About REDFISH CABIN
Overview A stay at the historic Redfish Cabin is like having your own private Idaho! Nestled in the trees above the northern shore of Redfish Lake at an elevation of 6,570 feet, the historic (Civilian Conservation Corps 1930's era) cabin offers a perfect getaway for a small family or group of friends. The cabin is warm and cozy, the views are breathtaking, recreation opportunities abound and starry nights provide a gateway to heaven. And you can share it all with your canine family member. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area was established in 1972 for its natural, scenic, historic, pastoral, and fish and wildlife values. Redfish Lake is by far the most popular location in the area; however, a fall or winter visit provides a totally different experience than the "Coney Island" atmosphere of summer. Available only in the fall and winter, this is a special time of year where few visitors come to enjoy the beauty and solitude of the lake and surrounding mountain peaks. Recreation The cabin provides easy access to a variety of recreation opportunities. In the fall, trailheads to Bench Lakes, Redfish Creek, Fishhook Creek, and Marshall Lake, all within half a mile of the cabin, offer access to fabulous hiking or horseback riding. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on un-groomed trails near the lake offer excellent opportunities for winter recreation. Quick access to the groomed Stanley to Smiley Creek snowmobile route affords motorized recreation opportunities. Whether its photography, bird watching, climbing a mountain or sitting by the fire with a book, there's an activity for all.Facilities Redfish cabin can accommodate three people on a log bunk bed/futon (single mattress above, double mattress below). More people can sleep on the floor in sleeping bags (bring your own bags and pads) for a maximum of six persons. Winter access (after November 30) is a 2.25 mile snowmobile, snowshoe or ski along the gently climbing Forest Road 214. The cabin is equipped with elect
How to Get There
Renters should check winter road reports online at 511.idaho.gov or by calling 511 or 1-888-432-7623 prior to travel. October 15, November 30: From Stanley: Intersection of Hwy 21 and Hwy 75, drive south on Hwy 75 4.25 miles to Redfish Lake Road (FS Road 214). The turn is near mile marker 185, approximately 5 miles south of Stanley. From Ketchum/Sun Valley: Drive north 55 miles on Hwy 75 to Redfish Lake Road. Hint: The turn is near mile marker 185. If you reach Stanley, you've gone about 5 miles too far north. From Hwy 75 and Redfish Lake Road (FS Road 214), drive 2 miles (southwest) along FS Road 214 to Redfish Visitor Center, park at Visitor Center, walk around Visitor Center to Redfish Amphitheater. Redfish Cabin is 30 yards south of amphitheater. December 1 - April 15: From Stanley: Intersection of Hwy 21 and Hwy 75, drive south on Hwy 75 4.25 miles, parking area is on the left (east side of Hwy) just before Redfish Lake Road near mile marker 185, approximately 5 miles south of Stanley. From Ketchum/Sun Valley: Drive north 55 miles on Hwy 75, parking area is on right (east side of Hwy) just after Redfish Lake Road near mile marker 185. If you reach Stanley, you've gone about 5 miles too far north. From Parking Area: Ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 2.25 miles along Redfish Lake Road (FS Road 214) past turnoff to Redfish Lodge, past Redfish Visitor Center to where FS 214 comes close to lakeshore; turn right (west) on foot path for about 200 yards. Redfish cabin will be on the
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to REDFISH CABIN
Heading to REDFISH CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for REDFISH CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for REDFISH CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233348) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to REDFISH CABIN?
Renters should check winter road reports online at 511.idaho.gov or by calling 511 or 1-888-432-7623 prior to travel. October 15, November 30: From Stanley: Intersection of Hwy 21 and Hwy 75, drive south on Hwy 75 4.25 miles to Redfish Lake Road (FS Road 214). The turn is near mile marker 185, approximately 5 miles south of Stanley. From Ketchum/Sun Valley: Drive north 55 miles on Hwy 75 to Redfis…
How do I contact REDFISH CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-774-3000.
References & Official Resources