Sawtooth Mountains

The Sawtooth Mountains are a lesser-known and less-visited destination in Central Idaho. They are far from almost everywhere, though only about three hours from Boise. From Yellowstone, they were more than a five-hour drive. The mountains are popular with serious outdoors people, and the area includes multiple wilderness areas. Kayaking on the many lakes is also a popular activity.

The mountains are jagged and rugged. They are striking, though not everyone finds them especially pretty. My better half initially rated them a 6 out of 10, then upgraded them to a 6.5 after I protested the 6. I found the ruggedness appealing, and once I got home and saw how photogenic the mountains were, I was glad we had made the long drive in and out.

The main town for the area is Stanley, Idaho. It is tiny, with limited lodging, and summer lodging prices are high for what you get. For photographers, the Sawtooths are worth visiting. The area also looks excellent for serious hikers, backpackers, and other outdoors types. For casual vacationers, there are probably better choices, particularly given how difficult the area is to reach.