This One Small Idaho Town Has More Outdoor Attractions Than Any Other Place In The State
Emerson
Author
Bad weather, no weather, all the weather – it seems like nothing can stop Idahoans from getting out and enjoying our great outdoors. There certainly is no shortage of awesome outdoor activities and natural wonders! And it seems that wherever you turn, there is always something exciting to be explored. However, the small town featured here is incredibly popular among Idahoans for its close proximity to so many outdoor attractions. Stanley, Idaho is nestled in the perfect location that offers easy access to some of Idaho’s most pristine natural wonders. Next time you’re planning an adventure, you’re going to want to keep this town in mind.
1. Rafting "The River of No Return."
2. Fishing the Salmon River.
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4. Backcountry snowshoeing in the Sawtooth Mountains.
5. Hiking to an alpine lake.
6. Spending the day splashing at Redfish Lake.
7. Getting away from it all at a wilderness ranch.
So is Stanley, Idaho worth visiting? YES! Things to do in Stanley are plentiful, wild, and as ruggedly beautiful as one could hope for. Personally, we still need to check a rustic getaway off our list…we get so stoked to camp, hike, and explore when we’re here that we forget about the relaxing part!
And don’t forget to gear up and check out our outdoorsy bucket list while you’re at it. Stanley may be beautiful, but it’s only a small piece of everything that Idaho has to offer.
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Things To Do In Stanley, Idaho
What are the main rivers in Idaho?
We can talk about Idaho's beautiful small towns all day, but these cozy communities are also beautifully entangled with our state's rivers! Idaho is home to countless rivers that contribute to its diverse scenery and natural beauty, some renowned for their raw power and dangerous rapids, and others for being undeniably scenic. Some of the most notable rivers in Idaho include:
- Boise River: Flowing through Idaho's capital, the Boise River originates in the Sawtooth Mountains. It's a major recreational asset for residents and visitors alike, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing, kayaking, and scenic walks along the Boise River Greenbelt. Few Idahoans haven't dipped their toes in this legendary river at some point!
- Clearwater River: Originating in the Bitterroot Mountains, the Clearwater River flows through north-central Idaho. It's a significant tributary of the Snake River and provides various recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and scenic drives along its banks.
- Payette River: The Payette River is divided into the North Fork and South Fork. It runs through central Idaho and offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fishing, particularly in the popular whitewater section known as the Main Payette.
- Salmon River: Known as the "River of No Return," the Salmon River is one of the longest undammed rivers in the contiguous United States. It runs through central Idaho and offers stunning scenery, excellent whitewater rafting opportunities, and diverse wildlife - all of which can be seen from the Salmon River Scenic Byway, or with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure right on the water.
- Snake River: The Snake River is the largest river in Idaho, flowing across the southern part of the state. It originates in Wyoming and travels through Idaho before joining the Columbia River, forging and carving breathtaking natural wonders like the Snake River Canyon and Shoshone Falls.