South Hills Sawtooth National Forest
Majestic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and vast wilderness await in the Sawtooth National Forest. Explore diverse landscapes for unforgettable adventu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
South Hills Sawtooth National Forest
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and vast wilderness await in the Sawtooth National Forest. Explore diverse landscapes for unforgettable adventures.
"This is one amazing and majestic National Forest. The scenery is stunning."
Pack Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for hiking in bear country. Always be aware of your surroundings and store food properly.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable. Ensure you have downloaded maps for navigation on trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sawtooth Lake
Sawtooth Wilderness Area
A brilliant blue alpine lake with breathtaking mountain reflections. A must-see for hikers and nature lovers.
Thompson Peak
Sawtooth National Forest
Hike to the tallest peak for unparalleled panoramic views of the entire Sawtooth range. Rewarding for experienced hikers.
Redfish Lake
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
Stunning lake framed by the majestic Sawtooth Mountains, offering boating, camping, and scenic beauty.
South Hills Scenic Drive
South Hills, Sawtooth National Forest
A picturesque drive through varied terrain, offering opportunities for camping, fishing, and exploring trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Sawtooth Adventure
Essential Gear for the Sawtooths
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for hiking in bear country. Always be aware of your surroundings and store food properly.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable. Ensure you have downloaded maps for navigation on trails.
Leave No Trace :recycle:
Pack out everything you pack in to preserve the natural beauty for others.
Embrace the Sunrise :sunrise:
Waking up to an alpine lake sunrise is an unforgettable experience. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for hiking in bear country. Always be aware of your surroundings and store food properly.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable. Ensure you have downloaded maps for navigation on trails.
Leave No Trace :recycle:
Pack out everything you pack in to preserve the natural beauty for others.
Embrace the Sunrise :sunrise:
Waking up to an alpine lake sunrise is an unforgettable experience. +1
Permit for Christmas Trees :evergreen_tree:
If visiting in winter, a permit is needed to cut your own Christmas tree.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sawtooth National Forest as a hidden gem, highlighting its majestic mountain scenery, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Many describe the views as breathtaking and unforgettable, with opportunities for both challenging hikes and peaceful relaxation. Some note that while beautiful, certain areas can be remote, requiring thorough preparation.
"Best hidden gem in the state! The hike up to Thompson Peak (the tallest peak in the range) has stunning views the whole way up and is hands down my favorite hike ive ever done. The lakes there have great fishing too"
Konrad Ferch
"Liz was amazing! Great service, explained the wines well and was so fun and inviting. We were visiting from Oregon and came specifically to wine taste and this winery didn’t disappoint! Nice patio, good wine and cute vibes."
Alton & Georgie Funk
"Love the outdoors it's beautiful to walk and don't hear nothing I"
Patricia Gomez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Hills are conveniently located about a 40-minute drive from Twin Falls, Idaho. This makes it an accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay. 
Key access points include areas around Stanley for the Sawtooth Wilderness and the South Hills region closer to Twin Falls. Each offers different recreational opportunities.
Public transportation options are very limited within the Sawtooth National Forest. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for exploring the area.
Yes, the Sawtooth National Forest boasts several scenic byways, including routes through the South Hills and the iconic drive near Redfish Lake, offering stunning vistas.
Unfortunately, navigating the vast Sawtooth National Forest without a personal vehicle is extremely challenging. Consider guided tours or carpooling if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee or permit required to access most areas of the Sawtooth National Forest for day use. However, specific activities like camping or cutting Christmas trees may require permits.
The Sawtooth National Forest is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access to certain roads and trails may be restricted during winter months due to snow.
Yes, most developed campgrounds within the Sawtooth National Forest have camping fees. Fees vary depending on the campground and amenities offered.
Paper maps are highly recommended for backup navigation. You can often purchase them at local ranger stations, outdoor gear shops in nearby towns like Stanley, or online.
Access to Sawtooth Lake itself is typically free, but you may need to pay for parking or permits if you are using specific trailheads or campgrounds associated with it.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the trail to Sawtooth Lake (9.6 miles roundtrip),+1 Thompson Peak for experienced hikers,
and numerous trails in the South Hills for varied skill levels.
Absolutely! From developed campgrounds near Redfish Lake to dispersed camping opportunities in the South Hills,
The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, bears, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
Yes, many of the alpine lakes, including those in the Sawtooth range, are known for excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for trout.
You can enjoy boating, backpacking, rafting, hot springs, mountain biking, kayaking, and horseback riding, especially around areas like Redfish Lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Sawtooth Lake for its reflections, Redfish Lake with its mountain backdrop,
and the general mountain vistas throughout the forest. Fall foliage in the Albion Mountains is also stunning.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing reflections on alpine lakes. +1
Many trails offer incredible viewpoints. The hike to Sawtooth Lake and the summit of Thompson Peak provide expansive panoramas. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is essential for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Drone usage is restricted in many National Forests, including areas within the Sawtooths, especially near wilderness areas and developed recreation sites. Always check current regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider activities like easy hikes around Redfish Lake or picnicking by a more accessible alpine lake. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing along nature identification guides to make the experience educational and engaging. Bear safety is paramount, so ensure children understand the importance of staying close and not approaching wildlife.
🎒 Backpackers & Hikers
Be prepared for elevation gain, variable weather, and the need for self-sufficiency. Always check trail conditions, fire restrictions, and carry essential safety gear, including bear spray and navigation tools.
📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the iconic reflections at Sawtooth Lake during sunrise or sunset, or the sweeping vistas from higher elevations like Thompson Peak. Bring a range of lenses to capture both grand landscapes and potential wildlife. A tripod is essential for low-light conditions and capturing the serene beauty of the lakes. Remember to respect the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife for the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Backpacking the Sawtooth Loop
When planning your trip, consider the impact of recent fires, as mentioned by some travelers. Always check current fire restrictions and trail conditions before you go. Carrying a reliable map, such as a paper backup, is highly recommended, even if you have a GPS device, as technology can fail.
Popular starting points and variations exist, allowing you to tailor the loop to your desired mileage and difficulty. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously to preserve this pristine environment for future generations. This includes proper waste disposal, minimizing campfire impacts, and respecting wildlife.
Exploring the South Hills
Visitors can find numerous camping spots, excellent fishing holes, and an abundance of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and even off-roading on ATVs or Razor vehicles. The South Hills also play a role in local traditions, such as the annual Christmas tree cutting, which requires a permit.
+1This area provides a fantastic introduction to the natural beauty of the Sawtooth National Forest, blending scenic drives with opportunities for recreation. It's a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous but equally rewarding outdoor adventure.
The Majesty of Alpine Lakes
Reaching these lakes often involves hiking, with trails ranging from moderate day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. The reward for your effort is often an unparalleled sense of tranquility and breathtaking scenery. Many of these lakes are also popular spots for fishing, offering a chance to cast a line in a truly spectacular setting.
When visiting these delicate ecosystems, it's crucial to adhere to Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, staying on designated trails to prevent erosion, and respecting wildlife. The pristine nature of these alpine lakes is a treasure that requires collective effort to protect.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit