Summer Activities in Stanley, Idaho
Stanley, Idaho is a gateway into Heaven on Earth – also known as the Sawtooth National Recreation Area (SNRA) There is a place at the South end of Redfish Lake literally called the Gates of Heaven, so how much closer could you get? There are very few places like this in existence. With natural hot springs, hundreds of beautiful hikes, and Redfish Lake nearby, you won’t want to miss out on all of the amazing summer activities in Stanley, Idaho when you stay with us at Stanley High Country Inn.
Hiking like Nowhere Else.
The SNRA is home to some of the most beautiful sights on Earth. From pristine alpine lakes to towering peaks, you can see it all. There are hundreds of hiking trails in the area. A great place to start is the Iron Creek Trailhead just 10 miles from the Inn. Iron Creek is one of many doorways into the Sawtooth Wilderness. You can venture to Sawtooth Lake, a very popular destination that is roughly 10 miles round trip.
If you prefer a longer and more difficult hike, try the Alice-Toxaway Loop, accessed from the Pettit Lake (Tin Cup) Trailhead. This loop is about 21 miles long and offers incredible views of many different alpine lakes along the way.
Who Doesn’t Love a Good Hot Spring?
After a long day of hiking and adventure, soaking in a hot tub probably sounds pretty good. We’ve got three words for you – natural hot springs. People have traveled far and wide to be able to experience this natural phenomenon. Stanley is home to several hot springs, some of which have been developed on natural hot spots for your enjoyment, like Kirkham Hot Springs, Sunbeam Hot Springs, or Boat Box. Or if you don’t feel like leaving the Inn, reserve a private soak in our beautiful hot tub.
The Beautiful Lakes, Obviously.
One of the main reasons to visit the SNRA is to see all the large alpine lakes in the surrounding area, most considerably Redfish Lake. Redfish Lake is the largest alpine lake on the eastern side of the Sawtooth Mountains. It has a resort, Redfish Lake Lodge, where guests can get incredible food, souvenirs, rent boats, and get a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains, such as Grand Mogul, Mount Heyburn, and Thompson Peak.
If you prefer a more quiet lake, Pettit Lake might be the place for you. There are a few private residences around the shoreline, but other than that it is quite uninhabited. Kayaking or canoeing is a must-do there. The still waters of Pettit offer a sense of peace and tranquility that is rarely found. Good thing we found it for you.
Seriously, Why Aren’t You Here Already?
You now have all of the insider information on all the best things to do in the area – what more could you ask for? Come stay with us this summer at Stanley High Country Inn. You won’t ever want to leave.