Redfish Lake Idaho
A breathtaking alpine lake nestled in the Sawtooth Mountains, offering stunning scenery, rustic lodging, and outdoor adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Redfish Lake Idaho
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake nestled in the Sawtooth Mountains, offering stunning scenery, rustic lodging, and outdoor adventures.
"Unbelievable beauty, the lake, hiking, the Sawtooth mountains, all so breathtaking."
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Enjoy a beautiful off-leash beach perfect for your furry friends to play and swim.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Explore the vastness of Redfish Lake by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon boat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Redfish Lake
Experience the breathtaking beauty of this alpine lake with its incredibly clear, turquoise waters. Perfect for swimming and photos.
Sawtooth Mountain Views
Surrounding Redfish Lake
Marvel at the majestic Sawtooth Mountains framing the lake, offering unparalleled scenic beauty and hiking opportunities.
Historic Redfish Lake Lodge
Redfish Lake Lodge
Step back in time at this rustic, historic lodge offering cozy accommodations and a charming atmosphere.
Marina and Boat Rentals
Redfish Lake Marina
Explore the lake at your own pace with boat rentals, including kayaks and pontoon boats, from the marina.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Stay Early
Be Prepared for Wildfire Smoke
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Enjoy a beautiful off-leash beach perfect for your furry friends to play and swim.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Explore the vastness of Redfish Lake by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon boat.
🥾 Hike the Trails
Discover stunning vistas and diverse wildlife on the numerous hiking trails surrounding the lake.
🍽️ Savor Lodge Dining
The Redfish Lodge restaurant offers delicious meals with generous portions and great views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Enjoy a beautiful off-leash beach perfect for your furry friends to play and swim.
🛶 Rent a Boat
Explore the vastness of Redfish Lake by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon boat.
🥾 Hike the Trails
Discover stunning vistas and diverse wildlife on the numerous hiking trails surrounding the lake.
🍽️ Savor Lodge Dining
The Redfish Lodge restaurant offers delicious meals with generous portions and great views.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The lake and mountain views are incredibly photogenic, especially during sunrise and sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Redfish Lake for its breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning mountain views and crystal-clear waters. The historic lodge and friendly staff also receive high marks, creating a memorable and charming experience. Some note that accommodations are rustic rather than luxurious, which aligns with the area's natural appeal.
"The food was fantastic. Our table ordered just about everything for breakfast so we could try it all... Benedict, Biscuits n Gravy, French Toast, a hikers bowl with chorizo... Even the guys like the farrow/arugula bowl. It was all delish. Our waitress was a good sassy in a jokey way. The lodge was lodgey, loved it."
Shayna Smith
"Redfish Lake Lodge is hidden away in the Sawtooth mountains. The views are stunning, the air is clean and the water is clear. If you are looking for a day trip I recommend this place! The food in the lodge was great and the portions were generous!"
Joe Rafalik
"Redfish Lake, unbelievable beauty. The lake, hiking, the Sawtooth mountains, All so breath taking. The facilities, restaurant, pavilion, food and the cabins were great. The dinner cruise was the most beautiful “table” we have ever sat for a dinner. The 1947 Chris craft was a rare and perfect bit of nostalgic class to the history of the resort. The best part of our stay, without question, was the staff. They were kind, attentive and made you feel like they were your friends. We cannot say enough about them all. Thank you for making our anniversary a special vacation."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Redfish Lake is approximately a 3-hour drive from Boise, Idaho. The scenic route takes you through stunning mountain landscapes.
Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach Redfish Lake, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
Public transportation options are very limited. It is best to have your own vehicle or arrange for private transport.
The drive from Ketchum to Redfish Lake is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering beautiful views along the way.
Redfish Lake is generally accessible year-round, but winter conditions can make roads challenging. Summer and early fall are the most popular times to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Redfish Lake itself or the surrounding public areas. However, fees apply for camping, boat rentals, and lodging.
Redfish Lake Lodge has varying hours for its restaurant and services depending on the season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can book rooms and cabins at Redfish Lake Lodge. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they fill up quickly.
While Redfish Lake itself doesn't have an entrance fee, there may be fees for specific developed recreation sites within the broader Sawtooth National Recreation Area, such as day-use areas or campgrounds.
It's advisable to book Redfish Lake cabin rentals at least 6-12 months in advance, particularly for summer dates, due to high demand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenic beauty. +1
Yes, Redfish Lake is known for its clear, refreshing waters, making it a popular spot for swimming during the warmer months.
Absolutely! The area offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain treks.
Yes, Redfish Lake has a designated off-leash beach area where dogs are welcome to play and swim.
Redfish Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) above sea level.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Redfish Lake Lodge offers a restaurant with delicious food and great views. There are also picnic areas available.
The lodge serves a variety of dishes, including breakfast items like Benedict and biscuits, as well as lunch and dinner options.
Yes, reviews mention options like a farrow/arugula bowl, indicating vegetarian choices are available.
Yes, the lodge offers beer and cocktails, and you can often get them to go.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas, and many visitors enjoy packing their own meals to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline, the marina area, and any of the hiking trails offer incredible photo opportunities with the lake and mountains.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for capturing the beauty of Redfish Lake and the Sawtooth Mountains.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national recreation areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
The view from the lodge looking out at the lake and mountains is a classic shot. The marina area also offers picturesque scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For accommodations, the Redfish Lake Lodge offers a historic and charming atmosphere, while nearby cabins can provide more space for families.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Don't miss the chance to hike to viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding peaks.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For day-trippers, focus on enjoying the lake views, a short hike, or a picnic by the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Redfish Lake by Water
For a truly memorable experience, consider the dinner cruise aboard a classic Chris Craft boat. This offers a beautiful setting for a meal with unparalleled views, blending nostalgia with the natural splendor of the area. [^Review] The marina is also a hub for launching personal watercraft if you've brought your own. Remember to check rental availability and pricing in advance, especially during peak season.
Whether you're seeking an active adventure or a leisurely cruise, exploring Redfish Lake by water is a must-do. The crystal-clear water and surrounding majestic peaks create an unforgettable backdrop for any water activity.
Lodging Options at Redfish Lake
Beyond the main lodge, cabins are also available, offering a more private and secluded experience. These Redfish Lake cabin rentals are highly sought after and often booked up far in advance, especially for summer.
When choosing your accommodation, consider what kind of experience you're seeking. The lodge offers convenience and historic ambiance, while cabins provide more space and privacy. Regardless of your choice, the stunning natural beauty of Redfish Lake is always within reach.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Popular activities include hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for local fauna as you explore the diverse terrain. The clear waters of Redfish Lake also invite activities like swimming, fishing, and boating, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination.
Remember to be prepared for varying weather conditions, even in summer. Pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, water, and sun protection. Checking trail conditions and any potential closures due to wildlife or weather is also advisable before heading out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit