Stanley + The Sawtooths
Tucked away in southwestern Idaho in between two national forests sits the tiny hamlet of Stanley—elevation 6,250 feet; population around 70. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise, with endless acres of forests and three separate mountain ranges, including the Sawtooth Range, which has 57 peaks higher than 10,000 feet. The application process has begun for the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, with the goal to “preserve and enhance our superior nighttime ambiance.” It will consist of 140,000 acres in the Sawtooth Valley and will be the first of its kind in the United States.
Hiking
There are 700 miles of trails that range from beginner to advanced levels, 40 peaks over 10,000 feet and 300+ alpine lakes.
Fly Fishing
Solitude with a mountain backdrop and crystal-clear waters has brought angling fame to the Sawtooth Valley along the banks of the Salmon River or at a high alpine lake.
Redfish, Stanley, Alturas + Petit Lakes
Glacial moraines formed these stunning lakes, accessible by car, with camping, hiking, picnicking and lounging that pull people back year after year.
Mountain Biking
Explore the Sawtooth Valley from the seat of a mountain bike. Pedal your way through meadows, natural obstacles, creek crossings, grueling climbs and white-knuckle downhills.
Hot Springs
Many of Idaho’s accessible springs are right off the road from Boise to Stanley.
Horseback Riding
Local outfitters offer rides that range from one hour to all day or go on a multi-day pack trip to dramatic landscapes in the backcountry.
Accommodations
An excellent stop during any Sawtooth Wilderness escape—The Mountain Village Resort Lodge, Restaurant, Bar/Saloon, Mercantile, and Full Automotive Service Station are sure to have everything you need for a fun Sawtooth Mountain Experience—all in one convenient location.
For more information, visit Stanleycc.org and MountainVillage.com
Photos: Charles Knowles