Get There Early To Grab Spot At South Idaho’s Best Lake Beach

Southern Idaho is a lake lovers paradise, but finding white, sandy shorelines that aren't full of rocks and muck can be a bit of a challenge.

There are many lakes that people who live in southern Idaho have the option to visit over the weekend that are within a two hour drive. Many of them don't come close to comparing to one spot just outside of Sawtooth City that combines the scenery of the mountains and the feel of a West Coast beach.

In 2007, I first traveled north of Twin Falls and over the Galena Summit to the small community of Sawtooth City, which is less than a two hour drive from Idaho's Magic Valley. Bellevue, which is on the outskirts of the Magic Valley, to Sawtooth City is less than 60 miles to the north.

Alturas Lake Has What Many Consider To Be The Best Lake Beach in South Idaho

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Nestled just eight miles northwest of the small community of Sawtooth City, which is basically made up of a few shops, a very good pizza parlor, and a gas station, you'll find Alturas Lake.

READ MORE: The Best Lake Beach Less Than Three Hours From Twin Falls, Idaho

The locals flock to a section of the lake that is made up of several miles of warm, clean sand, with clear, blue, shallow water for kids to swim in. It's one of my top reasons for visiting the area.

In 2017, the website Unearthing Idaho shared detailed information on where to find it.

'As you continue on Alturas Creek Road along the side of the lake, you’ll find two campgrounds at the midway point with a small beach area for campers. All campsites at Alturas come with a picnic table and fire pit, but unfortunately do not have electric hook up. The biggest beach which allows for camping and single day use is at the far end of the lake at the Alturas Lake Inlet. There, sandy beaches meet the lake’s freezing cold water, being a glacial lake I expected cold. But, oh. my. word'.

From the parking area, it's a short walk up and over a pretty good sized hill lined with trees that is beautiful, but pull a wagon if you have a lot of stuff you'll be packing in.