Sawtooth National Recreation Area travel guide

Sawtooth National Recreation Area travel guide

National Airports

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area does not have its own airport. The closest airports to the Sawtooth NRA are Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, Idaho, which is approximately 60 miles south, and Boise Airport (BOI), which is approximately 115 miles west.

Trains in Sawtooth National Recreation Area

There are no train stations located within or near the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The closest train stations are in Boise, which is approximately 100 miles west of the recreation area. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to get to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Buses in Sawtooth National Recreation Area

There are no buses that directly serve the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. However, the Mountain Rides bus service operates in the Wood River Valley area, which includes the towns of Ketchum, Sun Valley, Hailey, and Bellevue. From there, visitors can use other transportation options to reach the recreation area.

How to get to Sawtooth National Recreation Area

The nearest major airport to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area is the Boise Airport (BOI), which is about 95 miles west of the park. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to get to the recreation area. Alternatively, Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, Idaho, is about 60 miles south of the recreation area and also offers commercial flights.

If you are driving, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area can be accessed via several highways, including Idaho State Highways 21, 75, and 93. It is about a 3-hour drive from Boise to the recreation area.

What is the best time to travel to Sawtooth National Recreation Area

The best time to visit Sawtooth National Recreation Area is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the recreation area is open for activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and rafting. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season, and crowds and higher prices may be a factor. Spring and fall can also be good times to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, although some activities may be limited or unavailable. Winter can be very cold and snowy, but it also offers opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing.

How to get around Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a vast wilderness area in central Idaho, with no public transportation available within the park. Visitors will need a personal vehicle or bicycle to get around the park.

There are several car rental companies in nearby cities such as Ketchum and Boise, and visitors can rent a car and drive to the park. There are also shuttle services available from Ketchum, Stanley, and other nearby towns to popular trailheads and areas within the park.

For visitors who prefer biking, there are several trails within the park that are suitable for mountain biking. Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent them from nearby shops.

Boating and kayaking are also popular activities in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, and visitors can rent boats or kayaks from nearby vendors.

Accommodations in Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are various accommodation options available for visitors. Some of the popular accommodations in the area are:

Stanley – This small town is located close to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and offers several lodging options, including hotels, motels, lodges, cabins, and campgrounds.

Ketchum and Sun Valley – These towns are located south of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and offer several accommodation options, including hotels, motels, lodges, vacation rentals, and campgrounds.

Redfish Lake Lodge – Located in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the Redfish Lake Lodge is a popular accommodation option for visitors. The lodge offers rooms, suites, and cabins, as well as a restaurant, general store, and marina.

Galena Lodge – This historic lodge is located in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and offers rustic cabins, yurts, and a hostel for visitors. The lodge is popular with cross-country skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer.

Camping – There are numerous campgrounds available in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, including those at Redfish Lake, Alturas Lake, and Stanley Lake. Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served, while others can be reserved in advance.

It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season, which is typically from June through September.