83.8 km
Elo School
78.9 km
James V. and Sophia Baker House
69.7 km
Cooper's Ferry
63 km
James F. Bridwell House
76.2 km
Matt Ruatsale Homestead
84.8 km
Sue McBeth Cabin
73.4 km
Gust Laituri Homestead
81.9 km
Nickolai Wargelin Homestead
79.3 km
Hat Point Fire Lookout Tower
70.6 km
North Beach
67.6 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes