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Natural area · Ketchum, Idaho
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
A protected area in the Sawtooth Mountains north of Ketchum, with granite peaks, hundreds of mountain lakes, the headwaters of the Salmon River and Redfish Lake.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area, established in 1972, protects the Sawtooth Mountains, a range of serrated granite peaks with more than 50 summits over 3,000 meters. The area has hundreds of alpine lakes and the headwaters of the Salmon River, which flows north.
State Highway ID-75 climbs from Ketchum up to Galena Summit, a pass with viewpoints over the Salmon Valley and the range. Farther north, Redfish Lake at the foot of the peaks offers beaches, trails, boats and a visitor center. The name comes from the red salmon, which still reaches the lake after swimming more than 1,400 km from the ocean.
Trails lead to lakes and mountain passes, and the small town of Stanley, about 100 km from Ketchum, is a base for those who stay longer. In winter, snow closes many of the access roads.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, including the drive, Galena Summit and Redfish Lake.
Best time
From July to September, when snow usually has melted on the trails and lakes.
How to get there
From Ketchum, take ID-75 north: about 40 km to Galena Summit and 95 km to Redfish Lake.
Tip
Fill up in Ketchum. Cell signal is weak across much of the area. Some parking areas require a U.S. Forest Service pass.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sawtooth National Recreation Area
How far is Ketchum from Redfish Lake?
About 95 km via ID-75, roughly an hour and a half by car, passing over Galena Summit.
What is the best time to visit the Sawtooth Mountains?
From July to September, when trails and lakes are typically free of snow.
Why is the lake called Redfish?
For the red salmon that reach the lake after swimming more than 1,400 km from the ocean.