It's 2.1 million acres and sits right in our backyard here in Idaho. Travel + Leisure named Sawtooth National Forest one of the most beautiful places in the United States. The Peaks, the Water, and the endless trails -- we know it as one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and now everyone else does.
The Sawtooth Range sure doesn't mess around. Those jagged summits are so cool; they cut through the sky like sharks' teeth. Did you know that there are over 40 lakes in the Sawtooth National Forest? I had no idea. The beautiful, clear, blue water is mesmerizing.
The Sawtooth National Forest has over 700 miles of trails with trails near meadows and streams. Alpine Lake and Redfish Lake Trails are some of the most popular. Can't forget about the whitewater rafting on the Salmon River. Interested in rock climbing? Rumor has it there's plenty of opportunity for you to do that as well. Skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are also options in the Sawtooth National Forest.
As spring kicks off, you get the wildflowers throughout the meadows, which are purple, yellow, and white. Summer gives you the chance to jump into those crystal clear lake swims, hike, and experience the perfect summer weather for camping or kayaking. The Fall in the Sawtooths turns the colors into this really cool golden and orange backdrop that looks like something out of National Geographic, which I'm sure has happened.