Escape to Stanley: a Natural Idaho Retreat Under the Sawtooth Mountains

written by Ryn Pfeuffer | photography by Visit Idaho

As you approach Stanley, the awe-inspiring Sawtooth Mountains loom, marking your arrival in Idaho’s wild heart. Check into the charming Redfish Lake Lodge and surround yourself with alpine scenery. The Honeymoon Cabin is well-suited for couples seeking a more private stay, while the Deluxe Cabins afford more space and multiple bedrooms for families or larger groups. Unpack, freshen up and head to the lodge’s dock to catch the last golden rays reflecting off Redfish Lake. For dinner, make your way to the Sawtooth Hotel Restaurant. This cozy spot serves hearty meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Try the beets and burrata with a spicy berry jam, followed by the grilled steelhead with mushroom asparagus risotto.

Get a head start on the day with a delicious breakfast at Stanley Baking Co. & Cafe. The cinnamon rolls and oatmeal pancakes are legendary among locals and visitors alike. Once you’re sated, lace up your hiking boots and head into the Sawtooth Wilderness.

A hearty breakfast from Stanley Baking Co. & Cafe.

Consider these top trails: the moderate 8-mile round trip to Alpine Lake, offering views of rugged peaks; the more challenging 10-mile round trip to Sawtooth Lake, with breathtaking scenery and one of the largest alpine lakes in the area; and the more leisurely 4.4-mile round trip Fishhook Creek Trail. If you have time, visit Lady Face Falls, a lesser-known spot featuring 30-foot cascading waters.

There are countless trails to get after while in town.

After a morning of hiking, unwind at Redfish Lake. The crystal-clear waters are prime for photography, and you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore at your own pace. Head to the Redfish Lake Lodge’s Lakeside Grill for a quick bite when hunger strikes. Enjoy casual fare like burgers, wraps and fish tacos while enjoying the lake views. Don’t miss their famous soft-serve ice cream. In the afternoon, head to Stanley Lake, another go-to for nature enthusiasts. The peaceful surroundings provide ample opportunities for more photos or simply soaking in the beauty. For a more secluded experience, visit Pettit Lake, a quieter spot about forty minutes away, with equally spectacular views and fewer crowds.

Redfish Lake offers great fishing and hiking and lakeside restaurants.

As the day winds down, treat yourself to a soak at Sunbeam Hot Springs. Located along the Salmon River and about 13 miles outside of Stanley on Highway 75, this network of five manmade pools, fed by geothermal water from a nearby hillside, offers a range of temperatures from red hot to river cold, perfect for soothing tired muscles.

Back in Stanley, Papa Brunee’s serves up some of the best pizzas in the area for dinner. Try the Flaming Chick with blue cheese sauce, spicy chicken, jalapenos and onions, and save room for a slice of the salted caramel cheesecake.

Start your day with another visit to Stanley Baking Co. & Cafe to get fed and fueled for more adventures. Today, you might opt for river rafting on the Salmon River. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, White Cloud Rafting Adventures offers half-day guided tours ranging from a scenic float with minimal swells to a high-adventure trip with class III-IV rapids.

Transition from river rapids to a serene horseback ride through the wilderness. Since 1969, Mystic Saddle Ranch has guided guests on trail rides through forests and meadows, offering a unique perspective of the Sawtooth landscape from the saddle. The 1.5-hour Little Redfish Ridge ride is the most popular, gaining approximately 200 feet of elevation and providing a lovely overlook of Big and Little Redfish Lake. In the fall, the aspen trees awe in vibrant tones of gold and yellow. After your ride, head to Mountain Village Restaurant for a farewell lunch. Before you end your Stanley sojourn, make a quick stop at the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge, a historic site offering a fascinating glimpse into Idaho’s gold mining past.