Redfish lake is a slice of heaven . . .if you go to Ketchum or Sun Valley and you don't take the hour drive north, you have seriously missed out! August is best, but try to skip Sundays . . .way too crowded. Best time is during the week . . . you won't regret it!
Took the drive to Redfish while @ Sun Valley for a few days! The Lodge is a 'hidden getaway' to yesteryear, complete with Adirondack chairs on the porch overlooking the lake. We took the hour long boat cruise so that we could see the lake at it's best! Day would not be complete without ice cream cones, and a couple of post cards to mail back to city-stressed friends!! Found outdoor picnic spot to enjoy our lunch, a quick trip to Stanley, and then back to Sun Valley!!
This wonderful lake lodge reminds me of something out of the 50's with big chairs in the front for people watching. I have never stayed in the cabins or the lodge. The cabins look dark and I hear the lodge rooms share baths, not for me. I prefer to stay in Stanley, a little north at the Valley Creek. They have a good sandy beach and an area for dogs. You can rent a put put or paddle boat and go around the lake.I had my birthday dinner there but the lamb was very tough. If you are a camper there are hook ups, a store, laundry and horseback rides. A great place for families. Hard to book, very popular.
We left Hailey and travelled to our next stop. Along the way we happened upon Redfish Lake. We found the campground but it was very busy. The drive is between 45-60 minutes from Ketchum. Have lunch either at the Galena Lodge or the Stanley Bakery. Galena is about 25 minutes before Redfish. We called intio the Firestry Commission at Ketchum and they lent us a free scenic drive CD. It was fantastic. Recommend you do this.
Drove from Ketchum up to Stanley, Idaho and took the side road into Redfish Lake. What a charming spot with lots of activities. Would consider staying and playing longer.
We love this place! Go paste Redfish Lake Lodge & pay the extra $10 fee on the North Shore to relax & enjoy the lake. Pack a picnic & sit at the picnic benches with your towels, chairs & cold drinks. We swim out to the dock every year, it's fun, cold & refreshing once you make it to the dock. Go later in the day & enjoy the quiet lake. If you are coming from Ketchum, stop at Smiley Creek afterwards for a killer milkshake.
The Redfish Lake area is nothing short of spectacular with crystal clear water (albeit it's usually eye popping cold), stunning snow capped mountains and much to do. If you're going to be in the Sun Valley area, it's worth the hour drive. Be aware that on weekends, yes, it can have the summer crowds, but even they can't take away from the wonderful scenery. There are boats, and canoes for rent, along with a ferry which will take you across the lake for great hiking trails. If you want a room or a cabin, be sure to make reservations. Stanley is a short drive north where day trips on the Salmon River are also readily available. We locals go to Redfish, and if the locals rave, you will too.
A Sawtooth summer is not complete without at least one afternoon spent lounging on the grass at Redfish Lake. The atmosphere is reminiscent of lake resorts in the 1960s, when I was a kid. The little store has all the kitchy stuff that one would expect, which makes it fun, even if you don't buy anything. Have a burger and ice cream cone from the outdoor barbecue. Bring your lawn chair and towel, a book and just sit back and enjoy the atmosphere with your friends.
Lovely..trails are amazing. Peek a boo views everywhere and flawless mountain lake. Bring a picnic and a book.