Idaho is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There are areas all around the Gem State that are just waiting to be explored. But there is one area of Idaho that is absolutely stunning no matter the time of year - the Sawtooth Mountains. The Sawtooth Mountains are actually one of the most photographed mountains in the entire country, and when you visit, you’ll see why. You can easily spend an entire weekend (or an entire week) exploring these incredible mountains and all they have to offer.

The Sawtooth Mountains are part of the Rocky Mountains in Central Idaho. They stretch 678 miles and feature an impressive 57 peaks with an elevation greater than 10,000 feet.

For a weekend spent in these majestic mountains, head to the town of Stanley. This picturesque town is quite small, but it offers more outdoor attractions than any other in the state.

During a visit to Stanley, you can fish the Salmon River in the summer and head to the little-known outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter.

Approximately an hour from Stanley is Kirkham Hot Springs, one of the most popular hot springs in Idaho. This hot spring is not only well-known, but it is absolutely beautiful and accessible as well.

These hot springs are a mixture of both natural and man-made pools that range in temperature. There are small waterfalls and beautiful river views that make you feel tucked away, even though it is just a short walk to the hot springs from the road.

The Sawtooth Mountains are home to approximately 400 alpine lakes. In the summer and fall, you can hike to and explore many of these lakes. Because of the effort required to reach them, they're surrounded by peace, quiet, and solitude, particularly when compared to some of the larger lakes around the state.

Redfish Lake, located just south of Stanley, is one of the most well-known lakes in the Sawtooth Mountains and one of the largest lakes in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Redfish Lake offers outdoor opportunities galore in the summer, but the roads to the lake are closed in the winter and rarely plowed. Fortunately, you can still cross-country ski, snowshoe, or even snowmobile throughout the area during this time of year.

The Sawtooth Mountains also offer more than 700 hiking trails. This truly is a hiker’s paradise, and you’ll find trails for all skill levels and of varying lengths.

Some of these trails are particularly beautiful during the autumn when fall foliage is at its peak. This may just become your favorite time to explore these mountains.

With so much to do in the Sawtooth Mountains during the day, you need someplace relaxing to spend the night.

You will find numerous cabin Airbnbs throughout the area and during the summer, there are also several campgrounds and small resorts like the Sawtooth Lodge in Lowman where you can spend the night.

For a weekend outdoors, the Sawtooth Mountains must be at the top of your list. Here, you will find plenty to do, regardless of the time of year.

When visiting the Sawtooth Mountains during the winter, do your research prior to heading out. Several roads throughout this mountain range are not plowed or are quite dangerous after a major snowstorm.

Have you explored the Sawtooth Mountains? What are some of your favorite things to do in the area during a weekend getaway? What other areas of the state do you love to explore? Share with us in the comments!