About Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
The deep canyon of the Snake River, with its crags and crevices and thermal updrafts, is home to the greatest concentration of nesting birds of prey in North America and perhaps, the world. The BLM's mission at the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) is to preserve this remarkable wildlife habitat, while providing for other compatible uses of the land. Some 800 pairs of hawks, owls, eagles and falcons come each spring to mate and raise their young. The NCA encompasses 485,000 acres of "nature in the rough" along 81 miles of the Snake River in southwest Idaho., The birds and their unique environment offer rich rewards to those willing to experience the NCA on its own terms and who have patience to fit into the natural rhythms of life in this special place.
How to Get There
From Boise Airport: Boise Airport (3201 West Airport Way #1000, Boise, ID 83705): Get on I-84 E from W Airport Way 3 min (0.9 mi). Continue on I-84 E. Take S Orchard Access Rd to S Range Rd 37 min (31.2 mi). Follow S Range Rd to your destination 21 min (8.2 mi) to Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
Heading to Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area?
No central reservation system listed for Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/14919) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area?
From Boise Airport: Boise Airport (3201 West Airport Way #1000, Boise, ID 83705): Get on I-84 E from W Airport Way 3 min (0.9 mi). Continue on I-84 E. Take S Orchard Access Rd to S Range Rd 37 min (31.2 mi). Follow S Range Rd to your destination 21 min (8.2 mi) to Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area.
How do I contact Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-384-3300.
References & Official Resources
