Statewide - Idaho

Central
| Official Idaho State Travel Guide
102
Stanley Basin
The heart and soul of Central Idaho
lie in the stunning Stanley Basin. With
dramatic views of the Sawtooth Mountains
before you and the White Cloud
Mountains behind, you can reflect on
the majesty of nature. This is the high
mountain valley in which the Salmon
River begins as a small stream. From
here, you can venture into the Sawtooth
National Recreation Area or even higher
into the Sawtooth Wilderness to hike
and view wildlife. Trails lead to meadows,
across streams, through forest,
and up to high alpine lakes. The visitor
center north of Ketchum can provide
you with maps and information for an
enjoyable and safe trip.
The town of Stanley is situated at the
junction of three of Idaho’s best scenic
byways: Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway
on Highway 21, Salmon River Scenic
Byway on Highways 93 and 75, and the
Sawtooth Scenic Byway on Highway
75. A rustic and welcoming western
town, Stanley serves as a gateway
One of the sUN’s
fAVoriTe
hangouts.
« Commute with nature »
to the lakes, peaks, and trails of the
Sawtooths. With plenty of motels,
cabins, and guest ranches, it is a great
launching point for float trips and other
ventures into the mountains.
The premier central Idaho adventure is
a guided trip on the Middle Fork of the
Salmon River. The 96-mile river flows
freely through the Frank Church River
of No Return Wilderness, the largest
federally protected wilderness area in
the Lower 48 states. It offers a nonmotorized
river floating experience with
crystal-clear water, several natural hot
springs, catch-and-release fishing, and
splendid Dutch oven riverside dining.
Idaho’s most famous “Wild and Scenic”
river is ranked as one of the top 10
whitewater rivers in the world. Known
for its challenging Class III and IV
rapids, the Middle Fork is pristine and
unspoiled—a rare treat for any adventurer.
Outfitters are available to guide,
but book your spot well in advance, as
launches are limited.
www.ioga.org
Sawtooth Mountains
Stanley Lake