Stanley

Sawtooth Lake is "must-see" for Idaho hikers or any outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Sawtooth National Forest. The five mile trek to the lake is made worthwhile by breathtaking, photogenic alpine lakes and the crisp, clean Idaho air. It's up to you whether to day hike the trail or to camp at the des...

Stanley Lake is an Idaho alpine lake located at the base of the magnificent Sawtooth Mountains in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The lake is about 7 miles from the historic town of Stanley, Idaho and just over an hour from popular Sun Valley, Idaho. Our photography and hiking adventure captu...

Park in the turnout west of Redfish Lake Road on Highway 75. The turnout is plowed to fit 10 to 15 cars. Walk over the bridge and turn right onto Redfish Lake Road. You will likely see tracks as it's a good access spot for backcountry skiers. The trail follows the road and is easy to navigate. Pass ...

There are plenty of camping spots all within walking distance of the lake or the outlet stream. There are also tons of hikes in the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range. The lake is known for its historic Sockeye Salmon runs. The lake is very close to Stanley Idaho and leads into the salmon river. Th...

This easy hike starts off from the dirt parking lot near Redfish Lake Lodge. Two small footpaths lead away from the far end of the parking lot crossing the road to the lodge just down to the left. The right trail will take you straight to the Fishhook Creek Trailhead, while the left trail will give ...

The Sawtooths are best enjoyed from within them; hundreds of trails lead through the wilderness to amazing alpine lakes and to the top of mountain peaks. That's not the only way you can capture the magic, however. Here are three consecutive spots in or close to Stanley (the "Gateway to the Sawtooths...

Over Galena Summit, approximately 75 miles north of Ketchum, Park Creek is supported by Sawtooth Ski Club and the City of Stanley, Idaho. One of two groomed Nordic trail systems in the Stanley Basin, Park Creek has some of the best terrain and conditions for cross-country skiing anywhere. With breat...

This is an easy, yet breathtakingly beautiful hike. After the fun adventure of the 10.2 mile extra bumpy dirt road to the trail head the hike in is simple. 4 Wheel drive and a spare tire are advised, I got a flat. The drive in through old burned forest area is a cool drive on its own. At the end of ...

There are several good spots to photograph along the shore of Redfish Lake. The marina at Redfish Lake Lodge is a great viewpoint. Also be sure to follow the path to the east of the lodge to visit some of the beaches on the north shore. It is here that you can often find yourself alone at dawn when ...

McGowan Peak in the Sawtooths is breathtaking and the Stanley Lake Overlook is by far one of the best locations to photograph it at sunrise in the summer. The Stanley Lake Overlook is located inside the Stanley Lake Campground. There is a separate parking lot (with bathrooms) at the overlook and two...

There’s a very good reason why Idaho has been dubbed “The Whitewater State.” Stanley is located on the banks of headwaters from the famous Salmon River, and is a starting point for world-class rafting adventures that draws people from around the world. There is no better way to fully immerse yoursel...

Valley Creek Hot Springs is a short drive off of the main highway (75), you'll travel along a dirt/gravel road. You'll exit at the Stanley Museum and follow the dirt road for about .4 miles. There will be a dirt parking lot on your left. Walk across the foot bridge and stay left once on the other si...

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Sawtooth Wildwerness, there are endless opportunities and spots to cast off. Valley Creek, a tributary of the famous Salmon River, snakes it’s way through the land just outside of the town of Stanley. It offers jaw-dropping views in all directions, and a teaming...

...If you're into hot springs, and want one that's easily accessible, this is a great hot spring that's worth checking out. Cove Creek Hot Springs is only a 10-minute drive from the town of Stanley. It's not only one of the easier hot springs to get to, but I feel that it's one of the lesser visited...

Sunbeam Hot Springs, located along Idaho’s scenic Salmon River near Stanley, is a natural gem offering serene geothermal pools. Visitors can enjoy riverside soaking in the free, public springs, which include both natural pools and tubs near the riverbank. The historic 1930s stone bathhouse (with pit...