The Trailhead to Idaho Adventure

5 Ways to Support Local Businesses

Purchase Their Products

Choose locally owned shops, restaurants, and lodging instead of big chains. Every dollar spent locally stays in the community.

Share Them on Social Media

Tag the business, post a story, or leave a kind comment. Your endorsement helps them reach more visitors!

Leave Tips

Many small businesses rely on service staff. A little extra can go a long way, especially in seasonal or rural destinations.

Leave Positive Reviews

A positive review boosts their visibility and their searchability (SEO), helping future travelers find them.

Engage & Be Curious

Ask locals about their story, recommendations, and insider tips. Get the best advice on where to visit, where to avoid, and any seasonal restrictions or hidden gems. They’re the true experts of the area, after all!

Let’s Eat

Stanley’s mountain adventures are sure to work up your appetite, and their local dining scene won’t disappoint. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or a hungry family craving a hearty meal, you’ll find a surprising variety of delicious options. From comfort-food pizzerias to James Beard Nominated restaurants, this town serves up flavors as bold as the Sawtooth Mountains. They’re passionate about the outdoors, good times, and great food—so dive into Stanley’s dining scene and savor every bite.

Set Up Camp

The Sawtooth/Stanley Basin region is Idaho’s ultimate camping destination—a hidden gem that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re pitching a tent by a high-altitude lake, settling in among alpine pines, or parking your RV along the Salmon River, the stunning landscapes make every stay unforgettable. Once you experience it, camping in the Sawtooths will become your new annual tradition.

Most campgrounds in the area are designed for self-sufficient camping, with no water, sewer, or power hookups. Due to heavy winter snowfall, most sites are open from mid-May through Labor Day. For general information on recreation, camping, and picnic sites, visit the Sawtooth National Forest/Sawtooth National Recreation Area offices.

Respect the land, know your limits, and camp responsibly. With limited Forest Service staff, it’s up to all of us to preserve these incredible places for future generations. #RecreateResponsibly

Party with the Locals

Stanley is more than just breathtaking landscapes—it’s a hub of community spirit, adventure, and celebration. Throughout the year, our town hosts events that bring together locals and visitors to enjoy live music, cultural festivals, outdoor competitions, and community gatherings.

From the Thursday Nigth Street Dances to the legendary Sawtooth Valley Gathering, every event offers a unique way to experience the heart of Stanley. Summer weekends are filled with live music at local venues, while the colder months bring cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re here for a seasonal festival or a spontaneous night of fun, there’s always something happening in Stanley.

Stay up to date with our event calendar and make the most of your time in the Sawtooths!

Things to Do

"Stanley isn’t just a place—it’s a playground for the wild at heart. Whether you’re sending routes on granite walls, bombing down singletrack, or chasing powder on a sled, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-fueled adventure. Prefer to take it slow? Kick back in a hot spring, cast a line in a glassy alpine lake, or wander downtown for live tunes and good eats.

From sun-soaked summer hikes to winter nights spent under a sky full of stars, Stanley’s got something for everyone. Come for the views, stay for the vibe, and leave with stories worth telling.

Fake News About Tourism

  • "Small businesses don’t like outsiders." → The truth? Most small businesses rely on visitors to stay open. But they appreciate customers who respect their space, their time, and their community.

  • "It’s a tourist destination, so they make more tips." → Reality check: Seasonal income isn’t reliable. Many workers face slow seasons, high costs, and long hours—your tip isn’t a bonus, it’s part of their livelihood. Especially in rural, small communities, tips typically are not significant and do not make up for the lack of housing, expensive food prices, and other goods that create hurtles for people in remote towns.

  • Independent businesses set prices based on local supply, fair wages, and sustainability. Rural communities face more barriers with their supply chain, employee housing, and cost of living. It’s not about overcharging tourists—it’s about staying in business.

  • Even if the mountains are full, restaurants, hotels, and guided experiences might not be even during peak season. Many businesses rely on steady support during these times to carry them through the year.

  • News outlets love a distaster piece, but more often then not this can be detrimental to the local economy. Disasters happen, but most communities rebuild quickly and still need support. Instead of avoiding the area, check in on local businesses—they likely need visitors now more than ever.ion