Top 10 Places to Visit in Idaho

Idaho, often celebrated as the Gem State, is as multifaceted as the moniker suggests. Traveling through the lush northern expanses along Interstate 90, you encounter verdant forests and serene lakes, each with a story to tell. Here, the silver mining town of Kellogg stands as a testament to the state’s rich history, nodding to days gone by when fortune seekers and dreamers roamed its streets.

Venture southward via Interstate 84 and the scene shifts to sweeping deserts intersected by paths steeped in lore, such as the Oregon Trail, an artery once vital for west-bound pioneers. Connecting these diverse landscapes is Highway 12, a scenic byway that echoes the historical voyage of Lewis and Clark alongside the Clearwater River, offering explorers a route to discovery just as it did centuries ago.

Idaho Exploration Guide

Embark on a journey through Idaho’s diverse landscapes, from the exhilarating mountain biking trails along the Hiawatha, starting at the Montana border, to the exhilarating challenge of skiing and golfing venues across the state.

• Boasting Nature: For camping enthusiasts and hikers, Idaho’s vast wilderness awaits.
• Skiing and Golfing: Discover world-class slopes and greens set against stunning backdrops.
• Mountain Biking: The Hiawatha Trail offers 17 miles of breathtaking scenery for cyclists.

Balance your adventure with leisure, diving into the serene offerings of Idaho’s beautiful outdoors.

1. Sandpoint

As a pivotal commercial center in northern Idaho, Sandpoint may surprise you with its bustling economic activity, despite its modest population. Home to both Coldwater Creek and Lighthouse Foods, the town serves as a nerve center for national business coming from a seemingly sleepy town.

Bordered by the staggering beauty of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s vastest lake, Sandpoint is a haven for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to swim, sail, or cast a line, you’ll find the lake’s crystal-clear waters inviting. The area also boasts a touch of celebrity nostalgia with Bing Crosby’s family once calling the lakeside their home.

For those with a passion for winter sports, Schweitzer Mountain is a stone’s throw away. It stands as Idaho’s premier ski destination, offering powdery slopes and stunning views. Sandpoint’s allure isn’t just natural beauty and outdoor recreation; it carries the distinction of being named one of the Most Beautiful Small Towns in America. Your escapade here promises a blend of charming local culture and breathtaking landscapes.

See Related: Boise

2. Lava Hot Springs

Amid the quiet landscape near Pocatello, you’ll find the cozy town of Lava Hot Springs. This quaint community, nestled on the historic Oregon Trail, invites relaxation in its natural thermal springs. With a population of just over five hundred, it offers the perfect escape from bustling city life.

• Hot Springs Pools: You’re spoiled for choice with five pools at varying temperatures from a welcoming 102° to a toasty 112°.
• River Tubing: After soaking, grab a tube and enjoy a refreshing float down the Pontneuf River.
• Water Flow: The springs impressively discharge over 250 million gallons daily into the river, promising a constantly renewed experience.

This Idaho gem provides both tranquility and adventure for weekend sojourners and leisure enthusiasts alike.

3. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

With a depth nearing 8,000 feet, Hells Canyon earns renown as North America’s most profound river gorge. The area, straddling the borders of Idaho and Oregon, unveils a panorama of scenic grandeur, beckoning exploration via a myriad of hiking paths.

• Depth: Approximately 8,000 feet
• Main River: Snake River, joining the Clearwater River

Your passage takes you amidst a landscape steeped in human presence dating back 15,000 years—one of significant archaeological intrigue. Trek through the trails and find yourself within a chronicle of human history and earthen splendor, where every step aligns you with the ancient footsteps of native tribes and pioneering explorers.

• Key Activities: Hiking, historical site visits
• Archaeological Significance: Evidence of 15,000-year-old human habitation

As you navigate the land bisecting Idaho and Oregon, past meets present in the echoes of the Snake River’s currents. Here, opportunities to connect with nature and delve into the past await, offering more than just a visual feast but a journey through time itself.

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4. Idaho Falls

Widely renowned as the crown jewel of eastern Idaho, Idaho Falls presents a harmonious blend of urban charm and nature’s splendor. While the cascades may stand at a modest height of 22 feet, their grandeur lies in the impressive 600-foot span along the Snake River’s banks.

Top Attractions:

• Snake River Greenbelt: This six-mile loop furnishes stunning vistas of the falls, catering to your cycling or leisurely promenade needs.
• Downtown Idaho Falls: An immersive cultural hub, offering a tapestry of economic and artistic vibrancy.

Activities:

• Fishing: Seek out a secluded spot amidst the rocks for an afternoon angling escape.
• Exploration: Engage with the local scene, sampling regional art and entertainment offerings.

Latch onto a bike or take a stride down the Greenbelt, Idaho Falls’ premier allure, and witness the town’s heart beating in tandem with the mighty Snake River.

5. Coeur d’Alene

Nestled in the Idaho Panhandle, Coeur d’Alene is a quintessential stop, just a stone’s throw from Spokane, Washington. This northern Idaho jewel is perched on Lake Coeur d’Alene’s serene shores, offering panoramic vistas that beckon nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Relish the greens of the Coeur d’Alene Resort’s golf course, renowned for its 14th Hole—a marvel of engineering, floating on the lake. Engage in the vibrancy of Coeur d’Alene’s year-round allure, from the winter’s shimmering Christmas lights cruise to the energy of the summer Iron Man. Whether it’s the call of the open trails or the tranquility of the waterfront, Coeur d’Alene captivates with a blend of natural splendor and dynamic festivities.

6. Shoshone Falls

Location: Twin Falls, Idaho

Height: 212 feet (higher than Niagara Falls)

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Shoshone Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” is a breathtaking cascade located on the Snake River near Twin Falls, Idaho. The falls boast an impressive height of 212 feet, surpassing the famous Niagara Falls and providing a dramatic spectacle, particularly during peak water flow in spring and early summer.

Notable Features:

• Observation Deck: Ideal for panoramic views and photography.
• Recreational Facilities: Including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a swimming area.
• Parking: Available on-site for a nominal fee.

Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-April to July for full water flow.
• Facilities: Restrooms and a concession stand are available during peak season.
• Accessibility: Well-maintained paths suitable for most visitors.

As you stand at the edge of the canyon, the roar of the falls fills the air, offering an auditory experience as powerful as the visual. Local lore is rich with tales of the falls’ discovery and significance to both Native American tribes and early European settlers.

For an immersive experience, explore the surrounding area’s trails, which can lead you to serene spots perfect for contemplating the falls’ majesty away from the crowds. As the sun sets, painting the water in hues of orange and pink, you’ll capture not just photos but memories that encapsulate the spirit of Idaho’s natural grandeur.

Remember to bring a camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of wonder as you prepare to encounter one of Idaho’s most cherished natural landmarks.

See Related: Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

7. Lunar Landscapes of Idaho

Nestled in southern Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument boasts a landscape so otherworldly that it became the training grounds for NASA astronauts. The stark, volcanic rock expanse is among the most intact basalt flood plains in the United States, a stark contrast to the hustle of modern life.

• Preparation for Exploration: Sturdy footwear and a flashlight are crucial for navigating the deep, dark lava tubes.
• Staying Hydrated: Pack plenty of water, especially during the scorching summer months.
• Historic Pathways: Contemplate the pioneers as you tread near the trails of the historic Oregon Trail.

8. Sun Valley

Nestled in the heart of central Idaho, Sun Valley beckons with its pristine slopes and vibrant seasonal offerings. In winter, carve through powdery trails, ice skate under crisp skies, or snowboard down challenging runs. When summer blooms, trade snow for lush greenery, engaging in golf, equestrian adventures, or traversing hiking trails.

• Winter Activities:

  • Skiing
  • Ice Skating
  • Snowboarding

• Summer Activities:

  • Golf
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hiking
  • Fly Fishing

Discover Sun Valley’s rich legacy, having embraced Olympic athletes and esteemed writers like Ernest Hemingway, whose creative genius was spurred by this very landscape. Whether chasing the adrenaline rush on the slopes where World Cup contenders raced or seeking tranquility along the streams with a fly rod in hand, Sun Valley is your idyllic retreat for each season.

9. Boise

Boise, Idaho’s vibrant capital, is woven with rich stories and scenic delights that invite your exploration. Here, amid the legacy of the Oregon Trail, the city breathes life into its history with the pedestrian-friendly 8th Street downtown.

Discover Boise’s heritage:

• Stroll the Basque Block to unravel Boise’s unique Basque culture.
• Wander through the North End, with its historic homes beneath a canopy of trees.

Boise’s charm doesn’t end with its streets. Each year, jazz melodies fill the air as the city hosts the acclaimed Gene Harris Jazz Festival—an event that’s music to any jazz enthusiast’s ears. Immerse yourself in an eclectic fusion of history and culture, where every corner of Boise tells another tale waiting for you to uncover.

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10. Yellowstone National Park

As you meander through the rugged landscapes of Wyoming, you may find yourself at the edge of a vast wilderness that spills over into Idaho. Yellowstone National Park, an expanse recognized as the origin of national parks worldwide, beckons with its wild beauty. Here, geothermal wonders like the reliable Old Faithful geyser offer a spectacle not to be missed.

Venture through the park’s territories and gaze upon herds of buffalo wandering freely—a testament to the park’s untamed heart. Remember for your safety and theirs, keep a respectful distance from these magnificent creatures. Though mostly ensconced in Wyoming, a sliver of Yellowstone graces Idaho, offering a unique vantage point to this iconic natural marvel.

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