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5 Places You Need to Stop on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway

The Sawtooths are home to a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages and abilities. From hiking through gorgeous forests to exploring hidden hot springs, you’ll find something here for everyone in your group. Keep reading to discover some of our favorite family adventures in Stanley, Idaho

If you want to discover more things to do and places to see in the Gem State, be sure to request complimentary access to our Adventure Guide! 

5 of the Best Stops on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Redfish Lake

You must experience Redfish Lake during your trek along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway. Our lakeside retreat is home to a plethora of water activities, hiking trails, and more along the shores of our stunning alpine lake. You can enjoy boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals from the Redfish Marina as you soak in the gorgeous views of the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains. You’ll also find tons of entertainment during the summer, on-site dining, and more! It’s the perfect place to spend your day or relax in the evening. As Triangle C guests, you can also take our complimentary Redfish Shuttle to and from the lodge.

Galena Summit

The Galena Summit is an overlook that frames that natural beauty of Central Idaho unlike any other place on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway. This stop is halfway between Stanley and Sun Valley and sits on the side of the highway. Hop out of your car and feast your eyes upon the Sawtooth Mountains and the headwaters of the Salmon River. This is the highest summit stretch of highway in the Midwest, at 8,700 feet.

Sun Valley Ski Slopes

If you love to hit the ski slopes, then make sure you take a day trip to Sun Valley during your vacation to Central Idaho. It only takes about an hour to reach the Sun Valley Ski Resort if you take the Sawtooth Scenic Byway south. With over 200 inches of powder coating the slopes every winter, this is a haven for backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Ketchum

The small town of Ketchum may not seem like much at first glance, but upon further review, you’ll find that this is more than worthy of a stop during your trek on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway. Hollywood stars, writers, and millionaires flock to this Sun Valley retreat to escape the crowds, and the quaint town center, filled with restaurants and shops, provides a beautiful setting to explore during the day. You can even stop and see Ernest Hemingway’s grave in the Ketchum Cemetary.

Black Magic Canyon

This otherworldly canyon along the Big Wood River features some of the most unusual lava rock formations you’ll ever see. While Black Magic Canyon about a two-hour drive south of Triangle C Cabins on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway, the hiking and sightseeing make it well worth your time.

Other Incredible Drives Through the Sawtooths

There are a handful of other fantastic drives throughout the Central Idaho region. Below are some of our favorites!

  • Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway
  • Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway
  • Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway
  • Salmon River Scenic Byway

Plan the Ultimate Sawtooth Getaway

Triangle C Cabins is the ideal base camp for your Sawtooth exploration. Our authentic cabins in the heart of Stanley provide a unique destination that puts you within minutes of the best hiking trails, rafting experiences, and other outdoor excursions. Check out our selection of Adventure Bundles to see all of the possibilities!

sunset over a Triangle C Cabins rental house

Start planning your Sawtooth vacation today by booking one of our cabins. We look forward to welcoming you to the Redfish family.