Exploring the Sawtooth Mountains: Best Hikes, Lakes & Outdoor Adventures
Nestled in the heart of Idaho, the Sawtooth Mountains offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. With over 700 miles of trails, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks, this region is a paradise for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for scenic day hikes, multi-day backpacking trips, or relaxing lakeside views, this guide will help you plan your Sawtooth adventure.
Where are the Sawtooth Mountains?
📍 Location: Central Idaho, near Stanley
🚗 Drive Time from Boise: ~3 hours
🔗 Visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area
🚗 Drive Time from Boise: ~3 hours
🔗 Visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth Mountains are part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (SNRA) and are located near the charming mountain town of Stanley, Idaho. This region is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or extended outdoor trip.
Best Time to Visit the Sawtooth Mountains
🌸 Spring (May-June): Snow is melting, waterfalls are at their peak, and wildflowers begin to bloom.
☀️ Summer (July-September): Best time for hiking, backpacking, and lake activities. Expect warm days and cool nights.
🍂 Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, stunning autumn foliage, and great conditions for hiking.
❄️ Winter (November-April): Perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter photography.
☀️ Summer (July-September): Best time for hiking, backpacking, and lake activities. Expect warm days and cool nights.
🍂 Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, stunning autumn foliage, and great conditions for hiking.
❄️ Winter (November-April): Perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter photography.
Best Hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains
1. Alice Lake Trail
One of the most famous hikes in the Sawtooths, this trail takes you to crystal-clear Alice Lake, surrounded by towering granite peaks.
🚶 Distance: 11 miles round trip
📌 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, Pettit Lake
📌 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Trailhead: Tin Cup Trailhead, Pettit Lake
2. Sawtooth Lake Trail
A must-do for any visitor, Sawtooth Lake is one of the most iconic alpine lakes in Idaho, offering unparalleled mountain views.
🚶 Distance: 10 miles round trip
📌 Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
📍 Trailhead: Iron Creek Trailhead
📌 Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
📍 Trailhead: Iron Creek Trailhead
3. Goat Lake Trail
For adventurers looking for a bit more challenge, Goat Lake is a hidden gem featuring a stunning waterfall and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
🚶 Distance: 8.5 miles round trip
📌 Difficulty: Difficult
📍 Trailhead: Iron Creek Trailhead
📌 Difficulty: Difficult
📍 Trailhead: Iron Creek Trailhead
4. Redfish Lake to Bench Lakes Trail
A family-friendly trail with beautiful lake views and the option to take a boat shuttle back across Redfish Lake.
🚶 Distance: 7 miles round trip
📌 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Trailhead: Redfish Lake Lodge Parking Lot
📌 Difficulty: Moderate
📍 Trailhead: Redfish Lake Lodge Parking Lot
Top Lakes in the Sawtooth Mountains
🏞️ Redfish Lake – Great for boating, fishing, and swimming, with a lodge offering rentals and dining.
🏞️ Alturas Lake – A peaceful lake perfect for paddleboarding and relaxing beach areas.
🏞️ Stanley Lake – Offers scenic views and easy hiking trails nearby.
🏞️ Baron Lakes – A backcountry destination for serious backpackers.
🏞️ Alturas Lake – A peaceful lake perfect for paddleboarding and relaxing beach areas.
🏞️ Stanley Lake – Offers scenic views and easy hiking trails nearby.
🏞️ Baron Lakes – A backcountry destination for serious backpackers.
Camping & Lodging in the Sawtooths
🏕️ Campgrounds:
- Stanley Lake Campground – Lakefront camping with easy access to trails.
- Redfish Lake Campground – One of the most popular spots with great amenities.
- Pettit Lake Campground – A quieter option near Alice Lake Trailhead.
🏡 Lodging:
- Redfish Lake Lodge – A rustic lodge with cabins and lake activities.
- Stanley High Country Inn – Cozy accommodations in the town of Stanley.
- Mountain Village Resort – Offers private hot springs and a great base for exploring.
Things to Do Beyond Hiking
- 🚣 Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Rent gear at Redfish Lake Lodge and enjoy the water.
- 🏕️ Backpacking & Camping – Spend the night under the star-filled Idaho sky.
- 🐟 Fishing – Cast a line in Sawtooth Lake, Redfish Lake, or the Salmon River.
- 🚴 Mountain Biking – Try trails around Stanley and Fisher Creek.
- 🔭 Stargazing – The Sawtooths are part of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, making for some of the best stargazing in the U.S..
Tips for Visiting the Sawtooth Mountains
✅ Check trail conditions – Some high-elevation trails may have snow into July.
✅ Pack layers – Even in summer, nights can be chilly.
✅ Carry bear spray – While rare, black bears are present in the Sawtooths.
✅ Leave no trace – Respect nature by packing out everything you bring.
✅ Reserve campsites early – Campgrounds fill up fast, especially in summer.
✅ Pack layers – Even in summer, nights can be chilly.
✅ Carry bear spray – While rare, black bears are present in the Sawtooths.
✅ Leave no trace – Respect nature by packing out everything you bring.
✅ Reserve campsites early – Campgrounds fill up fast, especially in summer.
Nearby Attractions in Idaho
If you’re visiting the Sawtooth Mountains, consider exploring these other nearby attractions:
- Craters of the Moon National Monument – A volcanic wonderland (100 miles away).
- Sun Valley – A world-class ski resort with summer hiking (60 miles away).
- Shoshone Falls – The “Niagara of the West” (130 miles away).
Final Thoughts
The Sawtooth Mountains are one of the most breathtaking outdoor destinations in Idaho, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and adventure. Whether you’re looking for challenging trails, serene lake views, or a relaxing retreat in nature, this region is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
For more Idaho travel guides, check out our Craters of the Moon Travel Guide and Shoshone Falls Travel Guide.
