The population of Stanley, Idaho hovers around 68, and I don’t think they’re all there in the wintertime. My partner, dog and I had the place practically to ourselves during a winter vacation. We were the only ones staying at Jerry’s Cabins in Lower Stanley. We were the only ones walking on the freshly groomed trails at Park Creek, and the only ones lounging in Sunbeam Hot Springs. If you like quiet, don’t like crowds, and don’t mind temperatures that dip on the south side of zero, you’ll be mighty happy in Stanley during winter.

It was warmer inside our cabin.

Unlike nearby Sun Valley, Stanley lacks downhill skiing. Which sucks if you’re a skier, but is perfect if you’re a snowshoer, snow hiker or cross-country skier. I planned to try out my new snowshoes, but found the empty trails perfectly groomed. Boots were sufficient.

A snow-loving dog on the Park Creek trails

Also, if you have a fluffy dog who pants through Portland’s winters, do him or her a favor and take them on an ice vacay. Rudy had a fabulous time.

Way more elk than people in winter

Stanley is blessed with all kinds of beauty: sunsets over the Sawtooth Mountains, elk wintering beside hot springs, the Salmon River, the stars at night in a dark, dark sky. I hear it’s much more popular in summer. I’m glad I bundled up and braved the winter.

Sunbeam Hot Springs — Better strip fast and get in before you freeze!