Monthly Archives: November 2020

Jackson Hole Road Trip

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The Perfect Road Trip

How to combine Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park and
Yellowstone into one amazing adventure

Cross two life-changing experiences off your bucket list during the same vacation when you travel to Wyoming. Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone – two of the most beautiful destinations in the world – are within an easy hour’s drive of one another.

Combine these two treasures into one vacation of a lifetime by completing one of these easy road trips. Whether you drive to the starting point or fly into Jackson Hole and rent a car, you’ll find plenty of local resources to help you along the way.

 

Drive #1: Best of Grand Teton and Yellowstone

Start: Jackson, WY (often called Jackson Hole)

The route: Take US-89 N to Moran, then northwest to Jackson Lake, continuing north to the south entrance of Yellowstone.  You’ll soon pass Lewis Lake and several waterfalls.  As time allows, continue on the park road to West Thumb and Upper geyser basin (where Old Faithful lies).

Highlights: This trip allows you to explore the Grand Teton range and Jackson Hole along with Yellowstone, our nation’s first national park. You’ll discover geysers, historic lodges, wildlife, alpine lakes, and more.

The first things you’ll notice, rising 13,000 feet into the sky, are the Tetons.  The drama of these peaks are in the contrast – they rise sharply from a horizon of shimmering lakes, braided river flows, thick forests, and alpine meadows.

 

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Scenic drive Sun Valley to Stanley

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Sun Valley to Stanley

Why You Need to Make the Scenic Drive from Sun Valley to Stanley

As you venture from Sun Valley to Stanley, you’ll experience how incredible our mountainous region truly is. Highway 75 is one of the most magnificent stretches of highway in the Midwest. On this scenic stretch, you’ll be surrounded by the Sawtooth National Forest and the breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains. Whether you have itinerary in mind or you just want drive and appreciate the beauty of our landscape, this 1-hour journey will be an outstanding addition to your family vacation!

Before planning your Sun Valley to Stanley, Idaho, trip, request 24-hour access to our free Online Vacation Guide! You’ll find our top recommendations for local restaurants, stunning beaches, and outdoor adventures. Our guide also features the rustic cabins and on-site amenities at Redfish Lake Lodge!

Things to See on Your Journey from Sun Valley to Stanley

With an array of wonderful activities to enjoy in Central Idaho, you’re sure to make the most of your time with us. On your trip from Sun Valley to Stanley, read over our local insights and find out everything you’ll see on this exciting expedition.

 

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Best Stanley, Idaho, Hot Springs

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Stanley, Idaho, Hot Springs

4 of the Best Stanley, Idaho, Hot Springs and Others in the Sawtooth Mountains

During your vacation at Redfish Lake Lodge, you need to find some time to relax amongst all your adventures. One of our favorite ways to do so is to soak in one of the Sawtooth Mountains or Stanley, Idaho, hot springs. Imagine laying in the warm water as your worries wash away! It’s one of the best ways to refresh and rejuvenate during your stay while still immersing yourself in nature.

After you plan a visit to one of these Stanley, Idaho, hot springs, plan the rest of your trip! Our area is filled with countless other wonderful attractions. For a complete list of handpicked, local recommendations, take a look at our complimentary Vacation Guide. This valuable resource has helped so many travelers plan unforgettable trips to Idaho, so get a copy today!

4 of the Best Stanley, Idaho, Hot Springs and Others in the Sawtooth Mountains

Challis Hot Springs

A visit to the Challis Hot Springs will be well worth the hour and a half drive; you will leave feeling completely relaxed. There are two thermal pools here: the Large Pool and the Therapy Pool. The Large Pool is regulated to 00-102 degrees Fahrenheit for comfortable swimming. The Therapy Pool is unregulated; it is usually anywhere from 105 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors over the age of 18 can get a day pass for just $10!

 

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Visit the Sawtooth Mountains

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When Is the Best Time to Visit the Sawtooth Mountains?

Anyone that has fallen in love with Central Idaho will say that there is no bad time to visit. The stunning landscape is awe-inspiring at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit the Sawtooth Mountains really depends on what you would like to do here. From snowy winters to sunny summers, there is something here for everyone. Make sure you get a copy of our complimentary Vacation Guide to discover all there is to see and do in Central Idaho!

Get the Guide

Weather Throughout the Year

The most important thing to consider when deciding the best time to visit the Sawtooth Mountains is that the weather varies drastically. Just because daytime temperatures are in the eighties does not mean that they won’t drop to a brisk 48°F at night. The difference between summer and winter varies even more; summer days can be in the eighties while winter can be expected to be below freezing. No matter when you decide to visit, it is always important to keep an eye on the weather and pack layers for the changes in temperature.

We Know the Best Time to Visit the Sawtooth Mountains

Silver Cloud ExpeditionsSummer

Weather

If you want to stay at Redfish Lake Lodge, summer is the time for you! Our lodge is open during the summer months for optimal warm weather. If you’re looking for warm temperatures, consider visiting sometime between June and September. You’ll get to enjoy temperatures in the seventies and eighties during the day. If you would like the warmest time possible, visit during July. You’ll be treated to 80+°F!

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Sawtooth Scenic Byway

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5 Top Stops on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway

When you travel to Idaho, both visitors and locals alike love the natural beauty of our area. In fact, one of the best ways to enjoy views of our region is by hopping in your car and just taking a drive. Peaceful meadows, towering mountains, and views of rolling rivers enhance the drive down the Sawtooth Scenic Byway. Stretching 115.7 miles from Shoshone to Stanley, this two-lane road gives you the driver’s seat to piloting your adventure through the Sawtooth National Forest. This section of Idaho 75-N will make a wonderful addition to your vacation to Redfish Lake Lodge, Riverside Inn, or Triangle C Cabins!

Discover activities to enjoy, things to do, and the wonder of the Sawtooth Scenic Byway when you request unlimited access to our free Travel Guide. With directions and ratings, you’ll know the best places to stop in the region!

Sawtooth Scenic Byway: What You’ll See

Before you hit the road, consult the Sawtooth Scenic Byway map and get directions from our free Vacation Guide (link above). We also recommend packing a bag of refreshments, which you can buy from the General Store, before your departure. We hope you enjoy this winding road as much as we do!

Black Magic Canyon

This unusual canyon was carved over the years by the rushing Big Wood River in Shoshone. The remnants of this natural event are surreal, lava-rock sculptures. These create a magical, supernatural appearance for the eye and are a feature in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Bring your camera and capture the beauty of this place on your drive down the Sawtooth Scenic Byway.

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Pacific Crest Trail Association

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Thru-hiker FAQ

Photo by Stephanie White

Photo by Stephanie White

What’s the best time to start the Pacific Crest Trail?

Most northbound thru-hikers start the PCT in mid-April through early May. Southbound hikers generally start in late June through early July. Many people want to start early. Beware. Snow covers sections of the trail in the spring and early summer. In Southern California, dangerous stretches blanket the trail within the first 200 miles of the border. If you head into the Sierra too early, you’ll face significant snow and stream crossing obstacles. In Washington, steep, risky snow slopes turn PCT travel into mountaineering well into early July. Learn more about when to hike the PCT.

Late starts also present problems. Southern California can be dangerously hot and your safety may be at risk. If you’re starting late and plan to do the whole trail as a thru-hike, you’ll face other problems. Are you fit and lucky enough to be able to sustain endurance power-hiking? Will winter shut down travel before you are done?

We recommend studying the conditions and starting around the “usual window” of opportunity.

How long does a PCT thru-hike take?

The trail is 2,650 miles and it generally takes the entire snow-free season to walk. That’s about 5 months. Elite athletes who are experienced on the PCT have finished the trail in as little as two months. The few who achieve sub-100 day hikes average well over 30 miles per day. That’s an incredible achievement. More average hikers take the entire season. Whether they’re out for 4.5 months or 5.5 depends on small differences in daily mileage and time off in towns. Rarely, people successfully stay on the trail for six or more months. Beware that extended itineraries generally include snow travel or extensive time waiting for it to melt. Frequently, people that are on the trail during the wrong season have to quit due to dangerous snow conditions. Being on the trail during early winter snows can be deadly.

 

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Here are 14 reasons why you should fish during fall

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Cool weather makes conditions prime for trout fishing and more

For many Idahoans, feeling cool morning air and seeing hints of red and gold in the forest means it’s time to lace up the boots and grab a gun or bow for hunting season, but don’t overlook fall fishing. That cool weather means many fish are re-energized after their summer slumbers and ready to eat like bears fattening up for winter.

man fishing in a river with Fall colors wide shot small photo

Creative Commons Licence
IDFG

Fall fishing may be overshadowed by Idaho’s hunting season, but it’s not an either/or proposition. Idaho is famous for its “cast and blast” opportunities, and if you’re not a hunter, it’s also a great time to experience your favorite fishing spots when there are likely fewer people there.

Most rivers are also running low and more easily accessible than during high water, and anglers shouldn’t overlook lakes and reservoirs, either. While some are near their lowest water level of the year and may be sporting extra vegetation, cooler water means the fish become more active, and they’ve probably gained a few inches or ounces since spring.

Fish and Game’s fish stocking crews also return to many local ponds and other nearby waters that become too warm for trout during summer. It’s a great opportunity to squeeze in some fishing time without traveling far from home.

 

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The 10 Best Ski Resorts in the US

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2020 10 Best Ski Resorts in the US

 

1. BRECKENRIDGE

Known for

Most popular resort in Colorado, voted one of the best ski towns in the US

Highlights

  • Vibrant ski town with great apres ski
  • Diverse range of lodgings from affordable to lavishly high end
  • Award-winning terrain parks
  • Big crowds are a pain

Closest airports

Denver Intl. Airport – 104 mi (2.5 hour drive)
breckenridge ski resort
Breck in a snapshot

Breckenridge is an extremely popular ski destination with a bustling historic town and laid-back vibe. It’s undoubtedly an awesome mountain to ride, but it can also get frustratingly crowded. This isn’t surprising given all the things Breck has going for it; affordable lodging, an abundance of slopes and North America’s highest lift. The town atmosphere is fun and relaxed, plus there are a ton of shopping, dining, and drinking options to choose from. Accommodation options here are varied and plentiful, with hundreds of hotels and thousands of condo units to stay in. With so much to offer, Breck makes for a great ski resort that suits all budgets.

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5 FAVORITE SNOWSHOE HIKES IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

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Vigorous yet gentle exercise, beautiful views, peaceful wilderness, low-cost gear—these are all reasons to enjoy snowshoeing.

12 Best Snowshoeing Spots in Montreal

Sherman Pass Loop (Advanced)

At 5,575 feet of elevation, Sherman Pass is Washington State’s highest mountain pass that’s open year-round, according to Recreation.gov. Since no avalanche advisories are available for this area, Sherman Pass is recommended for experienced users who know survival skills and are educated about assessing avalanche risk.

Located in the Colville National Forest, east of the town of Republic, the Kettle Crest Trailhead begins just off Highway 20 (Sherman Pass Scenic Byway), and connects with Kettle Crest South Trail #13 to create a 6-mile loop, with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. “It’s a gorgeous area,” says Mark Beattie, Mountain Gear’s assistant store manager with over 40 years of snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, telemark skiing, and Nordic skiing experience. You’ll likely see backcountry skiers enjoying this area as well.

Beattie recommends visiting Snow Peak Cabin, located south of the summit—a one-room cabin open year-round that’s available for overnight reservations through the recreation.gov website. Before you go, check pass driving conditions at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website. A Washington State Sno-Parks permit is required for parking. For more hike details, visit wta.org.

 

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How to Prepare for a Ski Trip

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Your first ski or snowboarding trip is going to be exciting, but it should also involve some preparation and smart packing choices. Here are some useful tips how to prepare for a ski trip, that I have discovered myself during my snowboarding trips to Italy. These might make your trip even better than it’s already going to be.

So, you have chosen your ski resort and booked a nice accommodation next to it. What’s next?

How to Prepare for a Ski Trip

Getting in Shape before a ski trip

Snowboarding or skiing trips will require quite a lot of energy and will leave your muscles sore. This is probably something you can’t avoid. The better physical shape you’ll have, the longer you’ll be able to last on the slopes and enjoy the ride.

It doesn’t require any specific training to prepare for a ski trip. If you have a mountain near you, it’s good to ride couple of times before going the high mountains. Also do any kind of regular physical activities couple of months before the trip like jogging, gym, cycling or anything similar that you prefer. That will get your endurance levels up and you will thank yourself once on the mountain.

Of course while skiing or snowboarding you will choose your own amount of time that you are able to spend on slopes. But it’s always nice to prove yourself that you can do more that expected. Continue reading →