Stanley Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Stanley, Idaho, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Stanley

Stanley is a small town located in Central Idaho, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in the United States of America. Known for its picturesque natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Stanley is a popular destination for travelers seeking an escape from their busy lives. The town is home to several hiking and biking trails, rivers, and lakes that offer a range of outdoor activities. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the highlights of visiting Stanley, including the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.

List of Places to Visit in Stanley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stanley Museum: The Stanley Museum is a cultural hub and a significant historical landmark that retraces the town’s history, including its mining and logging past.
  • Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational Center: Named after the woman who led the Lewis and Clark expedition, this center explores the Native American culture, highlighting the Shoshone-Bannock tribes’ history.

Natural Attractions of Stanley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Home to some of the best trails in the nation, Sawtooth National Recreation Area, offers a range of outdoor opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife viewing.
  • Redfish Lake: Redfish Lake is a stunning lake in the Sawtooth Wilderness that offers year-round recreational opportunities. Visitors can rent kayaks and canoes, hike the trails, fishing, and horseback riding.
  • Stanley Lake: With its crystal-clear water, Stanley Lake is a natural treasure that provides excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. Its scenic beauty is mesmerizing, and the lake provides easy access to Sawtooth Wilderness trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stanley

  • Alice Lake Trail: One of the most famous hiking trails, Alice Lake Trail, offers stunning vistas of the Sawtooth Mountains and picturesque valleys along the way.
  • Fishhook Creek Trail: An easy hiking experience, Fishhook Creek Trail offers breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains.
  • Imogene Lake Trail: Another popular trail, Imogene Lake Trail, passes by several alpine lakes and through meadows, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or an overnight backpacking adventure.

Best Things to Do in Stanley: Activities and Tours

  • Rafting and kayaking on the Salmon River: Adrenaline junkies can enjoy these exhilarating sports while surrounded by stunning scenery and natural beauty.
  • Sunset horseback riding: Visitors can experience the countryside as the sun sets and the sky turns into a spectrum of colors.
  • Fly-fishing on Salmon River: A great way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Stanley from the river.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stanley

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Stanley, Check-in, Relax
Day 2 Hike to Sawtooth Lakes
Day 3 Explore Redfish Lake and rent kayaks
Day 4 Float the Salmon River
Day 5 Visit the Stanley Museum and the Pioneer Cemetery
Day 6 Fish on the River or go on a fly-fishing guided tour
Day 7 Depart from Stanley

Food and Drink Scene of Stanley

Must-Try Dishes

  • Huckleberry pie: A local specialty dessert made with freshly picked huckleberries, a must-try for any foodie visiting Stanley.
  • Burgers: Grab a classic burger at the local restaurants, perfect after a long day of exploring the outdoors.

Local Beverages

  • Sawtooth Brewery: Enjoy locally brewed beer with spectacular Sawtooth Mountains views.
  • The Kasino Club: A local bar and restaurant known for its cocktails and live music.

Where to Stay in Stanley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mountain Village Resort: Located halfway between Redfish Lake and Stanley, Mountain Village Resort offers comfortable rooms and cabins.
  • The Stanley Hotel: A classic hotel known for its history and charm, The Stanley Hotel offers a relaxing stay in the heart of the town.
  • Redfish Lake Lodge: A rustic resort, Redfish Lake Lodge offers cozy cabins, boat rentals, and bike rentals.

What to Buy in Stanley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Stop by the local craft fair or visit the shops on Main Street to buy unique handmade souvenirs, pottery, jewelry, and art.

Local Culture and Customs of Stanley

The town of Stanley is rich in history, with a diverse culture influenced by Native American and mining communities. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and observe its traditions.

Best Time to Visit Stanley

The best time to visit Stanley is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant, and the town buzzes with tourist activity. Stanley’s fall season is another popular time to visit, as the fall foliage is stunning. The winter season is ideal for snowmobile tours and cross-country skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stanley

Do:

  • Respect the environment and follow the proper safety guidelines.
  • Enjoy the variety of outdoor activities that Stanley offers.
  • Be friendly and polite to locals and tourists.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Ignore safety guidelines.
  • Engage in any culturally insensitive behavior, and be respectful of the cultural differences.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stanley

Stanley has low crime rates, but visitors must take the necessary precautions when traveling outdoors. Always be aware of your surroundings, and carry bear spray when hiking. Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance.

Health in Stanley

Stanley has limited health facilities, and visitors should come prepared with any necessary prescriptions or medications that they may require during their stay. It is wise to carry a first-aid kit and follow proper safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Stanley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Stanley

The nearest airport to Stanley is Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey, Idaho, approximately 80 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Stanley

Greyhound Bus Lines in Salmon, Idaho, is the nearest bus station to Stanley.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Stanley by car, and state highway 75 or Idaho State Highway 21 provides easy access to the town.

How to Get Around in Stanley

The best way to get around in Stanley is by car or bike since the town is located in a remote area without public transportation. Renting outdoor equipment such as kayaks or bikes is also an option for exploring the outdoors.

Where to Go Next from Stanley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ketchum: An hour and a half away from Stanley, Ketchum is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Boise: The capital of Idaho, Boise, is approximately a three-hour drive from Stanley and offers a range of cultural and historical attractions.

Conclusion

Stanley is a hidden gem in the center of the Rocky Mountains, with stunning natural beauty and various outdoor activities. This guide has highlighted some of the highlights of visiting Stanley, including the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a history buff, there’s something for everyone in Stanley.

The Sawtooth Mountains The Sawtooth Mountains