Rugged mountains, geothermal Hot Springs, national monuments, and sprawling lakes are just a few of Idaho’s defining characteristics. While these make Idaho a must-visit state in the US, there are many other gems that stay unknown to the visitors. The overlooked and underrated Idaho has snowclad mountains in its backcountry, is home to many waterfalls, caves, and several other attractions that engulf you in natural beauty, and has picturesque byways that would stop your breath at every other curve on a road-trip. Take a look at these best things to do in Idaho and you will want to start planning to have an unforgettable trip.
1. Hot springs in Idaho
Image Source: wikimedia.org
There are plenty of geothermal pools in Idaho where you can soak yourself to unwind and relax.
To preserve this natural gift, Idaho has developed the hot spring sites that visitors can easily access. The Lava Hot Springs boasts to be one of the most famous natural hot springs in the US, as well as the world. The Kirkham Hot Springs goes ahead and impresses you with small steaming waterfalls. Burgdorf Hot Springs, Roystone Hot Springs, and Challis Hot Springs are few that have been developed into resorts. If you are looking for an indoor hot spring resort, then the Thousand Springs resort is your only option.
2. Skiing in Idaho
Image Source: flickr.com
Idaho, with its snowclad countryside and 28,000 vertical terrains sweeping over 18,000 acres, has always been a playground for the skiers.
There are a total of 18 world-class skiing resorts in Idaho, all of which are blanketed in snow and boast of legendary steeps. While skiing enthusiasts would already know of Sun Valley Resort as it is America’s first destination ski resort, others, such as the Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, and Brundage Mountain Resort also possess a good reputation. If you are a beginner, then Tamarack Resort, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area, and Cottonwood Butte Ski Area are your best options.
3. National Monuments and Historic Sites
Image Source: wikimedia.org
The rich history of Idaho is preserved at its national monuments and historic sites. Hiking along trails and walking through caves, you get to discover this glorious past.
No one is unknown to the Crater of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in Idaho. This is a site that preserves a fascinating landscape that was formed some 15 million years ago due to molten lava fields. Hiking along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail has to be one of the top things to do in Idaho. It is a 3,700-mile route that commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804 to 1806. For those interested in discovering fossilized plants and animals that date back to 3.5 million years, the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is a fascinating site to visit.
4. Waterfalls, Caves, and other Natural Attractions
Image Source: wikimedia.org
There are plenty of natural attractions in Idaho, ranging from sand dunes to lakes and from waterfalls to caves.
Shoshone Falls is one of the best places to visit in Idaho with family and kids. Cascading from a height of 212 feet, this gorgeous waterfall also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails. Not to miss are the interesting Shoshone Ice Caves that take you 100 feet below the ground where you unfold the wonder of volcano and ice. The Minnetonka Cave, Mesa Falls, and the Mammoth Cave are few other points of interest that you can visit to explore Idaho. While you can enjoy offroading at St. Anthony Dunes, you can step into the heart of nature by visiting the Snake River Canyon.
5. Lakes and cruises
Image Source: wikimedia.org
The beauty of Idaho is enhanced by a number of lakes and rivers, and what better way to take in the mesmerizing views than a cruise!
Although it is one of the off-beat things to do in Idaho, it leaves you feeling refreshed, especially at the end of a scorching hot day in the summers. Opt for a Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruise and you are in for a 2-hour trip laced with romance and picturesque vistas. Furthermore, how does a full moon cruise sound to you?! Book one and you will be cruising down the Payette Lake in the moonlight with the cool breeze embracing you. Priest Lake and Bear Lake are two other great lakes to enjoy a picnic at.
6. Scenic Byways
Image Source: wikimedia.org
Explore Idaho by riding along one of its scenic byways that not only have stunning vistas on display, but also have some historic significance.
Take the Sawtooth Scenic Byway and you would find yourself rolling down the window to never take your eyes off the breathtaking views. It is the 100th National Forest Scenic Byway, dotted by views of alpine lakes, rugged rocks, and gushing rivers. The Mesa Falls Scenic Highway is no different and takes you to the verdant Targhee National Forest, starting from Ashton, Idaho. The Northwest passage Scenic Byway is the longest in Idaho measuring 202 miles long. If you wish to witness diverse landscapes, then Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway is your best bet.
7. Amusement parks
Image Source: www.pxfuel.com
Idaho may not be famous nationwide for its amusement parks, but these attractions are enough to enjoy an exhilarating day.
Silverwood Theme Park and Boulder Beach is one of the most-favorite theme parks in Idaho amongst locals and tourists alike. With wave pools, lazy-river rafting, waterslides, and on-site food and drinks, it is the perfect destination to have a fun day. Silver Rapids Waterpark is the largest indoor water park in Idaho. Take your children to Triple Play Family Fun Park and Wahooz Family Fun Zone and see their faces light up with joy. Although not an amusement park, you must consider visiting Yellowstone Bear World which is a drive-through park in Idaho.
8. Food and drinks
Image Source: pickpic.com
While there are many wineries and distilleries in the state that light up Idaho's culinary scenes, it is the local farmer’s markets that bring you an array of delightful flavors.
Be it the Capital City Public Market in Boise, the Farm to Fork Farmer’s Market in Caldwell, or the Idaho Falls Farmer’s Market in Idaho Falls, you will be able to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, locally raised meat, pastries, as well as local handmade crafts. To taste the best of Idaho’s spirits, you must take a tour of Idaho Bourbon Distillers in Boise, Holsinsky Winery in Buhl, or Koenig Distillery and Winery.
9. State Parks in Idaho
Image Source: wikimedia.org
Idaho has 25 state parks that are home to distinct landscapes and breathtaking scenery.
Bruneau Dunes State Park is a place where you will see the tallest freestanding sand dunes in North America. Make the most of your time here by renting a sandboard to rush down the sandy mounds. For fishing, picnicking, boating, and swimming, the Priest Lake State Park and the Lucky peak State Park are your best options. The Massacre Rocks State Park and the Castle Rocks State Park are a great choice for hiking along scenic trails.
10. Museums in Idaho
Image Source: flickr.com
Museums in Idaho compel you to step back in time while giving you an entertaining and educational tour of the past.
The famous Idaho Potato Museum is not a secret attraction to any. Visiting this museum will teach all about potatoes. Right from its cultivation process to its nutritional value, you will discover everything over here. The Warhawk Air Museum gives you an insight into the time of World War I, World War II, and the Cold War Era. For understanding Idaho’s history, the Idaho State Museum is the right place to stop by. And for a fun experience, the quirky Museum of Clean always welcomes visitors with open arms.
With these top things to do in Idaho on your itinerary, you will certainly have the best of your time.
