^{📍 Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho}

The Sawtooth Wilderness is made up of jarring, sharp mountain peaks surrounded by hundreds of alpine lakes‑ making it one of the most beautiful landscapes I have ever seen.

Check out our 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 & 𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕤𝕚𝕕𝕖 guide to discover some of the top must do’s & places to explore when visiting the area

1. Hike

This area of Idaho is a hiker’s dream! The trails are endless, the views leave you breathless. The hikes range from easy hikes that take an hour or two to expert‑level multi day hikes, there’s a little something for everyone. Our favorite hike was the 12 mile out and back to Alice Lake from Pettit Lake. It’s a really flexible hike ‑ You can do it in a day or stay and enjoy the scenery overnight. You can extend the hike longer by completing the full 18 mile loop or summiting some of the nearby peak. Other trails we enjoyed: Redfish Lake, Saddleback Lakes out and back. We use @alltrails for all of our hiking research.

2. Soak In A Hot Spring

Did you know that Idaho has amazing hot springs all over the State?! Some of the best ones are a quick drive from the Sawtooths. So… why hot springs? The mineral water in the hot springs naturally detoxes your skin, boosts circulation, reduces stress and more… oh and it’s just damn relaxing to sit in a river bank looking up at this view from nature’s hot tub, no matter what time of year.

This is Sunbeam Hot Springs, about fifteen minutes east of Stanley. The geothermal pools mix with fresh water from the Salmon River for the perfect soak. Other springs in the area worth checking out: Kirkham Hot Springs, Boat Box Hot Springs, Goldbug Hot Springs.

3. Kayak…

…canoe, fish, paddleboard, sail ‑ whatever your watersporting heart desires! The Sawtooth Wilderness has tons to offer on the water. We brought our own inflatable kayak and explored Pettit Lake by paddle, but you can rent boats and equipment at @redfishlakelodge.

4. Take A Dip

With over 400 Alpine Lakes in the area, how can you not take advantage & go for a swim?? The water was super cold, even in late July, but so refreshing after a long, dusty day spent hiking. The water is turquoise blue & clear because of the high altitude & cold temps. It was absolutely stunning.

5. Backcountry Camping

There are a ton of free, backcountry campsites around the Sawtooth National Forest. You must hike in to set up camp, but that’s all part of the adventure. This spot is a 6 mile hike through the mountains into the shores of Alice Lake and it was AMAZING. Just look at these views from our tent.

6. Or Camp, No Hike Required

If backpacking isn’t quite your thing, you can still enjoy some solid isolation out in Idaho nature! Car camping anyone?? There are so many options‑ established, lakeside campgrounds with amenities or free, drive up, dispersed spots surrounded by forest. It’s an amazing experience to sleep under the stars, in the elements, breathing in fresh mountain air. This spot near Pettit Lake is a free, primitive site in the forest, surrounded by hiking trails. It was perfect for our truck‑bed tent!

7. Just Chill

One of my favorite things we did on our trip was just sit, take it all in, relax, and decompress. Feel one with nature surrounding you! The clear air, views of the peaks, and calm water are so restorative ‑ it’s best just to let it wash over you. We strung our @wiseowloutfitters hammock up along the shore of a lake and just hung out for hours. Name a better spot to nap, I’m waiting..

8. Remember The Views

Commit the scenery to memory. It’s so fun to photograph this beautiful wilderness. We will never forget how stunningly beautiful it was.

We hope you enjoy your time away and outside in the Sawtooths!!