Redfish Lake: The Jewel of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Idaho is filled with hidden wonders and natural beauty. This great state holds grand national parks and forests, pristine lakes and rivers, towering mountains, and sweeping valleys. When you live in Idaho, you are living a lifestyle. You love the outdoors. You can head outside and go fishing in the afternoon, mountain biking in the morning, skiing on the weekend, or take a week long getaway at a tucked away mountain lake resort.

You can live in the many cities of Idaho, including Boise, the state’s capitol. Your outdoor and recreational opportunities will not be diminished. All of Idaho is natural playground filled with wonder. You love living in the city, because even though you have access to all of the modern urban amenities, you can still escape the bustle of city life and enjoy the serenity of nature.

Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountain Range at an elevation of 6,550 feet above sea level, you will find the jewel of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Redfish Lake is crystal clear glacial lake with sandy beaches, beautiful scenery, and it’s the perfect place to get away from it all. When Robert Limbert laid the first log of Redfish Lodge in 1929 he invited you to “turn your back on the grind of the civilized world.” And even now, over 80 years later, his invitation remains true. The Sawtooth mountains are rugged and beautiful, a prime example of what draws people to Idaho.

Step Away From It All

Redfish Lake and the Redfish Lodge provide you with a one of a kind opportunity to step away from the bustling noise and activity of the city, while still providing you with a modern getaway. You’ll enjoy staying in their historic and modern cabins, all the while enjoying delicious home cooked meals in the outdoor gazebo. After an amazing breakfast in the crisp Idaho mountain air, adventure awaits. Head out onto the lake, take a lake shuttle tour, hike around the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, and even enjoy shopping at the general store.

The Redfish Lake Lodge makes its home on 16 acres of U.S. Forest Service land. It stands on the north shore of the five-mile long glacier carved lake. Redfish Lake is the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains. With its rugged beauty and unlimited outdoor recreational opportunities, it is easy to see why. When you tire of exploring and playing, simply sit back and relax. The views are breathtaking and the water is calming.

Stepping Into History

Built in 1929, the Redfish Lake Lodge is largely unchanged. There have been a couple of additions, but they have maintained the historic character and feeling of the lodge. The main lodge houses the front desk for checking in and information, the dining room, and the historic lounge. The second floor holds eight hotel rooms, ready for guests, and it also holds housing for key employees.

Outside of the lodge you will find the cabins and other units. There are 21 cabins in all, both historic and modern. There are 11 other units, which are more of a hotel or suite style. The nearby general store will take care of most of your needs, from groceries, unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as camping and fishing supplies. You will also enjoy the marina, with a variety of motorized and nonmotorized boats available for rental, as well as lake tours. The Redfish Corrals let you explore on horseback, with a variety of different options. You can choose from an hour and a half ride, a half day ride, full day ride, or even a multiple day guided horseback tour.

The north end of the property provides you with access to a service station. You will find fuel and snacks to get you through your day of exploration. There is also a public shower and Laundromat. Redfish Lake provides you with everything you need to make the most of enjoying the rugged Sawtooth Mountains. The Lodge is perfectly located, providing you with unparalleled access to not only Redfish Lake, but the surrounding area as well. You will find incredibly hiking, climbing, and fishing. You can also enjoy taking to the rivers, photographing the incredible beauty and wildlife, and even learning about the wonderful history of the area.

The Jewel of the Sawtooth Mountains

When you first arrive at Redfish Lake, it is easy to see why it’s called the jewel. The Sawtooth Mountains are an impressive backdrop, and the most rugged and beautiful mountains in Idaho. The lake is crystal clear, born from a glacier. This is what Idaho is about. This is why you live in Idaho. So head out and explore and relax at the incredible Redfish Lake Lodge.