Winding through the heart of the Idaho Rockies for 116 miles, the Sawtooth Scenic Byway showcases some of the most sweeping views and spectacular outdoor recreation areas in the West. On this handcrafted scenic byway route, you’ll travel from a high desert filled with beds of volcanic lava, past the crystal waters of meandering rivers, and finally through the rugged wilderness of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. See for yourself why the dramatic and iconic peaks are often called “America’s Alps.” But the landscape is not the only story this road has to tell. This Byway draws a direct line from the earth’s geologic history, through  Native Americans, rags-to-riches miners, and intrepid pioneers who all learned to build their lives atop an unforgivable volcanic environment, which gave way to  today’s ski bunnies, celebrities, and adventure-seekers at the famous Sun Valley Resort. After sipping a breath of fresh alpine air and strolling down historic Main Streets, feel the temperatures drop as you descend into an underground ice cave, one of the many totally unique natural wonders found along the route.