Meadow Lake is a serene high-alpine lake tucked beneath the rugged peaks of the Lemhi Range in east-central Idaho, on the Salmon-Challis National Forest near Leadore. Sitting at over 9,000 feet at the base of 10,720-foot Meadow Lake Peak, this little 13-acre gem offers crystalline mountain water, cool pine-scented air, and the kind of peaceful, far-from-it-all setting that makes the long drive in well worth it.

It's a wonderful spot to slow down and savor the high country. The clear lake is perfect for paddling a canoe or kayak across its glassy surface, and it's a favorite with anglers — the lake is stocked twice a year, so the trout fishing is reliably good whether you cast from the bank or carry a small boat down to the water (trolling motors only; there's no boat ramp). Hiking trails lead right out of the campground, including a gentle loop around the lake's backside and routes deeper into the Lemhi high country.

A cozy Forest Service campground sits right on the lakeshore, with around 17 sites (including a few doubles for larger groups), picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water — a comfortable basecamp at altitude.

To reach it, drive about 17 miles south from Leadore on Highway 28 to the old Gilmore townsite, then turn west onto Forest Road 002 and climb roughly 6 gravel miles to the lake. The season is short at this elevation: roughly July through Labor Day for reliable access, with the campground first-come outside that window as weather permits. Bring warm layers for crisp mountain nights, plenty of water, and your fishing rod, pack out everything, and enjoy one of the Lemhi Range's most peaceful alpine retreats.