Idaho is one of the few states where a long, scenic drive is always just a stone’s throw away. Dozens and dozens of byways traverse the entire state, stretching across different landscapes ranging from long, open prairies and valleys to tremendous, looming canyons and mountain ranges. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Idaho has it. There’s a sort of comfort in knowing that when you get the sudden urge just to get in your car and take a nice, long drive to nowhere… Idaho’s got you covered.
The Sawtooth Scenic Byway is one of the most gorgeous and relaxing drives in Idaho. It takes you across 115 miles of some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes. From desert to mountain, this is the perfect drive for just cruising and taking it all in.
The byway begins in the small town of Shoshone and ends in the popular camping destination of Stanley, Idaho. As you begin the drive, you’ll pass by some of the most unique volcanic scenery in Idaho. You can even stop at the Shoshone Mammoth Cave if you so desire. Or, you can continue straight on.
The next stretch of the byway changes scenery. As the landscape changes, you’ll begin to see more sagebrush and rocks until you enter the Wood River Valley.
The Wood River Valley contains Idaho’s ski resort towns such as Sun Valley, Ketchum, and Hailey. You’ll drive by the Galena Summit and have access to incredible views of the Boulder Mountains.
Once you pass through the valley, the illustrious Sawtooth Mountain Range begins to reveal itself to you. The Sawtooths contains some of the most epic Idaho scenery from the most majestic alpine lakes to the various incredible mountain ranges.
Idaho Fish And Game/Flick
The Sawtooth byway is perfect for getting out of the more populous parts of Idaho and surrounding yourself in the isolation of the wilderness.
You’re going to want to stop at one of the most popular spots in the Sawtooths-- Redfish Lake. There’s a reason this is one of the most popular lakes in Idaho. It’s the largest alpine lake in the Sawtooth wilderness and there’s nothing better than looking out across the surface of its idyllic waters.
After Redfish Lake, the byway begins to conclude itself. You’ll arrive in the charming small town of Stanley. From there, you can complete your adventure or you can continue on. Stanley is a great starting point for exploring the epic Sawtooths with tons of opportunity for camping, fishing, hiking, and more. So, why stop there?
