Summertime in Idaho means long summer days spent at the nearest lake. The Gem State boasts hundreds of fantastic lakes that are perfect for cooling off and you’ve probably already heard of the popular ones (Lake Coeur d’Alene, Redfish Lake, Bear Lake, etc.) However, you’d be remiss if you didn’t plan at least one summer afternoon at beautiful Stanley Lake. This idyllic body of water boasts plenty of opportunities for fun, plus the views surrounding it are simply out of this world. Don’t miss out on this underrated destination and plan a trip for this summer!

Surrounded by the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the sleepy little town of Stanley is home to just 63 residents. It's as small as a town can get, yet the area around it boasts some of the most spectacular wonders in all of Idaho.
Nicholas D/Flickr
One of these wonders is Stanley Lake, a gorgeous alpine lake located at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains. It's located approximately seven miles west of town, and can easily be reached via a 3-mile spur road off Highway 21.
Don C/TripAdvisor
As far as scenery goes, it just doesn't get better than this. The Sawtooth NRA is an endless wonderland of natural beauty, including jagged mountain peaks, whitewater rivers, and glorious alpine lakes in all shapes and sizes.
Greg S/TripAdvisor

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Stanley Lake is a great place to spend a summer day in the Sawtooths. Recreational facilities at the lake include three campgrounds, a day use area, a boat launch, and several hiking trails.
LtheNinjaPirate/TripAdvisor
In fact, an estimated 750-miles of trails stretch across the wilderness area's valleys and mountains. Hop on the nearby Stanley Lake Trail to explore the area further. It also boasts access to the famous Idaho Centennial Trail.
Katja Schulz/Flickr
The lake itself is a great place to go boating, water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking. Fishing is another popular pastime as the lake is known to contain rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and bull trout.
Greg S/TripAdvisor
To top it all off, that view of McGowan Peak towering over the crystal clear lake just can't be beat. Make your summer one to remember and start planning your trip to this underrated lake soon.
Greg S/TripAdvisor

Have you made a summer trip to Stanley Lake before? Tell us about your experiences at this heavenly mountain lake in the comments below!

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Stanley Lake, Idaho 83637, USA