Top 9 Lakes around Stanley
Best lakes around Stanley offer diverse experiences for visitors. This region features a variety of lakes, from those with visitor facilities to more secluded spots. The landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views. These lakes are appreciated for their natural beauty and accessibility.
Best lakes around Stanley
- The most popular lakes is Loch of the Lowes, a facilities that includes a small visitor centre with refreshments and external toilets. The road beyond the visitor centre is quiet, offering a scenic tour with spots to stop and take in the views.
- Another must-see spot is Loch of Clunie, a lake with scenic views. It is a place to pause for a break, with car parking available, making it suitable as a start and end point for exploration.
- Visitors also love Polney Loch, a scenic lochan surrounded by mature woodland. It is frequented by a range of birdlife and features on a popular circuit walk.
- Stanley is known for lakes that offer family-friendly facilities, scenic viewpoints, and forest surroundings. The area provides a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil lochs to those with good access tracks.
- The lakes around Stanley are appreciated by the komoot community, with 16 upvotes and 2 photos shared.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Loch of the Lowes
Highlight โข Rest Area
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Polney Loch
Highlight โข Viewpoint
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Loch of Clunie
Highlight โข Lake
Scenic views over loch. Often a nice place to pause for a quick break and maybe a dip if you have time. Plenty of places around the south and east of the loch to pause. Some car parking so can be used as a start and end point.
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Loch Tullybelton
Highlight โข Forest
Discover the serene beauty of Loch Tullybelton, a hidden jewel nestled in the picturesque landscape of Perth and Kinross, Scotland. This tranquil inland water body, located near the historic Tullybelton Estate, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape. Surrounded by lush woodlands and the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, it offers a perfect setting for leisurely walks and cycling along its gentle shores. The loch's serene atmosphere, accentuated by sightings of red squirrels and local wildlife, makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Just a stone's throw from Perth, this idyllic location is a must-visit for anyone exploring the heart of Scotland's natural beauty.
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White Loch
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Tips from the Community
Good gravel track passes here.
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You will often see swans here and if youโre about early or late you might see one of the resident beavers.
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Lowes is the top hardware store in the USA. The Lowes survey wants to gather customer opinions regarding their shopping experience at Lowes home improvement stores. The official Lowes survey program asks questions related to various aspects of store maintenance and customer service, such as cleanliness, product selection, and overall satisfaction with service. You can complete the Lowes customer survey at https://lowes-survey.co/ website. Your Feedback helps Lowes Store improve its services.
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During the summer months, there are usually portable toilets situated in one of the parking areas close by.
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Usually pass here on the very good dirt track leading from the main road up to Cally Car Park. From Cally Car Park there are paths galore to choose from. Maybe a good waypoint rather than a destination.
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A nice gravel track passes along the north side of the Loch giving easy access from both the west (Little Glenshee) and the east (Bankfoot).
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The narrowish road runs along the south side of the loch making for a scenic tour albeit watch out for speeding cars. Plenty of spots to stop and take in the views. There's a visitor centre (entrance fee) at the south-west corner of the Loch. External toilets don't require access to the visitor centre proper.
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For Trail MTB explorers on an adventure. Discover the serene beauty of Loch Tullybelton, a hidden jewel nestled in the picturesque landscape of Perth and Kinross, Scotland. This tranquil inland water body, located near the historic Tullybelton Estate, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape. Surrounded by lush woodlands and the rolling hills of the Scottish Highlands, it offers a perfect setting for leisurely walks and cycling along its gentle shores. The loch's serene atmosphere, accentuated by sightings of red squirrels and local wildlife, makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Just a stone's throw from Perth, this idyllic location is a must-visit for anyone exploring the heart of Scotland's natural beauty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Stanley are best for families?
For families, Redfish Lake is an excellent choice. It's highly accessible, offers a lodge, campgrounds, beaches, and a variety of activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. There's also a shuttle boat that provides access to hiking trails, and it's dog-friendly with a designated dog beach. Stanley Lake is another good option, generally quieter than Redfish, with paved road access, restrooms, and garbage cans, making it convenient for a family outing.
Are there any quiet or hidden gem lakes near Stanley for a more secluded experience?
Yes, for a more secluded experience, consider Imogene Lake. It's less commonly visited due to its longer 18-mile round trip hike, but locals consider it one of the best in the area for its serene beauty. The hike also passes by Hell Roaring Lake. Stanley Lake can also be quieter, especially during the off-season, offering peaceful sunrises.
What are the best lakes for hiking and backpacking in the Sawtooth Wilderness?
The Sawtooth Wilderness offers several stunning backcountry lakes for hiking and backpacking. Alice Lake is the largest and renowned for its scenic beauty, accessible via a moderate 5.5-mile hike from Pettit Lake. Sawtooth Lake is reached by a moderate 5-mile hike from the Iron Creek trailhead, often combined with a visit to the nearby Alpine Lake. For experienced hikers, the Baron Lakes offer a tough 7-mile journey but reward with cascading deep blue lakes and unique camping opportunities.
Which lakes are suitable for paddleboarding or canoeing?
Redfish Lake is a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking, with facilities and docks available. Stanley Lake is also ideal for paddleboarding or canoeing, offering a quieter experience with magnificent views. Petite Lake, with its clear blue water, is another favorite for paddleboarding, though the drive can be bumpy.
Are there dog-friendly options among the lakes near Stanley?
Yes, Redfish Lake is very dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on the shuttle boat, and there is a designated dog beach where your furry friend can enjoy the water.
What kind of views can I expect at the lakes around Stanley?
The lakes around Stanley offer spectacular views, primarily of the majestic Sawtooth Mountains. Redfish Lake provides breathtaking views framed by glacial moraines. Stanley Lake offers magnificent views of McGowen Peak. Alice Lake is known for its dramatic backdrop of jagged, steep peaks, while Alpine Lake is considered very photogenic with stunning vistas.
Are there any lakes with visitor facilities or amenities?
Redfish Lake is the most developed, featuring a lodge, multiple campgrounds, beaches, docks, and a shuttle boat service. It's a hub of activity. Stanley Lake also offers conveniences like a paved road leading to it, restrooms, and garbage cans.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on the lakes themselves, the area offers extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. You can find various routes for cycling around Stanley, including easy to difficult options, as well as dedicated MTB trails. For more details on routes, check out the Cycling around Stanley guide and the MTB Trails around Stanley guide.
Which lakes are easily accessible by car?
Redfish Lake is very accessible, located just 10 minutes south of Stanley on Highway 75. Stanley Lake also has a paved road leading directly to it, making it easily reachable. For Petite Lake, while accessible by car, the drive from Highway 75 can be long and bumpy, so a reliable vehicle is recommended.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes?
Many of the alpine lakes in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area offer opportunities for wild swimming, particularly during the warmer summer months. Redfish Lake has beaches suitable for swimming, and the clear waters of lakes like Stanley Lake and Petite Lake are inviting for a refreshing dip.
What should I pack for a lake walk or hike in the Stanley area?
Given the alpine environment, it's wise to pack layers of clothing, even in summer, as weather can change quickly. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and insect repellent. For backcountry hikes to lakes like Alice Lake or Sawtooth Lake, a map, compass or GPS, and emergency supplies are also recommended.
Can I find cafes or refreshments near the lakes?
The main hub for refreshments and dining is at Redfish Lake, which features a lodge with dining options. For other lakes, especially those in the backcountry, you'll need to pack your own food and drinks as facilities are not available.
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