Lakes in Idaho

Location:

Sawtooth Wilderness, Central Idaho

Highlights:

If you’re craving high alpine views and pristine mountain air, Alice Lake is your kind of adventure. Tucked deep in the Sawtooth Mountains at 8,600 feet, it’s a hike-in paradise with jagged peaks, meandering creeks, and pure backcountry serenity.

Recommended For:

Backpackers, serious hikers, nature photographers, and outdoor lovers looking for iconic Idaho scenery far from the crowds.

What we Love:

The shimmering (and often frozen) alpine lake, surrounded by rugged granite peaks, whispering forests, and a peaceful remoteness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

• Hike through the Sawtooth Wilderness to reach Alice Lake, the largest lake in the area and one of its most photographed spots.
• Admire creeks, wildflowers, and dramatic mountain views along the trail—this is Idaho wilderness at its most cinematic.
• Camp at one of the designated backcountry sites for an overnight experience under the stars, or plan a day hike if you’re up for a challenge.
• Note: Water-based sports aren’t allowed, and the lake stays frozen into summer—but it’s perfect for peaceful reflection and backcountry exploration.

Cost:

Free with required wilderness permit (self-issued at the trailhead).

Best time to visit:

Late summer (July–September) for clear trails, snow-free lakes, and optimal hiking conditions.

Local tips:

Prepare for changing mountain weather, carry bear-safe food storage, and start early if doing the out-and-back in a single day—it’s a strenuous 11-mile round trip.

Distance:

2 hours and 30 minutes from Boise, ID to the Pettit Lake Trailhead.

How to Get to Alice Lake:

From Boise, head east on I-84, then take US-20 through Fairfield and ID-75 North through Sun Valley. Turn at Pettit Lake Road and drive to the Pettit Lake Trailhead, where the hike to Alice Lake begins. Trail signage is well-marked.

Address:

Alice Lake, Sawtooth Wilderness, Idaho

Location:

Sawtooth Valley, 21 miles south of Stanley, ID

Highlights:

Looking for the perfect all-season alpine escape? Alturas Lake offers pristine scenery, easy access, and everything from summer hikes to winter ski trails—all in the heart of Idaho’s Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

Recommended For:

Families, photographers, anglers, birdwatchers, hikers, cross-country skiers, and nature lovers seeking year-round recreation with spectacular mountain views.

What we Love:

The clear blue lake ringed by forested peaks, easy-access shoreline trails, and the variety of seasonal outdoor fun—from kayaking in summer to Nordic skiing in winter.

• Discover Alturas Lake, the second-largest lake in the Sawtooth NRA, with a peaceful, less-crowded vibe than nearby Redfish Lake.
• Enjoy easy lakeshore access, multiple campgrounds, and rustic private camps—perfect for weekend getaways or family vacations.
• Fish the lake’s crystal-clear waters, or go birdwatching along the marshy edges where osprey, ducks, and songbirds thrive.
• Explore nearby hiking and biking trails in summer, or hit the groomed Nordic ski trails in winter—some of the best in the Stanley Basin.

Cost:

Free day-use; campground fees vary by site.

Best time to visit:

Summer (June–September) for water and trail activities; winter (December–March) for cross-country skiing on groomed terrain.

Local tips:

Bring layers—the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Early mornings are best for birdwatching and peaceful paddling. In winter, check grooming reports before heading out.

Distance:

3 hours from Boise, ID.

How to Get to Alturas Lake:

From Boise, take ID-21 North to Stanley, then head south on ID-75 for about 21 miles. Look for the clearly marked turnoff to Alturas Lake Road. Follow this road to the lake access and campgrounds.

Address:

Alturas Lake, Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho

Romantic Lakes

Location:

Near the city of American Falls, ID

Highlights:

Looking for a wide-open lake with room for every kind of outdoor fun? American Falls Reservoir spans over 56,000 acres and offers some of the best year-round water and land recreation in southern Idaho.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, campers, families, hikers, and birdwatchers—basically anyone who loves a big, beautiful water-based playground with plenty of space to explore.

What we Love:

Massive shoreline, calm coves, abundant fish, and scenic surroundings make this reservoir a go-to destination for both action and relaxation.

• Boat across the expansive reservoir—there’s plenty of room for pleasure cruising, kayaking, water-skiing, and more.
• Fish from docks or boats for species like rainbow trout, bass, and perch—this is one of the area’s best angling spots.
• Swim or paddle near designated access areas in summer, or just unwind by the water with a lakeside picnic.
• Explore scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, or backpacking with great views and wildlife sightings.

Cost:

Free day use at many sites; camping and boat ramp fees may vary by location.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for water sports; year-round for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Local tips:

Pack sunscreen and wind layers—the reservoir is wide open and weather can shift quickly. Campgrounds and boat ramps can fill up fast on summer weekends.

Distance:

1 hour and 15 minutes from Pocatello, ID.

How to Get to American Falls Reservoir:

From Pocatello, take I-86 West to Exit 40 for American Falls. Follow signs to the reservoir access points—several parks and boat ramps are located along the northern and eastern shores.

Address:

American Falls Reservoir, near American Falls, ID 83211

Location:

South Fork Boise River, southwest Idaho

Highlights:

If you're looking for a lake that offers adventure in every season, Anderson Ranch Reservoir is a perfect pick. Just under two hours from Boise, this 4,730-acre reservoir blends scenic beauty with top-tier recreation, from summer boating to winter snowmobiling.

Recommended For:

Boaters, campers, snowmobilers, anglers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want options for every season.

What we Love:

Endless shoreline for water play, 380 miles of trails for land lovers, and stunning mountain scenery no matter when you visit.

• Boat, water-ski, or wakeboard across wide open waters, with several launch ramps and quiet coves for cruising or anchoring.
• Fish for trout, bass, kokanee salmon, and perch—this is a top-rated spot in Idaho’s fishing planner.
• Camp lakeside with your choice of rustic or modern sites—many with great water access and views.
• Explore by bike, horse, or foot on hundreds of miles of scenic trails that wind through rugged hills and forested ridges.
• Visit in winter to enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing across frozen landscapes.

Cost:

Day use is free; campground fees vary. Some boat launches may require a small fee.

Best time to visit:

June–September for lake activities; December–March for snow-based fun.

Local tips:

Bring your own gear—services are available but limited in remote areas. Summer weekends can get busy, so aim for midweek visits for serenity.

Distance:

1 hour and 45 minutes from Boise, ID.

How to Get to Anderson Ranch Reservoir:

From Boise, take I-84 East to Mountain Home, then follow ID-20 East. Turn left on Forest Road 61 and follow signs to Anderson Ranch Dam. Boat launches and campgrounds are located along the reservoir’s eastern and northern shores.

Address:

Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Elmore County, ID 83617

Lakes for Families

Location:

At the confluence of the main and South Fork Boise River, 30 minutes from Boise, ID

Highlights:

If you want wide-open water without the crowds, Arrowrock Reservoir is your go-to. Just a quick drive from Boise, it’s a historic and tranquil destination for boating, fishing, and lakeside camping in a stunning canyon setting.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, weekend campers, water-skiers, and anyone seeking solitude on the water with mountain views.

What we Love:

Serene waters perfect for powerboating and wakeboarding, prime fishing spots, and a refreshing sense of quiet just outside the city.

• Explore 3,141 acres of clear, calm water with a max depth of 260 feet—ideal for all kinds of boating and water sports.
• Fish in one of the Boise area’s most peaceful reservoirs, known for trout and other freshwater species.
• Camp along the shoreline with simple sites that allow for easy access to the water and beautiful canyon views.
• Escape the crowds—this reservoir is less trafficked than others nearby, making it a perfect nature retreat.

Cost:

Free day-use access; fees may apply at some campgrounds or boat ramps.

Best time to visit:

May through October for water recreation; early mornings or weekdays for the quietest experience.

Local tips:

Pack your own food, water, and fuel—facilities are minimal. Some shoreline roads are gravel or dirt, so check conditions before heading out with trailers or RVs.

Distance:

30 minutes from Boise, ID.

How to Get to Arrowrock Reservoir:

From Boise, take ID-21 North, then turn right on Arrowrock Road. Follow the winding road along the river to reach access points, campsites, and boat launches along the reservoir’s edge.

Address:

Arrowrock Reservoir, Boise County, ID

Location:

Straddling the Idaho–Utah border

Highlights:

Craving clear turquoise waters without leaving the mountain west? Bear Lake is your dream escape. Often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” this stunning freshwater lake offers vibrant scenery and year-round recreation from both Idaho and Utah.

Recommended For:

Families, swimmers, anglers, hikers, wildlife watchers, scuba divers, and anyone who loves blue water and mountain air.

What we Love:

The lake’s dazzling turquoise hue, its wide mix of water and land activities, and the rare chance to swim, sail, or hike across two states in a single day.

• Swim in Bear Lake’s exceptionally clear waters, often warm and calm in summer months.
• Enjoy boating, fishing, sailing, and even scuba diving in the lake’s unique, mineral-rich water.
• Hike and mountain bike in the surrounding hills, or take a slower pace with raspberry picking and lakeside picnics.
• Watch moose, deer, swans, sandhill cranes, and more at the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge on the Idaho side.

Cost:

Varies by access point. Day-use fees at Bear Lake State Park typically range from $7–$10 per vehicle.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for swimming and boating; late July to early August for raspberry harvest and festivals.

Local tips:

The Utah side offers more sandy beaches and rentals, while the Idaho side is typically quieter and rich in wildlife. Don’t miss the famous Bear Lake raspberry shakes!

Distance:

2 hours from Logan, UT or 3 hours from Idaho Falls, ID.

How to Get to Bear Lake:

From Utah, take US-89 North through Logan Canyon to Garden City. From Idaho, head south on US-30 or ID-36 toward Montpelier and follow signs to Bear Lake State Park or the National Wildlife Refuge.

Address:

Bear Lake, Idaho–Utah Border

Lakes For Photographers

Location:

Along the Snake River in southwestern Idaho

Highlights:

If you’re after a fun, accessible lake day—or even a whole weekend—C.J. Strike Reservoir checks all the boxes. With its easy-to-reach location and wide array of outdoor activities, it’s one of Idaho’s top spots for families and anglers alike.

Recommended For:

Families, boaters, anglers, campers, and anyone seeking relaxed outdoor fun on a spacious lake.

What we Love:

Shady picnic areas, abundant fishing opportunities, calm water for boating and swimming, and multiple campgrounds—all within a short drive of Boise.

• Explore 7,500 acres (3,000 hectares) of water ideal for boating, swimming, and watersports of all kinds.
• Fish for popular species like largemouth bass, rainbow trout, crappie, yellow perch, and channel catfish—this reservoir is well-stocked and well-loved by anglers.
• Camp at one of four shoreline campgrounds, all with shaded picnic areas and easy boat launch access for a full weekend outdoors.
• Relax in family-friendly facilities with playgrounds, restrooms, and plenty of space for a lakeside cookout or nature walk.

Cost:

Free day use; camping fees vary by site and season.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for the best water conditions and active fish populations.

Local tips:

Weekdays are quieter and offer smoother water for skiing and wakeboarding. Bring bug spray in summer, and check fish stocking reports before your trip.

Distance:

About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Boise, ID.

How to Get to C.J. Strike Reservoir:

From Boise, take I-84 West to Exit 112 toward Hammett. Follow ID-78 and local signs toward C.J. Strike Dam. Access roads lead to campgrounds, day-use areas, and boat launches along the shoreline.

Address:

C.J. Strike Reservoir, Owyhee/Elmore County, ID

Location:

Northern Idaho, less than 75 miles from the Canadian border

Highlights:

Looking for a peaceful lake escape surrounded by wetlands and forested hills? Cocolalla Lake is a hidden gem just south of Sandpoint, offering a full menu of water and land activities in a beautifully varied landscape.

Recommended For:

Anglers, paddlers, nature lovers, families, and anyone craving quiet recreation in a scenic northern Idaho setting.

What we Love:

805 acres of lakefront fun, cozy cottages on the western shore, quiet wetlands on the south, and something for everyone—from birders to wakeboarders.

• Paddle the calm waters by canoe or kayak, or rev things up with powerboating, sailing, wakeboarding, or water-skiing.
• Fish year-round for crappie, perch, channel catfish, and largemouth bass in one of the region’s most accessible fisheries.
• Explore nearby trails for hiking and mountain biking, or enjoy wildlife and birdwatching along the southern wetland areas.
• Stay in one of the lake’s charming summer cottages or enjoy a day trip with access from the Cocolalla Lake boat ramp and public shoreline.

Cost:

Free public access; boat ramp and day-use areas available without fee.

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for water sports and fishing; winter for ice fishing and peaceful wildlife viewing.

Local tips:

Launch early for the calmest water. Bring binoculars—the wetland edges are rich with birdlife including ospreys, herons, and seasonal migrants.

Distance:

30 minutes from Sandpoint, ID; about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Coeur d’Alene, ID.

How to Get to Cocolalla Lake:

From Sandpoint, take US-95 South to the town of Cocolalla. Look for signs to public access points and the boat launch along the western shoreline.

Address:

Cocolalla Lake, Bonner County, Idaho

Lakes for Hikers

Location:

Idaho Panhandle, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains

Highlights:

Need a place that combines forested mountain views, sparkling blue waters, and endless recreation? Lake Coeur d’Alene is your answer—one of Idaho’s largest and most beloved lakes, steeped in both beauty and history.

Recommended For:

Boaters, hikers, families, anglers, golfers, water sport enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a balance of adventure and relaxation.

What we Love:

30,000 acres of deep blue lake framed by pines, a charming lakeside city, trails that climb into the hills, and activities ranging from sailing to cliff jumping.

• Play on the water with kayaking, sailing, fishing, swimming, or adrenaline-fueled cliff jumping in summer months.
• Explore the 2,125-foot elevation shoreline by hiking or mountain biking in the surrounding pine forests and ridgelines.
• Golf at scenic courses including the famous floating green at Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course.
• Learn the history of the lake—named after Native American trading tribes and formed by ancient Missoula Floods over 12,000 years ago.

Cost:

Public access is free at various beaches and parks. Fees may apply for boat launches, guided tours, and resort amenities.

Best time to visit:

June through September for warm-weather activities; fall offers stunning foliage and lighter crowds.

Local tips:

Don’t miss the Tubbs Hill hike for panoramic lake views right from downtown. For a quieter experience, check out Harrison or the east side of the lake.

Distance:

5 minutes from downtown Coeur d’Alene, ID; about 40 minutes from Spokane, WA.

How to Get to Coeur d'Alene Lake:

From Spokane, WA, take I-90 East into Idaho. Exit onto Northwest Boulevard or Sherman Avenue to reach downtown Coeur d’Alene, the lakefront, and popular access points like City Beach or McEuen Park.

Address:

Lake Coeur d'Alene, Kootenai County, ID

Location:

Near Orofino, ID, extending into the Bitterroot Mountains

Highlights:

Looking for a quiet, scenic lake with miles of shoreline and a rich history? Dworshak Reservoir is a rugged northern Idaho favorite, stretching 53 miles into forested canyons and offering just about every kind of outdoor adventure you could want.

Recommended For:

Fishermen, boaters, campers, hikers, families, and anyone who loves mountain lakes and fewer crowds.

What we Love:

19,000 acres of water framed by the Bitterroot Mountains, a wide variety of recreational activities, and beautiful, uncrowded landscapes perfect for both solitude and adventure.

• Explore 53 miles of water by kayak, canoe, or boat—ideal for day trips or backcountry camping along the shore.
• Fish for kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, and trout, or enjoy hunting opportunities in the surrounding wilderness.
• Stay at Dworshak State Park, which offers everything from primitive campsites to modern facilities and playgrounds.
• Swim in designated areas, hike and bike nearby forested trails, or launch a boat from one of the marinas.

Cost:

Day-use is typically free; camping and marina fees vary by site and season.

Best time to visit:

May through September for warm-weather activities; fall offers quieter hiking and wildlife viewing.

Local tips:

Cell service is limited—bring paper maps and supplies. Book campsites early during summer weekends, especially if you need marina access.

Distance:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Lewiston, ID; approximately 3 hours from Spokane, WA.

How to Get to Dworshak Reservoir:

From Lewiston, take US-12 East to Orofino, then follow signs toward Dworshak Dam and Dworshak State Park. Several access points are available along the northern and eastern shores.

Address:

Dworshak Reservoir, Clearwater County, ID