Idaho

Fall mountain biking excursion in Pocatello

Paul Frantelllizzi

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Kayaking in Blue Heart Springs near the Snake River

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One of the many starry nights at Craters of the Moon National Monument

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A bear spotted in Hells Canyon from a jet boat tour

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Horseback riding in the wilderness at Redfish Lake Lodge in Stanley

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A relaxing soak in Pine Flat Hot Springs with a view of the Payette River

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Fun on the water at Lake Coeur d'Alene

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Patio dining on 8th Street in downtown Boise

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Pedaling over a sky-high trestle bridge on the Route of the Hiawatha trail

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Whitewater rafting tour on the Lower Salmon River

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Major Airports:

Boise (BOI)

Spokane (GEG)

Salt Lake City (SLC)
Nickname:

The Gem State

A thrill-seeker’s paradise throughout the year

From a quick day trip driving a scenic byway to spending six days on a guided river adventure followed by a night out in the city, an Idaho itinerary can be quite different. Taking the road less traveled is a wonderful way to explore the state. Some of Idaho’s 31 scenic byways have historic significance, and others provide access to natural attractions and outdoor recreation. Experience the fresh air of the wilderness as you sweep through the mountains and valleys of Idaho’s vast landscapes.

Visit Idaho by Regions

Can’t-Miss Destinations

Be sure to check out Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene for boating and lake adventures, Riggins for whitewater and jet boat fun, and then drive to McCall and Boise for rest, relaxation and fine dining. Indulge in a tour of historic downtown Boise to explore its beer, wine and food scene while learning about the local culture.

Once you’re ready to hit the road, it’s off to Stanley, Sun Valley and Ketchum for some of the best mountain biking, skiing and fly-fishing in the world. Travel to Island Park, Idaho Falls and Lava Hot Springs for camping, hot springs and snowmobiling in the winter.

Into the Wilderness

A gateway to the USA's first national park, Yellowstone, eastern Idaho is also home to the Grand Tetons, more fly-fishing and amazing waterfalls. The communities of Victor and Driggs provide easy access to famed ski resort Jackson Hole and are great locations for geotourism. The Teton Geotourism Center in Driggs helps travelers learn how to experience local culture in the majestic Teton Range.

Travel west to discover Craters of the Moon National Monument, where you can camp and hike in old lava fields. For a change of scenery, drive a little farther to Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park and Public Observatory to explore the dunes and lakes.

Four Seasons of Adrenaline

Idaho claims the most whitewater in the lower 48 states, and it’s easy to book trips on the Main Payette River in Boise or on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Embark on a jet boat tour of the Snake and Salmon rivers and Hells Canyon; you’ll see natural wonders, learn about historic sites and explore the shoreline.

Idaho offers skiing the way it ought to be – on fresh powder, with short lines and under blue skies. Enjoy everything from destination resorts such as Schweitzer, Sun Valley and Brundage to local ski areas, including Lookout Pass, Bogus Basin and Tamarack.

In the Northern Region

North of Coeur d’Alene, Silverwood Theme Park is the largest theme park in the northwest USA. The area also is home to the world’s only floating golf green at the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, where a hand-crafted lake shuttle whisks you from the resort to the links.

Consider an outing to Route of the Hiawatha, where you can hike or bike a 24-kilometer rail-to-trail (a shuttle is available for less-adventurous explorers). Nearby, head to the former silver mining town of Wallace and find the manhole cover that proclaims you’re in the “Center of the Universe.”

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Fun Fact

Manhole cover representing the ‘Center of the Universe’ in Wallace, Idaho

The city of Wallace proclaimed their community the Center of the Universe in 2004. Today, a manhole cover represents the spot said to be the exact Center of the Universe; it is celebrated yearly by residents of the city.

Photo: Visit Idaho

The epic sand dune at Bruneau Dunes State Park in Idaho

Bruneau Dunes State Park contains North America's tallest single-structured sand dune – at 143 meters high.

Photo: Visit Idaho

Stunning view over Idaho’s Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls on the Snake River is known as The Niagara of the West. Spilling over a 65-meter drop near Twin Falls, the falls are actually higher than Niagara Falls.

Photo: Visit Idaho

Must see places

Boise River Greenbelt

This 40-kilometer bicycle and pedestrian path along the Boise River connects 340 hectares of wilderness and 15 city parks. Spend an afternoon birdwatching, swimming in the natatorium pool, picnicking or playing golf.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Volcanoes and other intense geologic activity formed this dramatic park over the past 15,000 years. Visitors can hike, go caving, explore lava tubes and camp on a lava field.

Lava Hot Springs

Steaming hot mineral water bubbles up from deep within the earth into the five pools at the springs, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate. Families love the water slides, Kiddie Cove and Olympic-size pool.

Snake River

The Snake River forms much of Idaho’s western border. Go hiking at Snake River Canyon Rim Trails, cast a fly-fishing line at Henry’s Fork, visit Shoshone Falls or go jet boating at Hells Canyon.

World Center for Birds of Prey

See eagles, owls, hawks, condors, falcons and other endangered birds of prey from around the world at this breeding and education center in Boise. Watch live demonstrations and visit the interpretive center.

Sun Valley

It’s known as a premier ski area, but Sun Valley draws outdoors enthusiasts, art lovers and foodies all year round. In addition to multiple ski resorts, find golf courses, bike trails, craft breweries and art galleries.

Silverwood Theme Park

The Northwest’s largest outdoor amusement park, Silverwood has 70-plus rides, shows, attractions and a water park. Open from May through September, this park in Athol is a great place for family fun.

Bear Lake

Go boating and hiking in the summer and ice fishing and snowmobiling in the winter at the “Caribbean of the Rockies” that straddles the Idaho-Utah border. Keep your eyes open for deer, moose, cougars and cranes.

Route of the Hiawatha

Along this 24-kilometer rail trail near the Idaho-Montana border, find 10 train tunnels and seven trestles spanning canyons and forests in the Bitterroot Mountains. Bring your own bicycle or rent one at Lookout Pass Ski Area.

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Dramatic vistas await those exploring the USA’s deepest river gorge that forms the Idaho-Oregon border. Drive the scenic byway, go on a contemplative hike or take a thrilling tour of the Snake River aboard a jet boat.