places to visit in eastern idaho

Top 15 Places to Visit in Idaho: Bucket List Destinations

Idaho didn’t impress me with its bucket list destinations at first. I spent hours reading articles that promised to satisfy my wanderlust and show the best places to visit in Idaho. Certainly, there were plenty of interesting sites: quintessential cities and towns and striking remote areas. Yet none of these places inspired me to visit Idaho. Not until I saw them in person.

Last updated: June 11, 2024

Visiting Idaho

As much as I wanted to credit those articles for providing me with an extended list of the top places to visit in Idaho, the state itself did the job. It eagerly unrolled its diverse landscapes, never eluding its hidden gems and constantly impressing with its impeccable sights.

When we started our road trip from Boise to Yellowstone and drove across the southern section of the state, the area looked rather plain. Southeastern Idaho, however, looked completely different. It reminded us of the rolling hills and mountainous rural regions of Switzerland .

Apparently, I was wrong. There were a myriad of incredible places you should visit in Idaho. The Gem State clearly stated what I already knew. Pictures do not always do justice to real destinations. In the case of Idaho, you need to get outside and visit its abundant cities and explore its secluded rural places before making any decisions. 

BUCKET LIST DESTINATIONS: THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN IDAHO

And yet I have contradicted myself and compiled the list of the top places to visit in Idaho. For some, it might be enough to embark on their own adventures and explore the vast roads and abundant destinations of the Gem State. Others might need to visit all these remarkable places before falling in love with Idaho just like I did.

Regardless of which category of the travelers you fall into, use these top 15 places to visit in Idaho as your guideline. Furthermore, feel free to add your own bucket list destinations if, for some reasons, I left them out.  

1. Top Places to Visit in Idaho: Boise

During this trip, I didn’t even insist on exploring Boise through and through. With so many places we hoped to visit in Idaho, it looked like we wouldn’t have time to experience its capital. It was a mistake. Boise turned out to be a must-see destination.

Being the capital, Boise is the largest city and one of the most popular places to visit in Idaho. Set on the Boise River, it dazzles with a compelling blend of cultural and natural attractions. The “City of Trees” is how locals nickname their capital.

Indeed, the presence of large green spaces in the area complies with Idaho’s drive to keep its residents active, healthy, and as close to nature as possible. For that reason, Boise’s ample parks brimmed with hiking and biking trails allow you to escape the bustling city in the blink of an eye.

Impeccable food scene is another reason to add Boise to the list of the top places to visit in Idaho. From authentic Northwestern culinary traditions to mouthwatering dishes from European cuisines , the city allures gourmands from all regions. Interestingly, the travelers compare the capital of Idaho with Portland and Seattle , two of the best places to visit in the United States for foodies.  

READ MORE : Day Trips from Boise, Idaho

2. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve 

The Gem State boasts an array of unique destinations that none of the other states has. Craters of the Moon certainly joins their ranks and falls into the category of the best places to visit in Idaho.

Formed by molten lava fields approximately 15 million years ago, the area maintains its preternatural moon-like terrain up to this day. Exploring this wondrous bucket list destination feels like landing on another planet, a place that only a few daring travelers and locals of Idaho risk to visit. 

Craters of the Moon occupy nearly 53,500 acres of land filled with volcanic formations and lava flows. The national preserve in the Snake River Plain was created on May 2, 1924. Despite its, what it looks like, barren terrain, the region is packed with wildlife . Foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, owls, bats, and other small desert rodents thrive in this strange environment, occasionally surprising human visitors with their presence. 

As one of the most intriguing places to visit in Idaho, Craters of the Moon knows how to keep their guests’ attention. The area offers a few epic trails that let you further explore the terrain and even see a few underground lava tubes . A permit for this activity, however, is required. You can get one free of charge at the visitor center located near the entrance.

3. Places to Visit in Idaho: Shoshone Falls

While reading all those detailed articles, I couldn’t not notice one natural gem. It looked like the majority of the travelers and locals agreed that Shoshone Falls was one of the must-visit places in Idaho. Gigantic, stupendous, awe-inspiring… I could see why they thought so. I must admit Shoshone Falls became one of my favorite places to explore in Idaho as well.

The famous waterfall sits on the outskirts of Twin Falls. As the largest natural waterfall in the area, it makes not only Idaho, but the whole country proud. The size of the site sets it apart from other remarkable places one should visit in the state of Idaho. At 212 feet tall, Shoshone Falls is even higher than world-famous Niagara Falls. Taking this into account, locals refer to their natural wonder as the “Niagara of the West” .

You can visit Shoshone Falls in southern Idaho all year round. The dam-controlled waterfall, however, changes its flow depending on the season. Spring is the best time to appreciate the natural beauty of the site. Fueled by melted snow and rain, Shoshone Falls restores its full power by this time.

The waterfall looks significantly thinner and fragile in fall. But even at this time, one of the most famous places in Idaho is as stunning as ever, proving that it’s worth a visit again and again.

4. Thousand Springs State Park

One of the most gorgeous places in Idaho sits in the Magic Valley and enhances each and every visiter with panoramic views and ample outdoor adventures. The area was created in 2005, combining a few small parks that together form Thousands Springs State Park. As the name suggests, springs, streams, and waterfalls reign in this part of southern Idaho. 

The park encompasses 7 sections located within a short drive from each other. Each of the units of Thousand Springs State Park offers something new, irresistible, and enticing. Whether you visit the iconic Oregon Trail or explore scenic hikes at splendid Malad Gorge , the area is eager to impress with the most magnificent places Idaho has.

Those who long for different kinds of activities, should saddle a horse in an indoor arena at Billingsley Creek . Ritter Island invites you to tour its historic agriculture structures while Crystal Springs Lake wins the hearts of all fishing enthusiasts. The best views and the most incredible places to visit in this section of Idaho yet hide in Niagara Springs State Park . Housing the 350-foot-deep Snake River Canyon, the area astounds with picturesque streams and secluded sites.

5. Places to Visit in Idaho: Soda Springs

Idaho is dotted with small towns that offer the most extraordinary places to visit on the West Coast . Soda Springs is one of them. Often overlooked by the majority of the travelers, the place has long won approval of the locals. The main attraction here is Soda Springs , the world’s only captive geyser. For the local population, however, it is not just another hydrothermal feature. It’s their pride and honor, their own “Old Faithful”.

The geyser was discovered by accident when drilling for a pool in the late 1930s. The natural wonder has been captured and timed since then. Today, Soda Springs is one of the most unique and lesser-known places you can ever visit in Idaho. The geyser erupts approximately every hour and reaches heights up to 100 feet. 

Apart from enjoying the predictable geyser in southeastern Idaho, city’s guests enjoy soaking in natural hot springs at Octagon Springs Park and visit the historical Pioneer Museum . 

6. Idaho’s Bucket List Destinations: Bruneau Dunes State Park 

Idaho tests your tolerance for risky adventures by offering to visit some of the most unusual places one can find in the country. After the moon-like terrain of Craters of the Moon, the state surprises you with its deserted landscape. It’s up to you to give this area a try or venture to the next Idaho’s bucket list destination. 

For those who decide to explore another unique terrain, Bruneau Dunes State Park prepares a wide range of daring adventures. The place is known for the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America . The famous landmark rises 470 feet above the desert floor. Apart from this remarkable natural wonder, the park prides itself on having one of the longest camping seasons in Idaho . 

Things to Do in Bruneau Dunes State Park

Threatening at first glance, the irresistible desert invites you to climb its sandy “mountains”. Hiking, horseback riding along with swimming and fishing at the foot of the dunes is another fun way to visit one of the most astounding places in Idaho. Stars also seem to look down at Bruneau Dunes State Park. You can get a closer look at these shining dots above the dunes at Bruneau Dunes Observatory .  

Entrance fee is $10 per car. While you can drive around the park, no vehicles are allowed to drive up the dunes.  

7. Places to Visit in Idaho: Twin Falls

Home to Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls deserves its own spot among the best places to visit in Idaho. The city is small, but the amount of natural and cultural attractions it offers greatly exceeds its size. From paddling on the Snake River to BASE jumping and chasing waterfalls , the city keeps you on your toes. Every corner of Twin Falls brims with local treasures and unique places one must visit when traveling across southern Idaho. 

After the Snake River, the Snake River Canyon is the main landmark of the city. Spreading over 50 miles, the gorge connects Twin Falls and Jerome Counties and offers ample outdoor adventures and panoramic views. 

The 0.25-mile-wide canyon has long served as a source of inspiration for local daredevils. So in 1974, Evel Knievel attempted to “jump” across the Snake River from a dirt ramp on the canyon wall. Although the stunt wasn’t successful, Twin Falls still remembers this brave man and keeps his legacy alive. The dirt ramp, now called Evel Knievel Jump Site , is one of the most interesting places to visit in southern Idaho. 

READ MORE:   Top Things to Do in Twin Falls

8. Lake Coeur d’Alene

Lake Coeur d’Alene may skip thrilling adventures typical for the desert and moon-like terrains. Yet, the area is rightfully included in the list of the most stunning places to visit in Idaho. The natural dam-controlled lake nestles in the northern region of the state. Spanning 25 miles in length, it boasts more than 100 miles of shoreline. This extended area, in its turn, entices with a profusion of parks, campgrounds, beaches, and trails. 

The second largest lake in North Idaho , Lake Coeur d’Alene takes your breath away with its remarkable scenery. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it dismisses any doubts one may still have when deciding whether to add this area to her Idaho itinerary. 

Things to Visit in Idaho: Lake City

The pristine location entices locals as well. Over time, one of the largest cities in Idaho was established on the shore of the lake. State’s residents refer to it as the “Lake City ” . The area houses an array of sandy beaches, hiking trails, and volleyball courts.

Several companies offer watercraft rentals, enabling beachgoers to paddle or jet ski . One of the most stunning places in Idaho, the area also caters to non-adventurous travelers, inviting them to walk or hike along the shore and book a tour boat cruise .

From November through February, you can observe bald eagles migrating to the lake to feed on salmon in Wolf Lodge Bay. Swans, ducks, and geese flock to the area in spring and summer. 

9. Places to Visit in Idaho: Idaho Falls

A few things set Idaho Falls apart from other astounding places in the state. While the city’s rich cultural heritage intrigues many locals and travelers alike, the 600-foot-wide waterfall on the Snake River is always the center of attention. Hiking and biking trails along the Idaho Falls Greenbelt further introduce the guests to the city’s green spaces, downtown, market, and the famous waterfall.

Art and history enthusiasts look for inspiration at the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho and the Willard Arts Center . The Pavilion for Japanese Art unveils secrets behind Japanese gardening traditions while the Idaho Falls Zoo invites you to meet some of the local inhabitants. 

Moreover, Idaho Falls’s location allows you to visit a myriad of interesting places nearby and learn more about Idaho. So, the Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot sits just 30 minutes away. Natural hot springs of Lava Hot Springs are just 1 hour 15 minutes away.  

10. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Another remarkable attraction on our list of the top places to visit in Idaho occupies northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is known as the deepest river gorge in North America .

Spanning 125 miles, the place offers endless adventures along with astounding natural wonders. From scenic vistas to splendid mountain peaks and secluded areas for hiking and horseback riding, the Hells Canyon is truly one of the most remarkable places you can visit in Idaho. 

The popular activity in the canyon is hiking . A myriad of scenic trails, ranging from easy to moderate, wind the area. The major trailheads are located near Riggins, Idaho. Here you can find the Heaven’s Gate Trailhead, Snake River Trailhead, Black Lake Campground, Windy Saddle Trailhead, and Windy Saddle Horse Camp. 

Places to Visit in Idaho: Seven Devils Mountains

The Snake River is responsible for the distinctive terrain and unique shapes of the Hells Canyon. While you can visit lower elevation on the Idaho side and be stunned by its rather barren and steep places, the high country completely transforms itself. Alpine lakes and towering peaks of the Seven Devils Mountains reside here.

The legend has it that the mountain range was named for a vision of seven dancing devils that appeared to a strayed Native American. At 9,000 feet above sea level, the mountains could indeed look like otherworldly creatures. Even their names, “He Devil”, “She Devil”, and “Twin Imps”, imply the mystical origin of this Idaho’s bucket list destination.

Places to Visit in Idaho: Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

Luckily, Idaho doesn’t push you to visit and explore its remote places on foot or by riding a horse. Visitors are welcome to drive the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and admire the remarkable scenery from the convenience of their cars. The 213-mile loop runs through both Idaho and Oregon, presenting epic mountains, canyon, and small towns.

Last but not least, the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area surprises daring visitors with whitewater rafting. It may be dangerous, but the thrill and adrenaline rush are guaranteed. 

11. Yellowstone National Park

Similar to Montana, Idaho owns only a small section of world-famous Yellowstone National Park . The rest of the unique territory sits in Wyoming. Locals, however, agree that Yellowstone must top the list of the best places to visit in Idaho.

Yellowstone National Park is unlike any other bucket list destinations. Known for its hydrothermal features such as geysers and hot springs, the place entices nearly four million visitors from all over the world. The highlights of the park are Old Faithful , one of the most predictable geysers in Yellowstone, and Grand Prismatic Spring . The latter has gained its fame as the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest hot spring in the world.  

READ MORE:   Your First Visit to Yellowstone: Best Things to Do

12. Places to Visit in Idaho: Sandpoint 

We were debating on whether to add Sandpoint to this list of the top places to visit in Idaho. An incredible location along with plentiful outdoor and indoor activities spoke in favor of this gorgeous city and we had to give in.

The place nestles between 3 mountain ranges on Lake Pend Oreille and the foot of Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Famous for its year-round events, the city astounds with its rich cultural heritage, authentic shops, and culinary scene. 

Each season brings its own unique activities to this beautiful place in northern Idaho. In summer, visitors enjoy boating across Lake Pend Oreille, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing.

Schweitzer Mountain is in charge of entertaining tourists that visit these remote places in Idaho in winter. From downhill skiing to snowboarding and cross-country snowmobiling, the area competes with some of the renowned ski resorts in the state.  

13. Sawtooth National Forest

Known for its rugged terrain, natural hot springs, and ample scenic trails, central Idaho enhances your visit with some of the most beautiful places in the state. Locals affectionately call this area the “Crown Jewel” of Idaho. The Sawtooth National Forest is indeed the epitome of beauty and daring adventures.

The region is divided into four areas: the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, the Ketchum Ranger District, the Fairfield Ranger District, and the Minidoka Ranger District. Each of these sections offers a wide array of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, skiing, and hunting. 

Places to Visit in Idaho: Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Similar to other popular places you must visit in Idaho, the Sawtooth National Forest allows a convenient way to explore this vast territory. Spanning 115.7 miles from Shoshone to Stanley, the Sawtooth Scenic Byway takes you through forest’s pristine meadows and majestic mountains. The most significant places to visit while driving this road in rural Idaho are Black Magic Canyon, Sun Valley Resort, Ernest Hemingway Memorial, Galena Summit, and Redfish Lake. 

14. Lesser-Known Places to Visit in Idaho: Driggs

While the majority of tourists visit Jackson to admire majestic mountains and explore many other places in Grand Teton National Park , Driggs, a small town in eastern Idaho, enables you to enjoy the scenic views without the maddening crowds.

The city sits in Teton County, about 25 miles from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With less than 2,000 residents, the place is rather small. Nevertheless, it never ceases to offer quite an impressive amount of things to do and Idaho’s bucket list destinations to tick off. From backpacking to fishing and rafting on the Teton River, Driggs knows how to keep its visitors busy.

Cinema lovers should definitely check out the Spud Drive-In Theater where time seems to stop and movies are still projected onto a large outdoor screen. For a change of scenery, head to Mesa Falls , located about one hour north of Driggs.

15. Best Places to Visit in Idaho: Kirkham Hot Springs

Idaho is one of the best places in the United States to soak in hot springs. The Gem State has approximately 130 mineral pools, which is more than any other state. The natural springs adorn Idaho’s remote regions as well as roadside areas.

The Kirkham Hot Springs is one of the most popular natural hot springs in the state. The place consists of several soaking pools and small streaming waterfalls at the bottom of a wooden staircase. A campground with a parking lot sits near the site, allowing for a convenient experience.

You can access the Kirkham Hot Springs via the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway that runs through the Boise National Forest. This Idaho’s bucket list destination is open all year round and usually gets busy on weekends, especially in the summer months. 

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Home » Blog » Ultimate Guide to Eastern Idaho

Ultimate Guide to Eastern Idaho

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our Disclosure Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for details.

The most Eastern side of Idaho is by far one of the most scenic and beautiful areas we’ve been to in the USA. From endless lush green fields to exquisite views of the Grand Tetons, it’s a great destination for any adventure lover. This ultimate guide to Eastern Idaho will cover everything you need to know about visiting from things to do and activities in Eastern Idaho to accommodations, restaurants, best time to visit and more. 

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with Visit Idaho . Some parts of the article also feature affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways we can keep producing free guides and resources for our readers. Thank you for the support!

Planning Your Trip to Eastern Idaho

Exploring The Teton Valley

Southeastern Idaho is also commonly known as the Teton Valley. It’s the quieter side of the Teton mountain range when compared to its neighboring side in Wyoming, but it’s equally as beautiful and comes with significantly fewer crowds. 

When to Visit

The best time to visit Eastern Idaho for outdoor adventures and the best weather is during the summer months of June to September. These months are also the most crowded, so if you can visit during a shoulder month or during the weekdays, then you might have better luck getting some of these beautiful spots to yourselves. Just note, afternoon thunderstorms do occur pretty often in the off season!

If you are interested in some of the amazing skiing and snowboarding opportunities offered in the Teton Valley, we’d recommend visiting during December and January for the best conditions. 

Where to Stay During Your Trip to the Teton Valley

There are two main towns in Eastern Idaho – Driggs and Victor. Both are fantastic areas to make your home base for your trip and they’re also fairly close in distance to each other. 

We stayed in Victor and ended up glamping at the beautiful rustic tent sites at the Moose Creek Ranch. The property is adorable and offers a serene retreat into nature next to a running creek and nearby hiking trails. 

Each site at the Moose Creek comes with a Solo Stove for campfires and a cute pre-made s’mores kit. There’s also an internal furnace inside the tent so if you get cold at night you can start a fire to keep yourself warm. They provide all the kindling and firewood you could need! We’d highly recommend bringing along any extra sleeping bags and hiking apparel you may need if you are prone to getting cold at night.

The glamping sites don’t have electricity or a bathroom, however, the ranch has electricity and WiFi in the main lodge and a separate washroom to shower and use the bathroom. 

Book your stay at the Moose Creek Ranch here . 

Getting Around Idaho

Eastern Idaho is very spacious and very large. We’d highly recommend booking some sort of rental car or Turo to make your way around the area. That being said, make sure to book a car with off-loading capabilities and higher clearance like a truck or SUV with 4×4 as there are a lot of dirt roads to get to some of our top excursions and activities in the area. 

Our Favorite Restaurants & Brews in Driggs & Victor

Before visiting, make sure to know that as both Driggs and Victor are pretty small towns, your options for eating out are a little bit more limited. That being said, there are grocery stores and village marts where you can buy food to make on your own! 

If you’re a photographer and planning on shooting sunset, just expect all restaurants in town to be closed by 9pm at the latest, so make alternative plans for grabbing a bite to eat before you head out on your adventure. Some restaurants on Yelp will also say that they are open, and in fact, not be, so just make sure to call in advance to get current updates. 

Citizen 33 

Our favorite restaurant and brewery in town was Citizen 33 . They had a great menu filled with a variety of comfort food and fine dining. We opted for the poutine for an appetizer, which has got to be the best Poutine we’ve ever had (including authentic Canadian poutine). The Smash Burger is the local favorite and the chicken tenders were also great. Many locals come in here for a beer and to watch sports so it does get busy, but it’s definitely worth the wait. 

Village Mart

They have a fantastic deli section where you can grab some sandwiches and salads for a picnic somewhere. We also made sure to stack up on snacks here for our hikes and road trip. 

Grand Teton Brewing Company

If you’re looking for a great scenic spot to relax and enjoy the views of the Teton Valley, head over to Grand Teton Brewing . We took our sandwiches from the Village Mart and took them to Grand Teton Brewing Company. They don’t serve food here but they allow you to bring your own. They have cornhole and lots of outdoor seating for you to enjoy, and it’s dog friendly!

Victor Emporium

Everyone told us we had to go visit Victor Emporium and try their famous Huckleberry Milkshake. It did not disappoint – we’d recommend going as well! This is also a store, so if you’re needing to pick up anything like Bear Spray or any other outdoor gear, this would be the spot to check! 

Best Outdoor Experiences & Activities in Eastern Idaho

When experiencing the outdoors around the Teton Valley and Eastern Idaho, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the Leave No Trace principles . You can help preserve the beautiful landscapes for generations to come by staying on trail, packing out your trash, respecting wildlife and not feeding wildlife, and making sure you have the 10 essentials with you when recreating outdoors. 

Kayak or Paddle Board along the Teton River

One of the best ways to experience the Teton Valley is by floating the Teton River. We went out with Teton River Supply who hooked us up with some inflatable kayaks, dry bags, and a cooler. They have a shuttle service that drops you at the part of the river you’d like, and you simply call them when you reach your drop point to get shuttled back. The whole way, you’ll be treated to some epic views of Grand & Middle Teton, and you might get lucky and see some moose out grazing! 

Book your Grand Teton Kayak Here

Horseback Ride along the trails at Harriman State Park 

Experience the beautiful lakes and nature trails at Harriman State Park via horseback with Dry Ridge Outfitters. Whether you’ve been horseback riding before, or are a total newbie, this tour is perfect for those wanting to get some incredible views of nature and wildlife from the treeline above Harriman State Park. We opted for the 2 hour tour and thought that was plenty of time to see the whole state park. 

If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park (link external), this is a great activity to add on from the western entrance as it’s only about a 40 minute drive away. This tour is about an hour away from Victor, so make sure to give yourself some time to get there. 

Book Your Horseback Ride Here

Visit Fall Creek Falls & Swan Valley

Fall Creek Falls is definitely one of the hidden gems of Eastern Idaho. Located tucked away in Swan Valley off of a little side dirt road, Fall Creek Falls is absolutely stunning. It’s only a short 1-2 minute walk from the road until you find the cascading falls. 

You can reach the lower area of the falls by heading down the dirt road from the “trailhead” and you’ll encounter a rope. If you decide to use the rope down to access the lower falls viewing point, be super careful as the dirt is very slippery. Or, if you’d like to access the lower part of the falls, you can actually kayak down to the falls from one of the boat ramps in the area. 

Explore Lower and Upper Mesa Falls

Mesa Falls is a must do on your Eastern Idaho itinerary. Often compared to Niagara Falls, Upper Mesa Falls is a true force of nature. It’s located about 30 minutes away from Harriman State Park and is also pretty close to Yellowstone National Park. You can experience the roaring waterfall via a boardwalk loop where you can see the falls from multiple different viewpoints. 

Make sure to get here early as its an incredibly popular spot to visit in Eastern Idaho. There’s also recreation fees (link to forest service website), so make sure to bring exact cash or check, or carry your America the Beautiful pass (insert affiliate link). 

Lower Mesa Falls is a little bit further south than Upper Mesa Falls and has its own parking lot if you’d rather drive instead of hike. You can hike to it from the Upper Mesa Falls overflow parking lot. We personally liked Upper Mesa Falls better, but would still definitely recommend visiting the lower falls as well. The viewpoint is just farther away than Upper Falls so you can’t get as close to it. 

Watch a Sunset at the St. Anthony Sand Dunes

The St. Anthony Sand Dunes should 100% be on your Eastern Idaho itinerary if you love outdoor adventures. These dunes are massive and one of the best spots for sunset in the area. 

We didn’t have the proper vehicle and equipment for off roading on the actual dunes, so we opted to park near Devil’s Dune and walk all the way up to the dunes from the road, which ended up taking us about 25 minutes each way. 

If you are looking to photograph the dunes, the western side of the recreation area is definitely the side to go to as the tallest 400 ft dunes are located on this side. The western side also has some nice dunes, but they aren’t nearly as epic. It takes about a 30 minute drive to get from the western to eastern side of the dunes when driving around. 

If you are into ATVs, dune buggies, dirt biking, and/or off-roading the St. Anthony sand dunes are going to be your playground. You can rent off roading vehicles from this area if you don’t have one and you can also camp right next to the dunes at the Egin Lake campground .

For more information on the St. Anthony Sand Dunes click here . 

Hike to Sheep Falls

Sheep Falls is a beautiful hidden gem along the Falls river. It’s another close drive from Mesa Falls and Harriman State park if you are already headed in that direction during your time in Eastern Idaho. It’s a short 10-20 minute walk or so from the trailhead and is a super family friendly hike. 

We HIGHLY recommend having high clearance or 4 wheel drive for this area. We did do it in a Sedan, however, we had to go super slow and cautious to get here as there are some sketchy potholes throughout the drive out here.

Watch a Sunset Overlooking the Grand Tetons

If you drive into the town of Driggs at sunset, you’re basically guaranteed an incredible view of the Teton mountain range. Watch the peaks of the mountains turn red and glow at sunset from basically anywhere along the main highway. 

Hike to the Darby Wind Cave

Located right on the state line of Eastern Idaho and Wyoming is a gorgeous hidden cave tucked away in the mountains. The Darby Wind Cave is a crazy feat of nature surrounded by waterfalls. It’s about a 6 mile round trip hike with 1800 feet of elevation gain, and is definitely more of a moderate to advanced trail. 

Make sure to follow directions to the Trailhead from Google Maps rather than All Trails as All Trails is incorrect on the parking lot location. You won’t have service in this area, so download your trail data ahead of time and know that you are in a wilderness area for this hike. There are also no restrooms or additional resources so make sure you pack your 10 essentials. Make sure to be bear aware as well as you do enter bear country here. 

It took us about 2 hours to get to the very top of the cave and about 1 hour to get back down.  Most people will take an average of 4-4.5 hours to complete the out and back trail. You’ll pass through a ton of aspen trees, boulder fields, and waterfalls throughout your way up to the cave. It’s a super fun day hike if you are looking for a more advanced trail in Eastern Idaho. 

Click here for the full trail data.

Drive Up the Teton Scenic Byway

The Teton Scenic Byway is a 70 mile byway that treats you to stunning viewpoints of the Tetons all the way up to the Grand Targhee Resort. If you want to drive the whole byway, it will take about 2.5-3 hours; but driving any portion of the highway near Grand Targhee is worth the drive. 

Go Mountain Biking at Grand Targhee Resort 

The Grand Targhee Resort is located at the top of the Teton Scenic Byway. They offer mountain biking tours during the summer. This area is extremely popular for riders looking for a downhill slope the whole way. The bike trails are gorgeous and take you through tons of wildflower meadows while keeping great views of the Teton mountain range.

Make sure to check out their trail map and lift tickets before heading out for a ride! 

Overall, you should definitely add a road trip through Eastern Idaho to your bucket list. There is so much to see in such a small area! Aside from this ultimate guide to Eastern Idaho, for more information on planning your adventures, check out Visit Idaho’s website for more resources.

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Epic Eastern Idaho Itinerary for Adventurers

• Itineraries
• December 29, 2023

Eastern Idaho is truly a hidden gem. It’s home to massive sand dunes, impressive waterfalls, wildflower hikes, the winding Snake Rive, and views of the majestic Teton Moutain Range. In this Eastern Idaho itinerary, we’ll show you how to spend an epic weekend exploring this underrated adventure destination.

Table of Contents

About Eastern Idaho

Eastern Idaho lies east of the Magic Valley region. The towns we visited in Eastern Idaho were Island Park, Tetonia, Driggs, and Victor, Saint Anthony, and Warm Springs. We would recommend staying in Island Park or Victor or Driggs as they will have the most accommodation options.

If you are planning on extending your trip to visit nearby Grand Teton and/or Yellowstone National Parks, we would recommend staying in Victor/Driggs or Island Park, as they are respectively closer to the parks.

How to get to Eastern Idaho

Fly into Idaho Falls: This is the option we chose. Although Idaho Falls is a smaller regional airport, we were able to find a direct flight from Denver which was super quick and easy!

Once we arrived in Idaho Falls, we drove a little under 1.5 hours to Island Park, where we stayed. Idaho Falls itself is also a great place to explore with some tasty restaurants, cute shops, and a beautiful river walk called the Greenbelt.

Fly into Jackson, Wyoming: Jackson is less than an hour from Driggs and Victor, so it may make sense to fly into Jackson if you are planning to stay there.

Where to stay in Eastern Idaho

We stayed in Island Park at Springhill Suites Island Park which was a comfortable homebase right on the Snake River. Our float trip left right next door to the hotel.

Island Park is very close to Harriman State Park, Big Springs, Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, and Mesa Falls, but if you want to spend more time exploring Fall Creek Falls, the Teton Scenic Byway, and Darby Canyon, then Driggs or Victor are also great places to stay!

Day 1: Float trip and Mesa Falls

Float henry’s fork of the snake river.

Henry’s Fork of the Snake River is a world-renowned fly fishing location that is also a breathtaking and peaceful place to float.

We rented kayaks from Mack’s Inn, adjacent to our accommodation at Island Park at Springhill Suites, and then set out on a two-hour float down the scenic river.

The river is home to a variety of different birds and moose sightings are common! It was such a relaxing way to start the day!

Hike to Mesa Falls: Upper and Lower Falls

Upper mesa falls.

Located on the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Mesa Falls is a must on your Eastern Idaho itinerary. Mesa Falls has both upper falls and lower falls and visitors can view both.

The Upper Falls Overlook has several viewing decks on a boardwalk with stairs and is very popular, so we recommend going early.

Lower Mesa Falls

To view the Lower Falls Overlook, you’ll take a flat 1-mile interpretive trail near the visitor center parking lot. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an unmaintained trail from the Lower Falls Overlook down to the base of the Lower Falls.

Keep in mind the unmaintained trail requires hiking boots with good traction due to very steep sections and some scrambling; however, the trail is very short and manageable with caution for those with a moderate fitness level.

Dinner at Cafe Sabor

If you are a fan of Mexican food like us, you’ll love Cafe Sabor. It’s right across the street from our hotel in Island Park, located on the Snake River.

Cafe Sabor serves traditional Mexican food. We got freshly made guacamole, shrimp tacos, and margaritas to celebrate the perfect first on our eastern Idaho itinerary.

Day 2: Darby Wind Cave and Saint Anthony Sand Dunes

Darby wind cave.

Day 2 on your Idaho itinerary starts early because you’re going on a hike! Although the Darby Wind Cave hike is a bit of a drive from Island Park (about 1 hour and 30 minutes), it’s well worth it.

The Darby Wind Cave hike is 6.3 miles and 1,800 feet of elevation gain. It features tons of spectacular multicolored wildflowers, mountain views, and even a unique cave and waterfall at the end of the hike.

We didn’t do the entire hike since the heat was getting to us in the middle of July and we wished we started the hike even earlier! There’s minimal shade so be sure to prepare with sun protection and plenty of water.

Even though we didn’t make it to the end, the hike was absolutely stunning and one of our favorite things we did on our Idaho itinerary.

Lunch at Grand Teton Brewing

Grand Teton Brewing is located in Victor, Idaho, and offers incredible local brews. There was a burger food truck outside when we went and I think they recently started offering food of their own!

This is a great place to hang out on the patio and relax for a bit.

Explore Victor & Driggs

Both Victor and Driggs are charming small towns near the border of Idaho and Wyoming. We loved souvenir shopping, tasting cider at High Point Cider, and getting huckleberry ice cream!

Sunset at St. Anthony Sand Dunes

The St. Anthony Sand dunes are a photographer’s dream with over ten thousand acres of white quartz sand to explore.

We highly recommend visiting during sunset as the dunes come alive during golden hour with the sun casting interesting shadows and turning the sky into dramatic colors.

The dunes make for an amazing picnic spot, outdoor workout, and of course, an epic photography location.

Day 3: Harriman State Park and Fall Creek Falls

Big springs.

Big Springs was close to our hotel in Island Park and was a cool stop, but it was one of the most crowded places we visited! So if you were to skip anything on this Eastern Idaho itinerary, we’d recommend skipping this one.

Big Springs is one of the headwaters of the Snake River and features large blue springs. You can see trout swimming in the water, tons of seagulls flying around, and you can also visit the historic Johnny Sacks cabin.

It’s a good family-friendly stop since minimal hiking is required. The bugs were also intense here so bring bug spray!

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park is a must stop on your Eastern Idaho itinerary! This state park has tons of beautiful hiking and biking trails and horseback riding tours are available too.

We didn’t take a horseback riding tour, but we did meet the friendly horses which was a highlight of our trip! The cost is $7/vehicle to enter the park.

Fall Creek Falls

Videos of Fall Creek Falls convinced us to visit! It was extremely crowded when we went there mid-afternoon, so keep that in mind! We also didn’t bring bathing suits, but many people were enjoying swimming in the falls.

Since it was so crowded and we didn’t have bathing suits, we just briefly stopped here, but with better planning, you could spend longer here! We recommend some water shoes with good traction, as the walk down to the falls is pretty steep and can be muddy.

Dinner at Citizen 33

We were really impressed with the food at Citizen 33 in Driggs. It’s a craft brewery and restaurant, so they feature a lot of food and drink options!

They really have something for everyone on their large American inspired menu. We both got the house made veggie burger and they were delicious!

Sunset at Teton Scenic overlook

On your way back to your hotel, stop at Teton Scenic Overlook for sunset! This overlook has a large parking lot with an incredible view of the Teton range. It was one of our favorite views of the trip!

Day 4: Depart

Explore idaho falls before departing.

Idaho Falls is a charming small town. We were really impressed with the variety of shops in the town! We ended up picking up a few local gifts for some friends. Our favorite shops were Winnie & Mo’s Bookshop and Holiday House Boutique.

The Idaho Falls Riverwalk is also a scenic place to walk if you have some time before your flight.

Responsible Recreation in Eastern Idaho

Carry bear spray and be bear aware. The Teton Valley is grizzly territory! You should carry bear spray when hiking and know how to use it and what to do should you encounter a bear. Never run from a bear!

Respect wildlife from a distance. Stay 300 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife. If you come upon a moose on a trail, slowly and quietly back away, and run if they charge. Never run from a bear.

Pack out your trash. This includes biodegradable waste like apples and oranges.

Consider the altitude. Eastern Idaho sits at around 6,000 feet and this will be more noticeable if you’re coming from sea level! Be sure to know the signs of altitude sickness and drink plenty of water. Consider acclimating a day before attempting any strenuous hikes.

Consider the heat. Wear sunscreen, bring a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, and at least 1 liter of water per hour of hiking.

Remember not to step through wildflower fields or pick wildflowers so that others can enjoy them.

Eastern Idaho is very close to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, so if you have more time, we’d highly recommend a visit to both parks! Check out our 3-day Grand Teton itinerary .

We’re Sarah and Myles, Colorado-based high school sweethearts passionate about adventure travel and the outdoors. We write guides and itineraries that you'll love!

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10 family-friendly destinations to visit in eastern Idaho

By mary boyle, eastidahonews.com | posted - july 7, 2023 at 4:04 p.m., museum of idaho is one of several family-friendly places to visit in eastern idaho. (eastidahonews.com).

Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Quality family time can be hard to come by. Luckily, Idaho is full of captivating, family-friendly activities and destinations. We've curated a collection that will appeal to family members of all ages. In no particular order, here is the ultimate guide to some family-friendly activities and destinations in eastern Idaho .

1. Museum of Idaho

200 North Eastern Avenue, Idaho Falls

Located in downtown Idaho Falls, the Museum of Idaho will fulfill the curiosity of the little ones while leaving adults pretty impressed, too.

The current display is called "Dinos of the Deep." The exhibit runs until Sept. 10, so there's plenty of time to get your little dinosaur enthusiast in to marvel at the spectacle.

2. Hot springs

Idaho is home to several natural hot springs, some on the beaten path and some way it. Which one you visit will depend entirely on what your family is looking for — but you should visit at least one. Here are three of the most family-friendly spots.

• Lava Hot Springs (430 East Main, Lava Hot Springs) offers five outdoor pools and several water slides.
• Heise Hot Springs (5116 East Heise Road, Ririe) has lots of extra activities and a pizza parlor.
• Green Canyon Hot Springs (2432 Canyon Creek Road, Newdale) is a little smaller and a little more laid back, with reasonably-priced camping.

3. Teton Scenic Byway

6535 Highway 33, Tetonia

If road trips are your family's thing, then take a drive up the Teton Scenic Byway. The byway starts in Swan Valley on Idaho 31, then travels northeast to Victor and Idaho 33; from there, it heads north on Idaho 33 to Idaho 32; and finally north on Idaho 32 to Idaho 47 and Ashton. In all, the byway travels about 68 beautiful miles, taking about an hour-and-a-half, non-stop.

4. Victor Emporium

45 North Main, Victor

Don't drive through the small town of Victor without visiting the Victor Emporium . This unique store has a bit of everything — from toys and treats to fishing licenses. Don't forget to enjoy a famous huckleberry shake or grab a soda from the old-fashioned soda fountain.

5. Fall Creek Falls

Highway 26, southwest of Swan Valley

Located near Swan Valley, Fall Creek Falls is unique and picturesque. The waterfall seems to come from nowhere and dumps into the Snake River 60 feet below.

There isn't any railing by the waterfall, so small children will need to be watched closely. Adventurous types can wade through the marshy water at the bottom to get down in front of the waterfall. The falls can also be approached from the water in a boat, kayak or on a paddleboard.

6. Mesa Falls

Highway 20, 16 miles north of Ashton

A local favorite, Upper and Lower Mesa Falls are spectacular. There's lots of easy access to the viewing platforms to see this amazing 10-story high waterfall. The beautiful Upper and Lower Mesa Falls are connected by a mile-long walking path that is well-maintained.

Bears have been sighted near Mesa Falls, so carry bear spray, travel in a group and make lots of noise.

7. Teton Valley Balloon Rally

1413 North Highway 33, Driggs

Held in Driggs the first weekend in July, the Teton Valley Balloon Rally has been running for over 40 years. They kids might not be fans of waking up to see the hot-air balloons getting filled at 6 a.m., but the sight of the massive balloons all taking off together as the sun peeks over the Tetons — that's bound to make an impact.

8. Idaho Falls Zoo

2925 Rollandet Avenue, Idaho Falls

With over 300 individual animals representing 130 exotic species from around the globe, the Idaho Falls Zoo is known as the "best little zoo in the west." The Zoo is home to African lions and penguins, Chilean flamingos, an Amur tiger, snow leopards, Bactrian camels and lots more.

Wide, meandering paths are easy for strollers or wheelchairs to access. And there's plenty of shade to keep everyone cool. The zoo is a great all-day activity for the whole family.

Funland is right next door to the zoo. It has been newly renovated and will be opening soon. Come for the animals at the zoo; stay for the rides at Funland. Funland has a carousel, train, planes, octopus and other rides. New this year is an 18-hole miniature golf course.

10. Idaho Centennial Carousel

South 3rd West, Rexburg

The Idaho Centennial Carousel is located at Porter Park, in the center of Rexburg. This is Idaho's only antique wooden carousel. It even survived the Teton Dam flood in 1976. It is now fully restored with bright colors and cheerful music. The splash park is right next to the carousel, so a quick cool-down after a carousel ride is just the ticket.

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20 Beautiful Places to Visit in Idaho

Although it’s sometimes overlooked in favour of neighbouring Montana and Oregon, I personally think Hemingway’s favourite state is home to a serious amount of beauty.

It’s hard to know where to start on such a list, but here are my favorite spots that I think are worth exploring…

This capital city is also known as the city of trees! Named by the 19th-century French Canadian trappers, this wooded river became a distinct landmark due to the oasis dominated by cottonwood trees.

A nature lover’s paradise, I love spending time here among rivers, mountains, canyons, deserts, and lakes with recreational activities.

Also a great place to go sightseeing, the bustling downtown is a cultural epicentre with the Idaho State Capitol and the Classic Egyptian Theatre and is home to many small businesses.

Full of incredibly welcoming people, chic cafes, and quirky shops, this mid-sized city retains the charm of a small town.

• Visitor Center Address: 1101 W. Front Street, Suite 100, Boise, Idaho, 83702
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: The fall months from September to November, summer is also good but accommodation rates are much higher.

My highlights…

• Visiting the popular River Greenbelt Park and taking a stroll through the tree-lined paths and scenic views.
• Taking part in a scavenger hunt, which was a fun way to explore the city’s landmarks and find some hidden gems. My favorites were the Freak Alley Gallery , Boise Art Glass and the quirky Idaho Potato Museum.
• Checking out Boise Art Museum which was filled with contemporary art and creative exhibitions. I especially loved the Warhol exhibits!

2. Sawtooth Mountains

The rugged Sawtooth Mountains of the Rocky Mountains are rivaled for their size and beauty. Once home to Ernest Hemingway, this landscape offers miles of hiking trails, fast-flowing rivers, and pristine mountain lakes.

The most popular lakes in the wilderness include Alice Lake. Hike the serene Alice Lake to witness the true beauty of the Sawtooth wilderness. Another alpine Lake worth exploring is Redfish Lake. Whether leisure or adventure, this scenic lake has something for everyone.

The gateway to the picturesque Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho City. Once a populous city during the gold rush, today, it hosts historic structures, antique stores, and wooden sidewalks.

• Address of Sawtooth National Recreation Area Headquarters – 5 North Fork Canyon Road, Ketchum, ID 83340
• Best time to visit: Spring and summer to make the most of the outdoor activities.
• Kayaking on Redfish Lake and getting a different perspective of the spectacular surrounding landscape.
• Going for a hike along one of the trails to discover Goat Lake, which became a favorite beauty spot of mine!
• Taking a soak in natural hot springs, I highly recommend doing this!

3. Idaho State Capitol Building

The beautiful landmark Idaho State Capitol Building in Boise sits at the end of Capitol Street. Designed by John Tourtellotte and Fredrick Hummel, it was completed in 1920.

There’s a lot to take in, highly influenced by the U.S Capitol Building, the life-size Lincoln statue, and the Liberty Bell replica.

Within the beautiful sandstone walls, symmetrical wings, and Roman columns, several laws have been passed to safeguard citizens for nearly a century. Tour around to learn more about the state’s rich cultural history.

• Address: 700 W Jefferson St, Boise, ID 83702
• Best time to visit: tours are available Monday – Friday at 10am and 1pm each day.

My favorite highlights…

• Admiring the magnificent architecture both inside and outside of this grand building.
• Wandering around the fascinating exhibitions located in the museum, my favorite was the Roots of Capitol History.
• Going on a self-guided tour around this iconic landmark and learning about its history and facts, for example how it’s the only Capitol Building heated by geothermal water! 

4. Yellowstone National Park

One of the most famous national parks in the world is located partly in Idaho, so if you’re in the state, in my opinion this is a must-see attraction!

The area of truly extraordinary wilderness covers nearly 3,500 square miles and sits on a volcanic hot stop, too, hence the incredible hot springs and geysers – make sure you don’t miss the famous Old Faithful.

Other scenic highlights of the park include steep canyons, alpine rivers, thick forests, and wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope.

It’s also a great vacation spot, with a good range of accommodation options and a hub for many outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and climbing.

• Address of nearest entrance: Yellowstone National Park West Entrance Road, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
• Best time to visit: April to October but it gets very crowded in the summer months.
• Visiting the magical Tower Falls which was worth braving the crowds for! It’s a dramatic 132 feet drop.
• Take a fun rafting ride down the river (there are rentals in the park, we used the Wild West Whitewater Rafting Company).
• Going hiking on the easy Grand Prismatic Hot Spring Overlook Trail which was just over 2km in length and took us to an incredible viewpoint overlooking the bubbling hot springs.

5. Snake River Canyon

Formed along the Snake River in Southern Idaho, this scenic canyon stretches east and west on either side of Twin Falls City.

The Snake River, which spans 50 miles, cuts through and flows across ancient basalt lava. This scenic setting is ideal for hiking and boating. The Canyon features two major waterfalls and several springs.

The majestic Perrine Bridge along the canyon provides a striking view. On the northeast lies the city of Twin Falls, which is the alluring Shoshone Falls.

Often called the most charming waterfalls of the North American sub-continent, the Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the U.S.  

• Address: 422 4th Ave E, Twin Falls, ID 83301
• Best time to visit: summer
• Taking a kayak out on the river which is classed at a Grade 3 in difficulty.
• Hiking the moderate Snake River Canyon Rim Trail which took me nearly 5 hours to complete but the gorgeous river views made it worth it!
• Seeing the spectacular Shoshone Falls which are huge and often known as the “Niagara of the West.”

6. Idaho Falls

Encompassing the Snake River in eastern Idaho, Idaho Falls is widely known for its outdoor access. The beautiful Idaho Falls River Walk provides a five-mile scenic attraction on both sides of the Snake River.

The Greenbelt highlights some of the city’s spectacular scenery and is a favorite spot for cyclists, runners, and strollers.

A blend of art and culture, this city celebrates history with fine places like the Art Museum, The Museum of Idaho , and the Japanese Friendship Garden at Sportsman Park.

World-renowned places like Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole can be reached easily from Idaho Falls. 

• Visitor Center Address: Idaho Falls, ID 83402
• Best time to visit: spring and summer
• Admiring one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, the Idaho Falls Temple, which sparkled in the summer sunshine.
• Taking a stroll along the riverwalk and greenbelt and discovering awesome several art installations, historic sites and incredible scenery.
• Exploring the charming city at a fast pace by hiring an e-bike.

If you’re looking for a perfect family vacation spot in summer and winter, head for the underrated resort town of McCall.

Located on beautiful Payette Lake, just 2.5 hours north of Boise, this is a wonderfully peaceful, scenic destination where you can relax or indulge in many activities, such as boating, kayaking, or hiking. 

In my opinion, the town is charming, with great places to shop, visit, and stay. Walk along the waterfront and then swim or go for a cruise instead. In the winter, there are seasonal events,  including ice sculpture displays.

• Address: McCall, ID 83638
• Best time to visit: summer but winter has great seasonal events
• Visiting the farmers market (held twice a week) and sampling some local delights. Look out for the fresh bunches of lavender and delicious Long Valley Coffee.
• Going rock climbing at Fireman’s Point, the views from here were spectacular! 
• Going zip lining at Zip McCall and soaring above the beautiful landscapes!

8. Sandpoint

Nestled between three mountain ranges on the splendid Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint is buzzing with various outdoor sports, cultural events, and some of Idaho’s best scenery. Situated in Bonner County, this city is a real gem in the lap of the Mountains.

Home to Idaho’s largest ski resort, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Sandpoint provides excellent ski slopes and terrain parks. Climb the nearby Selkirk and Cabinet mountain ranges or trail through Lake Pend’s skirt.

Sandpoint was once named the nation’s most beautiful small town and I’m a huge fan of this gorgeous spot!

• Address: Sandpoint, ID 83864
• Checking out Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s fantastic slopes.
• Taking a cruise along Lake Pend to explore the beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
• Seeing magnificent views overlooking the surrounding areas and water whilst hiking the Mickinnick Trail (which is nearly 7 miles in length).

9. Shoshone Falls 

This spectacular beauty along the Snake River is located on the edge of Twin Falls. Falling off at a marveling height of 212ft, the Shoshone Falls is about 45ft higher than Niagara Falls. Formed around 14,000 years ago, it was a vital fishing and trading place for Native Americans.

With the alluring basalt spectacle and multiple viewpoints, visitors can see the dramatic features of the Snake River on the constructed platform that extends over the water.

Pack your lunch and enjoy the natural scenery in Shoshone National Park—this is a stunning spot to explore in Idaho. 

• Address: 4155 Shoshone Falls Grade, Twin Falls, ID 83301
• Best time to visit: March to May is when the flow is the highest.
• Having a picnic and spend time relaxing by the beautiful waterfalls.
• Grabbing some Insta-worthy shots of the incredible Falls which are known as the Niagara of the West.
• Going for a swim in the nearby Dierkie’s Lake.

10. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Step into the mystical and surreally beautiful terrain of the Moon in Central Idaho. Located on the Snake River plain between the small towns of Arco and Carey, the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is one of the country’s historic national monuments.

The surface of this worldly wonder, which resembles the surface of the Moon, is filled with scattered islands, cinder cones, lava tubes, and volcanic bombs.

The desolate yet sublime landscape was formed by molten lava fields nearly 15 million years ago. Whether you want to observe the iconic wildlife or camp out under the twinkling stars, this surreal place with a quirky landscape is worth a visit.

• Address: 1266 Craters Loop Road, Arco, ID 83213
• Best time to visit: spring to fall
• Exploring the naturally formed caves on Full-Day Guided Tour. 
• Hiking the 7-mile moderately difficult Loop Road Trail and admiring the unique scenery.
• Stopping by the Visitor Center where we got handy maps of the area and checked out the educational exhibitions were we learnt about the history of the area.

11. Thousand Springs State Park  

This state park is a public recreation and nature preservation area in Idaho. It is full of beautiful wonders.

Created in 2005 by merging four existing state parks of the Hagerman Valley, the park brims with picturesque landscapes like the Malad Gorge, Kelton Trail, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, Billingsley Creek, Ritter Island, Niagara Springs, and Crystal Springs.

Watch the beautiful falls and springs cascading right out of the canyon walls and enjoy wandering the grounds; this place will amaze you.

• Headquarters Address: 1074 E 2350 S, Hagerman, ID 83332
• Best time to visit: spring to early fall

My personal highlights…

• Going on the easy Malad Gorge hiking trail which was 4 and a half kilometres long and took me nearly an hour to complete. It’ was a peaceful trail filled with with stunning scenery of the gorge and river and waterfalls.
• Going paddle boarding in the vibrant aquamarine spring fed natural pools (there were rentals of equipment in the park).

12. Lake Coeur d’Alene

Enveloped in the enchanting mountains, Coeur d’Alene Lake is the second-largest lake in northern Idaho. It covers an area of 26 miles and is primarily fed by the St. Joe and Coeur d’Alene rivers. The lake has shorelines, parks, campgrounds, trails, and beaches.

The pristine blue waters and small beaches have some of the best water activities. At its northern end is the beautiful city of Coeur d’Alene. This mountain town with a floating boardwalk hosts many places to eat and drink.

Take a walk around the stunning lake or indulge in water adventures. Your Idaho trip is incomplete without stopping by this scenic lake.

• Address: Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814
• Best time to visit: summer (but temperatures can reach 100 degrees!)
• Hiking the moderate North Idaho Centennial Trail: Rutledge Trailhead which was 5 miles and took me nearly two hours to complete, the lake views were incredible!
• Renting a jet ski and zooming across the pristine waters of the lake (we used FastSplash Jet Ski Rentals).
• Taking a trip to the nearby Silverwood Theme Park and checking out the thrilling rides, my personal favorite was appropriately named Timber Terror!

13. Lava Hot Springs

A small hidden gem in Bannock County, it is a tourist attraction due to its incredible mineral pools, which draw people from many other states.

The pools also vary in temperature to suit everyone’s needs, but if you’re visiting in summer, it’s best to take a dip in the early morning or the evening.

Even though it still retains its small-town vibe, there are a few other things to do here, including outdoor activities such as hiking, zipping, and tubing down the river, which passes through the heart of the town from about mid-May to mid-September.

There’s also a gorgeous historic downtown area and a few great places to eat and stay.

• Address: 430 East Main Street, Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246
• Best time to visit: summer is crowded, winter is much fewer visitors.
• Hiring a tube and floating down the Portneuf River.
• Checking out the Olympic Swimming Pool and Waterpark, which featured fun waterslides, splash pads, diving platforms, and different sized swimming pools.
• Taking a dip in the pools filled with natural hot mineral water, there were five to choose from! 

14. Hells Canyon

Encompassing the remote region of Idaho and Oregon, the Hells Canyon was carved by the meandering water of the Snake River.

Featuring dramatic terrains, elevation, and climate, this gorgeous landscape contains acres of beauty and adventure.

The protected area around the Hells Canyon, the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area was created in 1975. Hemmed by the jagged cliffs and snow-covered Seven Devils Mountain, the scenic wilderness is ideal for a hike or mountain bike ride.

• Headquarters Address: 8823 Cove Road, Enterprise, OR 97828

My favourite highlights…

• Going on a unique jet boat tour excursion (we went with Hell’s Canyon Jet Boat Tours), which took us upstream and through the canyon.
• Hiking to the Hat Point Overlook for a fantastic view of the canyon.
• Checking out the educational exhibits and history of the canyon at the Visitor Center.

15. Sun Valley

Be it skiing or summer fun, the lively Sun Valley offers many recreational activities in the majestic Rocky Mountains of Central Idaho.

While Bald Mountain offers steep and challenging runs for pro skiers and snowboarders, Dollar Mountain offers gentle slopes perfect for the novice.

Home to the world’s first chairlifts, Sun Valley’s Ski Resort is also a hotspot for some of the biggest celebrities. Warm up at the Sun Valley Heritage and Ski Museum and learn more about Ernest Hemingway’s time in the Sun Valley.  

• Address: 1 Sun Valley Road, Sun Valley, ID 83353
• Best time to visit: summer or winter
• Going for beginner’s snowboarding lessons, I wasn’t much good though but it was a fun experience!
• Going on a guided snowshoeing tour and seeing the spectacular snowy scenery at a slower pace. If you go take your camera!
• Enjoying an aromatherapy massage at The Spa at Sun Valley Resort. 

16. Wallace

The timeless silver-producing mining town of Wallace is a registered National Historic Place. Located near the principal town of Coeur d’Alene, Wallace is the “Silver Capital of the World.”

Today, the historic Wallace offers much world-class recreation along with the area’s colorful history.

Enjoy the underground mine tours, mine museums, logging, mountain bike, and snowmobile trails on the Forest Service roads against lush green forests.

I personally think this quaint, attractive town is perfect for history buffs and adventurists.

• Address: Wallace, ID 83873

My personal highlights… 

• Sampling locally brewed craft beer at the Wallace Brewing Company I highly recommend the Huckleberry Shandy which had a fruity taste.
• Going for beginner snowboarding lessons in the winter!
• Exploring the Sierra Silver Mine tour on trolley overground and then descends underground. I learnt all about its history on the narrated tour.

17. Silver Mountain 

The Silver Mountain region is best known for its thrilling terrain, deep snow, and sunshine. Silver Mountain is close to Coeur d’Alene and offers excellent nature trails, biking, and skiing.

Home to some of the best skiing in Northern Idaho, the ski area is nestled in the mountains above the nearby town of Kellogg and is connected by gondolas.

A relaxing destination for families, the Silver Mountain Resort hosts North America’s longest gondola, Idaho’s largest indoor water park and many more attractions.  

• Address: 610 Bunker Ave, Kellogg, ID 83837

My highlights…  

• Trying out the Lazy River the fun rapids at the Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark Resort . Kids will also love the Hoop Lagoon.
• Going on the scenic gondola ride, the views of the mountains and forests below were just incredible!

18. Bruneau Dunes State Park

This unique spot is home to the tallest freestanding dunes in North America—the highest measures 470 feet.

There’s a small entrance fee, and it’s higher if you stay overnight, but it’s worth it, as the views are stunning. 

Located in Owyhee County in southwestern Idaho, you can hike, camp, rent a sand board, or gaze at the stars in Idaho’s only public observatory in the park.

• Address: 27608 Sand Dunes Road, Mountain Home, ID 83647
• Hiking the 6 Mile Dune Trail, the scenery was seriously wow-inducing and included desert, shrub-land and the shore of Dune Lake.
• Going bird and wildlife spotting and seeing violet-green swallows, red-tailed hawks and coyotes.
• Going sand boarding which was a lot of fun (you can rent the boards at the local Visitor Center).

19. Stanley 

It’s known that Idaho has a connoisseur of beautiful small towns to visit in America, and Stanley – a gorgeous hidden gem – is no exception.

Stanley is the ideal place for a quiet retreat in Custer County, Idaho. Secluded Stanley Lake is at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains.

Regardless of the season, there is plenty to capture in lovely Stanley. From the incredible sunset vistas and hot springs to the summer greenery and beautiful fall foliage, the tranquillity of Stanley Lake is a heaven for nature lovers.

• Address: Stanley, ID 83278
• Best time to visit: summer to early fall.

My favorite highlights…  

• Going white water rafting with the Sawtooth Adventure Company. The rapids are hugely exciting and graded at Class 4 (best time to go is from May to June).
• Riding the 10km Washington Lake via White Clouds Trail Mountain Trail   where I saw the gorgeous lake, forests, amazing views of the Sawtooth range and the towering peaks of the White Clouds.

This is a beautiful small resort town that is pretty low-key (in comparison with other resort towns in Idaho), so it’s a perfect vacation destination if you want to get away from it all.

It’s the hub of Teton Valley, marking the crossroads to Grand Targhee Ski Resort, where you can go skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe walking.

The town has some independent shops, eateries, and places to stay, and it is surrounded by plenty of endless mountain trails.

• Address: Driggs, ID 83422
• Exploring the cute downtown shops my favorite places were The Rusty Nail for unique gifts and home decor, the hipster friendly meeting place Rise Coffee House and the Wardrobe Company for great outdoor clothing.
• Going river floating in inflatable boats down the Teton River, it’s a tranquil activity with gorgeous views (we hired the boats from Teton River Supply).

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Amazing, Great, Beautiful US state!!!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Idaho

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 4, 2024

Idaho’s nickname is the Gem State. This is very apt, since the 43rd state is truly a gem among states. In the north along Interstate 90, you’ll find lush green forests, picturesque lakes and the historic silver mining town of Kellogg. In the south along Interstate 84, you’ll find deserts and history – the Oregon Trail that brought pioneers to the West passes through here.

In-between, you’ll find Highway 12, a scenic byway that parallels the Clearwater River that Lewis and Clark followed on their expedition to the Pacific.

Map of Places to Visit in Idaho

You’ll also find great recreational opportunities among the best places to visit in Idaho: great skiing and golfing, camping and hiking, and some great mountain biking in the Hiawatha Trail that starts at the Montana border and ends 17 gorgeous, graveled miles later.

10. Sandpoint

Sandpoint may have less than 8,000 residents, but it’s a major economic hub in northern Idaho. Two national businesses, women’s wear retailer Coldwater Creek and salad dressing manufacturer Lighthouse Foods have their national headquarters here.

Nestled in the mountains, Sandpoint sits on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, (pronounced “pond oh ray”) Idaho’s largest lake with swimming, boating and fishing. Bing Crosby’s family once had a large stone home on the lake shore. Nearby is Schweitzer Mountain, Idaho’s largest ski resort. No wonder this charming place was named a Most Beautiful Small Town in 2011.

9. Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs is a popular vacation resort in Southern Idaho situated near Pocatello on the old Oregon Trail route. The town isn’t very big – a tad over 500 souls – making it a good place to chill out away from the crowds.

“Chill out,” however, may be a misnomer as you’ll find five hot springs pools here. Water temperatures range from 102° to 112° constantly, even though water is constantly flowing to the Pontneuf River at the rate of 250 million gallons a day. When you tire of soaking, cool off by floating the river on inner tubes.

8. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Many travelers look at Hells Canyon National Recreation Area that divides Idaho and Oregon as a scenic and recreation area. That it is, no doubt about it: At nearly 8,000 feet deep, Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America and can be explored on countless hiking trails.

Running through the middle of it is the Snake River that combines with the Clearwater River to the. Hells Canyon is also an important archaeological district, with indications humans lived here 15,000 years ago. Early explorers also passed through here, so you’ll find historic sites on both sides of the canyon.

7. Idaho Falls

The falls at Idaho Falls may not be very deep, but they’re plenty wide. The falls in downtown Idaho Falls only drop 22 feet (7 meters), but they stretch 600 feet (180 meters) across the Snake River. They’re best viewed from the Snake River Greenbelt, a six-mile round trip over a paved path.

The greenbelt, the city’s top attraction , is popular with bikers and strollers as well as those who climb down the rocks for a little fishing. The town itself is the best city in eastern Idaho. It is the economic, arts and cultural center for the region.

6. Coeur d’Alene

Just 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington , Coeur d’Alene rules the Idaho Panhandle. The largest city in northern Idaho, the city sits on the shores of the scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene. If you’re a golfer, you might want to play a few rounds at the Coeur d’Alene Resort course that’s famous for its 14th Hole, a green that sits in the lake, floating along on an underwater cable.

Coeur d’Alene is one of the best places to visit in Idaho throughout the year, from its Christmas lights cruise on the lake to summer’s Iron Man competition.

5. Shoshone Falls

Q: What falls in the United States is higher than the mighty Niagara Falls?

A: Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls, Idaho. The water falls on the Snake River drop 212 feet (65 meters), Niagara only falls 167 feet (51 meters). Still, Shoshone Falls are sometimes called the “Niagara of the West.” The falls were an important fishing and trading spot for Native Americans, including the Shoshone for which they’re named. The best place to view the falls in a city park that has swimming, picnic and play areas, hiking trails and a boat ramp.

4. Craters of the Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon National Monument is an eerie place in southern Idaho. The lava formations make it appear desolate; it is one of the best preserved basalt flood areas in the Lower 48 states. Thought to resemble the Moon’s surface, NASA astronauts trained at the lava field as they prepared for their moon landing. Once there, they discovered the Moon was different from Craters of the Moon.

A flashlight is a must if you plan on exploring the lava caves; water also is essential in the summer. The Oregon Trail skirted parts of the monument.

3. Sun Valley

Sun Valley is Idaho’s premier ski and summer vacation resort, with many celebrities owning homes in the area. Located in central Idaho, Sun Valley is nestled among mountains that provide great skiing, ice skating and snowboarding in the winter, and golf, horseback riding, hiking and fly fishing in the summer.

It is a year-round family tourist destination. Sun Valley has hosted World Cup ski races, while Olympic ice skater Sonja Henie filmed Sun Valley here. Noted writer Ernest Hemingway wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls here.

Located in southwest Idaho, Boise is not only the state’s largest city, but also its capital. Part of Idaho’s Treasure Valley, Boise (pronounced “BOY-see”) was a stop along the Oregon Trail. The city’s 8th Street through downtown is now a pedestrian zone.

It’s here you’ll find the Basque Block where you can learn about Boise’s Basque heritage. Boise’s North End has older homes and tree lined streets; the American Planning Association named it one of America’s 10 Great Neighborhoods in 2008. If you’re a jazz fan, don’t miss the annual Gene Harris Jazz Festival.

1. Yellowstone National Park

America’s most loved park, Yellowstone , is not only America’ first national park, but the first national park in the world. It’s a wonderful place to visit, with spectacular scenery and plenty of geothermal activity (don’t miss seeing Old Faithful erupt).

It’s also a good place to see wild animals in their native habitat – buffalo rule here, so don’t be surprised if you get stuck in traffic caused by a buffalo sauntering down the road. Remember, these animals are wild, so keep your distance. Yellowstone is located mostly in Wyoming; only one percent of the park is in Idaho.

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America From The Road

27 Best Things To Do In Idaho: Bucket List Experiences

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Idaho , then you have come to the right place because you are going to be getting the inside scoop from an almost local!

An almost local? Ha! What’s that? Fortunately for us we are lucky enough to live near Idaho’s border over in Eastern Washington so Idaho has become our stomping grounds over the last several years.

Since it is our FAVORITE destination, we’ll take any excuse to visit. Whether it’s Memorial Weekend, Fourth of July holidays, summer vacation, or a ski trip, you’ll more than likely find us in the Gem State! We even once spent three months roaming around the entire state in our campervan.

Every chance we get to visit Idaho we take. And I’m going to share some of the incredible things to do here so that you can see why you need to visit too.

What is so special about Idaho? Idaho is a place with an abundance of natural beauty; from its least visited unspoiled forests in the panhandle, sparkling alpine lakes, and colorful wildflower-filled meadows in the central parts, to the dramatic canyons and dusty deserts in the south, this state will constantly surprise you with its variety of pristine landscapes.

Idaho is truly under-appreciated but this is probably what has kept it such a special and surprising place to visit.

Map Of Things To Do In Idaho

And it’s not just the landscape that is beautiful here, but the residents too. Idaho has some of the friendliest and welcoming people in the country, and we have made some lifelong friends here just from camping trips or visiting a local bar.

If you’re looking for a state that can offer adventurous activities, Idaho is the perfect place for you. There are endless hiking, mountain-biking, horseback riding, fishing, and white-water rafting opportunities to name a few.

Would you prefer to take it easy? Then you’ll be pleased to know there are numerous lakes to relax by, incredibly beautiful campgrounds, and hot springs galore!

Anyway, let’s get to this list of things to do in Idaho. It has been broken up into things to do in Southern Idaho first, followed by things to do in Central Idaho, and then things to do in Northern Idaho so you can skip to the section you plan to visit.

Best Things To Do In Southern Idaho

Visit shoshone falls.

Shoshone Falls might just be Idaho’s most famous and loved attraction. This waterfall is synonymous with the Gem State, a little bit like how Yosemite Falls is akin to California, how Multnomah Falls is analogous with Oregon, or how Havasu Falls comes to mind when people think of travel in Arizona, and well, you get my drift.

The impressive waterfall might even be one of the most visited places in Idaho probably because it is located just off Interstate-84 between Salt Lake City and Boise therefore a popular detour for motorists heading north to Portland or south to Utah.

So what makes Shoshone Falls so special? Well, Shoshone Falls is the largest waterfall not only in Idaho, but one of the largest waterfalls in the United States. This waterfall is actually higher than Niagara Falls and even referred to as the Niagara Falls of the west!

Shoshone Falls is one of the top places to visit in Idaho and a great introduction to the southern part of the Gem state. You can visit Shoshone Falls at Shoshone Falls State Park or if you are the adventurous type and happen to be visiting during summer, you can kayak or paddleboard to this waterfall from Twin Falls.

Hike Down To Box Canyon and Take A Dip In The Cool Blue Water

Hidden amongst the flat farmland and dairy pastures just outside of the city of Twin Falls is a secluded canyon where crystal clear water seeps from rock walls into a brilliant blue pool.

The color of the water is truly magical and really must be seen to be believed! What’s even more impressive is that this spring-fed pool sits at the bottom of a wide chasm surrounded by lush vegetation which is in stark contrast to the featureless farmland above.

The sparkling pool is a result of spring water discharged from the Snake River Plain Aquifer. This spring flows at a rate of 180,000 gallons per minute making it the 11th largest spring in the USA.

While it is incredible just to see the beautiful pool from above at the canyon overlook, it is even more satisfying to hike down into Box Canyon where you can swim in the crystal clear pool and stream that flows out to the Snake River. There is even a secret waterfall that you will stumble upon along the hiking trail.

This hidden gem is a favorite among locals but hard to find much information on outside of local knowledge so I have written a guide to where you can find Box Canyon, how to hike down, and where to swim. See the link below if you are interested in visiting this natural Idaho wonder.

>> Read: How To Hike Down To Box Canyon & Where To Swim

Spend A Weekend In Twin Falls

Twin Falls has become one of our favorite destinations to visit in Idaho. It has come as a complete shock to my husband and I that we would love this place so much, especially considering we both grew up on the coast and never imagined we could enjoy anywhere not near the ocean.

While you won’t find any beaches, mountains, or even forests in Twin Falls, what you will find are a plethora of hidden natural wonders that will have you wondering how the heck is this in Southern Idaho!

I’m talking about impressive canyons, soothing hot springs, and waterfalls the color of ice blue glaciers.

There are so many waterfalls you can find near Twin Falls that you could spend an entire day visiting them.

Besides natural attractions, the city of Twin Falls has plenty of great restaurants, a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and styles of travel, and best of all, super friendly locals that will make your stay a delight.

We have visited Twin Falls numerous times and usually stay at this hotel in Jerome or camp at Banbury Hot Springs .

In my opinion, spending an entire weekend in Twin Falls is necessary if you want to see all of this destination’s highlights, or at the very least, try to dedicate an entire day to exploring Twin Falls and the surrounding area.

>> Read: 20 Really Cool Things To Do In Twin Falls, Idaho

Walk Across The Perrine Bridge

The Perrine Bridge is the star attraction in Twin Falls. If you only have time to visit one thing in Twin Falls, make sure you stop by to see this man-made wonder!

At 68,000 feet tall, the Perrine Bridge is one of the highest bridges in the United States. Visiting the bridge is one of the top things to do in Twin Falls and I would say worthy of being on every Idaho bucket list .

Not only is the steel structure itself very cool to see, but the views of the Snake River Canyon seen from on the bridge are nothing short of spectacular.

Yes, pedestrians are allowed to walk across the bridge to take in the views, however I must say, walking across this bridge was a somewhat terrifying experience for me as someone who is afraid of heights. The bridge literally shakes every time a vehicle rolls across it which makes walking across an even more scary situation.

You needn’t walk across the bridge to enjoy the views of the Snake River Canyon though as there are viewing platforms from both sides of the bridge.

There is a Visitors Center adjacent to the Perrine Bridge that has all sorts of information about attractions in Twin Falls and the surrounding area.

Drive Thousand Springs Scenic Byway

Thousand Springs Scenic Byway is an idyllic stretch of road that follows the Snake River through south-central Idaho leading motorists through farmland, small towns, and some incredible geological features.

Some of the places we thought were impressive to see on this road trip was Malad Gorge , a chasm with multiple waterfalls, and Ritter Island which is a wetland oasis where you can swim and picnic.

There are also opportunities to hike (although not that much) and kayak or canoe on the Snake River.

We loved this drive and were surprised by how much there was to see in such a small area. The byway is only 67 miles and while the drive time is less than two hours, you should set aside approximately four to five hours to visit all of the highlights on this road trip.

>> Read: Thousand Springs Scenic Byway – Road Tripping Through Southern Idaho

Explore Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Craters Of The Moon National Monument is Idaho’s most well-known federally protected destination notable for its strange moon-like landscape.

The entire national park is a vast ocean of lava flows and random cinder cones so it isn’t quite what the typical idea of beautiful is, however this place is still lovely, just in a very unusual way.

The best way to explore the park is along the scenic 7 Mile Loop Road which will lead you to many of the park’s best attractions such as Devil’s Orchard and Inferno Cone .

There are many opportunities to pull over and view or photograph the park, and if you would like to get some physical activity in, there are several easy to moderate hiking trails that can be found along the way.

Another unique feature of Craters Of The Moon is its caves which were formed by underground rivers of lava. Visitors are allowed to explore some of these caves, however you will need to obtain a permit from the Visitor Center beforehand.

>> Read: Best Things To Do At Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Go On A Foodie Crawl Through Boise

If you are a foodie then you will no doubt love Boise because this city has a thriving culinary scene with lots of great restaurants to explore. The restaurants in Boise have a farm to table emphasis with menus that are creative and experimental.

Eating out in this city is always an exciting ordeal, and a good opportunity to sample authentic northwest fare if you’re not from these parts.

What is northwest fare you ask? Dishes that include trout, salmon, mushrooms, asparagus, berries, and basically any ingredients that are local to the area.

>> Read: 12 Best Places To Eat In Boise: Ultimate Foodie Guide

Explore Boise’s Brewery Scene

While Boise doesn’t yet have a reputation as being a beer destination like Milwaukee, Portland, or Bellingham , that might change soon as dozens of breweries have popped up here over the past several years.

The lineup of breweries in Boise is quite impressive, and so far there are at least seven of them in just the downtown area alone. Some of the breweries in downtown include 10 Barrel Brewing, Woodland Empire Brewery, and Boise Brewing. If you enjoy sour beers though, you should head to Barbarian Brewing.

Our favorite brewery in Boise is Payette Brewing who offer a nice range of IPAs, stouts, porters, and seasonal beer. My personal favorite here is their Mexican chocolate stout which is absolutely delicious!

One advantage Boise has over other cities is that the downtown area is quite small so it is relatively easy to visit multiple breweries in one day without having to drive between all of them.

Visit Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park

Here’s a little fact most people are unaware of – Idaho holds the record for having the tallest sand dune in North America! Yep, there is a mammoth-sized sand dune that towers 470 feet above the desert floor in the state of Idaho. It is bigger than the sand dunes in Death Valley and the massive beach dunes on the Oregon coast.

You can see this record holding sand dune at Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park which is only an hour south of Boise. At the state park you can not only climb the sand dunes, but also rent a sandboard from the Visitor Center and ride down them too!

Besides sandboarding you can hike, fish, swim, or camp, here. Another cool experience you can have at this state park is being able to star gaze using the onsite Observatory’s collection of telescopes.

The star gazing program is available on Friday and Saturday nights throughout summer. Tickets are limited to the first eighty people so be sure to arrive early on the weekend as it is first come first served only. Programs begin at 9pm with an indoor presentation followed by telescope viewing.

Since Bruneau Sand Dunes are located only an hour from Boise, this place makes a great day trip from Boise or a fun detour if your driving between Salt Lake City and Portland, Oregon.

Best Things To Do In Central Idaho

Visit pettit lake.

Pettit Lake is a stunning alpine lake that sits at the foot of the impressive Sawtooth Mountains. This pristine lake is the perfect destination for you if you’re looking to go off-grid for a few days since the area is undeveloped and offers a more peaceful camping experience than other lakeside destinations.

There is a first-come first-served campground at the north end of the lake and it is very popular during the summer. If you have your heart set on camping here, you should plan to arrive early in the morning to increase your chances of getting a campsite!

The Tin-Cup Trailhead located next to the campground is a popular jumping off point for backpacking trips into the Sawtooth Wilderness. From this trailhead you can also hike to two very beautiful lakes; Alice Lake and Toxaway Lake. Or if you’re up for the challenge, you can hike to both lakes on the Alice and Toxaway Loop Trail , but keep in mind this is a very long day hike!

>> Read : Best Lakes In Idaho For A Summer Vacation or Camping Holiday

Tour Yankee Fork Gold Dredge

Yankee Fork Gold Dredge is one of the best preserved gold dredges in the United States! It is located in the central mountains of Idaho on the Yankee Fork River, a tributary of the beautiful Salmon River.

This gold dredge was built in 1940 by a company from New York who after surveying the area, was told there was an estimated eleven million dollars of gold in their five mile claim.

The gold dredge was in operation until 1953, but sat lonely and abandoned after that when the company ran out of their mining claim. Vandals began destroying the dredge by breaking its windows and stealing anything they could.

Fortunately in 1966, the gold dredge was donated by the owner to the U.S. Forest Service who made the necessary repairs to save the dredge from deterioration. The gold dredge is now open to the public and visitors can exlore the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge on self-guided tours.

>> Read : Visit Yankee Fork Gold Dredge: One Of The Best Preserved Gold Dredges In The United States!

Custer Ghost Town

Custer Ghost Town is one of the most popular ghost towns in Idaho to visit on a road trip. This abandoned mining town is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the United States and a place that needs to be on your Idaho bucket list!

Custer was established in 1879 after the discovery of gold at the General Custer Mine, the mother lode of the Yankee Fork. This mining district hit its peak population in 1896 but when the easy gold began to dry up, residents of Custer started leaving until there was noone left by 1910.

If you’d like to experience what life was like in a 19th-century prospecting town , a visit to Custer will certainly give you some insight. This ghost town is filled with clues of its former activity. You’ll find rusted mining equipment and machinery scattered throughout the old mining district.

Several of the buildings have been restored to their former glory such as the schoolhouse, the Empire Saloon, and a few private cabins. During the summer, volunteers from Friends of Custer Museum are onsite to provide visitors with historical information.

>> Read : Visit Custer Ghost Town: The Most Popular Ghost Town In Idaho

Find A Hot Spring

Most people are unaware that Idaho is littered with hot springs. Seriously, there are hundreds of hot springs in this state. If you enjoy soaking in natural warm springs then Idaho is the perfect place for you!

Whether you prefer soaking in springs at developed facilities, or prefer natural surroundings, more than likely a hot spring won’t be too far from wherever you plan to visit in this state.

The largest concentration of hot springs can be found in Central Idaho. Some of the coolest hot springs in Idaho (or should I say hottest?) include Mountain Village Hot Spring and Kirkham Hot Springs.

Visiting hot springs in Idaho is something you can do at any time of the year including summer. Since the weather in Idaho can still be quite cool in the evenings even during July and August, soaking will not be an uncomfortable experience.

>> Read: 5 Awesome Hot Springs Near Stanley, Idaho

Hike In The Sawtooth Mountains

Idaho holds some of the most majestic mountain scenery in the country, a fact most domestic and international travelers are unaware of.

Although there are several mountain ranges in the state of Idaho that are contenders for the title of most beautiful like the White Clouds or the Pioneer Mountain Range, in my opinion the Sawtooth Mountain Range is the clear winner!

In fact, I would even go as far as to say they easily rival the beauty of the mountains found in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park.

The Sawtooth Mountains actually look very similar to the Tetons yet lack the huge crowds that the national park status draws so if you’re looking for somewhere outdoors to escape the crowds, plan a visit to this wilderness area.

You can view the Sawtooth Mountains along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway but the best way to get acquainted with the beauty of these mountains is to hike among them!

Some of the most popular hiking trails around here include the hike to Sawtooth Lake and the hike to Alice Lake which are both quite challenging but really worth the effort.

Take An Epic Central Idaho Road Trip

The best way to discover Idaho’s stunning landscape is via a road trip. And since Central Idaho is the most beautiful region in the state (in my opinion anyway), driving through this area should be at the top of your list of things to in Idaho.

There are quite a few incredible drives through Central Idaho that are possible depending on how much time you have and where you prefer to begin and end your road trip.

For example, you can take Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway from Boise to Stanley which offers lots of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, hot springs, and camping, or take the Sawtooth Scenic Byway from Twin Falls to Stanley for awe-inspiring mountain views, gorgeous lakes, hiking, and fly-fishing.

If you happen to be on a longer road trip and traveling between Utah and Montana, consider getting off the Interstate and driving through Idaho’s glorious central region.

You can undertake this epic Central Idaho road trip like we did that combines the Sawtooth Scenic Byway and the Salmon Scenic Byway. This is the perfect driving itinerary for road trippers heading to or from Glacier National Park and Utah’s national parks .

Visit Bayhorse Ghost Town

Between Stanley and Challis are several ghost towns you can visit at Land Of The Yankee Fork State Park like Bonanza and Custer but our favorite along this stretch of road is Bayhorse Ghost Town.

Like many of the ghost towns in Idaho , Bayhorse was once a boomtown in the late 1800s for silver and gold mining. The first mineral deposit was discovered here in 1864 but it wasn’t until 1877 when a major lead-silver vein was uncovered that a rush to the area began.

Bayhorse reached its peak in 1888 but that would be the last year that the mines here would operate at full capacity. A number of tragedies occurred in 1889 including a fire which destroyed several buildings. This, coupled with the decline of silver and lead prices eventually lead to the closure of the Bayhorse mines in November.

At Bayhorse you can walk down the narrow, dusty main road through the town that once was and see historical buildings including the original mill which stands imposingly on a hillside.

One of the things that makes visiting Bayhorse so exciting is its location nestled inside a stunning canyon in the mountains. The drive out to this ghost town is quite spectacular so if you are driving through the area be sure to take the short detour to visit.

>> Read: Ghost Towns In Idaho Worth Visiting On A Road Trip

Go Horse Riding In The Sawtooth Mountains

If you’re looking for something memorable to do while you’re in Idaho, take a guided horse riding trip in the Sawtooth Mountains. It’s a fun way to explore Idaho’s majestic landscape and to see some beautiful destinations without having to hike to them!

Mystic Saddle offer several different trail rides for all skill levels from a two hour loop ride around Little Redfish Lake to all day adventures in the Sawtooth Mountain backcountry.

Every year we try to do a different trail with them and we are never disappointed with the places we have been taken to. So far we have done the ride to Little Redfish Lake, the four hour ride to Bench Lakes, and an all day ride to Marshall Lake.

Advanced bookings are recommended for all day rides but you can turn up to the Redfish Corrals at Redfish Lake for the two hour tours without a reservation and see if there is space.

Best Things To Do In Northern Idaho

Spend a weekend in sandpoint.

Sandpoint is a beautiful city in the panhandle of Idaho. This place is a popular summer vacation destination with Idaho and Washington residents and it’s not hard to see why.

Situated on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers stunning lake views and a ton of water activities. The whole area is surrounded by towering mountains so there are incredible views every which way you look.

The downtown area is filled with nice restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as public art displayed on buildings.

There is a small city beach holiday makers can sunbathe and swim at, and if you are looking to get out on the water, a nearby marina provides boat rentals along with kayaks and paddleboards.

Many of the motels and resorts are located right on the waterfront which is only a few short steps away from the downtown area.

If you are looking for a relaxing place to spend a weekend getaway or scouting for future summer vacation destinations, Sandpoint might be the place you are looking for.

>> Read: These Affordable Lakeside Vacation Homes In Sandpoint Will Make Your Northern Idaho Experience That Much Better!

Take A Ski Trip To Schweitzer Mountain

If you are planning a winter trip to northern Idaho, you simply must visit Schweitzer Mountain! In fact, even if you aren’t planning a trip to Idaho in the winter, it is something you may want to consider doing if you enjoy skiing or snowboarding.

Schweitzer Mountain is Idaho’s premier ski destination and offers all of the first class amenities of the top ski resorts in other states but with MUCH LESS visitors.

This mountain is huge with lots of terrain and it often feels like you have many of the runs all to yourself. This almost certainly will be the case if you can plan a trip mid-week.

Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, it is still worth the drive up the mountain for the outstanding views of Lake Pend Oreille in winter. There are a number of nice restaurants and shops on Schweitzer Mountain as well as slope-side lodging.

Camp At Farragut State Park

Farragut State Park is a peaceful destination located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille near Athol. It is situated between Coeur D’Alene and Sandpoint so it makes a good place to stop and break up the drive but is also somewhere worth considering if you are looking for a beautiful place to camp.

The 4,000 acre state park offers a range of outdoor opportunities like hiking, mountain biking, swimming, fishing, and boating. Other watersports such as kayaking and paddle-boarding are also possible however you would need to bring your own equipment.

We haven’t had time to do much hiking here but have strolled along a portion of the lake’s shoreline which was very scenic. There is also a road that travels through the park right beside the lake which offers spots to stop and enjoy lake views.

Along this road we noticed that there were many vacation homes overlooking Lake Pend Oreille including houseboat rentals and thought it would be so nice to be able to rent a place around here the next time we come back.

You may want to keep this area in mind if you are looking for somewhere nice to stay while you explore northern Idaho.

Visit Wallace

Wallace is a charming town that we had the pleasure of stumbling upon during a road trip between Spokane and Glacier National Park . As we were driving along the Interstate 90 we first noticed the Victorian homes perched on the side of the mountain and then the quaint downtown area beside the freeway and made a last minute decision to take the exit and explore.

What we found was a place full of colorful history and handsome buildings dating back to the late 1800s. There were a number of really cool boutique stores, cute cafes, and several museums.

The Wallace District Mining Museum looked interesting as we walked by so we decided to pop in and see what it was all about. We ended up leaving with so much knowledge about the fascinating history of Wallace thanks to the informative exhibits and the very friendly and knowledgeable volunteer staff.

We learnt that Wallace was a hard-drinking, brawling mining town that was, and still is, the biggest producer of silver in the United States, and that the entire town was almost demolished to put in the Interstate freeway if it were not for the passionate local residents who fought hard to get Wallace listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This destination should be on the top of your list of places to visit in Idaho because it is such a unique place and unlike anywhere else you’ll find in the U.S. or around the globe.

While one day is enough to see the main downtown area, a whole weekend in Wallace would be much better so you can explore the numerous outdoor attractions nearby.

Spend The Day At Silverwood Theme Park

Silverwood Theme Park in Northern Idaho is one of the biggest and best amusement parks in the Pacific Northwest! This amusement park has several high intensity rollercoasters that thrill seekers will enjoy including two old-school wooden rollercoasters.

The scariest rollercoaster of them all is the Aftershock, a rollercoaster that stands 191-feet tall that will take you forwards through a cobra roll and inverted loop, and backwards as well!

There are plenty of family-friendly rides too such as a ferris wheel, carousel, merry-go-round, bumper boats, whitewater rafting boat rides, and many more.

In addition to the rides, you’ll also find a waterpark here called Boulder Beach . The waterpark features several waterslides, two huge wave pools, and a lazy river. Admission to the waterpark is included with your entry ticket to Silverwood.

There is certainly enough entertainment here for the entire day so if you think you might want to visit Silverwood Theme Park, be sure to plan for an overnight stay in the area.

Fortunately there is an RV Park and Campground adjacent to the amusement park that is open from May through September. If you would prefer to stay in a hotel room or vacation home, you’ll need to look for lodging in Bayview , Sandpoint or Ponderay .

More Idaho Travel

Best Lakes In Idaho For A Summer Vacation Or Camping Holiday

Ghost Towns In Idaho Worth Visiting On A Road Trip

Goat Lake Trail: How To Hike To The Most Unreal Lake In The Sawtooth Mountains

21 Really Cool Things To Do In Twin Falls

16 Best Things To Do In Stanley For Adventure Seekers

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51 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN IDAHO: THE ESSENTIAL IDAHO BUCKET LIST

Post Summary: An Idaho bucket list of 51 of the absolute best things to do in Idaho.

Idaho, nestled into the Pacific Northwest region of western USA, has long been a bastion for rugged adventurers seeking thrills and solitude, but ask the average American what they think of when they hear Idaho, and you’re bound to hear potatoes, complete silence, or the worst of all three…you mean, Iowa?

With Idaho being one of the least visited states in the US, you might be left wondering if there’s anything to do in Idaho. Is Idaho even worth visiting?

As someone who lives and travels through Idaho as our job, we can confidently say YES! Idaho is brimming with jaw-dropping beauty, untouched wilderness, crystal clear lakes, and mind-blowing natural wonders that will tickle any traveler looking to spend time in the great outdoors.

While Idaho attractions are primarily geared toward outdoor activities, there are also a handful of excellent activities for the traveler who craves stimulation of the mind and stomach.

Here’s our roundup of 51 fun things to do in Idaho. Most of these Idaho tourist attractions are centered around an activity or landmark rather than a particular city to visit. Still, we had to sneak in a few fantastic small towns in Idaho!

READ MORE ARTICLES ABOUT IDAHO: The BEST Time To Visit Idaho (All Four Seasons Explored) The Essential Idaho Packing List 57 Cool And Quirky Facts About Idaho How To Spend An Epic Weekend In Boise

IDAHO QUESTIONS

Before you head out to explore the best things to do in Idaho, here are a few things to know.

What is Idaho popular for?

Idaho may be best known for being the number one producer of potatoes , but did you know it also has more soakable hot springs than anywhere else in the US? Also, it’s called the Gem State because of its abundant gems and minerals found in the land and water. The state’s fertile land has over 240 gems! Idaho is also home to the largest Basque population in the US. Who knew?

Learn more interesting Idaho trivia in our post about fun and random facts about Idaho .

When’s the best time to Visit Idaho?

There are two high seasons in Idaho; the winter, when everyone bundles up and flocks to Idaho’s famed mountain towns for amazing winter recreation, and the summer, when everyone strips down and plays on Idaho’s numerous lakes and rivers. So what’s your pick…skiing or boating? Snowshoeing or hiking? Snowmobiling or mountain biking?

In truth, Idaho is a year-round destination, and each season offers something different.

* Learn more about Idaho’s four seasons in our post detailing the best time to go to Idaho.

What should I wear in Idaho?

Idaho is a laid-back state. You’ll want to wear clothes that you feel good in. That being said, a good pair of walking shoes will come in handy. An Idaho packing list will be dependent on what season you’ll be visiting. Check out our post on what to wear in Idaho for all four seasons for more detailed suggestions.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN IDAHO

1. visit the largest waterfall in idaho: shoshone falls   .

Region: Southern Idaho

Standing at a whopping 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide, Shoshone Falls is a phenomenal natural wonder in Idaho . If you’re a waterfall chaser, the “Niagara of the West” is a must-do when planning an Idaho itinerary.

The waterfalls are the most breathtaking in late spring when winter snow melt will guarantee a gushing waterfall. Located in southern Idaho in Twin Falls, you can easily make an entire waterfall trip since the area is ripe with waterfalls, including the other must-see waterfall Perrine Coulee Falls .

BONUS: For adventure seekers who want another perspective of the waterfall, take to the Snake River on a kayak or paddleboard (best left to an experienced paddle boarder) to paddle the eight-mile roundtrip journey to the base of Shoshone Falls. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

READ NEXT : Learn more fascinating Idaho trivia in our article 57 fun facts about Idaho.

2. Craters of the Moon National Monument   

Region: South Central Idaho

The Craters of the Moon National Monument in central Idaho is an expansive national park filled with out-of-this-world geographical formations carved by lava.

Trapeze caves, caverns, and desolate terrain created over 15 million years ago make this a fantastic spot for explorers and photographers.

For a truly unique experience, pitch a tent at one of the many nearby campgrounds to experience the park at night.

3. Mesa Falls   

Region: Eastern Idaho

Mesa Falls is another powerhouse of a waterfall in Idaho. Located in eastern Idaho, the falls are 114 feet tall and stretch 200 feet across, making for a truly spectacular sight. The falls are often visited as a side trip from the nearby Yellowstone National Park, but we think it’s worth it all on its own. Take a drive down the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway to see lookouts of the upper and lower falls, and/or stop at the Mesa Falls Visitor Center to take the Mesa Nature Trail to get the best view of the falls.

4. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area 

Region: North Central and Southwest Idaho

Housing one of the deepest river gorges in North America, Hells Canyon is one of the best things to see in Idaho for its astounding depth of 8000 feet. To put it in perspective, the Snake River sits 2000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon.

A great way to experience the canyon is via water, whether on a raft, kayak, or a guided jet boat tour. A jet boat tour is the most accessible and easiest way to explore the canyon for the average visitor.

If you want to stay dry, you can also hike the canyon and check out scenic overlooks along the way. Whether you explore it on foot on a raft, you will surely appreciate the rugged and severe backdrop that Hells Canyon National Recreation Area provides.

5. BASE Jumping off the Perrine Bridge   

If you’re looking for top-quality entertainment that is both unique and riveting, then head to Twin Falls, Idaho, where you can watch thrillseeking (or crazy?) BASE jumpers plummet 486 feet from Perrine Bridge.

Open year-round to BASE jumpers, Perrine Bridge makes for an exhilarating stop on an Idaho road trip.  Stand on either side of the canyon and watch in trepidation as people fling themselves off the bridge and land in the canyon.

If you want to experience the thrill of BASE jumping, you can book a tandem jump here with an experienced jumper.

6. Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Tucked into south-central Idaho, the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a premium location for studying fossils from long-extinct animals.  Famous for having the largest concentration of Hagerman Horse fossils, the 3000-acre national monument also has over two hundred species of Pliocene-era fossils.  It’s a fantastic spot for kids that love fossils!

7. City of Rocks National Reserve

Monoliths and granite spires reaching 60 feet tall greet you at the City of Rocks, a national reserve that spans 14,407 acres of land. Renowned for having some of the country’s most vivid and inspiring rock landscapes, City of Rocks attracts droves of climbers, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers every year.   

With its 700 climbing routes, the City of Rocks is considered one of the best granite-face climbing sites in the world . Non-climbers and families can still enjoy the craggy landscape with its ample hiking, unique camping, and fun mountain biking.

READ NEXT: Learn about Idaho’s other National Reserves and National Monuments in our article about 6 Must Visit National Parks In Idaho.

8. Balanced Rock

Scope out nature’s superb balancing act in Castleford, Idaho, at Balanced Rock, a carved-out 48-foot-tall rock that manages to stand strong on a tiny pedestal measuring three feet wide. It’s a fantastic place to visit in Idaho for photographers who want to capture amazing nature photography.

9. Bike the Boise Greenbelt  

Region: Southwest Idaho

The Boise River Greenbelt is a scenic biking route that takes you along the banks of the Boise River. The 25-mile track is the heart and soul of Boise and begins in Eagle Island State Park and winds through downtown Boise before culminating at Lucky Peak Recreation Area.

This is the ICONIC Boise activity. You can easily spend an entire day biking the Greenbelt and stopping at places that interest you. For a map of the Greenbelt and points of interest along the way, check out  this site here . There’s also a  Boise Greenbelt app  that gives directions and food recommendations.

This biking path is popular among tourists and locals and provides the perfect outdoor and urban exploration mix.  

READ NEXT: Planning an epic weekend In Boise? Here’s what you must do.

10. Freak Alley   

If you’re looking for unique and cool places to visit in Idaho, then Freak Alley needs to be on your list. Freak Alley, located in downtown Boise is the largest outdoor gallery in the northwes t.   

With a unique collection of art murals created by over 300 artists, Freak Valley is an ever-evolving art display that portrays the creative heart of Boise.  

READ NEXT: ` 17 Spots In Boise To Capture Insta-Worthy Photos

11. Craft Beer Hopping in Boise   

Idaho likes its beer and, more importantly, locally made-hand-crafted beer. With Idaho being the 2nd largest hops producer and the No. 1 barley grower in the United States, many breweries source exclusively from local providers.

While all of Idaho has excellent breweries, Boise is the reigning champion of craft beer breweries, with 17+ breweries in Boise, many of which dot downtown Boise. If you’re a beer connoisseur or are just looking to have a good time, head downtown to discover some of the best breweries in Boise.

READ NEXT: See why Payette Brewing has been voted Best Boise Brewery for 8 straight years

12. Idaho State Museum     

While many Idaho activities center around outdoor recreation, The Idaho State Museum , located in Boise, is a change of pace, offering an educational and interactive experience that will guide you through the colorful history of Idaho . The museum covers everything from the indigenous groups that have called the state home for thousands of years to the recent past.   

Peruse the hundreds of exhibits and explore Idaho’s past and how the fascinating landscape has shaped the state and its people.   

The Idaho State Museum is a great stop to make while exploring the state so you can have a deeper appreciation of everything you visit in Idaho. 

13. Treefort Music Festival   

Held annually in Boise, Idaho, the Treefort Music Festival is a special 5-day music event that transforms downtown Boise. Renowned for its home-grown feel, the Treefort Music Festival is highly regarded by festival-goers around the US. Not only does the Treefort Music Festival stick close to the heart of music festivals – the discovery and appreciation of music – but it also does well in celebrating everything local.   

But Treefort isn’t just music all day long. It also has several different “forts” that include Yogafort, Storyfort, Alefort, Foodfort, Skatefort, Dragfort, Comedyfort, Filmfort, and Kidfort . While music is the festival’s foundation, the event’s heart and soul is a gathering that celebrates artistry, innovation, inclusiveness, and community.

Read Next: Idaho’s Biggest Music Festival with Kids? Yes, if it’s Treefort Music Fest.

14. Spirit of Boise Hot Air Balloon Rally

Every summer, over the course of three days, the skyline of downtown Boise is filled with colorful hot air balloons . Dubbed the Spirit of Boise , the event is located at Ann Morrison Park and includes events with the pilots and a special “night glow” where the balloons stay grounded, but the pilots light up their burners to create a fanciful light installation that’s absolute magic.

15. Winter Carnival in McCall   

Located in picturesque McCall, Idaho, is the annual celebration of all things ice, snow, and winter. The Winter Carnival in MacCall is an event that draws nearly 60,000 people every year.   

Visitors to the Winter Carnival can expect mesmerizing winter sculptures, shows, lively parades, and festival parties. During the day, there’s everything from snowmobile races to comedy shows and art exhibits, while the night brings out music, performances, and fireworks.   

16. Sand Surfing at Bruneau Dunes State Park   

One of the must-see places in Idaho is the tallest freestanding dune in North America at Bruneau Dunes State Park. While there, rent a sandboard from the visitor center and try out the adventurous sport of sandboarding. With golden-colored dunes surrounding two emerald-green lakes, the park is the perfect picture of a desert oasis.

When not sandboarding, you can hike, fish, kayak, swim, camp, or check out the world-class observatory for stargazing.  

READ NEXT: 12 Fantastic Day Trips From Boise

17. Thousand Springs State Park   

If you’re looking for magical landscapes that come straight from the pages of Lord of The Rings, head to Thousand Springs State Park. This stunning landscape is packed with gorgeous waterfalls, lush valleys, and crystal lakes, making it perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts .   

The state park has six distinct sections that offer its own natural wonders – Box Canyon Springs, Billingsley Creek, Malad Gorge, Ritter Island, Kelton Trail, and Niagara Springs.   

Whether you hike the Malad Gorge, ride horses at the indoor arena, or picnic at Niagara Springs, Thousand Springs State Park is among the best places to see in Idaho.

18. Kayak to Blue Heart Springs   

This oasis in southern Idaho boasts azure water that will leave you wondering if you’re in Idaho or the Caribbean. The only way to get to Blue Heart Springs is by waterway, so bring a kayak, SUP, or canoe and paddle your way to the tucked-away paradise. As you paddle along the serene route, you’ll pass by caves, small waterfalls, and natural springs.   

You’ll eventually make your way to the clearest, cerulean water – that’s how you know you’ve reached Blue Heart Springs.  Take a dip in the inviting water if you dare…it’s shockingly cold even in the summer months.

19. Kirkham Hot Springs   

A little-known fact about Idaho is that it boasts more soakable hot springs than any state in the US. Most of the steamy pools are in southern Idaho, with many located right off the road. The most famous hot spring in Idaho is Kirkham Hot Springs, particularly loved for its easy access and steamy waterfalls . This idyllic hot spring near Boise is on the southern fork of the Payette River and is popular year-round. For a truly magical experience, visit the thermal pools in winter for an unforgettable soak.   

Read Next: The best hot springs a road trip away from Boise, Idaho

20. Boat Box Hot Springs

Region: Central Idaho

Boat Box Hot Springs is a natural hot spring in Idaho that lends itself to a completely different hot spring experience than Kirkham Hot Springs. This Instagram-famous spot is located in Stanley, Idaho, and is in a large soaking metal tub that sits beside the Salmon River.

Rather than soaking in a rocky natural pool, steaming hot water is funneled down from a pipe that flows directly into the tub. The tub can comfortably fit two to three people. Its small size and popularity mean you will likely have to wait your turn to get a chance in the tub. Arrive at the crack of dawn or visit in the winter for better odds of experiencing this unique Idaho hot spring without a long line.

21. The Springs In Idaho City

If a natural hot spring with sharp rocks and no amenities doesn’t appeal to you, try out one of Idaho’s best-manicured hot springs, The Springs. Located outside of Boise, Idaho, The Springs offer natural springs in a more refined spa-like experience. You can use the communal pool with beautiful views of the mountains or book a private soak if you want solitude. The Springs also offer food, spa treatments, and poolside beverages. 

22. Gold Fork Hot Springs

Located south of McCall, Idaho, in the charming small town of Donnely sits the developed hot spring Gold Fork Hot Springs. This heavenly hot spring is tucked into the foothills of the North Fork Range and offers six cascading pools with varying temperatures, including a sandy bottom hot spring that’s perfect for kids.

23. Roosevelt Grove of the Ancient Cedars

Region: Northern Idaho

Located North of Nordman, Idaho, is the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars , a cedar grove with trees ranging from 2000 to 3000 years old. With the cedar trees reaching 150 feet and spanning 12 feet wide, these impressive trees are for anyone who wants to revel in the beauty of an ancient forest. Within the scenic area are a few different walking trails, including an easy hike that takes you to various viewings of Granite Falls, (you can see a video of it on our Instagram ), a beautiful waterfall located within the grove. While technically located in Washington, the grove can only be accessed in Idaho.

Read Next: A Walk Among Giants: Exploring The Roosevelt Grove Of Ancient Cedars

24. Visit The Champion Tree   

If you’re a tree lover, seeing the largest cedar tree in Idaho needs to be on your Idaho bucket list. The hardest part of seeing this spectacular Idaho attraction is getting there! Located near the picturesque but rarely visited Elk River stands this magnificent tree that measures 18 feet in diameter and 177 feet in height . Estimated to be over 3000 years old, it’s an ancient giant sure to impress.

25. Farragut State Park   

With Conde Nast ranking Farragut State Park as the best state park in Idaho, is it any wonder why it’s on our Idaho bucket list? Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille, Farragut has 4000 acres of land to hike, bike, fish, kayak, swim, camp, and explore.

This pristine state park was once a World War II-era naval training station, and the park includes a fantastic museum highlighting its unique place in Idaho history.

In addition to the outdoor recreation, visitors can enjoy Tree To Tree Adventure Park , an aerial obstacle course park, as well as sharpen their disc golf skills at one of the five 18-hole disc golf courses for all skill levels.

READ NEXT: A Complete Guide To Farragut State Park

26. Mountain Biking at Silver Mountain Resort   

The Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg, Idaho, is best known for its skiing slopes and over 132 runs; however, come summertime, the resort also boasts stellar mountain biking paths. We’re not the only one who thinks so! It’s been voted the #1 bike park in the northwest for four years in a row.

Suitable for all levels, beginners will enjoy the more accessible tracks with 800 feet of vertical descent while experienced riders will appreciate the nine miles of trails taking you down a 3400 feet descent. 

Not a big mountain biker? Splash in the large indoor swimming waterpark or golf on the resort’s greens – there is no shortage of things to do at the Silver Mountain Resort.

27. Bike the Route of the Hiawatha   

The adventurous and family-friendly route of the Hiawatha is one of the top things to do in North Idaho . This 15-mile bike trail near Wallace, Idaho , might seem like it’s best left to serious bikers, but actually, it’s one of the most tourist-friendly things to do in North Idaho. Why? It’s all downhill!

The downhill bike ride takes you on a journey through the scenic Bitterroot Mountains and includes biking through 9 train tunnels (some of them are pitch dark) and seven trestles . Once you reach the end, if you don’t want to go back uphill, a shuttle will take you and your bike back to the top. It’s a fantastic choice for adventurous travelers and families. The trail is typically open from May to September.

READ NEXT: A Complete Guide To Biking The Route Of The Hiawatha

28. Silverwood Amusement Park   

Looking for places to visit in Idaho that aren’t solely outdoor-based? Look no further than Silverwood Amusement Park .   

Packed with over 70 different rides and attractions, Silverwood Theme Park can easily fill up an entire day. Perfect for all ages, the rides range from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to kid-friendly coasters. Included with your admission to Silverwood is Boulder Beach, a family-friendly waterpark that includes a lazy river, two wave pools, a kid’s splash area, and multiple water slides.

29. Dig for Idaho Star Garnet

See why Idaho’s nickname is the Gem State by digging for Star Garnet, a gemstone that can only be found in Idaho and India. Located south of Coeur d’Alene in a little nook of North Idaho is Emerald Creek Garnet Area , a park that lets you mine and keep your own Star Garnet .  It’s the only place in the world where you can collect this rare gemstone! The park provides all the tools you need to dig and find your own garnet. A fun, hands-on activity that is perfect for anyone looking for fun things to do in Idaho with kids.

READ NEXT: Where And How To Dig For Star Garnet In Idaho

30. Hike Scotchman peak

Scotchman Peak near Clark Fork, Idaho, is an arduous 8.7-mile out-and-back hike that will reward you with jaw-dropping views of Lake Pend Oreille, the Selkirk Mountains, and the Clark Fork Valley. With a 3364 elevation gain, you’ll want to hit the trail early in the morning to give yourself enough time to steadily get to the top. It’s a top-tier hike in Idaho and one of the best things to do in Northern Idaho . At the top, keep your eyes peeled for the resident mountain goats!

31. Hike Mount Borah

Scale Idaho’s highest peak by embarking on the difficult trek up Mount Borah. Sitting at 12,668 feet, the hike is no joke and includes a steep ridge dubbed “Chicken-Out Ridge.” The trail up gains 5200 feet over four miles and includes areas where climbing and scrambling are necessary. Not for the faint of heart, the hike is a bucket list hike in Idaho, where you’ll be able to view six of Idaho’s famed mountain ranges.

32. White Water Rafting the Salmon River   

For adrenaline junkies and outdoor lovers, taking on the Salmon River rapids is one of the most adventurous things to do in Idaho. National Geographic ranks it as one of the top three whitewater river trips in the world.

Climb aboard a large raft and rush along the middle fork of the Salmon River as you tilt, dip, and careen off short drops for a truly thrilling ride. Going with an experienced guide like ROW Adventures will ensure a safe and memorable 4-7 day adventure rafting down the river. Most tours will include stops at historical sights, playtime in the water, hiking trails, and an interesting lesson into the area’s history.

The Lower Salmon is an excellent choice for anyone traveling with younger kids or any traveler who wants smaller rapids.

33. Visit Stanley, Idaho   

A small town tucked into Sawtooth Valley, Stanley, Idaho, is a prime spot for community and outdoor exploration. Stanley is not only the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain range, but the town itself holds a unique charm waiting to be experienced . To many, it’s considered the best small town in Idaho.

With a year-round event calendar filled with special events, festivals, and celebrations, something is always happening in Stanley, Idaho. From live music to local parties, the nightlife in this small community is surprisingly lively.   

Popular activities include soaking in one of the many natural hot springs, Redfish Lake, hiking, camping, and horseback riding.

34. Hike or Backpack the Sawtooth National Recreation Area   

With over ten mountain ranges, 2.1 million acres of forest, and over 700 miles of hiking trails, the Sawtooth National Forest is a premier hiking spot in Idaho .   

Whether you’re looking for day hikes or long treks leading to sparkling alpine lakes, you will surely find the perfect outing at Sawtooth National Forest. Popular hikes include the backpacking trek to Alice Lake and the day hike, Fishhook Creek Trail .

35. Salmon Scenic River Byway  

With over 31 scenic byways, Idaho is a state perfect for a long road trip with a great playlist on hand. When looking for places to see in Idaho, there’s no better road trip than the Salmon Scenic River Byway.   

This 161-mile route takes you through jaw-dropping landscapes along the Salmon River edge while also winding through beautiful destinations in Idaho, including Stanley, Redfish Lake, and the Sawtooth National Forest .  

A road trip on the Salmon Scenic River Byway can easily fit into one day as it will take you roughly 4 hours one way; however, we recommend taking as many stops as you can for photo opportunities, pitching a tent, and exploring some of the best destinations that Idaho has to offer. 

36. International Selkirk Loop

While Idaho has a great supply of scenic byways to cruise, nature-loving road trippers will want to head north to the only multi-national scenic loop in North America. The international Selkirk Loop is a 280-mile scenic drive that circles you through Idaho, Washington, and Canada . Famed for being one the most beautiful scenic drives in the Northern Rockies, one can explore the Idaho portion of the loop known as the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway and the Panhandle Historic Rivers Passage. You’ll pass through the historic towns of Priest River, Sandpoint, and Bonners Ferry , where you can explore fun outdoor adventures like hiking Schweitzer, kayaking the Pack River, and boating the Pend Oreille River.

37. Sun Valley/Ketchum

Arguably the most well-known thing to do in Idaho is visit the famed Sun Valley Resort. The iconic ski resort is famous for being the first ski resort in Idaho and for attracting celebrities and other influential people since the 1930s.   While the ski hill is fun, the Sun Valley area also includes fantastic mountain towns like Hailey and Ketchum. While in the Sun Valley area, you can go fly fishing at Silver Creek Preserve, soak at Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs, mountain biking at Sun Valley Resort, and fine dining at Michel’s Christiania.

38. Priest Lake State Park   

Priest Lake State Park lies a short 30 miles south of the Canadian border and offers visitors sandy beaches, a calm lake, and craggy mountains to explore.

The dense forest bordering Priest Lake State Park is excellent for spotting wildlife such as deer, bears, and bald eagles. The lake is fed by mountain springs cascading from the Selkirk Mountain peaks and is renowned for its clarity.   

Priest Lake is less developed than other North Idaho lake towns making it an ideal spot for camping and quiet outdoor time. Popular activities include hiking the Mount Roothann trail and kayaking the 2.5-mile thorofare from Priest Lake to Upper Priest Lake.

READ NEXT : 1o Amazing Things To Do At Priest Lake

39. Explore A Ghost Town    

Region: Throughout Idaho

Idaho’s expansive, untouched landscape is home to more than a few ghost towns, making for interesting stops to add to any Idaho itinerary. Due to Idaho’s presence amid the era of the Wild West and Gold Rush, many ‘pop-up’ towns were abandoned as quickly as they had been built.   

Lucky for visitors today, many of these Ghost Towns can now be visited and explored. Some of the most famous Ghost Towns are Bonanza, Bayhorse, and Custer – all of which are now formally protected by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation . 

40. Skiing at Schweitzer  

Idaho is a wonderful skiing destination with several world-class resorts that remain blissfully under the radar. It’s hard to pick the best ski resort in Idaho, but Schweitzer Mountain Reso rt in Sandpoint, Idaho, remains a perennial favorite for its steep terrain and jaw-dropping views of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountain ranges.

While Sun Valley Resort may have the greatest vertical drop at 3,450 feet, Schweitzer is the largest resort in Idaho, with the most skiable terrain at 2900 acres. Schweitzer offers everything from beginner to advanced ski runs, including open bowls and scenic, tree-lined runs.  

READ NEXT : 19 Amazing Winter Adventures In Sandpoint, Idaho

41. The Best Small Town in Idaho: Sandpoint 

Sandpoint, Idaho, is a beloved town in northern Idaho that was ranked by USA Today as the best small town in the US. Tucked away into a stunning landscape featuring three mountain ranges and a deep lake, Sandpoint, Idaho , is the definition of an idyllic escape.   

Known for its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, the gorgeous landscape provides the perfect backdrop for various outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, skiing, fishing, and mountain biking.   

After you come down from the mountain or off the lake, you’ll find a charming town hosting festivals, galleries, and concerts all year round.

READ NEXT: 25 Amazing Things To Do In Sandpoint, Idaho

42. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 

Located 45 minutes from Sandpoint is North Idaho’s premier resort town, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. While often compared to each other, Coeur d’Alene has its own unique feeling and vibe.

Coeur d’Alene has the second-largest lake in North Idaho and is a prime spot for boating, fishing, kayaking, and parasailing. With 135 miles of shore, plenty of spots exist to live out your “lake life” getaway.

Once you’ve explored the lake, the city of Coeur d’Alene beckons with its thriving art scene, cute downtown shops, and burgeoning food scene.

READ NEXT: 25 Amazing Things To Do In Coeur, d’Alene, Idaho

43. Sip on Idaho’s Wine Scene

Idaho has wine? That’s right. A 30-minute drive from Boise to neighboring Caldwell will bring you to the up-and-coming wine region of Southwest Idaho. The Sunnyslope Wine Trail encompasses 17 wineries and vineyards that weave through the lush farmland of Caldwell, Idaho .

Start your day at the Sunnyslope Wine Trail  visitors cente r in historic downtown Caldwell, where they can help you with maps and possible itineraries.

Idaho’s Sunnyslope Wine Trail is one of the best places to go in Idaho for wine connoisseurs or couples looking for a romantic getaway in Idaho.

44. Visit the Only Dark Sky Reserve in the US  

Idaho holds the distinction of having the only Dark Sky Reserve in the United States. A dark sky reserve is an area of public and private land offering unparalleled night sky views with little to no light pollution to obscure your view . The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is a rare opportunity to glimpse the stunning Milky Way and other galaxy systems in amazing clarity.

Many choose to pitch a tent in the National Forest to view or photograph the stars, but you can also choose various spots to pull over and get a glimpse from your car. Regardless of how you take in the stars, you’re sure to be in awe of a view that is becoming harder and harder to get.

45. Summer Huckleberry Picking   

When looking for things to do in Idaho in the summer months, there’s nothing more Idaho than taking to the mountains to forage for Idaho’s state fruit, the beloved huckleberry. This sought-after berry is nearly impossible to cultivate, so if you want to taste the sweet-tart berry, you’ll have to put on your hiking boots and take to higher elevations to find the “purple gold.” Idahoans are famously tight-lipped with huckleberry patch locations, but in North Idaho, they’re pretty easy to find when they ripen in July and August. If you don’t want to try finding your own huckleberry patch , you can take a huckleberry tour at Schweitzer Mountain Resort , where they’ll take you right to the berry patches.

If you don’t feel like picking it yourself, almost every restaurant, bar, or winery will have something featuring the infamous Huckleberry.

46. Explore the Foodie Scene

Admittedly, Idaho is not renowned for its foodie scene. That doesn’t mean there isn’t amazing food in the Gem State! Boise is helping Idaho gain some food cred with new restaurants and innovative chefs stamping out a name for themselves. In 2022, Idaho received four James Beard nominations, a first-time accomplishment for the state . Stand-out chefs and restaurants that have all received the honor of a James Beard nomination are Kin , Ansots , Amano , and Sunshine Spice Cafe .

READ NEXT : 5 Must-Try Desserts in Boise, Idaho

47. Visit the Caribbean of the Rockies

Region: Southeast Idaho

Known for its intensely blue waters, Bear Lake attracts water lovers who want to swim, boat, fish, and even scuba dive in its vivid waters. Its turquoise colors have earned it the title “ The Caribbean of the Rockies.” The lake is 20 miles long and shared by Idaho and Utah. Bear Lake State Park is popular in summer, so like many campgrounds in Idaho, you’ll want to book your spot in advance. 

48. Stay Overnight in a Fire Lookout   

If you want a truly unique stay, check out one of the many fire lookouts that dot the rugged landscape of Idaho. Fire lookouts are tall cabin-like structures built high up in densely forested areas that are used to spot a potential forest fire .  The Forest Service (and Airbnb) offers a handful of reclusive lookouts you can rent. 

With northern Idaho’s dense forests, most of the lookouts are in the panhandle of Idaho. While Instagram can make it seem like a dreamy getaway, the reality is most of the lookouts require a hike to access the lookout and carry in all of your supplies, including bedding, food, water, and cleaning supplies. If you’re up for the work and preparation, it’s a truly unique experience that promises solitude and stunning views.

49. Winter Camping In A Yurt

Head into the forest for an iconic Idaho activity of winter camping in a yurt. It’s a magical winter wonderland experience that can satisfy family travelers and adventure seekers alike! While you can go camping in a yurt all year, there’s something special about strapping on your snowshoes and hiking out to a backcountry yurt that screams Idaho bucket lis t. Yurts can be found all over the state, but popular spots include Idaho City . You can read more about yurts to visit in Idaho here .

50. Idaho Potato Museum   

We can’t list the best things to do in Idaho and not include a potato landmark! Idaho potatoes are known to bake better, fry better, and mash better than any other potato in the states and are now the leading source of potatoes for companies such as Pringles.   

The Idaho Potato Museum outlines this fascinating, albeit strange, history, from the very first potato planted in Idaho soil to the biggest French fry made from Idaho potatoes.   

Located in Blackfoot, Idaho, the Idaho Potato Museum is a quirky stop for anyone interested in how Idaho became famous for its potatoes.   

51. Stay Overnight in a Potato

When looking for stuff to do in Idaho, how does staying overnight in a potato sound? That’s right; you can stay in a potato hotel that sits on 400 acres of land just outside of Boise. While it’s not literally a potato, it is a chic 28-foot-long tiny potato house gifted by the Idaho Potato Commission’s Big Idaho Potato Tour. There’s even a spa on site, so get a massage, eat some potatoes, and grab an Instagram photo in your potato hotel to secure the bragging rights of doing the most off-beat activity in Idaho.

It was hard to limit it to only 51 things to do in Idaho, but this represents a good cross-section of activities in Idaho. What’s on your Idaho bucket list?

Let us know your must-see places in Idaho in the comments below!

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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50 Incredible Things To Do In Idaho (Most Beautiful Places To Visit)

Bordering six states and one country, Idaho is a large and diverse state in the Pacific Northwest that offers visitors and locals plenty of indoor activities and epic outdoor adventures.

With tons of natural hot springs, hundreds (if not thousands!) of popular hikes, unique geological formations, and easy access to numerous national parks and forests, Idaho is the place to visit this year !

Living in Eastern Washington, Berty and I have been frequently visiting Idaho for over a decade. It’s a place where our family goes camping annually, road trips seasonally, and even plans day trips!

Whether you’re a PNW native or are just visiting, we’ve got you covered with all the best things to do in Idaho, organized by region.

The 50 Best Things To Do In Idaho

Quick facts about idaho state.

• The capital city is Boise, Idaho .
• The population of Idaho is 1.75 million people .
• Over 60% of Idaho is public land! That’s 32,635,835 acres for the public to enjoy and explore.
• The Idaho state bird is a mountain bluebird .
• The deepest river gorge is in Idaho – Hells Canyon. It’s 7,993 feet deep, and that’s deeper than the Grand Canyon! (6,000 ft)

Want more cool information? See more fun facts about Idaho here!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Idaho?

It is always a good time to visit Idaho!

Each season brings its own unique spin on activities, outdoor adventures, and epic Idaho road trips.

We definitely recommend visiting Idaho in different seasons to experience the best of these unique of the year.

Here’s what you can expect in each season:

Idaho’s springs are lovely and warm. You can expect to see lots of wildflowers, blue skies, and the beginnings of spring outdoor activities (especially golfing, fishing, hiking, and biking). The average spring temperature in Idaho is 48ºF.

In the summer, Idaho is usually hot and dry, with an average temperature of 85ºF. Typical summer activities in Idaho are swimming at the lake, hiking, boating, and fishing.

Fall in Idaho is stunning, with the changing of the western larches in the mountain regions and cooler (but still warm) weather that’s perfect for a picnic, hike, or adventure. The average temperature in Idaho’s fall months is 60ºF.

In the winter, Idaho is cold (average temperature of 33ºF) and snowy (average of 47 inches per year!). Depending on where you visit, you probably will encounter snow–especially in Northern Idaho or in the mountains. What makes Idaho so wonderful, however, is that the state is known for its skiing and you can usually reach epic hot springs during the winter!

How Do I Get To Idaho State? And How Do I Get Around?

The easiest and most convenient way to travel to Idaho is by flying into Boise, Idaho . The main airport is Boise Airport (BOI) , which serves over 1.5 million passengers per year.

If you’d like to explore the north part of the state (commonly referred to as the “Panhandle”), we recommend flying into the Spokane International Airport in Washington. (GEG) . From there, you can rent a car and take a quick drive east (30 minutes) to the Washington/Idaho border. The closest Idaho city to this airport is Coeur d’Alene Idaho.

For getting around the state, we recommend renting a car and driving to your Idaho destinations. Our personal favorite is RentalCars.com. It allows you to compare rental prices from tons of different sites, so you know you’re getting the best deal!

Things to do in NORTHERN Idaho

There is so much to love about North Idaho! Commonly referred to as the “Panhandle” , this part of Idaho is known for its dense forest , gorgeous lakes , and tons of opportunities for adventure !

Things we love about north Idaho: smaller towns, hiking adventures, horseback riding, boating, and camping by the lake!

1. Stay At A Fire Lookout in Fernwood, Idaho

One of the most unique Airbnbs in Idaho isn’t a cabin…or a house…it’s a fire lookout! This bright red escape is open year-round and available for rent by adventurous couples.

This fire lookout has one bed, provides plenty of firewood, local coffee, fun Idaho-inspired reads, and 360-degree views of the surrounding forest.

We’ve written an in-depth guide to Crystal Peak Lookout with more photos of the interior, and well as covering a complete winter experience if you want to know more about this magical place.

Each season brings a unique experience, so come back again to see it covered in snow or even blooming with wildflowers!

Read More: A Snowy Weekend At Crystal Peak Lookout

2. Go Glamping In A Yurt

Why go regular camping when you can stay in your very own yurt? There are so many amazing places to go glamping in Idaho, and yurts are just the beginning.

Yurts are easily rented through the Idaho State Department of Recreation site . There are many to choose from, all the way from backcountry yurts, to easily accessible ones in campgrounds.

If you are just beginning to try camping, we definitely recommend staying in a yurt! It’s a great way to ease into the camping lifestyle.

Read More: Your Quick & Easy Guide To Go Glamping In A Yurt

3. Soak In The Views at Hells Canyon

Did you know Hells Canyon is actually the deepest canyon in North America – deeper than the Grand Canyon? At 7,993 feet from the highest point of the Seven Devil’s Mountain, Hells Canyon is full of adventure!

Spend some time driving the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway , which crosses the border into Eastern Oregon . For some history about the area, visit the Hells Canyon Dam in Council, Idaho.

4. Explore Scenic Hiking Trails at Tubbs Hill

Hiking Tubbs Hill is one of the best things to do in Coeur d’Alene, pretty much all year long!

Come in the summertime to find private coves for swimming, or search for some iconic cliff jumping spots. No matter what your reason for coming, stay to watch the sunset and have a picnic!

5. Enjoy the Downtown Scene at Coeur d’Alene

For the perfect combination of outdoor adventure, great coffee, and ample lakefront to enjoy, don’t skip out on Coeur d’Alene!

This beautiful getaway town is the perfect place to spend a few days enjoying the water. Kayaking, boating, fishing, and parasailing are just the icing on the cake – you can even golf on a private island on the lake!

During your Idaho road trip, Coeur d’Alene is the perfect place to stay for a few days to enjoy the surrounding area. Don’t forget to check out the downtown boardwalk by the Coeur d’Alene Resort!

6. Kayak, Canoe or Paddleboard on Priest Lake

Priest Lake is one of the most popular lake destinations in North Idaho . The lake is huge – nearly 20 miles long with tons of boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.

For a unique adventure, paddle down the thoroughfare to upper Priest Lake . Upper Priest Lake doesn’t have any lakeside real estate, which makes it a wilderness haven that is quiet and serene. There are several boat-in campsites to reserve, and plenty of beachfront to enjoy a beach picnic.

7. Take A Scenic Drive Through Lewiston, Idaho

Lewiston, Idaho is often referred to as the LC Valley , which combines Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA in the same region.

It’s known for its dry, arid climate, with rolling hills of wheat, wine, and plenty of sunshine. It is also close to the Palouse Scenic Byway , a 200+ mile route that winds through photogenic viewpoints and charming small towns.

Lewiston is famous for its boating activities on the Snake River , especially in the summertime. Lewiston is also a great growing region for grapes, which makes wineries and vineyards in abundance here!

8. Discover A Piece Of Idaho’s History In Wallace, Idaho

Wallace, Idaho is a historic mountain town located in the Panhandle of Idaho . It’s located in the Silver Valley mining district , which at one time in history produced more silver than anywhere else in the United States!

Wallace is also a nearby access point to the extremely popular biking trail, The Route To The Hiawatha (more on that a little later). With a population of less than 1,000 , this tiny town boasts a lot of friendly locals, historic charm, and access to tons of North Idaho adventure.

Things To Do In Wallace Idaho:

• Spots The Center of The Universe Plaque , located in the middle of Bank Street and 6th in downtown Wallace.
• Hike The Pulaski Tunnel Trail : A 3.5-mile out and back trail with interpretive signs sharing the story of a mining rescue and giant area wildfire.
• Take a tour of The Wallace District Mining Museum .

Read More: The Ultimate North Idaho Road Trip Itinerary (7-Days In The Idaho Panhandle!)

9. Relax By The Lake in Sandpoint, Idaho

Sandpoint, Idaho is the largest city in Bonners County, Idaho. It’s known for its recreational opportunities , downtown shopping district , and gorgeous lake access .

If you’re looking for a place to stay in North Idaho, Sandpoint has lots of options. From luxury lakefront hotels to gorgeous and secluded cabins, look no further than for your next relaxing getaway!

In the wintertime, Sandpoint acts as a great home base for mountain adventures at Schweitzer Mountain and Silver Mountain Ski Area .

Other Things To Do In Sandpoint, Idaho:

• Go boating on the Lake Pend Oreille
• Bring a picnic To Sandpoint City Beach Park
• Spend a week finding your inner cowboy/cowgirl at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
• Meet friends for coffee at Evans Brothers

10. Silverwood Theme Park

Location: 27843 North Highway 95, Athol, Idaho 83801

Silverwood Theme Park is the state’s major theme park – and the largest in the Northwest!

Located 50 miles north of Coeur d’Alene , this park boasts 0ver 400 acres of rides , including a train that takes visitors around the entire perimeter of the park. Other popular rides in Silverwood are the Corkscrew, Timber Terror, Aftershock, and the Panic Plunge.

Silverwood and Boulder Beach are included in one ticket, which means you get a theme park AND a water park all in one! Don’t forget to bring your suit and come with your friends on a hot summer day!

Autumn Bonus: Love getting scared? Then you must make a visit to Silverwood Theme Park during the month of October. They convert the entire park into a haunted spook-fest , all-inclusive with zombie employees who stalk you around the park. Oh, and did we mention they switch the roller coasters to all run backward during Scarywood ?

11. The Route To The Hiawatha Bike Trail

Ticket and Bike Pickup Location: I-90 Exit 0, Mullan, ID 83846

The Hiawatha bike trail is one of the best things to do in Idaho during the summertime! Riding your bike up in the mountains is the perfect way to cool off, get immersed in nature, and enjoy time with friends and family. My family tries to get out here at least once every summer to enjoy the trail!

This historic Hiawatha Route is 15 miles long at a gradual decline. Along the route, you’ll cross under 10 train tunnels and ride over 7 train trestles. At the end of the trail, hop on the shuttle that will take you back to the starting point!

One of the highlights of the trip is passing through Saint Paul Pass Tunnel. Not only does it cross the border from Montana back into Idaho, but it’s also 1.66 miles long! Headlamps are absolutely required!

Make sure to grab your tickets at the Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area, located on Interstate 90 on Exit 0 for Montana. Tickets as of August 2019 are $12 per adult with your own bike. Bike rentals are available starting at $33.00.

Make It A Road Trip! Read the Ultimate 1-Week North Idaho Road Trip Itinerary

12. Zip Lining + Tree Adventures

With dense forest covering much of the Idaho Panhandle, what better way to experience it than zipping through the trees? There are several ways to get your adrenaline pumping, but no better way to do it than several feet off the ground!

Here are some of our favorite zipline courses in Idaho:

Zip Timberline

Timberline Adventures is located in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. With 7 world-class zip lines , sky bridges, and auto-belays, this tour brings you zipping through some of the most exciting adventures near Lake Coeur d’Alene.

Zip Timberline has a lot of customizable tours, from half-day adventures to lunch tours, and even s’mores roasting one too! With a convenient location in downtown CDA, they pick you up, drop you off , and set up everything for a seamless tour.

Tree To Tree Idaho

Tree To Tree Adventure Park in Athol, Idaho is a fun and interactive way to experience the Farragut State Park area of North Idaho. They have several color-coded courses to fit your skill (and adrenaline!) levels, with some courses being up to 40 feet off the ground!

Tree To Tree Idaho uses advanced technology for adventure courses – magnetic harness secures that are virtually impossible to release mid-course, so you always know you’re safe and sound in the air.

12. Hike To Jerry Johnson Hot Springs

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs in the Clearwater National Forest is one of the coolest natural hot springs in Idaho , as it has numerous riverside pools to soak in, has a beautiful hike to the pools, and can be accessed year-round!

You can access the day use area of Jerry Johnson Hot Springs from 6AM to 8PM , and hike to the springs from the parking lot for 1.3 miles on the Warm Springs Trail.

Be sure to follow natural hot springs etiquette while visiting this popular site to keep the space safe and clean for future visitors!

Things to do in SOUTHWEST Idaho

Southwest Idaho is home to deep canyons, EPIC hot springs, backcountry camping, and even sand dunes! Boise, Idaho is a perfect launching pad for outdoor adventure, but the city is also an excellent place to explore as well!

Things We Love About Southwest Idaho: The city of Boise, Idaho wineries, white water rafting, relaxing hot springs, sand dunes, and canyons!

14. Take a Food Tour Of Boise, Idaho

Boise Idaho is home to some EXCELLENT food options! From handmade donuts at Guru Donuts to Wild West-themed restaurants like Diablo & Sons Saloon , there’s something for everyone in the city.

The food in Boise, Idaho is known for its locally sourced ingredients , including local meats, grains, and even wine! If you’re looking for things to do in Boise, Idaho , make sure eating at epic restaurants is at the top of your priority list!

Here are some of our favorite restaurants and bars in Boise, Idaho:

• Diablo & Sons Saloon
• Java Downtown
• The District Coffeehouse
• Westside Drive-In
• Basque Market For Lunch
• Big City Coffee & Cafe

15. Ride Your Bike On The Greenbelt in Downtown Boise

The Boise River Greenbelt is a 25 mile stretch of city park along the Boise River. It’s extremely popular for bike riders (many commuters use it as an alternate route to the main streets!) and a great place for wildlife viewing, views of the river, and good ol’ park fun.

Don’t have a bike? No problem! Many of the hotels in downtown Boise come with complimentary bike rentals and many city bikes for rent scattered across the city. We got our free use bikes from our hotel, the Inn at 500 Capitol . We were so happy to take an afternoon and ride around the park!

16. Go Rafting On The Payette River

One of the most thrilling activities to do in Idaho is going whitewater rafting on their many rivers!

The most popular rivers to take an Idaho rafting trip would be on the Payette River and the Salmon River. We’ve personally taken an awesome tour with Cascade Raft & Kayak , and we’ve heard really great things about Western River Expeditions .

River rafting is a fun way to get out on the water and have a fun Idaho adventure! And a warning: you will get wet.

17. Escape To McCall, Idaho

Nestled up next to Payette Lake is the resort town of McCall, Idaho. In the summertime, this place is bustling with boaters, hikers, and people escaping for a weekend trip from Boise.

This town is great to visit all year long, but our favorite time of year to visit McCall is in the winter season . Come in January/February to enjoy the McCall Winter Carnival!

During this time, you can see professional ice sculptures all around town, including ones at the top of Brundage Mountain! Spend all day skiing, and come back to town and enjoy dinner with friends and their several cozy restaurants on the main strip.

Read More: 6 Reasons To Visit McCall, Idaho In The Winter

18. Soak In Kirkham Hot Springs

Kirkham Hot Springs is a popular soak for adventure seekers because it is very close to Boise, Idaho! Just a two-hour drive from the city will bring you to this geothermal pool located on the Payette River. With 10 pools of varying sizes and temperatures , it’s a great place to spread out and relax.

Hot Springs Tip: Make sure to bring an extra garbage bag to pick up trash on your way out. This will help keep these beautiful areas clean and set a higher standard for the next visitors!

Read More: What To Expect at Kirkham Hot Springs

19. Relax At The Springs in Idaho City

The Springs in Idaho City is a luxury hot springs resort and spa tucked away near the Boise National Forest . It’s highly recommended to reserve your spot online, as they limit the number of guests per day to foster a sense of serenity and quiet in the pools.

The best feature of this resort (in our opinion!) is the private pools available for reservation. And when we say private, we really mean private!

If you order drinks poolside, the service people deliver your items via a revolving door so you don’t see anyone during your time in the pools. The Springs Mountain Resort in Idaho City also offers massages, a steam room, meal service, and even an Inn nearby if you want to stay longer!

If you are planning to do some Nordic skiing, backcountry camping, snowshoeing, or other amazing winter activities in Idaho, we highly suggest booking a day at this spa after your adventures!

20. Experience Gold Fork Hot Springs

Gold Fork Hot Springs is another beautiful Idaho hot spring to explore in Southwest Idaho.

Here, there are a series of cascading pools, a large communal one, and even a piping hot mini tub called “The Lobster Pot”! This place is a great backcountry escape – the closest town is 30 minutes away in Cascade, Idaho.

Trip Tip: This place is cash only, so come with extra bills!

21. Play At Bruneau Sand Dunes

Bruneau Dunes State Park is a unique part of Southwest Idaho. It’s home to the largest single structured sand dune in North America , reaching just below 500 feet high. You can even sandboard down the slopes!

This park is famous for its many stargazing and telescope viewing opportunities. It’s currently meeting the requirements to become an official Dark Sky Park, which means updating outdoor lighting to facilitate proper night viewing, as well as educating the local community.

Come and bring your telescope, tripod and camera for an amazing night under the stars in Idaho.

Read More: 11 Incredible Places To See In The Inland Northwest

22. Soak At Trail Creek Hot Springs

Trail Creek Hot Springs (Also called Samuel’s Hot Springs) is located about a 30-minute drive east of Cascade, Idaho in the Boise National Forest.

A small forest road turnout and a quick trail down to the creek will lead you to this gorgeous set of pools along the creek’s edge.

The pools are continually fed with fresh hot spring water, and a small PVC pipe was installed to feed the pools with cool river water. This allows you to adjust the pool’s temperature to your liking!

Idaho hot springs are a rare treasure, so make sure to pack out your trash, and consider picking up any extra left behind on your way out too.

Read More: 24 Incredible Idaho Hot Springs You Must Visit

23. Stay Overnight At Burgdorf Hot Springs

Burgdorf Hot Springs is a backcountry oasis, perfect to escape the busyness of modern life.

With no electricity, no running water, and rustic cabins for overnight stays, this is one of the more unique Idaho hot springs you can enjoy here in Southwest Idaho!

For day soaking, guests must reserve a 2-hour slot here. Walk-ins used to be common, but not anymore! Now reservations are required!

Overnight cabin guests get 24-hour access to the pools!

Located just an hour north of McCall, Idaho this is a fun and easy way to spend a day in the Payette National Forest.

Note: Burgdorf requires access via snowmobile in the winter months. Click here to learn more about how to reach Burgdorf in the winter!

Read More: Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Burgdorf Hot Springs In Idaho

24. The Snake River Valley AVA

The Snake River Valley AVA is an incredibly unique section of Idaho’s wine-growing region.

It’s known for its high desert elevation, which produces drastic temperature changes during the year. This brings a unique take on Pacific Northwest wines and makes Idaho a popular destination for viticulturists and sommeliers alike. 

We recommend checking out Bitner Vineyards for their beautiful orchards, and Koenig Vineyards for their gorgeous tasting room!

Read More: How To Spend An Incredible Day In Boise’s Wine Country

25. Book One Of The Epic Idaho City Yurts For A Winter Backpacking Trip

One of the most fun things to do in Idaho in winter requires an adventurous drive from Boise into the Boise National Forest.

Just 1.5 hours away from the city brings you to groomed snow trails that lead to 6 backcountry yurts . They are available for rent year-round ( read all about how to snag one here! ) and you can spend a gorgeous night under the stars while keeping warm around a wood-burning stove.

This is truly a one-of-a-kind Idaho winter experience. Make sure to book your stay a few months in advance – reservations fill up very fast!

Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Backcountry Yurt Camping In Idaho

26. Explore The Boise National Forest

With over 115 named mountain ranges in Idaho, including the Bitterroot , Sawtooth , Selkirk , Smoky , and Teton Mountain Ranges (Teton Valley), Idaho is known for its outdoor mountain adventures.

In the summer, hiking/backpacking, biking, camping, and climbing are some of the most popular activities across the long state of Idaho.

In the winter, Nordic, backcountry, and downhill skiing are particularly popular, especially in Sun Valley !

Be sure to check out the Idaho snowshoeing trails as well–they’re terrific!

Some of our Favorite Sno-Park Areas in Idaho:

• Priest Lake State Park (North Idaho)
• Farragut State Park (North Idaho)
• Trail of the Coeur d’Alene’s (North Idaho)
• Winchester State Park (North Idaho)
• Lake Cascade State Park (Southwest Idaho)
• Round Lake State Park (North Idaho)
• City of Rocks State Park (South Idaho)
• Castle Rocks State Park (South Idaho)
• Ashton to Tetonia Trail (Southeast Idaho)
• Ponderosa State Park (Southwest Idaho)
• Harriman State Park (Southeastern Idaho)

Read More: 22 Incredible Things To Do During Winter In Idaho

27. Pine Flats Hot Springs

Pine Flats Hot Springs is located near the towns of Garden Valley and Lowman, just south of the McCall area and an hour’s drive north of Boise.

This is an exciting Idaho hot spring to visit because it’s located on the edge of a cliffside ! Day soakers can park in the Pine Flats campground lot ($5 cash day-use fee) and make the short 10-minute walk to the cliff’s edge.

From here, you can explore the several rock-walled pools , varying in sizes and temperatures. Venture to the farthest pool (accessible only when river levels are low) to experience the largest one with a tall, majestic waterfall feeding the pool below.

Read More: Plan your trip to Pine Flats Hot Springs here!

Things To Do In CENTRAL Idaho

28. Craters Of The Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon National Monument will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a completely different planet!

This totally weird and cool park is a geologist’s and photographer’s playground. With several exciting things to see on the lava field like cinder cones, caves, and twisted tree forests, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

This park is best visited in the late spring and fall , when harsh temperatures are at bay. Come enjoy this park’s 7-mile driving loop to access all the trailheads and main attractions!

Read More: Craters Of The Moon: Idaho’s Best Kept Secret

29. Stanley, Idaho

If you are seeking a true Idaho adventure, consider escaping to Stanley, Idaho for the week! The town may be small, but the adventure is endless! Spend time taking a river raft trip down the Salmon River, soak in natural hot springs, or go hiking at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains.

For a bit of luxury, book a few nights at the Redfish Lake Lodge for easy access to trails and the lakeside. Stay in town at the Mountain Village Resort for a private soak in their riverside hot springs (the view is to die for!) or skip the hotels altogether and go backpacking in the Sawtooth Mountains!

Read More: A Winter Escape In Stanley, Idaho

30. Boat Box Hot Springs

Boat Box Hot Springs is one of the most popular and well-known hot springs in Idaho – it’s ironic because it’s also the smallest! Fitting just 1-2 people, this little riverside cauldron is fed from a natural spring with incredible views of the Salmon River literally right next to the tub.

Come early in the day, during weekdays , and in the spring + fall to have the best chance of getting Boat Box Hot Springs all to yourself!

31. Goldbug Hot Springs

You’ve probably seen this iconic view of Idaho – the sunsets and sunrises here are hard to beat!

Goldbug Hot Spring is located near Elk Bend, Idaho, and is one of the most beautiful places in the state.

To reach Goldbug Hot Springs, you have to hike 4 miles with 1,350 feet of elevation gain through BLM land. You’ll want to make sure you have some comfortable hiking boots , know good hiking etiquette , bring snacks , and bring the right gear for the trek!

32. Backpack & Hikes In the Sawtooth Mountains

Known for its pristine glacial lakes and gorgeous views, the Sawtooth Mountains have some of the best hiking in the PNW! Whether you’re planning a backpacking trip or a day hike, the possibilities are brimming with adventure!

Here are some of the best day hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains:

• Worswick Hot Springs Trail (easy, 0.5 miles with 98’ elevation gain)
• Fishhook Creek Trail (easy, 4.5 miles with 288’ elevation gain)
• Alpine Creek Trail (moderate, 8.3 miles with 1,666’ elevation gain)
• Titus Lake (moderate, 3.6 miles with 649’ elevation gain)

Here are some of the best overnight hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains:

• Goat Lake and Goat Falls via Iron Creek Trail (challenging, 8.1 miles with 1,768’ elevation gain)
• Sawtooth Lake via Iron Creek Stanley Lake Trail (moderate, 10 miles with 1,873’ elevation gain)
• Hell Roaring Creek Trail to Hell Roaring Lake (moderate, 11.1 miles with 780’ elevation gain)
• Imogene Lake (moderate, 13.4 miles with 1,459’ elevation gain)
• Thompson Peak via Alpine Way Trail – the tallest peak in the Sawtooth Mountains! (challenging, 12.3 miles with 4,035’ elevation gain)

33. Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley, Idaho is one of the best places to visit in Idaho, because of its epic skiing, backpacking, lodging, and nearby attractions.

Some of the most popular activities in Sun Valley include visiting the Sawtooth Botanical Garden , going fly fishing at the Silver Creek Preserve , and visiting Frenchman’s Bend Hot Springs !

After exploring Sun Valley, you can take a day trip to the Craters of the Moon National Monument , which is just under a two-hour drive from downtown.

Things to do in SOUTHERN Idaho

 34. Shoshone Falls

For a quick day trip from Twin Falls, Idaho , check out Shoshone Falls –a jaw-dropping waterfall located at the edge of the city in Shoshone Falls Park .

Nicknamed the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls will stun you with its beauty and grandeur.

To complete your day trip from Twin Falls, you can also visit the S hoshone Ice Caves for a walking tour where you’ll experience the wonders of these ancient geological structures!

Read More: 12 Incredible Things To See In The Inland Northwest

35. Get Lost In The City Of Rocks

One of the most beautiful places in Idaho is the City of Rocks National Reserve , just outside of Almo, Idaho .

While exploring the City of Rocks, you’ll see cool rock formations unique to this area, catch sight of tons of fun wildlife , and learn all about the area’s history and culture .

At the City of Rocks National Reserve, you can go horseback riding, rock climbing, biking, hiking, auto-touring, birding, fishing…and more !

Because of its proximity to the city, visiting the City of Rocks is a perfect day trip from Twin Falls, Idaho !

36. Explore The Little City Of Rocks

This geological area is an active study site, filled with natural rock arches, hoodoos, spires, and mushroom caps all in one place!

The Little City of Rocks near Gooding, Idaho is quite a marvelous sight–especially in the springtime when the blooming flowers mix with the orange/red rock landscape .

The most popular activity to do nclude mountain biking, hiking the loop trail, and sightseeing. Follow the clear paths around the area to lead you to the most iconic spots in the park.

Read More: 12 Adventurous Things To Do In Twin Falls, Idaho

37. Tea Kettle Cave

One of the most iconic caves to see in Idaho is called Tea Kettle Cave right outside of Gooding, Idaho, an hour north of Twin Falls .

Getting there requires a high-clearance vehicle, ideally with 4-wheel or all-wheel drive. From Gooding, you’ll spend 20-30 minutes driving on a backcountry road, around rocks, rough terrain, and high desert brush.

Once at the cave, you can enter through “the spout” and crawl to the base of the “tea kettle.” We recommend coming during mid-day to get the strongest sun rays shining through the cave’s opening! (Although bring sun protection – it gets HOT.)

38. Watch The Sunset At Balanced Rock

One of the coolest things to do in Twin Falls, Idaho is taking a trip to Balanced Rock . Just a 30-minute drive southwest in Buhl, Idaho brings you to a unique area with rock formations, deep canyons, and interesting geography to explore.

Wind, weather, and time all carved out Balanced Rock from the rhyolite lava on the canyon cliffside.

You can find more examples of this same type of rock in Bruneau Canyon, and all over Jarbridge Canyon . If you are interested in camping nearby (say, to catch the sunrise), there is Balanced Rock Campground nearby. It is a primitive site though, so come prepared with everything you might need, and pack out everything you brought in.

39. Ritter Island State Park

Did you know Twin Falls is famous for its waterfalls? The deep canyons and nearby mountains make Twin Falls a unique and beautiful destination for any great west coast adventurer who loves the water. There are plenty of opportunities to see waterfalls in Twin Falls!

Ritter Island State Park is one of those destinations, with several protected falls cascading into the Snake River below.

40. Box Canyon State Park

Exploring Box Canyon State Park is one of the coolest things to do in Idaho if you’re searching for great hiking, water activities, and beautiful views all in one place.

The most common way to explore this canyon is by hiking down into the bottom. At the bottom, you can hike to a few waterfalls and swim in crystal-clear blue water. This is a great destination for families because you can easily set up a spot by the water and spend time splashing in the pools.

41. Soak at Miracle & Banbury Hot Springs

You all know we love our Idaho hot springs , and the ones near Twin Falls were incredible! Closest to Twin Falls is Miracle Hot Springs and Banbury Hot Springs , both with their historic pools and resort-like ambiance.

Miracle Hot Springs provided a spa-like serenity , with tons of private pools to use, massages on-site, and beautiful public pools for general soaking. Banbury had a much larger public pool with a vintage vibe, and you can hear the sound of the river as you soak.

42. Perrine Coulee Falls

Perrine Coulee Falls is conveniently located near town, just below the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail. Launching itself off the canyon walls, you can actually walk under it on a narrow trail, making it feel like you’ve transported yourself somewhere in Iceland!

The “trailhead” is actually just a pull-off on the side of the road, with the waterfall practically around the corner from the road. Any time of day is a great time to visit Perrine Coulee Falls, but you might have the easiest time visiting during the morning hours , before the crowds start coming out to explore the Snake River Canyon for the day.

43. Walk The Snake River Canyon Rim Trail

This rim trail is biker and pedestrian-friendly and sits right above Perrine Coulee Falls. Along this 6-mile (one-way) paved route , you can find overlooks ( including the top of Perrine Coulee Falls !), restaurants, and even nearby hotels if you want convenient access to the rim trail.

Start at the Twin Falls Visitor Center and decide which direction to go – west towards Perrine Coulee or east towards Shoshone Falls. If you want to hike the entire route, prepare for an all-day adventure and begin and end at Shoshone Falls State Park.

44. Perrine Memorial Bridge

Towering 486 feet above the canyon stands Perrine Memorial Bridge , a surprising and popular place for base jumpers all over the world!

Test your bravery at Tandem BASE Jumping , Twin Falls BASE , and the Snake River BASE Academy . These companies have been running base jumping trips for years and can provide a fun and safe experience for all.

Not ready to try it out for yourself? There are plenty of places to watch jumpers from the safety of the side of the canyon! You can view jumpers from either side of the bridge, but the most commonplace to see them is on the east (sunny) side, on a clear day, generally in the morning.

45. Hike To Skillern Hot Springs

For a more secluded natural hot springs experience, check out Skillern Hot Springs in the Sawtooth National Forest during the summer or fall!

To get there, hike the moderately challenging Skillern Hot Springs Trail for 6.0 miles (out-and-back) with 567 feet of elevation gain.

Whether you’re backpacking, taking a day trip from Twin Falls , or touring all of the best Idaho natural hot springs , Skillern Hot Springs should be on the top of your list.

46. Relax at Worswick Hot Springs

Idaho has some of the best natural hot springs in the Pacific Northwest, and Worswick Hot Springs is no exception!

For a relaxing soak, hike through Sawtooth National Forest on the Worswick Hot Springs Trail for a super easy 0.5 miles with 98 feet of elevation gain. It’s a series of pools along the hillside, so pick your favorite one!

Once you get to Worswick Hot Springs, you’ll find pit toilets, numerous pools, the nearby Five Points Campground , and lush forests surrounding the natural springs.

Read more: 11 Unique Facts About Natural Hot Springs

Things To Do In EASTERN Idaho

47. bloomington lake trail.

The Bloomington Lake Trail is an easy 1.6-mile trek with 187 feet of elevation gain. It offers visitors lovely views of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest .

Because this is a popular trail, you might see others during your hike. If you’re looking for more solitude, consider hiking earlier in the day to beat the crowd!

Once at Bloomington Lake (the second of two lakes you’ll see on the hike) you can jump into the freezing water from a rope swing (jump at your own risk!) or simply enjoy the scenery, 

The best time to hike the Bloomington Lake Trail is July through October, when the leaves are changing and the weather is warm.

48. Fall Creek Falls

Fall Creek Falls is a stunning Idaho waterfall, created from a small creek that cascades over the cliffs overlooking the Snake River. Located just off of Highway 26 near Swan Valley, Idaho, Fall Creek Falls is a little gem of this Pacific Northwest state!

There are two ways to reach Fall Creek Falls: you can either boat up the Snake River to the falls and begin climbing or hike to the falls from the top. Just know that if you choose to hike to Fall Creek Falls, you’ll climb down a steep embankment using a rope. Hiking with a group is encouraged!

Living up to its name, Fall Creek Falls is particularly beautiful in the late summer and fall seasons when the leaves start to change.

49. Lava Hot Springs

Idaho’s Lava Hot Springs is the perfect adventure for families and kids.

At Lava Hot Springs, you can have some fun on their water slides , splash in the Portneuf Kiddie Cove , try your hand at diving , go disk golfing , or just sit back and relax in their warm waters that range from 102ºF to 112ºF.

Day passes into all pools at Lava Hot Springs start at $6!

50. Darby Canyon Caves

On the border of Idaho and Wyoming, the Darby Formation is a thick layer of 350-million-year-old dolomite that you can see for yourself in the Darby Canyon Caves .

The Darby Canyon Wind Cave Trail is a 6.3-mile hike with 1,811’ elevation gain that starts easy and meanders through breathtaking scenery. The trail gets steeper near the end of the hike, but don’t give up–a waterfall is close by! Once you reach the cave, you can go in and explore or turn back around.

The Darby Canyon Wind Cave Trail is a very popular PNW hike, so you should expect to see others on the trail, unless you beat the crowd. Get there early, because the parking lot is often full by 10AM on the weekends!

NOTE: Do not attempt climbing through the Darby Canyon Ice Cave (another mile up the trail), unless you have technical ice climbing training.

Are These All The Things To Do In Idaho?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. This list is not even close to covering all the amazing things to do in Idaho!

We have just barely scratched the surface of experiencing the most beautiful places in Idaho.

Living in Eastern Washington, we’re hoping to spend a lot more time in this amazing state, and we’ll be updating this post as we explore more!

It’s easy for us to take one of many scenic drives in Washington that connect up to beautiful places in Idaho!

Want these 50 activities in an easy-to-check-off list? Find them below!

Map of Places To Visit in Idaho

What are some of your favorite things to do in idaho did we miss your favorite activity tell us in the comments below.

Idaho Falls news, Rexburg news, Pocatello news, East Idaho news, Idaho news, education news, crime news, good news, business news, entertainment news, Feel Good Friday and more.

7 must-do day trips in east Idaho

Sponsored by summit spine and sport chiropractic.

No one can deny the winters are long here in east Idaho. After the cold and windy winter months, it’s fun to start planning your spring and summer adventures.

Whether you are tired of being indoors after a long winter, or just need to get out of the office and go exploring, these seven day trips are sure to let you see what east Idaho has to offer.

1. Cress Creek Nature Trail

Great for families or individuals, this trail is a paved loop and only about a 1-mile roundtrip. The wildflowers in the spring and yellow cottonwoods in the fall give this trail something new to look at in each season, while the picnic table in the overlook area makes it a great morning activity. As a bonus, it’s also close to Heise Hot Springs if you want to turn a quick trip into an all-day affair.

2. Packsaddle Lake

Packsaddle Lake is a lesser-known spot, but great for a short hike, fishing, or swimming. A four-wheel drive vehicle will help get you to the top if you want a shorter hike, or plan to hike an extra mile or so if you bring a smaller vehicle. With trees shading the way, it’s easy to stop and rest with small ones, and a rope swing near the lake, it’s a fun way to cool off in the summer months.

3. Darby Wind Caves

Attention: This is not a beginner’s hike or one to do with small children! But don’t let that discourage you. A little over 5 miles round trip to hike to the cave, you will see waterfalls, wildflowers and so much more. A favorite hike on many east Idaho activity blogs, this trail is recommended on a warm day in late summer.

4. Camas Wildlife Refuge

Heading back into family-friendly zone, Camas is a great place to bird watch or check out other wildlife like moose, deer and even porcupines. In different areas you can drive or hike, and its ponds, marshes and fields make it a great area for exploring and photography. If you are looking to take more of a walk than a true hike, this is a great spot for you.

5. Mesa Falls

A well-known spot, Mesa Falls offers a paved trail with shade and the mist of the falls to cool you on your journey. There are stairs, but it is a pretty trail and will only take you about 10 minutes to get to the Upper Mesa Falls. It is also a popular spot for kayaking. There is a small entrance fee to get in, but worth it if you are looking for a spot with amenities like bathrooms, visitors center, maps and a raised observation area.

6. Craters of the Moon

This place is a popular tourist area for a reason. Where else can you climb a volcano and explore a lava tube cave in the same afternoon for a nominal entrance fee? Probably somewhere … but it doesn’t stop it from being awesome. Be sure to be prepared for heat as black lava captures and radiates heat. With hikes ranging in length from an hour to half a day, you can choose your own adventure.

7. Float the Warm Slough

Like a man-made lazy river, the Warm Slough is great for a gentle ride down a river. About a mile ride, it takes roughly an hour and is great for a family trip or an outing with friends. If you do not wish to carry your tubes for the mile walk back to your car, parking a car at the beginning and end of the route is recommended.

With most of these day trips being free, it’s easy to explore what east Idaho and the great outdoors have to offer. If you are looking to de-stress, or just looking to have some fun, these day trips are for you.

SUBMIT A CORRECTION

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Idaho

Written by Brad Lane Updated May 4, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Brad Lane has enjoyed traveling and adventuring throughout Idaho .

Idaho combines a rich heritage, friendly communities, and a taste of the American West.

Much of what defines Idaho are the adventures found within its boundaries. From the glacial lakes in the panhandle to the lunar-like landscapes on the southern border and the slithering Snake River, these unmatched terrains entice explorers from across the world.

The mountains are home to a number of Idaho's great ski resorts , although Sun Valley is the most well-known. In summer, the hiking trails draw outdoor lovers to the scenic terrain, and the state's best campgrounds beckon for overnight travel.

For more ideas on the best places to visit in the Gem State, read our list of the top attractions in Idaho.

1. Lake Coeur d'Alene

2. boise river greenbelt, 3. shoshone falls, 4. sawtooth national recreation area, 5. craters of the moon national monument, 6. sun valley resort, 7. old idaho penitentiary state historic site, 8. hell's canyon national recreation area, 9. salmon river, 10. catch a ride at silverwood theme park, 11. city of rocks national reserve, 12. bruneau dunes state park, 13. kirkham hot springs, 14. bike the trail of the coeur d'alenes, map of tourist attractions in idaho.

Steamboat traffic began on Lake Coeur d'Alene in 1889 when local lakes and rivers were used to move supplies to lumber camps. The lake itself was created well before then, and its creation can be geologically traced back to glacial deposits from the last Ice Age.

The overall aesthetics of this mountain-ringed lake in Northern Idaho is readily apparent with just one visit. The lake is 25 miles long and is surrounded by a forest filled with hiking trails. Boating, sailing, and fishing are popular during the summer months.

And the community of Coeur d'Alene, sprawled across its northern shore along Interstate-90, is a welcoming place to access the shoreline. Tubbs Hill is a community favorite, backed by McEuen Park. Other top things to do in Coeur d'Alene include navigating hiking trails and exploring the charming downtown district.

• Read More: Best Lakes in Idaho

The Boise River Greenbelt is an urban pathway that makes its way through the heart of Boise, linking together all the best riverside city parks. The 25-mile , non-motorized pathway was a city innovation in the 1960s to address growing riverbank pollution, and now the Greenbelt showcases the rich natural environment via a tree-lined route.

Used for both daily commutes and quick escapes into nature, the Boise River Greenbelt accesses many of Boise's top tourist attractions , including Julia Davis Park , the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, and the campus of Boise State University.

Also known as the " Niagara of the West ," the 212-foot-tall Shoshone Falls is on the northeast edge of the city of Twin Falls . The turbulent force of the Snake River creates this massive block waterfall spanning more than 900 feet , flowing year-round with a surge season between April and July.

The area surrounding the falls, including the adjacent Dierks Lake , is full of hiking trails, swimming spots, and scenic overlooks. One of the most popular things to do at Shoshone Falls is to pack a lunch and use the picnic areas in view of the falls.

Address: Shoshone Falls Grade Road, Twin Falls, Idaho

• Read More: Best Waterfalls in Idaho

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area consists of 756,000 wildland acres within the Sawtooth National Forest of central Idaho. The National Recreation Area provides more than 700 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, 40 peaks rising over 10,000 feet , and enough alpine lakes to visit a new one nearly every day of the year.

With close to 50 established campgrounds to choose from, not including the dispersed camping that is available, finding a place to spend the night in the Sawtooths is relatively easy to do. Other popular forms of recreation include mountain biking and fishing during the warmer months and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling throughout the winter.

There are several ways to explore the Sawtooths. Redfish Lake tends to be a popular gathering spot at the heart of all the action, including the Redfish Lake Lodge . The small town of Stanley , less than 10 miles away, is also a common base camp when traveling.

South of Arco, in southeastern Idaho, is Craters of the Moon , a lunar-like landscape created by volcanic eruptions between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago. This region of lava flows can be explored on signposted circular routes. Although it has not erupted in the last two millennia, this area is still geologically active. Detailed information and exhibits regarding the landscape are at the park's visitor center.

This unique National Monument also contains five caves to explore , which serve as a stark contrast to the sometimes searing temperatures above ground. Free permits are required to explore the caves and can be obtained at the Monument entrance station.

The National Monument is also home to the popular Lava Flow Campground , comprising 42 sites within a unique hardened landscape. Big camping vehicles aren't recommended for this tightly constructed campground. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Sun Valley in southern Idaho attracts skiing enthusiasts from all over with its magnificent facilities for winter sports . Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain offer downhill skiing for all levels of ability. Thirteen chairlifts, including a gondola, service the 2,000 acres of skiable terrain at Sun Valley Resort, including 65 named runs.

There is also a Nordic Center for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. Heli Skiing is another popular activity in Sun Valley. During the summer months, the resort caters to hikers, mountain bikers, and other outdoor adventurers. The Sun Valley Lodge is a fun, historic place to stay and an old haunt of Ernest Hemingway.

Address: 1 Sun Valley Road, Sun Valley, Idaho

The Old Idaho Penitentiary , or "Old Pen," housed inmates from 1872 to 1973 and currently is a museum showcasing that century-long prison history . The Old Pen housed some of Idaho's most notorious criminals, and visitors today can see the cell blocks, Solitary Confinement , and the Gallows of the complex.

Local rumors suggest the facility might be haunted, which could be spurred on by different events put on by the museum, including paranormal investigations and the annual Frightened Felons October bash .

Old Pen is also home to the Idaho Botanical Garden , formerly the Penitentiary's garden and nursery. This sprawling public space has dozens of collections of plants and gardens available to tour. It's a lovely spot to spend the afternoon wandering.

Address: 2445 Old Penitentiary Road, Boise, Idaho

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boise

Hell's Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America. It's within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest of northern Idaho and has been carved out by the Wild and Scenic Snake River for 95 miles along the border with Washington and Oregon.

Popular ways to enjoy Hell's Canyon include hiking and horseback trails, developed and primitive campgrounds, and taking a raft trip down the white-water rapids of the Snake River (permit required). During the winter months, Hell's Canyon and the surrounding National Forest become a haven for skiers and snowmobilers.

The Salmon River, also known as the " River of No Return ," is one of many beautiful rivers that run through Idaho. Much of this Wild and Scenic River cuts through the expansive Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness .

Guided and self-sustained rafting trips through this jaw-dropping landscape are adventures of a lifetime. These sought-after trips are on some of the best white water rafting rivers in Idaho . Several guiding companies base themselves in nearby Stanley.

The Salmon is just one of the best rivers in Idaho. The state is lined with rugged waterways that define the landscape and surrounding communities. In southern Idaho, the Snake River is another waterway with significant historical and cultural attributes.

Silverwood Theme Park is the largest amusement park in Idaho and a magnet for thrill-seekers and fun-lovers alike. The park has more than 70 rides and attractions, including a healthy collection of roller coasters. Silverwood is also a central spot for summer fun activities like variety shows and midway games.

Some of the signature roller coasters at Silverwood include rides like Aftershock, Corkscrew, and Panic Plunge. If these rides sound like too much, Silverwood has tons of "low intensity" and "mid-intensity rides," like carousels and a steam-engine train. All members of the family find something to enjoy here.

Silverwood is also home to the popular Boulder Beach Bay water park . This hot summer destination comprises several swimming areas and waterslides, including a wave beach and a Toddler Springs area. Admission to the park includes both Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach Bay.

The vast outcroppings of granite in southern Idaho known as the City of Rocks has a long history of attracting visitors. It is internationally renowned within the climbing community today, and emigrants along the historic California Trail took note of the features in the mid-1800s. Before all that, the Shoshone made camp among the massive boulders and spires.

Alongside rock climbers, City of Rocks is popular today among hikers, mountain bikers, birders, and photographers . City of Rocks also provides a campground for visitors, including 64 campsites with access to clean water and vault toilets.

Bruneau Dunes is one of the best state parks in Idaho and one of the most unique. It's an hour southeast of Boise and is home to one of the largest freestanding sand dunes in North America . This intriguing landscape is best experienced by foot, sandboard, or from the comfort of a campsite.

A six-mile interpretive trail extends from the visitor center and traverses across the sand dune. This hike is best avoided on hot days when the sand becomes unbearable to touch. Catch it in the early morning or outside of the summer season, however, and the shifting route is rewarding like no other in the state.

The state park has over 80 campsites spread across two campgrounds , accommodating both tents and RVs. Reservations are available but not required. Each site comes with a shade structure, a fire ring, and access to flushing toilets.

Address: 27608 Bruneau Sand Dunes Road, Bruneau, Idaho

Idaho has more hot springs than almost any other state. Some of these natural soaking spots require quite a hike to get to, while others are accessed via roadside parking. One of the most popular hot springs in Idaho is Kirkham, situated two hours from Boise.

Kirkham is accessible via the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway within the Boise National Forest. Large pools accommodate the big crowds that tend to gather on the weekend, and an adjacent campground offers spots to spend the night. Kirkham is just one of several hot springs in the immediate area.

The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a premier rail-to-trail conversion in the country and a must-visit for passionate bicyclists. And thanks to its relatively flat grade the entire way, it offers a fantastic family route and easy bike ride for beginners.

The Trail of the Coeur D'Alenes spans approximately 73 miles between Plummer and Mulan, navigating across the southern end of the panhandle. It passes by several places to visit along the way, including Idaho's first state park, Heyburn State Park . This popular state park is near the western terminus of the trail and sets the tone with lake-lined landscapes.

Several entry points line the entire route, allowing for easy day trips. Restrooms and drinking water also line much of the route. It's very possible to navigate the entire route in a day, though it takes most riders at least six hours to complete (one-way).

More on Idaho

13 Must-Visit Small Towns in Idaho

Idaho isn’t known for skyscrapers or big cities. However, this Midwest state does boast some incredibly charming small towns! If you’re looking to take a road trip around the great state of Idaho, you’ll certainly want to visit some of these adorable spots. They house cool museums, delicious restaurants, and more. No matter where you go, you’ll be certain to meet some of the welcoming locals from the state. So let’s check out the 13 must-visit small towns in Idaho!

One of the many small towns in Idaho worth a visit is the town of Kellogg. Kellogg has only a population of 2,374 residents, but there’s a lot to see around this cute spot. This city was a mining town and now boasts a rich history. It’s also near some incredible natural sights.

2. Priest River

Another great small town in Idaho is the town of Priest River. Priest River is home to only 1,742 residents, but it has unmatched beauty! It’s located in northern Idaho and is home to a long list of opportunities for outdoor fun, like fishing and hiking.

3. Island Park

Located in Fremont County, Idaho is one of the smallest cities in the state: Island Park. As of the most recent census, there are only 193 residents within Island Park’s city bounds. While the town sits near Yellowstone, it’s also close to a few great state parks like Harriman State Park.

4. Sugar City

Though it’s centered between some larger spots, the small but sweet Sugar City has a measly population of 2,616 residents. The town is rich in history, and was once home to a big sugar beet factory!

5. St. Maries

Like many of the must-visit small towns on this list, St. Maries has a population of under 3,000 residents. As of 2021, the town was home to just over 2,400 people. It’s a town full of many retirees, and residents are pretty spread out throughout the area.

One of the larger small towns on the list is Hailey. Hailey is actually home to just over 9,000 residents as of 2021. While it’s bigger than many of these small towns, it’s still absolutely a charming place to check out. Locals in Hailey are awesome and the town is gorgeous.

Despite its absolutely adorable main street, only 803 people live in the town of Wallace, Idaho. If you visit, you can take an underground mine tour to get to know the history of the town!

Another one of the tiniest small towns in Idaho worth mentioning is Stanley. Despite having some substantial land, only 122 people live within Stanley’s state bounds. However, the town is known for its natural neighbor, Sawtooth National Recreation Area.

For winter adventurers, Driggs is absolutely a must-visit small town in Idaho. In 2021, the population of Driggs was only 2,139. Though the population is small, the list of things to do is big! Explore Grand Teton National Park for a hike, or take your skis to the Grand Targhee Ski Resort.

McCall is another one of Idaho’s small towns with a slightly more substantial population. In 2021, almost 4,000 residents lived within McCall’s city limits! It’s a great spot to visit if you’re hoping to get outdoors, with lots of state and national parks nearby.

11. Sandpoint

Sandpoint resembles the larger size of Hailey, Idaho. While it’s still one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit, there are actually 9,000 residents as of 2021. According to Idaho standards… that’s pretty busy! While the lake makes for a wonderful summer activity, the Schweitzer Mountain Resort is nearby, making for a great excursion during the winter.

12. Sun Valley

Sun Valley is home to some absolutely beautiful mountains, but not many residents. It’s one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit, and has a population of only 1,814. The big attraction of Sun Valley is that it’s home to one of the best ski resorts in the United States.

Finally, the city of Melba is one of the best small towns in Idaho to visit if you’re looking to recharge. There are only 581 residents in the town, so you’ll be guaranteed to find some peace and quiet.

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Top 10 Things to Do In Southern Idaho

Your guide to the most astounding, eye-popping sights and activities in the region.

Southern Idaho is not flashy. She keeps her gems hidden, tucked out of the way and saved for those who are willing to seek her majesty. But as any true adventurer knows, the most spectacular finds are worth a little digging. Investing a little time and taking a little trek from the beaten track.

The question is: What treasures will you unearth? Travel through her broad deserts, deep canyons, and clear rivers. Use this guide to get started, and then let her spirit move you to your next destination.

#1 Wonder at waterfalls

Southern Idaho’s myriad waterfalls include secret spots like Mermaid’s Cove or water-accessible Pillar Falls. You’ll discover a huge variety of falls along or just off the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway. These waterfalls include Minnie Miller Springs, Niagara Springs, and the springs and falls at the Box Canyon Reserve. For legendary water, visit Cauldron Linn, Auger Falls, and Malad Gorge and Devil’s Washbowl.

Or, of course, see the mother of them all: Shoshone Falls. She is a 212-foot behemoth that attracts travelers from around the world. Visit in the spring for big flows or in the fall for amazing rock formations and sunsets.

#2 Marvel at geological wonders

Millions of years of volcanic eruptions, wind, and water have made Southern Idaho a true treasure trove for the geologically curious. City of Rocks National Reserve is a must-see destination for rock climbers and history lovers alike. Emigrants from Eastern towns named it and their wagon ruts still run through the reserve. Or don’t miss Little City of Rocks near Gooding, which features ancient rock art and great hiking trails.

Prehistoric volcanoes created the vast lava field known as Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. Lava tubes such as the Shoshone Ice Caves and Tea Kettle Cave offer a glimpse of Idaho’s explosive past. Balanced Rock near Castleford is an Instagram-ready destination that seems to defy gravity. For a true Western marvel, head to the deep Snake River Canyon, where you can explore geology from a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Want to just admire the views? Enjoy the canyon from the comfort of restaurants Elevation 486 and Canyon Crest, both of which are perched on the edge of this wonder.

#3 Hit the water

The Snake River and its tributaries and man-made lakes make Southern Idaho a water lover’s paradise. Take in breathtaking scenery at your own pace while you paddle the waters of Hagerman’s Blue Heart Springs or under Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls. If you love lakes, escape to the high mountains of Lake Cleveland or Indepence Lakes.

Feel the need for speed? Check out the Snake River in Heyburn or Burley. Burley is also the site of the annual Wake the Snake wakeboard competition and the Idaho Regatta speed boat race. The whitewater of the Hagerman Reach and the Murtaugh Reach of the Snake River is thrilling for the whole family and attracts rafters from around the West. If fishing is more your speed, you’ll find plenty to catch at Salmon Dam Reservoir. It is the premier walleye fishery in Idaho — or Mormon Reservoir, a haven for trout and even elusive sturgeon.

#4 Get a history lesson

From Native American heritage to the Oregon Trail Southern Idahoans take pride in their rich Western history. Rupert Square is lined with buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, including the impressive Wilson Theatre and the Minidoka County Historical Museum. Other historical museums include Albion Historical Society, Cassia County Historical Museum in Burley , Hagerman Valley Historical Museum, and the Lincoln County Historical Museum in Shoshone.

Visit the oldest store in Idaho in Almo and a restored one-room schoolhouse in Gooding. Of course, a stay in the historic B&Bs of Albion and Gooding is a must.

For a truly eye opening look at World War II history, visit the Minidoka National Historic Site in Jerome. It is a former incarceration camp for Japanese-Americans and Japanese resident aliens. Or go way back in history at the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, where over 200 different species of fossil plants and animals have been discovered.

#5 Go  thrill-seeking

Did you know that Southern Idaho is one of the top BASE jumping destinations on the planet? It’s all due to the I.B. Perrine Bridge on the Snake River, which offers death-defying opportunities for scenic jumps. Watch from the bridge or head out yourself on a tandem jump. The Milner Mile, which starts with a Class V rapid and 25-foot drop below Milner Dam, is for serious whitewater enthusiasts only. Another pro stretch, the Malad River, lies deep in the Malad Gorge.

Southern Idaho’s geology is perfect for climbers — there are more than 700 routes at City of Rocks National Reserve alone. Head deep underground and explore the cave system at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Mammoth Cave, Tea Kettle Cave, or the Shoshone Ice Caves. Or get a bird’s eye view of the massive Snake River Canyon on Zip the Snake.

#6 Log those birds

The region is a haven for waterfowl and migrating birds — and for the people who love to watch them. The Hagerman Wildlife Management Area and Billingsley Creek Wildlife Management Area, both located just a few miles from the town of Hagerman, are home to tens of thousands of ducks, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, shorebirds, and other waterfowl. Lake Walcott and the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, situated next to the Minidoka Dam on the Snake River, offers a safe space for nesting waterfowl, including hundreds of white pelicans in the spring.

In the South Hills and Albion Mountains, you might be lucky enough to see Cassia Crossbills, which use their unique crossed bills to crack lodgepole pines and fish out the seeds inside. For true majesty, head to Box Canyon Reserve and the rest of the Thousand Springs Complex in the winter for astounding numbers of bald eagles. Put on your scientist hat and see how many birds you can log at the annual Jim Sage Christmas Bird Count at City of Rocks National Reserve.

#7 Experience the culture

Bustling downtowns, Western rodeos, local fare — Southern Idaho has it all. Summer kicks off rodeo season: Take your pick of the Gooding County Fair and Pro Rodeo, Camas County Rodeo in Fairfield , Lincoln County Fair and Rodeo in Shoshone, Jerome County Fair and Rodeo, and Twin Falls County Fair & Magic Valley Stampede in Filer. Also check out the Minidoka County Fair in Rupert or the Cassia County Fair in Burley .

Art lovers flock to Shoshone Arts in the Park in July, the Thousand Springs Festival for the Arts in September, and the year-round performances at the College of Southern Idaho Fine Arts Center. Experience one of Southern Idaho’s immigrant cultures at the Gooding Basque Picnic in July or take in a feast of dancing and music at the annual Magic Valley Folk Festival. Southern Idaho’s many cities feature old-fashioned main streets and downtowns for fun throughout the year.

You won’t want to miss favorite eateries like the Oxbow Café in Bliss, Gossner’s Magic Valley Chalet in Heyburn, The Eagle’s Nest in Dietrich, the Yellow Brick Café in Twin Falls, El Sombrero in Jerome, or Stevo’s in Burley.

#8 Head to the mountains

You can find plenty of year-round outdoor entertainment in the hills and mountains of Southern Idaho. You’ll discover great hiking and camping at Lake Cleveland, Castle Rocks State Park, City of Rocks National Reserve, and the South Hills. Mountain bikers love trails near Auger Falls and Indian Springs, the mountains south of Burley. You can also try the Canyon Rim Trail in Twin Falls. Plus, the Auger Falls trails are great in the winter too. If you’re up for exploring the backcountry on an ATV/UTV, try Big Southern Butte, Snake River Canyon Park, and the Camas County trails.

Winter is no time to slow down in Southern Idaho — try Nordic skiing, cat skiing, snowshoeing, and downhill. The region has three resorts – Soldier Mountain, Pomerelle, and Magic Mountain. For snowmobiling, check out the area around Fairfield and the Diamondfield Jack area near Twin Falls. Of course, you can always take in the deep calm of winter by watching the wildlife at Lake Walcott and the Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, the Hagerman Wildlife Management Area and Billingsley Creek Wildlife Management Area, Castle Rocks State Park, City of Rocks National Reserve, and the South Hills and Albion Mountains.

#9 Luxuriate in the hot springs

Southern Idaho is home to hundreds of ancient, dormant volcanoes that created the lava rock features of the region while trapping millions of gallons of water. What does this geology mean for you? Plenty of glorious hot springs! Check out Miracle Hot Springs and Banbury Hot Springs in Buhl or 1,000 Springs Resort in Hagerman for springs. These springs offer a mix of family-friendly pools and private bathing opportunities. Durfee Hot Springs in Almo has been soothing tired muscles for about a century and is a real treat.

For a more natural experience, trek to Warswick or Skillern Hot Springs near Fairfield . To get to Warswick, you’ll have to work for it — it’s a scenic six-mile hike, and you’ll be rewarded with the natural beauty of the remote setting and piping hot water to sink into.

#10 Ask the experts

When you’re ready for a deep dive into Southern Idaho’s hidden gems, visit one of the region’s friendly visitor centers. You’ll get insider information about local favorites and off-the-beaten-path getaways. Head to the Almo Visitor Center, the Twin Falls Visitor Center, Mini-Cassia Visitor Center, Buhl Visitor Center, Twin Falls Visitor Center, and the Shoshone Visitor Center (located in the 2 nd Time Around Antique Mall).

Check out our other Top 10 Lists:

Top 10 Things to Do in Albion »

Top 10 Things to Do in Almo »

Top 10 Things to Do in Buhl »

Top 10 Things to Do in Burley »

Top 10 Things to Do in Fairfield »

Top 10 Things to Do In Gooding »

Top 10 Things to Do in Hagerman »

Top 10 Things to Do in Heyburn »

Top 10 Things to Do in Rupert »

The Top 10 Things to Do In Twin Falls »

• These Historic Towns in Idaho Are Worth Exploring

Idaho is a state known for its diverse landscapes, from rugged, cold mountains to expansive plains, and its towns reflect a rich tapestry of history and culture. Idaho was once called The Gem State, and the name Idaho itself stems from an Aboriginal word meaning Gem of the Mountains. This state, which was known for its gold rush in the 1860s, is rich in both mineral wealth as well as hidden gems of historic hamlets dotting this state.

Idaho is a state which takes pride in its varied history, displaying proudly in each of its cities, and preserving it for locals and visitors alike. In its over 10,000 miles of river, there are waiting adventures, history, and natural beauty rarely seen elsewhere.

Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains, Sun Valley is a lynchpin in America’s skiing history. Established in the 1930s, Sun Valley became the United States’ first destination ski resort. The Sun Valley Resort, still open to this day, has attracted tourists for decades. With European-inspired architecture, and the "best ski mountain in the country" nearby, stars and skiing enthusiasts alike flocked to Sun Valley, including Ernest Hemingway. Hemingway, or Papa Hemi as he is affectionately known, finished For Whom The Bell Tolls in the Sun Valley Lodge.

Both of these histories, which are richly intertwined, are chronicled at the Wood River Museum of History and Culture. If you prefer a quieter time with Hemingway, you can pay your respects at the nearby Hemingway Memorial, or perhaps a toast in the Trail Creek Cabin, a cabin-turned restaurant built in 1937, where you are brought in by sleigh.  

Continuing its 100-plus-year run as the world’s largest silver producer, Wallace is still the richest mining town in existence. For this fact alone, the whole town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! This colourful town is not left in the past, however, diversifying into world-class recreation.

For must-see historic sights, Wallace starts with…stairs? Don’t be fooled by their humble appearance! These restored stairs have stood proud since the 19th century and were the only way for the residents to climb up from the main street to their homes. Today, they treat you to a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges, and a good workout too! For history a little more hands-off, the Historic Wallace Preservation Society houses a vast collection of historical photographs, and accounts covering over 125 years of Wallace’s history.

Finally, you can’t leave Wallace without plunging into the mines. The Sierra Silver Mine Tour takes you on an open-air mine tour in a trolley to an underground mine! Following the tour in the mine, there is a 15-minute tour around the Historic Wallace residential and business district!

Bonners Ferry

Halfway between Sandpoint and the Canadian border, Booners Ferry is a postcard come to life. This small town of less than 3,000 residents is bursting at the seams with charm. Outdoor adventures abound! The history of this sleepy hamlet is on full display and interlaced through the town, with the Boundary County Museum, the anchor of the historic downtown. This carefully curated space retains and exhibits the unique heritage of the Far North Idaho area for both residents and visitors.

To take in a show, The Pearl Theater is Bonners Ferry's Broadway! An artfully renovated church serves as a setting for intimate shows of all kinds: music, theatre, and even informative speakers. If you want to take a piece of Bonners Ferry home, look no further than the 3 Mile Antique Mall. A flea-market-style mall by locals, for everyone! Whether or not you have room in your suitcase, it is a feast for the senses and an excellent way to plug into history from the locals.

Originally a gold rush town from the 1860s, Idaho City still echoes with the tales of prospectors searching for their fortune. Allowing you to step back in time, historical spots have been preserved and are dotted around the city while the rest of the city grew up around it. Local spots include the Idaho Territorial Penitentiary (located in nearby Boise), the Pest House and County Jail, and the Fire House, just to name a few.

If you want the city to truly come alive, come during Idaho City Days. Beginning September 30th to October 1st, this is where vendors hawk their goods, you can attend a cowboy church service, and mine in the gold mine, and try to find your fortune.

If you don’t know where to begin, (and you aren't to blame!) perhaps a walking tour is in order, with Simply Fun! This tour is not only informative – and fun, like its namesake, but allows you access into the County Courthouse, where a collection of antique ledgers and artifacts are housed inside of a historic bank vault. Finally, you can visit the Boise Basin Museum, where you will learn about the rich and often difficult history of the 19th-century gold rush.

One of the oldest towns in the state, Lewiston played a significant role in its namesake: the Lewis and Clark Expedition. You can walk in their steps as you take on the Lewis and Clark National Historical Trail that extends beyond the eastern border of Idaho.

The Aboriginal peoples who guided Lewis and Clark on their expedition are still much beloved in the town of Lewiston. Learn about the Nimiipuu, or the Nez Perce Tribe's heritage and traditions from the very source at the Nez Perce National Historical Park, where tribal members can guide you.

Between white-sand beaches, intersecting rivers, and the rugged beauty of Hells Canyon, Lewiston is a destination like no other! 

Nestled within three mountain ranges, Sandpoint is a popular tourist destination not only for its beauty, but its outdoor activities. Sandpoint is more than just boating and skiing fun; it has a rich history on display! Sandpoint is home to the Panida Theater, a theater that has been operating since 1927. Originally a vaudeville and movie house, Panida has always been a community hub in Sandpoint, and still is to this day.

While in the area, explore the rest of the Sandpoint Historic District, listed on the National Register of HIstoric Places. The district consists of 13 buildings, including Panida Theatre and the Sandpoint City Hall, which has stood proud since 1910. Take a stroll through history, or reach out and touch it, as many of these buildings are still operating today.

To step back farther, visit the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum, which is nestled in view of the beautiful Lake Pend Oreille. This curated collection chronicles how Sandpoint went from a few shacks along the railway to a bustling resort town. Attractions include a full colonial kitchen, allowing guests to truly step back and see what it would be like to stay in Sandpoint over 100 years ago. 

Island Park

With the whole town surrounded by the largest volcanic caldera in the nation, Island Park is a hidden gem for Yellowstone goers. Only a half hour from the nearest park entrance, Island Park is a great set-off point for Yellowstone vacations. However, there is enough in this town of just about 500 people to make you want to stay for an extra day or two!

In nearby Big Springs, just five miles from Island Park, is Johnny Sack's Cabin, a historic log cabin that exemplifies the craftsmanship and Idahoian ruggedness that comes to define the state. Johnny Sack, the cabin's builder and namesake, started construction on the cabin in 1932 and completed it three years later. A cabinetmaker by trade, Johnny knew craftmanship and how to preserve the natural beauty of the medium he worked in. What makes it stand out is its use of bark as accenting in many of its pieces of furniture.

Island Park is also a fishing paradise! Henry's Lake is home to up to 30-inch trout. While fishing, you may see a passing moose, bear, elk, or even a bison. Wildlife is alive and well in Island Park, and if you want to connect with nature, there is no more beautiful place to do so.

The fusion of historical landmarks and modern commercial attractions in Idaho is the secret to its charm. Visiting any of these historic towns is not only a testament to the state’s rich and varied past but allows you to visit a beautiful, curated destination. Whether you are drawn to the Old West charm of Idaho City or the lakeside elegance of Sandpoint, Idaho invites you to step back in time and savor its history.

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A Grip on Sports: If you want to root for a Seattle pro team on a roll, maybe it’s time to start paying attention to the Sounders

A GRIP ON SPORTS • Remember all the way back to June, when the Mariners were the hot team out West? Yep, those were the days. Don’t fret, though. Seattle has the hottest team in the West still. It’s just in a different pro sport.

• In case you missed it, and we’re sure many of you did, wrapped up as you might have been in politics or Caitlin Clark or just trying to survive the heat, the Sounders played again Wednesday night. And won again.

They are the hottest team in the MLS and have moved up the standings with alacrity, going from out of the postseason to within a point of fourth in the Western Conference in a month.  

Seattle has won its last five MLS matches. It is 12-2-4 in its last 18, including U.S. Open Cup play. And optimism, a sentiment in short supply around the Northwest these days, seems to be creeping back in. Not completely, mind you. Not with the recent schedule. Yes, the Sounders have not lost since June 8, when they lost 2-1 at woeful Sporting Kansas City. Since then, they have played seven MLS matches. They are 6-0-1 in those. Good for them.

But, in that time, they have played just once against a club that would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. And they posted a draw in that match against Houston. Everyone else they’ve played? Outside, looking in.

In other words, the recent run has been built on the bones of crumbling teams.

That ends Saturday night in Seattle. LAFC comes to town. Until last night’s draw against Salt Lake, LAFC was tied for first in the West. With 44 points, it is still in second, seven ahead of Seattle.

As our resident soccer expert said last night, “It will be nice to see if (the Sounders) are actually a top, functional team or a bit better than the mediocre teams they just ran over.”

• We logged into our Comcast account this morning with one purpose. To watch the British Open – or, as those in across the pond call it, The Open – golf. For some reason we can’t determine, we can’t. At least not on our computer, which is all we want to use while the other person in our traveling party enjoys her sleep.

While we were doing the same overnight, Justin Thomas was doing what he’s done recently. Play well in a tournament’s first round. Last weekend, Thomas seemed to have broken out of his year-long slump, firing a 62 on the Scottish Open’s opening day.

That was fool’s gold, though, as Thomas odd woes continued. He followed up with three rounds in the 70s and finished 14 strokes behind winner Robert MacIntyre.

Which makes us wonder. Has Thomas, who has won 15 times on the PGA Tour, including two PGA Championships, found what he’s been missing since his last win, the PGA at Southern Hills in 2022? Or is his game still a little off and the first-round 68 (-3) will fade in memory over the weekend?

We can’t wait to find out. Especially if we can figure out how to watch.

• One guy we wished we could have watched, if only in a “what-happened” sort of way? Rory McIlroy. After leaving another major title on the Pinehurst greens last month, McIlroy opened his quest to snap a decade-long streak of failing in the majors with a 78 today. That’s one of his worst British Open scores . Ever. Oh, and the guy who leapfrogged McIlroy at the U.S. Open? Bryson DeChambeau was 5-over today as well.

• Finally, if you wonder why the Pac-12 is gone or why schools such as Stanford and Oregon will be playing conference contests in the Eastern Time Zone, there may be a little window opening into the power behind the conference thrones.

By threatening a lawsuit, the Florida attorney general’s office has forced the ACC to open its vault a bit and share the agreements it has with its television partners . The paperwork will be redacted, probably heavily, to protect “trade secrets,” but the public will finally get a peek behind the curtain.

It’s all part of the Florida AG’s attempt to back Florida State’s desire to leave the ACC for what it hopes is greener pastures. The power play, along with another by Clemson, has resulted in dueling lawsuits, accusations of financial malfeasance and worries about another tidal wave hitting college athletics.

A few thousand pages dominated by black lines aren’t going to move the needle too much but it is indicative of the cutthroat nature of college sports’ new world.

WSU: Around the Pac-12 and the nation, this NIL story gave us the jitters . Not only is it the Wild West, it may only get worse as more changes come into the mix. … There are certain statistics that define the difference between winning and losing for Washington’s football team . … The Oregonian’s numbers countdown continues, with No. 45 for Oregon State and Oregon . … Colorado has rebuilt its offensive line once more. … Kyle Whittingham’s peers are now Big 12 coaches, not Pac-12 ones. … What does a successful season look like for Arizona State ? … Arizona prioritized a Texas receiver and got him. … A former Arizona basketball player played for Serbia against the U.S. Olympic team Wednesday. And another Wildcat is still playing in an international tournament. … In baseball, Oregon State is developing new talent to keep its run of success going.

EWU: If you make a list of great Eagle quarterbacks, you could make an argument for putting Erik Meyer atop the list. And not just because of his statistics, as impressive as they were. Meyer also was the first Eagle quarterback standout of the 21st Century, leading the way as Eastern has produced many over the past couple decades. And now he’ll be the first EWU quarterback inducted into the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame. Dave Cook has more in this story previewing Saturday’s ceremony in Spokane. … The Eagles open their 2024 training camp July 30. That news leads off the S-R’s most recent local briefs column . … Elsewhere in the Big Sky, did Weber State’s Dillon Jones fall into the perfect situation with Oklahoma City? … The Wildcats have promoted a basketball assistant. … Montana and Montana State each had four players named to a recent preseason All-America football team . … Dan Hawkins has joined his son Cody’s staff at Idaho State .  

Indians: Dave Nichols takes a walk down Memory Lane with former Spokane pitcher Jason Fingers , covering not only his time with the Indians early in the century, but also his dad, former Oakland star Rollie, and why Jason has returned to the area to live. … Elsewhere in the Northwest League, Hillsboro got the OK to begin building a new ballpark which will meet MLB standards.

Seahawks: Bob Condotta’s mailbag is on the S-R website today, so we’ve linked it once more.

Sonics: Yes, there is more talk on the franchise’s possible return .

Mariners: Andrés Muñoz is respected by his opponents . There is little better than that.

Sounders: Seattle is not only the hottest team, it may have moved into title contention after last night’s 2-0 victory .

Olympics: The U.S. Paralympic Team Trials are this weekend in Florida. There will be many athletes with Spokane ties in the mix. Madison McCord covers all of them today in this story . … We linked this before, but the Jerry Brewer column on the U.S. men’s basketball team appeared in the S-R this morning.

Golf: As the tournament began, there was a bit of discussion about Tiger Woods and his chances. There was actually a back-and-forth between Woods and Colin Montgomery.

• In case you were wondering, we did get the USA broadcast to run on our Mac. We just had to do a couple work-arounds. The video is running in the upper-right-hand corner of our screen as we type. Until later …

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Trump rally shooter Thomas Crooks: Neighbors, classmates, employer speak

A 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania fired multiple shots at former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday evening.

A bullet grazed the presumptive Republican presidential nominee's upper right ear , leaving him bloodied but not seriously injured. One rally attendee was killed in the gunfire and two others were "critically injured," authorities later said.

Here's what we know:

Who is the shooter at the rally?

The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the person behind the assassination attempt. Agency officials released little additional information, saying its investigation remains active and ongoing. They did not indicate what Crooks' motive might have been.

Crooks worked at a nearby nursing home. An administrator there told USA TODAY that the company was shocked to learn of the shooting and that Crooks had passed a background check for his job.

What did Thomas Crooks do at the crime scene?

During the shooting Saturday, Trump's right ear was injured, seconds before he was whisked off stage by Secret Service personnel.  One man attending the rally was killed  and two others were injured; Crooks was then killed by Secret Service agents , authorities said.

FBI special agent Kevin Rojek said on a call with media Sunday afternoon that authorities found "a suspicious device" when they searched the shooter's vehicle. Bomb technicians inspected the device and rendered it safe. 

"I'm not in a position to provide any expertise on the specific components of any potential bombs or suspicious packages," Rojek added. 

Rojek said law enforcement is sending the rifle and Crooks' cell phone, along with other evidence, to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia "for processing and exploitation."

"We're in the process of searching his phone," Rojek said.

Maps and graphics: What happened in the Trump assassination attempt

What is Crooks' background?

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Federal Election Commission records show that in January 2021, Crooks made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project, a group working to increase voter turnout for Democrats.

Born Sept. 20, 2003, Crooks does not have a criminal record in Pennsylvania, nor has he been sued there, according to state court records. There is no record of him in federal court databases, either.

Where did Thomas Crooks work?

Crooks worked as a dietary aid, a job that generally involves food preparation, at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, less than a mile from his home. In a statement provided to USA TODAY on Sunday, Marcie Grimm, the facility's administrator, said she was "shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement."

"Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean," Grimm said. "We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence."

The facility is owned by Kennett Square, Pennsylvania-based Genesis Healthcare. A job posting from the company for a dietary aid in the Pittsburgh area puts the pay at $16 an hour.

Thomas Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania

Crooks' home address is listed in Bethel Park, a suburb in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, voter records show. That three-bedroom brick house has been owned since 1998 by Matthew and Mary Crooks, who appear to be his parents. Telephone calls to the couple were not returned overnight.

Near the Crooks home, Dean Sierka, 52, said he had known Crooks and his parents for years, as neighbors separated by only a few houses. Sierka’s daughter attended school with Crooks from elementary school through Bethel Park High School, and said she remembers him as quiet and shy.

Dean and his daughter said they would see Crooks at least once a week, often when Crooks was walking to work.

“You wouldn’t have expected this,” Dean Sierka said. “The parents and the family are all really nice people.”

At Bethel Park High School

Thomas Crooks graduated two years ago from Bethel Park High School, the Bethel Park School District confirmed. He was included in a 2022 local news article about recipients of a National Math & Science Initiative Star Award at the public high school, which enrolls about 1,300 students.

Jason Kohler attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks and said he remembers the 20-year-old sat alone at lunch and was “bullied almost every day.” Kids picked on Crooks for wearing camouflage to class and his quiet demeanor, Kohler, 21, said.

Since hearing Crooks has been named as the shooter, Kohler has been speaking with classmates who knew him, most of whom are stunned by the news.“It’s really hard to comprehend,” he said.

Sean Eckert said he went to school with Crooks from 5th through 12th grade. He said Crooks always went by “Tom.“

They shared classes together in elementary and middle school. Eckert said Crooks, though "fairly smart," was quiet and rarely spoke up.

Eckert said Crooks did not seem to have many friends. He didn't recall Crooks being playing any sports, being involved in any clubs or student groups or going to popular campus events. He often wore hunting clothes, so Eckert assumed he hunted.

No one in Eckert's group text from high school seemed to know Crooks very well, he said. They were shocked that someone from their town had done this. They were even more surprised that it was Tom Crooks.

Nursing aide turned sniper: Thomas Crooks' mysterious plot to kill Trump

The gaming-oriented online site Discord said Sunday that it had found an account that appeared to be linked to the shooting suspect. The site removed the account, which “was rarely utilized, has not been used in months, and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence, or discuss his political views,“ according to a statement from a Discord spokesperson, adding that the company will coordinate closely with law enforcement.

Crooks was a member of the Clairton Sportsmen’s Club, a shooting club about 8 miles from his home. It is a sprawling complex of 180 acres with rifle, pistol and archery ranges, an area for dog training and a clubhouse, according to the club website.An attorney for the club, Robert Bootay III, confirmed Crooks' membership in an email to USA TODAY, but would not offer additional details.

Where is Bethel Park, Pennsylvania?

Bethel Park is a suburb of Pittsburgh and home to more than 32,000 people – about one thousand fewer than four years ago, according to the latest Census estimates. 

The majority-white, mostly college-educated community has a median household income of $102,177. 

Described as a charming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the big city to its north, Bethel Park boasts tree-line streets, friendly neighborhoods and a low crime rate.

Bethel Park is about 42 miles south of Butler, where the Trump rally was held. The leafy suburban street was alive with law enforcement overnight amid a multi-agency response to the shooting. A member of the Allegheny County bomb squad told reporters his team was headed into the house around midnight, but did not say why.

For hours afterward, the scene remained quiet, with deer passing under the police tape and an occasional neighbor stepping out of their house to see what was happening.

John Wolf, a local construction superintendent who lives down the road, said he’d talked with several worried neighbors.

“People are scared,” Wolf said.

How did Crooks shoot at Trump?

Crooks had been positioned on a rooftop more than 100 yards from the rally site, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle from the scene.

Joseph Price, special agent in charge of the ATF in Pittsburgh, said the weapon used by the shooter was a rifle.“It was nothing special,” he said in an interview in the parking lot of the Butler Township Municipal Building.

Law enforcement is following up on a “number of suspicious occurrences,” said Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police, including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

The FBI said in a news release that the situation “remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at  FBI.gov/butler  or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.”

Contributing: Stephanie Warsmith, Tim Evans, Aysha Bagchi, Jessica Guynn, Bryce Buyakie

Suspect came within inches of killing Trump, but left few clues as to why

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Reporting by Nathan Layne and Gabriella Borter in Bethel Park, Jasper Ward and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Additional reporting by Aaron Josefczyk in Bethel Park, Brendan O'Brien in Chicago, Tyler Clifford in New York, and Daniel Trotta in Carlsbad, California; Editing by Paul Thomasch, Lisa Shumaker and Lincoln Feast.

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Thomson Reuters

Gabriella Borter is a reporter on the U.S. National Affairs team, covering cultural and political issues as well as breaking news. She has won two Front Page Awards from the Newswomen’s Club of New York - in 2020 for her beat reporting on healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and in 2019 for her spot story on the firing of the police officer who killed Eric Garner. The latter was also a Deadline Club Awards finalist. She holds a B.A. in English from Yale University and joined Reuters in 2017.

Bangladesh top court scraps most job quotas that triggered deadly protests

Bangladesh's Supreme Court on Sunday scrapped most of the quotas on government jobs that had sparked student-led protests in which at least 114 people have been killed in the South Asian country.

Things to Do

When you plan to visit Idaho, it’s easy to fill up your valuable vacation days with everything under the sun (literally—Boise, Idaho’s capital city, boasts 200+ sunny days per year). The list of things to do in Idaho crosses all four seasons, and selecting any of these adventures will surely create an unforgettable Gem State getaway.

Find Idaho Experiences

Select the activities that speak to you, and curate a list of things to do in Idaho that will leave you speechless.

Outdoor Activities

Hot Springs

Natural Attractions

State Parks

Hiking & Backpacking

Horseback Riding & Guest Ranches

Wildlife Viewing & Birding

Mountain Biking

ATV Recreation & Motorsports

Rail to Trail

Leisure Activities

Scenic Byways

Amusement Parks & Waterparks

Wildlife Parks & Zoos

Roadside Attractions

History & Culture

Museums & Exhibits

Ghost Towns & Mining History

National Monuments & Historical Sites

Native American Culture

Water activities.

Jet Boating

Lake & River Cruises

Rafting & Kayaking

Winter activities.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Cat & Heli-Skiing

Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing

Sleigh Rides

Ice Skating

Snowmobiling

Snow Tubing

Food & drink.

Farmers Markets

Distilleries

Looking for things to do in Idaho year-round? Discover activities catered to your travel timeline.

Your Getaway Game Plan

Find the right route for your trip with the Visit Idaho Travel Assistant, an interactive map that you can filter to your vacation preferences.

Try These Travel Tips

Stop dreaming and start experiencing the top things to do in Idaho with these inspirational stories and local tips.

10 Great Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Sun Valley

A Dog-Friendly Fall Trip in Northern Idaho

Dog-Friendly Idaho Getaways

How to Enjoy City of Rocks and Castle Rocks as a Non-Climber

What to Do for a Week in Idaho With Kids

5 Surprises From Our Family Vacation in Idaho

Biking the Route of the Hiawatha Trail With Kids

7 of the Best Winter Activities in Eastern Idaho to Do With Teens

10 Must-Visit Stops Along the Boise Greenbelt

A Mountain Biker’s Guide to Fall in the Teton Valley

Eat Like a Local: Boiseans Share Their Favorite Spots

Spend a Day Exploring the Old World Charm of Bonners Ferry

How to Have an Epic Outdoor Adventure in Idaho on Any Budget

20 Affordable Adventures in Idaho

7 Affordable Idaho Adventures to Bust Boredom

Explore by activity.

Idaho attractions are as diverse and varied as your interests, so dive in and start planning your trip.

Sawtooth Mountains

Shoshone Falls

World Center for Birds of Prey

Harriman State Park

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area – Idaho

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Lava Hot Springs

Route of the Hiawatha

Mesa Falls Scenic Byway

Swan Falls Dam and Park

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail – Idaho

Ponderosa State Park

Silverwood/Boulder Beach

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

Starlight Mountain Theatre

Snake River Canyon

Soda Springs Geyser

Lewis and Clark Backcountry Byway

Main Oregon Trail Backcountry Byway

See All Things to Do >

Accessible Adventures

Want to get a feel for accessible options across the state?

Find the Right Fit

Selecting an outfitter is an essential first step for many things to do in Idaho, from horseback riding and off-roading to whitewater rafting and jet boating. If you are interested in connecting with an outfitter or guide during your Idaho getaway, check out these resources.

History & Culture Up Close

In Idaho, opportunities abound to walk in the footsteps of those who made their mark on the Gem State. Learn about historical sites and important cultural stories, and then visit the areas to complete your journey.

Do Your Best to Do Your Part

From fire safety and sun protection to respectful interactions with wildlife and other outdoor adventurers, traveling with care starts with educating yourself on how to keep Idaho a welcoming and awe-inspiring place for future visitors.