If you’re planning a trip to Idaho and looking for a truly unforgettable experience, you should consider visiting Stanley. This small town is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. And what better way to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Stanley than by staying in one of MVP Vacation Homes’ stunning cabins? In this article, we will guide you through a four-day itinerary to make the most of your Stanley, Idaho vacation while enjoying the comfort and convenience of our top-rated accommodations.
Day 1: Arriving in Stanley, Idaho
After arriving in Stanley, check into your hotel or vacation rental. Then, head out to explore the town. Start your day by visiting the Stanley Museum to learn about the history of the area. The museum showcases the region’s natural resources, the mining industry, and the local wildlife.
After the museum, grab lunch at the Stanley Baking Company & Cafe. This charming cafe serves homemade baked goods, sandwiches, and soups. Their outdoor seating area provides a fantastic view of the Sawtooth Mountains.
In the afternoon, head over to the Redfish Lake Lodge. This lodge is located on the edge of the pristine Redfish Lake and offers a variety of activities, including boat rentals, guided fishing trips, and horseback riding. Enjoy the stunning views and take advantage of the lodge’s amenities.
Day 2: Hiking in the Sawtooth Mountains
Spend the second day of your Stanley, Idaho vacation exploring the Sawtooth Mountains. The Sawtooth Mountains are part of the larger Rocky Mountains and offer some of the best hiking trails in the country. Here are some of the best trails to hike in the Sawtooth Mountains:
- Alice Lake Trail: This trail is 11 miles round trip and is considered one of the most scenic hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains. The trail takes you through forests, meadows, and past several alpine lakes.
- Iron Creek Trail: This trail is 5.5 miles round trip and is perfect for hikers who want a shorter hike. The trail leads to Sawtooth Lake, which offers stunning views of the mountains.
- Hell Roaring Lake Trail: This trail is 6.5 miles round trip and is known for its wildflowers and views of Hell Roaring Creek. The trail leads to Hell Roaring Lake, which offers fantastic fishing opportunities.
Day 3: Rafting on the Salmon River
On the third day of your Stanley, Idaho vacation, experience the thrill of rafting on the Salmon River. The Salmon River is one of the longest undammed rivers in the United States and is known for its world-class white-water rapids. Here are some of the best rafting companies in Stanley:
- The River Company: This company offers a variety of trips with some of the most seasoned guides in the area. They provide great lunch options with food sensitivity options.
- Sawtooth Adventure Company: This company offers half-day and full-day rafting trips on the Salmon River. They provide experienced guides, top-of-the-line equipment, and transportation to and from the river.
- White Otter Outdoor Adventures: This company offers a variety of rafting trips on the Salmon River, ranging from half-day to multi-day trips. They provide experienced guides, camping equipment, and meals on their multi-day trips.
Day 4: Fishing in the Salmon River
Spend the last day of your Stanley, Idaho vacation fishing in the Salmon River. The Salmon River is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon. Need some gear or lessons? Visit the Stanley Fly Shop for all your fly-fishing needs! Here are some of the best places to fish in the Salmon River:
- Torrey’s Hole: This is a popular fishing spot that offers fantastic fishing opportunities for rainbow trout and steelhead.
- Sunbeam Dam: This dam is located on the Salmon River and is known for its Chinook salmon fishing. The area around the dam offers excellent fly fishing opportunities.
- Lower Stanley: This area is known for its fly fishing opportunities and offers easy access to the river. The area is stocked with rainbow trout.
