We had never heard of Stanley until 2016. Then we never considered going until 2017. Sun Valley is usually where people go. It has awesome mountain biking, crazy hikes to alpine lakes in the Sawtooths and a fun downtown. But what about Stanley? The lesser known and more quiet? Redfish lake is the top destination, but most don’t venture far from that. I would argue that Stanley has some of the top hiking trails and destinations in the country.

So which hikes should you not miss in Stanley, Idaho? The following are the Best Hikes in Stanley, Idaho.

The Best Hikes in Stanley, Idaho

When you have time to explore the Sawtooth mountain range it will not disappoint. You will feel like you saw everything there is to see and then all of a sudden someone mentions a hike you didn’t get to. The following Hikes in Stanley, Idaho are in no order since we loved them all!

Alice Lake

Miles: 13 ♦ Elevation Gain: 1,600′ ♦ Trail Type: Out and Back ♦ Trail: Moderate

Still one of my favorite hikes ever. Alice Lake has it all when it comes to a fun and adventurous hiking. River crossings, stunning views, meadows, a boardwalk and the El Capitan of Idaho. Ready more about the hike here: Alice Lake Hike

Goat Lake

Miles: 8.7 ♦ Elevation Change : 2,484” ♦ Trail Type: Out and Back ♦ Trail: Moderate to Hard

There is a good chance that you will have this place to yourself. While it can be hard to find, it can be difficult to make it to the lake as well. Read about how we got to Goat Lake here: Goat Lake Hike

Imogene Lake

Miles: 18 ♦ Elevation Change : 2,300” ♦ Trail Type: Out and Back ♦ Trail: Moderate to slightly difficult

Ask a local which hike you should do. Imogene is the only one mentioned. This is a great hike for people wanting to increase their mileage. Read about why it’s so popular here: Imogene Lake Hike

Sawtooth Lake and Alpine Lake

Miles: 10 ♦ Elevation Change : 1,873” ♦ Trail Type: Out and Back ♦ Trail: Moderate

This hike was so much fun. Two lakes in one and a lot of spots to hangout with friends and take it all in. Alpine Lake is smaller than Sawtooth, but they both have beautiful mountain backdrops.

Hell Roaring Lake

Miles: 10 ♦ Elevation Change : 728” ♦ Trail Type: Out and Back ♦ Trail: Easy to slightly moderate

This lake is on it’s way to Imogene, but holds its own for fun back country camping, wildlife sightings and a cold lake to cool down in during the summer. There are a few campsites that line the lake where you are allowed to camp.

Aside from these hikes there are great lakes to drive up to and relax. Check out our list here: Lakes of Stanley, Idaho

If you missed our article about hiking in Sun Valley, you can see all the hikes we have done there, here: Hikes in Sun Valley

Practice LEAVE NO TRACE

Remember to always respect the area you are so lucky to experience.

Follow along as we hike our way throughout the US.

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