Dusty KleinExplorer

Sawtooth Lake is "must-see" for Idaho hikers or any outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Sawtooth National Forest. The five mile trek to the lake is made worthwhile by breathtaking, photogenic alpine lakes and the crisp, clean Idaho air. It's up to you whether to day hike the trail or to camp at the destination, but one thing is for certain: don't forget to bring your camera! From Boise, take Hwy ...

The Honeycombs Wilderness Area is one of those top secret spots that backpackers don't like to talk about in fear of it being revealed. The thing that makes this trip special is just that: isolation. The trailhead is just west of the Oregon/Idaho border but is best to approach from the Idaho side. It is strongly recommended to drive a high clearance vehicle as the road is dirt, bumpy, and slow...

The Coyote Yurts are a little known treasure within the Sawtooth National Forest. Built and maintained by Sun Valley Trekking, these yurts are equipped with everything you need for a weekend getaway during any season of the year. Adventurers who enjoy mountain biking and backcountry skiing will never forget the turns encountered from the Coyote Yurts and will surely be coming back again!The yur...

In just over an hour, you can leave downtown Boise and arrive above Arrowrock Reservoir in a location so unique that you won't believe you're still in Idaho. The South Fork of the Boise River provides excitement for campers, wildlife lovers, and outdoor goers. Although I just visited for the first time, it certainly won't be my last.To get to this particular spot, drive east on Hwy. 84 for abou...

Just south of the beautiful town of Stanley, Idaho lays one of coolest lakes in the region: Redfish Lake. Redfish is a banana shaped lake that boasts some of the most epic camping spots in all of Idaho. Using this area as home base, there's countless adventures within just a few miles. One of these adventures, the hike to Alpine Lake, starts just across the lake at the Redfish Inlet trailhead. ...

To find the falls, head north up Hwy. 101 past Brinnon, Washington and hang a left at Dosewallips Rd. Keep an eye on the mile markers. Right after mile three and crossing a small bridge, there's a parking area on the left side enough for about 6 cars.  The hike to Rocky Brook Falls is a short one and doesn't require much planning, effort, or time. From the parking area, cross the street (after...

The 0.3 mile hike to University Falls seems longer than it is because you'll be stopping to take pictures every step of the way. No, you're not in an enchanted forest, you're in the Tillamook National Forest. The waterfall you're about to find, however, certainly is enchanting. From Portland, head towards the coast range and turn left at Browns Camp. Immediately bear right and follow a gravel ...

Burgdorf, Idaho's backcountry oasis, features several rentable cabins located about 30 miles north of McCall. Each season provides its own outdoor opportunity, and Burgdorf provides an epic hub in which to enjoy them.To get there from Boise, drive through McCall and hang a right after the Shore Lodge. Follow Warren Wagon Road and signs for Burgdorf for about 30 miles. Part of Warren Wagon Road ...

Ski enthusiasts recognize Sun Valley for its notorious town and prestigious slopes. What tourists might not realize is that during the offseason, the area surrounding Ketchum is also home to a plethora of remarkable mountains waiting to be hiked and explored. Among these amazing hikes is Devil's Bedstead West, a 13-mile trek into the epicenter of various mountain ranges. Getting There From Ketc...

If you're looking for an all-around start-to-finish epic adventure, rafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon River arguably checks off more boxes than any other trip in the world. This adventure of a lifetime can be enjoyed two different ways: privately and commercially. We've been lucky enough to draw private permits the last two seasons, but if you're not as fortunate or aren't buddies with any ...

Alice Lake is a must-see, jaw-dropping alpine lake in the Sawtooth Wilderness. Whether it's a day hike or a multiple night backpacking trip, it surely won't disappoint. Put on the Idaho playlist, we're headed to Stanley! In Stanley, hang right at the T in the road and continue 17 miles south along Highway 75. Turn right at the sign for Pettit Lake and follow a gravel road for 2 more miles, thi...

The Sawtooths are known for its craggy shapes protruding from central Idaho. Although the hike to Thompson Peak isn't necessarily a rare or tremendously physical feat, it's a proud, boastful moment bagging the tallest peak in the range. Here's the scoop: To reach Redfish Trailhead, head south of Stanley for about 6 miles and follow signs for Redfish Lake. Just before the lodge there is a parki...

Soaking in Kirkham is like soaking in a dream. Numerous geothermal springs of varying temperature await at the bottom of a small wooden staircase. Hot water pours over the cliff into pools below and literally feels like a natural shower. If that's not enough, enjoy the rush and beauty of the Payette River beside you.From Boise, head north on Highway 21 through Idaho City and through Lowman. 5 m...

The trail to Stack Rock is a well maintained path that generates a lot of attention due to its special destination. The famed rock overlooks the City of Trees and surrounding Treasure Valley. This trek is popular among locals because of its proximity to the city and its spectacular views. Getting There From Boise, take Bogus Basin Road 13.1 miles to a small parking area just off of the road...

The Sawtooths are best enjoyed from within them; hundreds of trails lead through the wilderness to amazing alpine lakes and to the top of mountain peaks. That's not the only way you can capture the magic, however. Here are three consecutive spots in or close to Stanley (the "Gateway to the Sawtooths") that feature unobstructed views of the mountains, perfect for photographers chasing dramatic l...

This trek starts about 25 minutes from Ketchum, Idaho at the Hyndman Creek Trailhead. As a general rule of thumb, Sun Valley is a great place to be in the fall, and this adventure is no different. The hike itself follows the beautiful Hyndman Creek and is only about 3.5 miles, but the daunting statistic is the 1,000' elevation climb over the last three-quarters of a mile to the yurt. I'm warnin...

Idaho is known for its pristine rivers and countless geothermal pools. The Rocky Canyon Hot Springs epitomizes both of these and will leave you begging to stay. From Boise, hop in the car and head north, I'll see you in Crouch. Take Hwy. 55 to Banks, which doubles as a landmark town to remember to turn right off of 55 and also as a great lunch spot. Banks is dominated by kayakers and rafters an...

'Around the Mountain' is a local mountain bike favorite in Boise. To get there, head up Bogus Basin Road for the full 16 miles until you get to the ski parking lot. Park in the line of cars facing the ski slope. Once you've checked your bike and you're ready to ride, take the trail that begins just under the ski lift. This trail is called Deer Point. Deer Point climbs for a ways before reaching...

The secret is out about Idaho's plethora of hot springs... but this one truly is special. It's highlighted by a warm waterfall that pours into a pool on the banks of the Payette. These springs are only about an hour and a half drive from Boise. To get there from the City of Trees, head north on Hwy. 55 towards McCall and hang a right on Banks Lowman Highway. 28 short and beautiful miles later,...