“National Wilderness Month_Redfish Lake, Sawtooth Range” by US Department of State is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.
Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Redfish Lake offers a serene and picturesque escape into nature’s embrace. Named after the vibrant Sockeye Salmon that once swarmed its waters, this idyllic spot is a testament to the wild beauty and rich biodiversity of Idaho. As one of the most unique things to do in Idaho, Redfish Lake is a bustling hub of outdoor activities, offering everything from leisurely hikes to adventurous water sports.
A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Located just five miles south of Stanley, with easy access via a paved road from State Highway 75, Redfish Lake is a convenient and compelling destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. The area around the lake is well-developed for recreation, featuring amenities such as the Redfish Lake Lodge, which provides dining, cabin rentals, and boat hire services. Additionally, the Forest Service operates several campgrounds, a boat launch, day-use areas, and a visitor center, ensuring visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Camping by the Crystal Waters
For those who love to camp, Redfish Lake offers a variety of options. Glacier View, Point, Outlet, Heyburn, and Sockeye campgrounds, all managed by the Forest Service, provide ample opportunities for setting up camp near the lake’s pristine waters. Whether you’re in an RV or pitching a tent, the campgrounds offer a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Angler’s Paradise
Anglers will find Redfish Lake to be a fruitful fishing ground, with opportunities for both fly fishing and spin casting. The lake is home to Rainbow and Dolley Varden trout, as well as Landlocked salmon and Kokanee. With the clear, cold waters providing an ideal habitat for these fish, it’s a perfect spot for both novice and experienced fishermen to cast a line.
Hiking the Sawtooth Range
For hikers, the Sawtooth Range presents an unrivaled wilderness experience. The trail around Redfish Lake itself stretches for 17 1/2 miles, offering breathtaking views of the jagged mountain peaks and lush valleys. The area’s diverse trails cater to all levels of hikers, from those seeking a leisurely walk along the lake’s shores to adventurers ready to tackle alpine rock climbing.
Conservation Efforts & the Legacy of the Sockeye
The story of Redfish Lake is also one of conservation and ongoing efforts to preserve its natural heritage. Once the spawning ground for thousands of Sockeye Salmon, the lake has seen a dramatic decline in their numbers due to various environmental pressures. In response, the National Marine Fisheries Service established a local hatchery to restock the lake with sockeye salmon and support the survival of this endangered species. Thanks to these efforts, visitors might also spot bull trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon in the area.
Activities for All Ages
Beyond fishing and hiking, Redfish Lake offers a plethora of activities to engage visitors of all ages. The lake’s beaches are perfect for a day of relaxation or play, while kayaking and boating provide a more adventurous way to explore the lake’s vast expanse. For those looking to stay on land, the area’s campgrounds cater to both tent camping and RV enthusiasts, ensuring everyone finds their ideal spot under the stars.
Red Fish Lake – Unique Things to Do in Idaho
Redfish Lake is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that encapsulates the beauty, adventure, and conservation efforts that define Idaho’s natural landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil waters for a fishing expedition, the rugged trails for a hike, or simply the chance to unwind in nature’s splendor, Redfish Lake promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Quick Facts About Red Fish Lake
- Redfish Lake gets its name from the once-abundant Sockeye Salmon that returned from the Pacific Ocean, coloring the lake’s waters a shimmering red during spawning season.
- This idyllic lake, located just five miles south of Stanley, Idaho, sits in the midst of the breathtaking Sawtooth National Recreation Area, offering a serene and picturesque escape.
- With amenities like the Redfish Lake Lodge, campgrounds, boat launches, and a visitor center, the area is perfectly equipped for a range of outdoor activities including dining, cabin and boat rentals.
- The lake is a prime fishing destination, home to Rainbow and Dolley Varden trout, Landlocked salmon, and Kokanee, providing ideal conditions for both fly fishing and spin casting.
- The Sawtooth Range surrounding Redfish Lake offers extensive hiking trails, including a 17 1/2 mile trail around the lake itself, showcasing stunning views of the jagged peaks and lush valleys.
- In response to the dramatic decline of Sockeye Salmon, the National Marine Fisheries Service established a local hatchery to restock the lake, part of ongoing efforts to preserve its natural heritage and support the survival of endangered species.
Idaho’s Mammoth Cave
Planning a trip to Idaho? Don’t forget to put Idaho’s Mammoth Cave at the top of your list. As one of the most unique things to do in Idaho, you can explore a unique and awe-inspiring underground landscape at your own personal pace with our self-guided tours. In addition to the cave, there are two privately owned museums of natural history on-site, the Shoshone Bird Museum and the Richard Arthur Olsen Museum featuring a wealth of exhibits that has earned them nickname “The Smithsonian of the Desert,” making it an unforgettable stop for the whole family.
Located eight miles north of Shoshone, Idaho, on Highway 75, Idaho’s Mammoth Cave will be open for seasonal tours from May – October, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week, including all major holidays. For more information, visit idahosmammothcave.com or call (208) 329-5382.
