Sawtooth Basin

Just an hour’s drive to the north of Ketchum/Sun Valley over Galena pass is the majestic Sawtooth Valley. The view coming from the south is breathtaking as you view the headwaters of the Salmon River of No Return which flows all the way to the Snake and then the Columbia. The salmon that breed in this valley come over 900 miles from the ocean. The hub of the Sawtooth Basin is the charming town of Stanley which hosts a number of events over the summer including the Sawtooth Gathering and Sawtooth Festival. Stanley is the starting point for many river trip adventures (both day trips on the nearby Salmon River and week-long overnight trips on the Middle Fork). The greater Sawtooth Basin includes 4 large mountain lakes (Alturas, Petit, Stanley and the most developed Redfish Lake with its own lodge and cabins) which are popular for campers, boaters and hikers exploring the Sawtooth National Recreation Areas (SNRA) and many high mountain lakes. The White Cloud range to the east is less visited but equally impressive. There are a number of private cabins in the area that lure people away from the Ketchum area as well as some of the most awe inspiring ranches you will find in the world. A visit to the area is not complete without getting a milkshake at Smiley Creek Lodge on your return to the Wood River Valley.