4 of the Best Stops on the Salmon River Scenic Byway
There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore during your time in the Sawtooth Mountains. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or rafting through our stunning wilderness area, you’ll discover something new and exciting around every corner. You can even take a car ride on the Salmon River Scenic Byway, where hot springs, salmon spawning beds, and pristine nature await you.
For more information on how to plan your Sawtooth trip, be sure to request access to our complimentary Adventure Guide!
About the Salmon River Scenic Byway
The Salmon River Scenic Byway follows about 162 miles of Lewis and Clark’s route through Central Idaho! Stunning views and beautiful scenery greet you as you drive through forest-lined gorges, past granite outcroppings, and around ghost towns. If you’d like, there are several stops along the way that can help you learn about the area. Otherwise, you could spend hours marveling at the beauty as you’re on the road.
Can’t Miss Stops Along the Byway
1. Redfish Lake Lodge
Backtrack about 15 minutes to Redfish Lake before heading out to explore the beautiful highway winding along the Salmon River. You’ll find tons of things to do here, like hiking, biking, boating, kayaking, horseback riding, and much more! We even have on-site dining options!
2. Stanley Museum
If you’re embarking on the Salmon River Scenic Byway from Triangle C Cabins, the Stanley Museum will be one of your first stops. This is a great way to learn about the town’s mining and ranching history. The museum itself is in a former Valley Creek Ranger Station, and you can see artifacts from years past.
2. Sunbeam Hot Springs
Stop and take a relaxing dip during your drive at the Sunbeam Hot Springs! These springs are right along Highway 75, so you won’t have to go far to find them. The boulders hide them from view on the road, but you can’t miss the steam rising up from the warm water. Covered changing areas are even available near these five pools so you can dry off before hopping back in your car.
3. Salmon Spawning Beds
As you continue along the Salmon River Scenic Byway, you will come across what was once the spawning beds for salmon in Indian Riffles. Thousands of chinook and sockeye salmon migrated here to spawn every year. Locals recall that the fish would travel here in such high numbers that you could not step foot in the river without stepping on multiple salmon at a time!
Tips for Traveling
As you travel the Salmon River Scenic Byway, keep in mind that you are in rural Idaho. Always make sure you have enough gas and pack water and food in case of an emergency. Know that there is cell service in Challis and Salmon and partial in Stanley and North Fork. Lastly, bring a map in case you want to explore a little and don’t have service.
Plan Your Sawtooth Getaway
Triangle C Cabins is the ultimate base camp for your Sawtooth adventure. Our collection of 10 cabins allows you to stay in an authentic, rustic log cabin with plenty of comfortable amenities to ensure you have a relaxing place to unwind after days of exploring the great outdoors. Not only are you close to restaurants in the heart of Stanley, but our complimentary Redfish Shuttle gives you access to all of the amenities, activities, and dining that the Redfish Lake Lodge has to offer.
So, browse our accommodations and see what it means to be a part of the Redfish family. We look forward to welcoming you to our mountain oasis.