Discover Idaho’s Alpine Lakes

Idaho is a paradise for adventurers, and while its mountains and rivers are well-known, the state’s alpine lakes remain some of its most secluded and breathtaking treasures. Nestled high in the rugged backcountry, these pristine lakes offer a tranquil escape for those willing to brave the challenging hikes and remote locations. For the adventurous soul, exploring Idaho’s alpine lakes promises a rewarding experience filled with stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and the serenity of nature untouched by crowds. Here are 20 alpine lakes to put on your adventure radar.

Sawtooth Lake

Sawtooth Lake, located deep within the Sawtooth Wilderness, is one of Idaho’s most iconic alpine lakes. The hike to this stunning destination is challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views of jagged peaks reflecting in the clear waters. At over 8,000 feet, Sawtooth Lake provides a truly alpine experience, with snow-capped mountains surrounding the serene waters.

The 10-mile round-trip hike is not for the faint of heart, but those who make the journey are rewarded with unparalleled views. The lake is a popular spot for backpackers and day hikers, offering plenty of secluded spots to relax and soak in the beauty of Idaho’s wilderness.

Alice Lake – A Pristine Gem in the Heart of the Sawtooth Wilderness

Alice Lake is another gem tucked away in the Sawtooth Wilderness. It’s known for its breathtaking beauty and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by towering peaks, the lake is an idyllic destination for those looking to experience Idaho’s rugged alpine terrain. The hike to Alice Lake is challenging, but the views along the way make every step worth it.

The lake’s pristine waters are ideal for a refreshing dip after a long hike, and the surrounding meadows are ideal for setting up camp and enjoying a night under the stars. For those seeking an adventure, Alice Lake offers an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Redfish Lake – A Favorite for Boating and Backpacking

Redfish Lake is one of Idaho’s most popular alpine lakes, and for good reason. Located near Stanley, this stunning lake offers something for everyone, from boating and fishing to hiking and backpacking. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks, creating a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor adventure.

For the more adventurous, several trails lead from the lake into the heart of the Sawtooth Wilderness, offering access to even more remote alpine lakes and rugged terrain. Whether adventurers are paddling across the calm waters or hiking into the wilderness, Redfish Lake is a must-visit for any adventurer.

Twin Lakes – A Hidden Treasure in the Boulder Mountains

Twin Lakes, located in the remote Boulder Mountains, offers a more secluded alpine experience for those seeking solitude. The two lakes sit side by side, surrounded by towering granite peaks and lush meadows. The hike to Twin Lakes is steep and challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort.

The crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings make Twin Lakes a prime spot for fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the peace of Idaho’s wilderness. The rugged beauty of the Boulder Mountains makes this one of the most scenic alpine lakes in the state.

Upper Payette Lake – A Remote Gem in the Payette National Forest

Upper Payette Lake, located deep within the Payette National Forest, is a hidden gem for adventurous souls. The lake’s remote location makes it less crowded than many of Idaho’s other alpine lakes, offering a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The lake is surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, fishing, and camping. The area is also home to abundant wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers. Upper Payette Lake is a true hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Lake Cleveland – A High-Altitude Haven in the Albion Mountains

Lake Cleveland, located high in the Albion Mountains near the border with Utah, is a stunning alpine lake that offers a peaceful escape from the summer heat. The lake is nestled at over 8,000 feet, surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows. The cool, clear waters make it a prime spot for swimming, fishing, or relaxing by the shore.

The area surrounding Lake Cleveland is also home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For those seeking a high-altitude adventure, Lake Cleveland is a must-visit destination.

Blue Lake – A Remote Adventure in the Lemhi Range

Blue Lake, located in the remote Lemhi Range, is a hidden gem for those seeking a true wilderness adventure. The lake’s deep blue waters surround rugged cliffs and alpine meadows, creating a stunning and serene landscape. The hike to Blue Lake is challenging, with steep climbs and rocky terrain, but the views are well worth the effort.

Blue Lake’s remote location means it’s often less crowded than other alpine lakes, offering a peaceful and secluded experience. Whether you’re fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, It’s an optimal destination for adventurous souls.

Boulder Lake – A Stunning Alpine Escape

Boulder Lake, located in the Payette National Forest, is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. The hike to the lake is relatively short but steep, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are optimal for swimming or fishing, and the surrounding meadows provide a peaceful spot for picnicking or camping.

The area around Boulder Lake is also home to several hiking trails that lead to other nearby lakes and scenic viewpoints. For those seeking an alpine adventure close to McCall, Boulder Lake is a excellent destination.

Imogene Lake – A Hidden Treasure in the Sawtooth Wilderness

Imogene Lake is one of the most remote and beautiful alpine lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness. The hike to the lake is long and challenging, but the reward is a stunningly pristine lake surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows. The lake’s remote location means it’s often less crowded than other popular spots, offering a peaceful and serene wilderness experience.

The surrounding area is home to several other alpine lakes, making it an optimal destination for multi-day backpacking trips. Whether you’re fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the beauty of the wilderness, Imogene Lake offers an unforgettable adventure for those willing to make the journey.

Bench Lakes – A Series of Alpine Wonders

The Bench Lakes, located near Redfish Lake, are a series of stunning alpine lakes that offer a peaceful and scenic escape for hikers and backpackers. The trail to the lakes is relatively moderate, making it accessible to many adventurers. Each lake offers its own unique beauty, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.

The Bench Lakes are a popular destination for day hikes and overnight camping trips. Their serene surroundings and stunning views make them a must-visit for anyone exploring Idaho’s alpine wilderness.

Goat Lake – A Strenuous Journey to Idaho’s Highest Alpine Lake

Goat Lake, located high in the Sawtooth Mountains, is Idaho’s highest alpine lake and offers a challenging but rewarding adventure for those willing to make the trek. The hike to Goat Lake is steep and rugged, with sections scrambling over rocks and boulders, but the stunning views at the top make it all worthwhile.

The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and alpine meadows, creating a breathtakingly beautiful setting. The clear, cold waters are ideal for a refreshing dip after a challenging hike, and the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for camping and exploring.

Josephine Lake – A Hidden Gem in the Selkirk Mountains

Josephine Lake, located in the remote Selkirk Mountains near the Canadian border, is a hidden gem that offers a true wilderness experience. The hike to the lake is long and challenging, but the stunning scenery makes it a journey worth taking. The lake is surrounded by rugged peaks and dense forests, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

The area around Josephine Lake is home to abundant wildlife, including moose, deer, and bears, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the solitude of the wilderness, Josephine Lake offers an unforgettable alpine adventure.

Mirror Lake – A Reflective Beauty in the White Cloud Mountains

Mirror Lake, located in the White Cloud Mountains, is aptly named for its stunningly reflective waters. The lake’s crystal-clear surface mirrors the surrounding peaks, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. The hike to Mirror Lake is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

The lake is a popular destination for backpackers and day hikers, offering plenty of secluded spots for camping and fishing. The surrounding area is home to several other alpine lakes, making it a serene destination for multi-day adventures in the White Cloud Mountains.

Hidden Lake – A Secluded Escape in the Pioneer Mountains

Hidden Lake, located in the remote Pioneer Mountains, is a secluded alpine lake that offers a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude. The hike to the lake is challenging, with steep climbs and rocky terrain, but the reward is a stunningly beautiful lake surrounded by rugged peaks and alpine meadows.

The lake’s remote location is often less crowded than other popular spots, offering a tranquil wilderness experience. Whether you’re fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Hidden Lake is a optimal destination for adventurous souls.

Blue Heart Springs – A Desert Oasis

Though not technically an alpine lake, Blue Heart Springs offers a unique and stunning water adventure. Located along the Snake River near Hagerman, these springs form a striking blue pool with crystalline clarity. Surrounded by canyon walls, the contrast of the desert landscape with the spring’s vivid colors is an extraordinary sight.

Adventurers can reach the springs by kayak or boat, paddling along the Snake River to this secluded spot. The water is refreshingly cool, and the clarity is excellent for snorkeling or relaxing in this hidden desert oasis. Blue Heart Springs is an ideal destination for those seeking a water adventure unlike any other in Idaho.

Stanley Lake – A Scenic Alpine Retreat

Stanley Lake, located near the town of Stanley, is a scenic alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and boating, and there are plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The surrounding area is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains.

The lake’s calm waters and peaceful surroundings make it an excellent destination for those searching to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether paddling across the lake or hiking into the wilderness, Stanley Lake offers a serene and beautiful alpine retreat.

Hell Roaring Lake – A Hidden Gem in the Sawtooths

Hell Roaring Lake, located deep in the Sawtooth Wilderness, is a hidden gem for adventurous hikers and backpackers. The hike to the lake is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of rugged peaks and alpine meadows. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings make it an optimal spot for camping and fishing.

The area around Hell Roaring Lake is also home to several other alpine lakes, making it an excellent destination for multi-day backpacking trips. Whether adventurers seeking solitude or adventure, Hell Roaring Lake offers an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Upper Priest Lake – A Remote Wilderness Adventure

Upper Priest Lake, located in the northern reaches of Idaho near the Canadian border, is a remote alpine lake that offers a true wilderness adventure. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, creating a stunningly beautiful and serene setting. The area is only accessible by boat or hiking, making it an fantastic destination for those seeking solitude.

The lake is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and wildlife watching, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness. Upper Priest Lake offers a peaceful and secluded escape for adventurous souls looking to experience Idaho’s rugged beauty.

Williams Lake – A Quiet Retreat in the Salmon-Challis National Forest

Williams Lake, located in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, is a quiet, peaceful alpine lake that offers a serene retreat for those seeking to escape the crowds. The lake is surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, creating a serene and beautiful setting. The area is famous for fishing, camping, and hiking, with several trails leading to other nearby lakes and scenic viewpoints.

Whether fishing from the shore, paddling across the calm waters, or simply relaxing in the peaceful surroundings, Williams Lake offers a tranquil and beautiful alpine retreat. The surrounding wilderness provides plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.