Sawtooth begins in Shoshone, which is 25 miles north of Twin Falls in central Idaho. It heads north through national forest land and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and ends in Stanley. The 116-mile route follows ID 75, a two-lane paved road safe for travel by all types of vehicles. Five to six percent grades are encountered from Galena Summit to Stanley. The byway remains open year-round but extra caution should be used during winter. Sixty-one miles are officially designated a National Forest Scenic Byway.
Beginning in Idaho’s high desert region, the byway climbs north along the scenic Wood River, passes through the forested landscape of Sawtooth National Forest, crosses Galena Summit at 8,701 feet, and then descends to Stanley. The overlook near Galena Summit provides panoramic views into the Sawtooth Mountains and wilderness area.
The Shoshone Ice Caves are natural lava tubes in which air currents have formed striking ice sculptures. The caves are located 90 feet below the earth’s surface and maintain a year-round temperature below freezing. Guided tours of the ice caves are offered during the summer.
A visitor center for the 756,000-acre Sawtooth National Recreation Area is located north of Ketchum and is open year-round. Visitors will find information and exhibits here. This vast recreation area offers numerous opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking, backpacking, fishing, and bicycling.
The Sawtooth National Forest also offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, and hiking. Several public campgrounds have been developed along the byway as well as within the national forest.