Idaho may be a landlocked state but who needs an ocean when you have a plethora of beautiful lakes? Is there anything better than spending a summer day at one of Idaho’s amazing lakes? Not really. With so many to choose from, it’s hard to pick the best lake in Idaho — but we did. Your summer will not be complete unless you see at least one of the most beautiful lakes in Idaho with your own eyes!

1. Bear Lake
Bear Lake County, ID, USA
Aaron Hawkins/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Bear Lake is 20 miles long and is shared between both Idaho and Utah. It is often referred to as "the Caribbean of the Rockies" for its turquoise water. If you're looking for a day on a sandy beach, Bear Lake is the lake for you.
2. Lake Pend Oreille
Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho, USA
David Blaine/Flickr
Lake Pend Oreille is located in Idaho's panhandle and it is actually the largest lake in the state. Completely surrounded by forest, this is a popular spot for summer fun including sailing, fishing, or just splashing around. Plus, you can find some pretty incredible accommodations around this body of water that makes it the perfect getaway location.
3. Alturas Lake
Alturas Lake, Idaho 83340, USA
Nicholas D./Flickr
Alturas Lake is an alpine lake located within the Sawtooth valley. Surrounded by mountains, this lake is absolutely breathtaking! Alturas Lake is the second largest lake in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and has several campgrounds located around its shores.
4. Alice Lake
Alice Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
Anna Gorin/Moment Via Getty Images
Alice Lake is one of the most popular destinations in the Sawtooth Mountains and it's easy to understand why. This lake is one of the most scenic areas in all of Idaho! It is most easily accessed by the trailhead starting at Pettit Lake.
5. Alpine Lake
Alpine Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
Katja Schulz/Flickr
Alpine Lake is, you guessed it, an alpine lake located in Custer County. It has a surface elevation of 8,337 feet above sea level, so it's known to remain frozen all the way into early summer. A popular Sawtooth hike takes you to this lake from Redfish Lake.

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6. Henry's Lake
Henrys Lake Airport, Island Park, ID 83429, USA
Jeff Jones/Flickr
Henry's Lake is a shallow lake located just 15 miles west of Yellowstone National park. It is pretty small with only about 8 square miles in area. Located high in the mountains, this lake is known to be a fisher's haven with the most common fish species being the Yellowstone cutthroat and rainbow-cutthroat hybrids.
7. Toxaway Lake
Toxaway Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
MC Hiker/Alltrails
Toxaway Lake is an alpine lake located high in the Sawtooths and approximately 17 miles south of Stanley. The loop trail between Toxaway and Alice Lake is a popular trail for Idahoans.
8. Pettit Lake
Pettit Lake, Idaho 83340, USA
YelmelNoBrainer/Flickr
Pettit Lake is also located in the Sawtooths (man, those mountains contain some pretty amazing lakes!), and is located about 16 miles south of Stanley. Pettit is the third largest lake in the Sawtooths and has many campgrounds and trailheads situated around it.
9. Baron Lake
Baron Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
Paul/Flickr
Baron Lake is located in a remote canyon with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and forestry. Located in Boise County, this is also a popular fishing spot with lots of rainbow and cutthroat trout.
10. Stanley Lake
Stanley Lake, Idaho 83637, USA
Mike/Flickr
Stanley Lake is the ultimate camping spot for a lot of Idahoans and provides plenty of opportunity for pretty much any water activity you can think of (boating, kayaking, water skiing, canoeing, etc.). Its location is easily accessible and the surrounding scenery is absolutely mesmerizing.

What do you think are the prettiest lakes in Idaho? Do you have a favorite lake in the Gem State? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! If you are searching for another lake with incredible views and lots of outdoor recreational opportunities, plan a visit to Idaho’s Redfish Lake.

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Courtnie Erickson | May 26, 2022

What are the most beautiful lakes in Idaho?

It is impossible to narrow down the most beautiful lakes in Idaho. There are hundreds of lakes scattered around the Gem State. In fact, there are more than 400 alpine lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness Area alone. However, one lake that is tucked away in the Sawtooth National Forest and looks like it came straight out of a painting is Baker Lake. This gorgeous alpine lake in Idaho features striking blue water and is surrounded by mountains and forests. However, there is a two-mile hike you must conquer to reach this lake but every step is worth it.

What is another hidden lake in Idaho I should visit?

When searching for a hidden lake in Idaho, consider a visit to Bloomington Lake. This is not only one of the prettiest lakes in Idaho, but the trail to reach this body of water is short and easy. You will find this small lake in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, but you’ll have a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail ahead of you.

What lake in Idaho is a terrific year-round vacation destination? 

If you are searching for a vacation destination in Idaho, consider a visit to Lake Coeur d'Alene. Not only is the lake absolutely beautiful, but there are countless activities to keep you busy during your entire stay from scenic boat rides to riverfront parks. Make sure to visit the Coeur d'Alene Resort where you will find several restaurants including Beverly's, a tasty place to eat with remarkable water views.

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