There are local ranger district offices in Eureka, Fortine, Libby, Trout Creek, and Troy, Montana.

The lowest elevation in Montana is where the Kootenai River leaves the state, 1,832 feet (558 m) above sea level.

Other rivers in the forest include the Yaak, Fisher, Tobacco and Vermillion, with water flowing from over 100 lakes.

The character becomes "modified" by occasional intrusions of arctic air masses, more common elsewhere in Montana, which can bring winter temperatures down to −30 °F (−34 °C).

A coalition of recreationalists, business owners, timber mill operators and conservationists formed the Kootenai Forest Stakeholders Association to support active management to reduce wildfire risk, provide sustainable harvest, and improve forest health.