Overview
Redfish Lake is the front-country centerpiece of Sawtooth National Forest, a large glacially carved lake sitting at 6,550 feet with the jagged Sawtooth peaks visible across the water to the south. The lake is accessible by car and draws large summer crowds, but the 9.5-mile loop that circles its full perimeter moves quickly into quieter terrain once you leave the main recreation area.
The loop involves some forest walking and a ridge crossing on the south side of the lake that gains and then descends the bulk of the 1,500-foot elevation total. The north end of the loop, near the lodge, is flat and heavily trafficked. The south end is where the trail earns its moderate rating, climbing through open forest toward a ridgeline with views back across the lake and north toward the Stanley Basin.
This is one of the more accessible full-day hikes in the Sawtooths. The well-maintained trail system, the boat taxi option for cutting distance, and the lodge as a midpoint facility make it a good choice for hikers who want significant scenery without the demanding approaches of the wilderness routes.
America the Beautiful pass holders, including veterans with the Military Annual Pass, can use their pass to cover the $5 day-use fee at the recreation area entrance.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: East Shore to the Inlet
Beginning at the trailhead on the south side of the main parking area, the trail follows the eastern shoreline of Redfish Lake with views across the water toward the lodge and the mountains beyond. This section is essentially flat, running through a combination of beach, shoreline forest, and open meadow.
At approximately mile 2.5, the trail reaches the lake inlet, where Redfish Lake Creek flows in from the upper Sawtooth drainages. The inlet area is a good rest point and a popular fishing spot. The trail splits here, with the loop continuing counterclockwise through the forest to the south.
Miles 2.5 to 5.0: The Ridge Crossing
South of the inlet, the trail climbs into lodgepole pine and Engelmann spruce forest and gains the bulk of its elevation on the way to the ridge that forms the southern boundary of the lake basin. The climb is steady rather than steep, switchbacking through forest with occasional views opening to the east and west.
The ridge crossing at approximately 7,800 feet offers the widest views of the route: Redfish Lake spread below, the Sawtooth Range to the south and west, and the Stanley Basin to the north. This is the high point of the loop and the best spot to stop for photos or lunch.
Miles 5.0 to 9.5: West Shore Return
The descent from the ridge drops to the west shore of the lake, which is less developed and quieter than the east shore. The trail runs closer to the water here, with good lake views through the trees. The west shore trail connects to the lodge area at approximately mile 8, where the route rejoins the busy front-country zone and returns along the northern lakeshore to the parking area.
When to Visit
June through October. The lower lakeshore trail is typically accessible by early June when most of the forest below 7,000 feet is snow-free. The ridge section is clear by late June in most years. October is excellent for fall color and dramatically reduced crowds.
This trail is more accessible earlier in the season than the high wilderness routes, making it a good late-June or early-July option when trails to Sawtooth Lake or Alice Lake may still be snow-covered.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this loop carry:
- 2 liters of water; water sources are available at the inlet and along the west shore, but the ridge section has none
- A water filter if planning to use natural sources
- Snacks and lunch; the lodge has a restaurant operating in season, but don't rely on it
- Layers for the ridge, where wind can make temperatures feel cooler than in the valley
- Sun protection for the exposed lakeshore and ridge sections
- Insect repellent, as the inlet area and west shore can have mosquitoes in June and July
Individual water and gear needs vary based on fitness, the time of year, and conditions.
Practical Details
The Redfish Lake Recreation Area charges a $5 day-use fee (as of 2026) collected at the entrance station on the access road. Flush toilets are available at the main parking area and near the lodge. Cell service is limited near the parking lot and absent on most of the loop.
Dogs are permitted on the trail and must be under control. Leash rules may apply in the developed recreation area near the lodge and campground. Confirm current requirements at the entrance station.
Learn about Leave No Trace principles for lake environments. The Redfish Lake shoreline receives very heavy summer use; stay on designated trails and camp only in developed sites.
Getting There
From Stanley, drive south on Highway 75 approximately 5 miles to the signed Redfish Lake Road. Turn right (west) and drive approximately 4 miles to the recreation area entrance station. The trailhead parking lot is near the end of the road, adjacent to the boat launch. Paved road throughout, accessible by all vehicle types.
From Ketchum, drive north on Highway 75 over Galena Summit and continue approximately 50 miles to the Redfish Lake turnoff. The drive takes approximately 1 hour from Ketchum.