Top 11 Must-See Attractions in Idaho

A trip to Idaho offers an intimate view of the vast landscapes of the West and its rich historical heritage. Approximately two-thirds of the state is publicly owned, with a significant portion set apart for wilderness and recreational activities. Idaho is home to some of the most stunning lakes, rivers, mountains, and forests globally. Although a thorough exploration of the state’s features may take considerable time, there are numerous activities such as skiing, rafting, scenic drives, and relaxing in hot springs that you can engage in throughout various regions, from Hells Canyon to the Teton Mountains.

Go Skiing in Sun Valley

Sun Valley is renowned for its year-round outdoor recreation and breathtaking mountain scenery, attracting visitors from around the globe. The resort town is particularly famous for its exceptional downhill and Nordic skiing. In winter, options such as snowshoeing on regional trails and exploring the backcountry via snowmobile are also available. Sun Valley’s winter calendar is filled with special events and festivals. Nearby Ketchum offers a wide range of lodging options and amenities, including exceptional dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Paddle Lake Coeur d’Alene

Located in northern Idaho, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a long, winding body of water adorned with miles of forested shoreline, sandy beaches, and numerous coves and bays. This aquatic paradise attracts waterskiers, wakeboarders, fishermen, and paddlers alike. Several seasonal outfitters provide rentals for both kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, ideal for exploring the serene shoreline in search of the perfect relaxation spot. The town of Coeur d’Alene, located at the north end of the lake, features fantastic dining options, unique accommodation, and beautiful parks. Take advantage of The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s facilities, which include a full-service spa, a renowned golf course, and an array of restaurants.

Drive the Sawtooth Scenic Byway

The 115-mile Sawtooth Scenic Byway runs along State Highway 75 through central Idaho, showcasing some of the most untouched forests in the nation. This picturesque route traces the ridge of the Sawtooth Mountains, passing through notable towns such as Shoshone, Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley. Travelers can enjoy sightings of abundant wildlife, stunning canyons, river crossings, and picnics by immaculate high mountain lakes. Include stops at Mammoth Cave, Sculptured Canyon, Galena Summit, and Redfish Lake in your itinerary.

Golf in the Tetons

Idaho’s sunny summer weather, devoid of humidity, creates an ideal environment for golf enthusiasts. The Headwaters Club at Teton Springs Resort features an 18-hole course, a 9-hole par 3 course, and a well-equipped driving range, all situated beneath the stunning Teton Mountains, a short distance from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Start your day by witnessing the occasional moose or deer grazing on the greens, and after your game, unwind at the Stillwaters Spa for a relaxing experience. This destination is also excellent for those wishing to explore the renowned Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Explore Ancient Lava Flows

Witness the remnants of ancient lava flows at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, where the landscape reveals fascinating topography and serves as a habitat for resilient plants and wildlife. A scenic loop drive allows you to explore a portion of the national monument with ample opportunities for stopping and discovering volcanic cones, craters, and caves. Various hiking trails range from short 100-yard walks to extensive 8-mile hikes. During winter, Craters of the Moon offers excellent terrain for cross-country skiing, while just outside the park boundaries, visitors can find soothing roadside hot springs.

Discover Atomic Power

Explore a diverse array of history and science exhibits at The Museum of Idaho, where permanent displays include “Eagle Rock,” featuring artifacts and insights into regional life in the 1880s, and “Race for Atomic Power,” which details the region’s substantial contributions to nuclear energy development. The museum also hosts a constantly changing series of traveling exhibitions, covering topics ranging from the human body to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Raft Hells Canyon

Experience Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge, in various ways. While many visitors choose to take in the sights via jet boat, one of the most engaging options is to experience the beauty of this remarkable waterway on a raft. Local outfitters offer trips departing from Riggins or Cambridge, featuring multi-day floats or short whitewater adventures. If time is limited, consider reaching the Snake River through hiking, mountain biking, or horse packing.

Hunt for Ice Age Fossils

The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument features a remarkable concentration of fossils from the Hagerman Horse (Equus simplicidens), an Ice Age mammal that thrived on the grasslands of North America before going extinct around 10,000 years ago. Before your visit, stop by the visitor center located in Hagerman, Idaho, just one hour southeast of Boise. Learn about unique fossils such as the giant otter (Satherium piscinarium) and various Pliocene birds. Nearby, visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, hunting, fishing, and horseback riding in the surrounding area.

Bike the Greenbelt

Boise, Idaho’s capital city, is a paradise for recreation enthusiasts. The popular Greenbelt Trail facilitates commuting for locals and provides them the chance to incorporate fitness into their daily routines. Visitors can enjoy the 25-mile Greenbelt Trail, which offers an excellent overview of the beauty and charm of this vibrant western town. Stroll along the river that flows through downtown, visit coffee shops along the way, or relax in one of Boise’s cherished city parks. For those preferring a leisurely ride instead of an intensive workout, consider renting an e-bike for an enjoyable exploration of the city’s green spaces.

Soak in Hot Springs

Idaho is home to various geothermal features that originate from the world’s largest volcanic region, Yellowstone National Park. Throughout the state, numerous hot and mineral springs emerge. Whether you prefer secluded backcountry or roadside soaking, Idaho’s hot springs provide perfect relaxation spots (with many being clothing optional). Commercial facilities such as Miracle Hot Springs on the west side and Heise Hot Springs on the east side offer restorative experiences without requiring a strenuous trek.

Get Sprayed by a Waterfall

You cannot visit Idaho without experiencing what many travelers call “The Niagara of the West.” Shoshone Falls, part of the Snake River’s stunning landscape, stands at 212 feet tall and stretches 900 feet across, making it one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States, even surpassing Niagara Falls in height. For the best experience, visit Twin Falls in late spring when the snowmelt from the Tetons and surrounding mountain ranges intensifies the flow into the breathtaking river canyon and over the falls. Visitors should be ready to be splashed from hundreds of feet away at the viewing area.