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Exploring Stanley, Idaho: 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday, September 24: Arrival in Stanley

Welcome to Stanley, Idaho! Start your adventure by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, take a stroll along the beautiful Salmon River, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic views. In the afternoon, visit the Stanley Museum to learn about the rich history and heritage of the area. As the evening sets in, head to the Mountain Village Resort for a delicious dinner while enjoying panoramic mountain views.

  • Salmon River: Free, 1 hour
  • Stanley Museum: $5, 1-2 hours
  • Mountain Village Resort: $20, 2-3 hours
Monday, September 25: Redfish Lake

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Redfish Lake Lodge. Embark on a scenic hike around the stunning Redfish Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests. In the afternoon, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake's calm waters or simply relax on the sandy beach. As the evening approaches, treat yourself to a mouthwatering dinner at the lodge's lakeside restaurant.

  • Redfish Lake Lodge: $15 (breakfast), 1-2 hours
  • Hiking around Redfish Lake: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Kayak or Paddleboard rental: $25, 2-3 hours
  • Lakeside dinner: $30, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 26: Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Today, embark on a scenic drive along the magnificent Sawtooth Scenic Byway. Marvel at the breathtaking views of rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Stop by the stunning Stanley Lake for a picnic lunch and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery to learn about the region's fish conservation efforts. In the evening, unwind and soak in the natural hot springs at the Sunbeam Hot Springs.

  • Sawtooth Scenic Byway: Free, full day
  • Picnic lunch at Stanley Lake: $10, 1-2 hours
  • Sawtooth Fish Hatchery: Free, 1 hour
  • Sunbeam Hot Springs: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 27: Recreation at Alturas Lake

On this day, head to Alturas Lake for a day of outdoor recreation. Choose from activities like swimming, fishing, canoeing, or paddleboarding in the pristine lake. Take a leisurely hike along the Alturas Lake Loop Trail, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. In the evening, have a picnic dinner by the lake while enjoying the idyllic sunset.

  • Alturas Lake: Free, full day
  • Swimming, fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding: Equipment rental varies, 4-5 hours
  • Alturas Lake Loop Trail: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Picnic dinner: $15, 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 28: Stanley-Sawtooth Adventure Guides

Embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure with Stanley-Sawtooth Adventure Guides. Start your morning by joining a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Salmon River. Experience the excitement of navigating rapids while surrounded by stunning scenery. In the afternoon, go on a guided hiking tour to discover hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints in the Sawtooth Mountains. End your day with a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Whitewater rafting with Stanley-Sawtooth Adventure Guides: $100, 4-5 hours
  • Guided hiking tour: $80, 3-4 hours
  • Dinner at a local restaurant: $25, 1-2 hours
Friday, September 29: Sun Valley Excursion

Take a day trip to the nearby Sun Valley, a world-class resort town. In the morning, explore the charming Sun Valley Village, filled with upscale shops and galleries. If you're feeling adventurous, go mountain biking on the scenic trails or play a round of golf. In the afternoon, ride the gondola up Bald Mountain for breathtaking panoramas and enjoy lunch at the summit. Return to Stanley in the evening for a relaxing dinner.

  • Sun Valley Village: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Mountain biking or golfing: Equipment rental fees vary, 3-4 hours
  • Gondola ride: $30, 2-3 hours
  • Lunch at the summit: $20, 1-2 hours
  • Dinner in Stanley: $30, 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 30: Alpine Lake Exploration

On your final day, embark on an adventure to explore one of the stunning alpine lakes in the area. Choose from Pettit Lake, Yellow Belly Lake, or Stanley Lake. Spend the day hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the tranquil waters. Take in the majestic beauty of the surrounding mountains and reflect on your unforgettable journey. End your trip with a farewell dinner, reminiscing about the wonderful memories you've created.

  • Exploring alpine lake of choice: Free, full day
  • Hiking, fishing, relaxation: Equipment rental if needed, 4-5 hours
  • Farewell dinner: $40, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Stanley, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the stunning Goat Lake, accessible by a scenic hike, offering solitude and breathtaking views. For a taste of local cuisine, stop by the Sawtooth Hotel and enjoy their delicious Idaho trout. Lastly, spend an evening stargazing at the Sawtooth Astronomy Center, where you can learn about the night sky from knowledgeable astronomers.

For hotel and flight prices, check out kayak.com.

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