Zone 55 covers the country south of Pocatello toward the Utah border, the Bear River Range fringe and the foothills of the Caribou Mountains. Elevations span from about 4,500 feet in the valleys to over 9,000 feet on the higher peaks. The lower country is sage and bitterbrush with mahogany pockets; mid-elevations carry aspen, doug fir, and lodgepole; the upper benches have subalpine fir and meadow complexes. The Bear River Range itself is some of the most underappreciated mountain country in the state—high, timbered, and lightly hunted compared to the Targhee country. Caribou-Targhee NF, BLM, and state ground cover the public land, with significant private agricultural and ranch ground in the valleys. I-15 and Highway 30 frame the unit; forest roads off them are mostly decent gravel. Pocatello is the supply hub; Soda Springs and Lava Hot Springs are alternates with basic services. Cell service is in towns and weakens in the timber. Elk hunting is the calling card—the Bear River Range produces quality bulls and densities are solid. Mule deer use the aspen-mahogany transitions. The country is moderate-difficulty with good access on the main drainages. October weather brings real cold and the chance of snow at elevation.