Most Idahoans are unaware of this area in central Idaho that is home to hundreds of wild horses who roam its valleys and hills. Horse lovers travel from all over the state to view these majestic animals in their natural surroundings. The horse is a true symbol of the Wild West and Idaho wouldn’t be complete without them!

Among the desert hills outside of beautiful Challis, Idaho is a substantial population of wild horses, among other types of wildlife including deer and antelope.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
The horses can usually be spotted in groups as small as 3 or as large as 20. It may require some patience in finding these herds. However, once you do spot one...you'll be blown away.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
The lands these horses roam on is managed by Idaho's Bureau of Land Management. They work to keep the population under control, which includes capturing horses and putting them up for adoption when the population becomes too big for the land.
BLMIdaho/Flickr

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The landscape is absolutely stunning in this part of Idaho. The herd of galloping horses among the snow-capped mountains in the background is something you'll never forget.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
This is the perfect area to set up camp for a few nights. Enjoy the feeling of solitude and quiet in this hidden oasis while you search for groups of the elusive wild horses.
This region is also referred to as the Challis Herd Management Area (HMA) and is comprised of 154,150 acres which are controlled by the BLM.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
The BLM works to keep the horse population in this area to 185 horses in order to protect the land. Many people actually differ on opinion concerning the methods which BLM uses to manage the horse population. A sanctuary called the Wild Love Preserve works with the BLM on all of Idaho's Herd Management Areas to protect and preserve native wild horses in their environment. You can read all about Wild Love Preserve in our full article here.
It is theorized that these horses are descendants of domestic horses that either escaped or were let loose by their owners. Livestock was first brought to Challis by ranchers back in 1870.
BLMIdaho/Flickr
The herds of horses in Challis are considered to be physically larger than other wild horses living in similar terrain. Genetic tests have been done on the horses and have concluded that genetic variation is above average among the Challis horses. You won't see anything like these herds anywhere else outside of Idaho.
The wild horses of Challis are a must-see. Their beauty is one that is distinctly iconic of Idaho, where we treasure our authentically Western history and lifestyle. A visit to see these majestic animals among the peaceful landscape will forever be etched into your memory.
BLMIdaho/Flickr

Have you been to Challis to see these wild horses? Do you know of any other areas in Idaho where wild horses roam? Let us know.

Since snow has already appeared in the mountains here in Idaho, check out this Winter Horseback Riding Trail In Idaho That’s Pure Magic!

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