Settings -
£
$
¥
$
¥
HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesWest USAIdahoSawtooth
wilderness-g331a739d6_1920.jpg

Sawtooth Road Trip

Boise - Stanley - Shoshone - Twin Falls

Expect on your itinerary

Security Security
Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Sawtooth Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages4 km654 h/stage2.0

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Sawtooth Road Trip in Idaho?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 135EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 242EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 546EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 681EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 162EUR drive & more 113EUR sleep & more 352EUR eat & more 324EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 789EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 951EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 270EUR drive & more 163EUR sleep & more 594EUR eat & more 432EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,189EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,459EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 675EUR drive & more 175EUR sleep & more 165EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 556EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,231EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
Share this link.

Sawtooth Road Trip Itinerary

The Sawtooth Road Trip is an unforgettable journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Starting in Boise, Idaho, the trip covers a distance of 654km and is best done over three days. The Sawtooth Road Trip takes you through the towns of Stanley, Shoshone, and Twin Falls, all of which offer unique attractions and sights. Stanley is home to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and is a great place to hike and mountain bike. Shoshone is a small town with a rich history, and Twin Falls boasts a beautiful waterfall, the Shoshone Falls. The best time to take the Sawtooth Road Trip is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition. The scenery along the route is stunning, and the experience provides a high level of enjoyment. The trip can be completed with a moderate budget and is suitable for all drivers.
number of days 3 number of days
route length 654 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Boise

Distance 654 km Driving time 8.1 h Pace: fast 196.1 kWh Airports BOI
[detailsContainer]
Boise is an excellent starting point for the Sawtooth Road Trip. Located in the southwestern part of the United States, it is the largest city in Idaho and the capital of the state. The city is known for its outdoor attractions, including the Boise River Greenbelt, Boise Foothills, and the Boise National Forest. There are many parks, lakes, and rivers to explore, as well as the Idaho Botanical Garden and the World Center for Birds of Prey. The Boise Art Museum, the Discovery Center of Idaho, and the Zoo Boise are some of the city's cultural attractions. There are several shopping areas, including the Boise Towne Square Mall and the Boise Spectrum. For international travelers, the closest international airport is Boise Airport (BOI). Car rental services are available at the airport. From Boise, travelers can drive north to visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a stunningly scenic area with alpine lakes and peaks, hot springs, and waterfalls. There are also several hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and other outdoor activities. Boise is a great place to start a Sawtooth Road Trip. From here, travelers can explore the stunning natural beauty of Idaho and the surrounding area. With its many attractions and outdoor activities, Boise is an ideal starting point for an unforgettable road trip.

1 Boise - Stanley

Distance 209 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 62.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for the most amazing road trip ever? Start your journey in Boise, the capital of Idaho, and drive 130 miles to Stanley. Along the way, you'll find plenty of interesting places to explore. In Boise, you can visit the Idaho State Capitol, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, and the Boise Art Museum. As you drive, you'll pass through the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, where you can take in the stunning views of the Sawtooth Mountains. Once you reach Stanley, you'll be able to explore the Sawtooth National Forest, the Redfish Lake, and the Sawtooth Wilderness. This journey is one of the stages of a larger tour, and it will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!

2 Stanley - Shoshone

Distance 186 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 55.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing 116mi road trip from Stanley to Shoshone? This is one of the most exciting stages of your tour! Your journey starts in Stanley, a beautiful city surrounded by the Sawtooth Mountains. Here, you can visit the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and go for a hike to the Alpine Lake or take a boat ride on Redfish Lake. As you continue your journey, you will pass through the small town of Clayton, where you can take a break and explore the historical sites. Your final destination is Shoshone, where you can admire the majestic Shoshone Falls, the highest waterfall in the state of Idaho. You can also take a walk along the Snake River and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Your journey will take fewer than 3 hours and you'll be able to explore some of the most beautiful places in Idaho. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

3 Shoshone - Twin Falls

Distance 43 km Driving time 0.5 h Pace: fast 13.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to your road trip stage from Shoshone to Twin Falls! This 27mi journey will take you less than one hour, so sit back and enjoy the ride! In Shoshone, you can visit the Shoshone Falls, which was once called the "Niagara of the West" and is one of the most spectacular sights in Idaho. You can also explore the Thousand Springs State Park, which is located along the Snake River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. When you reach Twin Falls, you can visit the stunning Shoshone Falls again, which is now known as the "Niagara of the West". You can also explore the Snake River Canyon, which is a breathtaking natural wonder and offers some of the most spectacular views in the area. These are just some of the highlights of this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Twin Falls - Boise

Distance 215 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 64.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Starting in Twin Falls and ending in Boise, this 134mi journey will take you fewer than 3 hours. Your first stop should be Shoshone Falls, a breathtaking waterfall that is often referred to as the “Niagara of the West”. Then, head to Thousand Springs State Park, where you can explore the lush nature and take a dip in the springs. After that, make sure to visit the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area and the Malad Gorge State Park, where you can see the amazing Malad Gorge. Finally, you will reach Boise, the capital of Idaho. Here, you can explore the city’s vibrant culture and visit the Boise Art Museum and the Old Idaho Penitentiary. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile path along the river. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your journey!

  Boise

[detailsContainer]
Boise, Idaho is the perfect ending to the Sawtooth Road Trip. Located in the south-west of the United States, Boise is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. Situated in the Boise Valley, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains while exploring the city's diverse culture. The Boise River Greenbelt is a great place to start your journey. This 25 mile ribbon of parkland along the Boise River takes you through the city and is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. For a taste of the city's culture, visit the Boise Art Museum. This museum features traveling exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection with more than 3,000 pieces of art. The Idaho Black History Museum is also a must-see, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's past. If you're a fan of the outdoors, Boise has plenty to offer. Spend a day at the Bogus Basin Ski Resort, go for a hike in the foothills of the Boise Mountains, or take a kayak tour of the Boise River. Finish your trip with a visit to the World Center for Birds of Prey. This center works to save endangered birds of prey from extinction and also offers guided tours of their facility. Boise is the perfect place to end your Sawtooth Road Trip. The nearest international airport is Boise Airport (BOI) and is conveniently located just outside the city.

Sawtooth Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the Sawtooth Scenic Byway for a breathtaking 654km Road Trip through Idaho's unparalleled landscapes, launching from the vibrant capital city of Boise. With a span of three days, this immersive journey not only highlights the state's exquisite natural beauty but also guides you through quaint towns brimming with attractions, history, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Stanley: Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Stanley is a haven for adventurers, offering unrivaled hiking trails, pristine mountain biking paths, and the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Sawtooth Mountains.
  • Shoshone: Step into the past and uncover Shoshone's rich historical tapestry. This town is more than a stop; it's a glimpse into Idaho's cultural heritage.
  • Twin Falls: Gaze upon the majestic Shoshone Falls, soaring higher than Niagara Falls at 65 meters (212 feet), earning it the moniker `Niagara of the West.` Don't miss the Perrine Bridge for BASE jumping excitement and stunning canyon views.

Best Time to Go:

The prime time for the Sawtooth Road Trip is the summer season when the weather is inviting, and the Roads are in their best condition. This period is perfect for soaking in the vistas and indulging in various outdoor pursuits, from fishing in crystal-clear rivers to exploring mountain trails.

Potential Risks:

Voyagers should stay vigilant for abrupt weather shifts and the possibility of wildlife on the Roads. It’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition to navigate the varying elevations and terrains confidently.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • This excursion is accessible to drivers with varying experience levels, offering a balance of adventure and relaxation without breaking the bank.
  • Be prepared with garments suited for mountain climates—even during the summer—as temperatures can fluctuate unexpectedly.
  • To secure accommodations and avoid the crowds, it's wise to book lodgings ahead of time, particularly when traveling during the high tourist season.

A good choice for:

For those yearning to plunge into the heart of Idaho's wilderness and savor the quaint allure of its small towns, the Sawtooth Road Trip is an essential experience. With strategic planning and the spirit of exploration, this trek promises a wealth of memories and the joy of discovering the great American outdoors.

Facts for safer driving in Idaho

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

Recommended trips

North USA Road Trip North USA Road Trip
North USA Road Trip
North America - United States
8,468 km 86 km/h 25 days roadtrip
Pioneer Byway Panoramic Road Pioneer Byway Panoramic Road
Pioneer Byway Panoramic Road
North America - United States
184 km 73 km/h 1 days scenic
Desert to the Rockies Road Trip Desert to the Rockies Road Trip
Desert to the Rockies Road Trip
North America - United States
3,201 km 83 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Mesa Falls & Swan Valley Panoramic Road Mesa Falls & Swan Valley Panoramic Road
Mesa Falls & Swan Valley Panoramic Road
North America - United States
212 km 74 km/h 1 days scenic
Northwest Passage Road Trip Northwest Passage Road Trip
Northwest Passage Road Trip
North America - United States
350 km 76 km/h 2 days scenic
Oregon Trail on US 20 Road Trip Oregon Trail on US 20 Road Trip
Oregon Trail on US 20 Road Trip
North America - United States
5,426 km 77 km/h 21 days roadtrip