Swatooth
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The Sawtooth Scenic Byway has the distinction of being the 100th National Forest Scenic Byway. Beginning in Shoshone, the southern leg of the byway features the new Black Magic Canyon geological attraction. The route then rolls north through fertile agricultural land to the resort towns of Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley.

From there, the road carves its way through the Boulder Mountains to Galena Pass, showcasing the ridge of the Sawtooth Mountains. Beyond, the rocks and woodlands of the rugged Sawtooth National Recreation Area are packed with rivers, streams, and 300 alpine lakes, providing top-notch venues for a variety of yearround activities. Wildlife watchers should stay alert; the 756,000-acre recreational area is home to many species of wildlife, including pronghorn antelope, deer, elk, bear and wolves.

The northern tip of the byway terminates in Stanley, where the Sawtooth meets the Ponderosa Pine and Salmon River Scenic Byways. So no matter which way you drive in or out, you’re in for a treat.

  • Location

    Idaho 75 north to Stanley from Shoshone.
  • Length

    115.7 miles. Allow 3 hours.
  • Roadway

    Two-lane road with some passing lanes. The 15-mile section over Galena Summit is winding with 5 to 6 percent grades. Winter weather can be severe. Check conditions before traveling.
  • When to see it

    Year around.
  • Special attractions

    Sawtooth National Recreation Area; Redfish Lake; worldfamous Sun Valley resort.
  • Camping

    Wood River, Easley Hot Springs, Alturas Lake and Redfish Lake.
  • Services

    Full services in Shoshone, Hailey, Ketchum, Sun Valley, Stanley; partial services in Obsidian; rest area on U.S. 20 at the junction with Idaho 75.
  • Whom to call

    Sawtooth NRA Headquarters
    (208) 727-5013
    audio tape tour available for Stanley to Ketchum route
    Stanley-Sawtooth Chamber of Commerce
    (208) 774-3411
    www.stanleycc.org
    Sun Valley/Ketchum Chamber of Commerce
    (800) 634-3347
    www.visitsunvalley.com
    Sawtooth National Forest
    (208) 737-3200
    www.fs.fed.us/r4/sawtooth/
    Stanley Ranger Station
    (208) 774-3000
    Redfish Lake Visitor Center (summer only)
    (208) 774-3376