Stanley, Idaho: Fountain of Youth

The folklore began when Juan Ponce de Leon traveled to Florida in 1513 in search of the Fountain of Youth. He didn’t find it. And maybe that’s because he was looking in the wrong place…..maybe the Fountain of Youth lives in each of us nurtured by our environment.

Juan Ponce de Leon - Image by Smithsonian Magazine (https://goo.gl/images/AktlbO)

For me, the Fountain of Youth exists in the Sawtooth Valley of Idaho. When Mother Nature created the Sawtooth Valley, she threw in the most mind-blowing landscapes, sprinkled in flora and doused it with every imaginable wilderness adventure. This awe-inspiring region has an enduring effect on all of us who walk its land.

4th of July Lake and Meadows - White Cloud Mountains

Living in this grand place surrounded by nature, it’s easy to restore my youth. When my inner child is bursting to get out, there are many influences in the Sawtooth Valley that make my spirit younger, stronger and more alive. Natural hot springs are scattered throughout this valley. Soaking in them helps improve sleeping patterns, reduce stress, improve circulation and naturally relieve pain. The healthy glow makes me look and feel like a million bucks. Does it do this for you?

Mountain Village Hot Springs - Photo by Kat Cannell Photography

Get out and play! Not only does exercise slow the aging process, but it also increases blood flow to the brain which aids in processing information. No wonder I can solve all my problems on a hike. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a playground for all outdoor enthusiasts:

• With over 700 miles of trails, take your pick and get moving. Have you ever struck a Warrior pose on a rock overlooking Alice Lake?
• Summit Castle Peak in the White Cloud Mountains.
• Mountain bike on Nip & Tuck Road.
• Kayak or canoe your way around Redfish Lake.
• Paddle through Class III & IV rapids on the Salmon River.
• Wade through the Salmon River while casting your line.
• Swim in Alturas Lake or in any of the high alpine lakes. Did you know ice cold water makes your hair shinier and stronger?

Alice Lake - Sawtooth Mountains

Take the time to appreciate all the wonders of this valley – the alpenglow of a sunrise, the explosive colors of a sunset, the Milky Way illuminating the dark sky, the creation of the Sawtooth Mountains from the Eocene Sawtooth and Idaho Batholiths, glaciers that shaped the landscape while carving a path for the Salmon River. It’s easy to feel eternal when you are observing these marvels.

Photo by Tory Taglio Photography & Media

Forget about anti-aging products, come to Stanley, Idaho and find your own Fountain of Youth. What are you waiting for…..a genie in a bottle? You never know, you may find that here also. Embrace Stanley’s Fountain of Youth. Let me introduce myself. My name is Erica Cole. I have lived and worked at the Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch since 2003. My love for this valley grows stronger every day. I am honored to be able to share with you my experiences, knowledge and love of Stanley, Idaho.

Source Url: http://stanleycc.org/blog/posts/stanley-idaho-fountain-youth/