Best Places to Visit in Idaho

Idaho is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the American West. Known for rugged mountains, alpine lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, rivers, volcanic landscapes, scenic byways and friendly small towns, Idaho is a dream destination for travellers who enjoy nature, road trips and outdoor adventure.

From Boise’s lively downtown and Basque heritage to the dramatic Sawtooth Mountains, the lakes of northern Idaho, the volcanic scenery of Craters of the Moon and the waterfalls around Twin Falls, Idaho offers a surprising variety of landscapes. It is ideal for hiking, boating, skiing, fishing, rafting, hot springs, scenic drives and peaceful mountain escapes.

This guide covers the best places to visit in Idaho, including cities, mountain towns, lakes, state parks, national monuments, waterfalls, scenic drives and practical travel tips.

Why Visit Idaho?

Idaho is perfect for travellers who want big scenery without the crowds found in some better-known western states. The state has mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, lava fields, sand dunes, hot springs and historic towns, making it one of the best road-trip destinations in the northwestern United States.

Outdoor adventure is one of Idaho’s biggest attractions. Visitors can hike in the Sawtooths, raft the Salmon River, soak in natural hot springs, ski in Sun Valley, paddle on Payette Lake, see waterfalls near Twin Falls or explore volcanic landscapes at Craters of the Moon.

Idaho is also a good choice for slower travel. Small towns such as Stanley, McCall, Sandpoint, Wallace, Ketchum and Driggs offer mountain views, local restaurants, galleries, trails and access to some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.

Best Places to Visit in Idaho

Boise

Boise is Idaho’s capital and one of the best places to start a trip through the state. It combines city comforts with easy access to foothills, rivers, parks and nearby wine country.

Top things to do in Boise include walking or cycling the Boise River Greenbelt, visiting the Idaho State Capitol, exploring the Basque Block, browsing downtown shops and restaurants, and visiting the Boise Art Museum. Outdoor travellers can hike in the Boise Foothills or float the Boise River in summer.

Boise also has a strong food and craft beer scene, making it a pleasant base before heading into Idaho’s mountains, deserts and river country.

Best for: first-time visitors, food lovers, city breaks, cycling, history, culture and road-trip starting points.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is one of the most beautiful places in Idaho. It is known for jagged mountain peaks, alpine lakes, forests, rivers, hiking trails, camping, fishing and scenic drives.

Popular activities include hiking to alpine lakes, photographing mountain views, camping, fishing, boating, cycling and simply enjoying the dramatic scenery. The Sawtooth Scenic Byway is one of the best ways to experience the region by road.

The area is especially popular in summer and early autumn, when trails, lakes and campgrounds are more accessible. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so visitors should bring layers and check conditions before hiking.

Best for: hiking, camping, alpine lakes, photographers, scenic drives, nature lovers and outdoor adventure.

Stanley

Stanley is a small mountain town surrounded by some of Idaho’s most spectacular scenery. Set near the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River, it is a favourite base for hiking, rafting, hot springs and scenic drives.

Visitors can explore nearby Redfish Lake, hike into the Sawtooths, soak in hot springs, raft the Salmon River or enjoy mountain views from town. Stanley has a rustic and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for travellers who want nature and quiet rather than a busy resort feel.

Best for: mountain scenery, hiking, rafting, hot springs, cabins, camping and peaceful outdoor escapes.

Redfish Lake

Redfish Lake is one of the most iconic lake destinations in Idaho. Located near Stanley, it offers clear water, mountain views, beaches, boating, kayaking, hiking and access to Sawtooth trails.

Visitors can rent boats, swim, paddle, enjoy lakeside walks or take a shuttle boat across the lake to reach trailheads. The lake is especially beautiful in summer, when the mountains reflect in the water and the surrounding forests are green.

Best for: families, lake holidays, hiking, boating, photography, camping and Sawtooth scenery.

Sun Valley and Ketchum

Sun Valley is one of America’s classic mountain resort destinations, known for skiing, outdoor recreation, arts, dining and alpine scenery. Nearby Ketchum adds a walkable town centre with restaurants, shops, galleries and mountain-town character.

In winter, Sun Valley is popular for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, visitors can hike, mountain bike, fish, golf, attend arts events or enjoy scenic chairlift rides. The area is also connected to literary history through Ernest Hemingway, who spent time in the region.

Best for: skiing, couples, luxury mountain stays, hiking, biking, arts, dining and year-round outdoor recreation.

McCall

McCall is a beautiful mountain town on Payette Lake, surrounded by forests and outdoor recreation. It is one of Idaho’s best destinations for both summer lake holidays and winter snow trips.

In summer, visitors can swim, boat, paddleboard, fish and relax by the lake. In winter, McCall is popular for skiing, snowmobiling and cosy mountain stays. Nearby Ponderosa State Park offers trails, camping, lake views and wildlife watching.

McCall has a relaxed holiday-town feel and is a strong choice for families, couples and outdoor travellers.

Best for: lake holidays, families, skiing, boating, cabins, winter trips and relaxed mountain escapes.

Payette Lake

Payette Lake is the scenic centrepiece of McCall. Its blue water, forested shores and mountain surroundings make it one of Idaho’s most appealing lake destinations.

Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, beach picnics and lakeside sunsets. The lake is also close to Ponderosa State Park, where walking and biking trails provide peaceful views of the water and forest.

Best for: boating, swimming, families, summer holidays, photography and relaxed lakeside stays.

Coeur d’Alene

Coeur d’Alene is one of the best places to visit in northern Idaho. Set beside a large lake and surrounded by forested hills, it offers a polished lakeside atmosphere with beaches, boating, resorts, restaurants, shops and outdoor activities.

Visitors can walk the waterfront, cruise Lake Coeur d’Alene, hike Tubbs Hill, relax on the beach, browse downtown shops or enjoy lakeside dining. The area is popular in summer but also beautiful in autumn and winter.

Coeur d’Alene is a strong choice for travellers who want a lake holiday with comfortable amenities and scenic surroundings.

Best for: lake holidays, couples, families, boating, dining, walking trails and northern Idaho road trips.

Sandpoint

Sandpoint is a charming town on Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho. It combines mountain views, lake scenery, arts, local shops, restaurants and access to outdoor activities.

Visitors can relax by the lake, explore downtown Sandpoint, take scenic drives, attend festivals or head to nearby Schweitzer for skiing and mountain activities. The town has a creative, friendly atmosphere and is often loved by travellers who prefer a quieter alternative to larger resort areas.

Best for: lake scenery, skiing, small-town charm, arts, couples, families and northern Idaho exploring.

Priest Lake

Priest Lake is one of Idaho’s most peaceful and beautiful lake destinations. Located in the far north of the state, close to the Canadian border, it is surrounded by forest and mountain scenery.

The lake is ideal for boating, kayaking, fishing, camping, swimming and quiet cabin stays. Priest Lake State Park offers access to nature, trails and overnight stays. Because the area feels more remote, it suits travellers who want a slower and more natural lake experience.

Best for: camping, boating, quiet lake holidays, families, fishing, cabins and remote northern scenery.

Twin Falls

Twin Falls is one of the best destinations in southern Idaho, especially for waterfalls, canyon views and outdoor adventure. The city sits near the Snake River Canyon and is close to some of Idaho’s most dramatic natural attractions.

Top places to visit include Shoshone Falls, Perrine Bridge, the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail and nearby Thousand Springs State Park. Adventurous travellers may see BASE jumpers at Perrine Bridge, one of the few places in the United States where the sport is commonly associated with a bridge setting.

Twin Falls is a great stop on a southern Idaho road trip and pairs well with Craters of the Moon, Hagerman, Thousand Springs and Boise.

Best for: waterfalls, canyon views, families, road trippers, photography and outdoor adventure.

Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls is one of Idaho’s most famous natural landmarks. Located near Twin Falls on the Snake River, it is often called the “Niagara of the West” because of its size and dramatic setting.

The falls are especially impressive when water flow is strong, often in spring and early summer, though conditions vary depending on snowmelt and water management. Visitors can view the falls from accessible overlooks and enjoy nearby picnic areas.

Best for: photography, families, waterfalls, scenic viewpoints and southern Idaho road trips.

Thousand Springs State Park

Thousand Springs State Park is one of the most scenic and unusual park areas in southern Idaho. It features spring-fed waterfalls, canyon landscapes, historic sites, river views and several separate units around the Hagerman Valley and Snake River region.

Visitors can see water spilling from canyon walls, explore scenic viewpoints, learn about local history, paddle in selected areas and enjoy quiet nature stops. It is a rewarding addition to a Twin Falls or southern Idaho itinerary.

Best for: waterfalls, scenic drives, families, kayaking, photography and quiet nature stops.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is one of the most unusual places to visit in Idaho. The landscape is shaped by ancient lava flows, cinder cones, lava tubes, sagebrush and dark volcanic rock, creating a striking and otherworldly environment.

Visitors can drive the park loop road when open, walk short trails, explore viewpoints and visit caves with proper preparation and permits where required. The park is especially interesting for geology lovers, photographers and families looking for a different kind of outdoor experience.

Because the landscape is exposed, bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes. In warmer weather, lava rock can feel hot and harsh underfoot.

Best for: geology, families, photographers, road trippers, short walks and unusual landscapes.

Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls is a useful and pleasant city in eastern Idaho, often used as a base for travellers heading toward Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park, Island Park or the Teton Valley.

The city’s River Walk along the Snake River is a highlight, with views of the falls, gardens and public art. Idaho Falls also has museums, restaurants and family-friendly attractions, making it a practical stop on a longer road trip.

Best for: road-trip stopovers, families, river walks, eastern Idaho access and Yellowstone gateway travel.

Island Park

Island Park is a scenic area in eastern Idaho known for forests, lakes, rivers, cabins and access to Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance. It is popular with travellers who want a quieter base outside the national park.

Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, snowmobiling, wildlife watching, scenic drives and nearby attractions such as Mesa Falls. Island Park is especially useful for travellers combining Idaho with Yellowstone and the Teton region.

Best for: Yellowstone access, cabins, fishing, families, snowmobiling, scenic drives and nature stays.

Mesa Falls

Mesa Falls is one of eastern Idaho’s most beautiful waterfall areas. Upper Mesa Falls and Lower Mesa Falls offer dramatic views of water dropping through a forested river canyon.

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway makes the area easy to include on a road trip between Ashton, Island Park and Yellowstone’s west entrance. It is a worthwhile stop for photographers, families and nature lovers.

Best for: waterfalls, scenic drives, families, photography and eastern Idaho road trips.

Teton Valley

Idaho’s Teton Valley sits on the western side of the Teton Range and includes towns such as Driggs and Victor. It offers beautiful mountain views, a relaxed rural atmosphere and access to outdoor activities.

Visitors can hike, bike, fish, ski at Grand Targhee, enjoy local restaurants or use the valley as a quieter base for exploring the broader Teton region. It is especially appealing for travellers who want mountain scenery without staying in busier Wyoming resort towns.

Best for: mountain views, skiing, hiking, couples, road trippers and quieter Teton-region stays.

Lava Hot Springs

Lava Hot Springs is a small town in southeastern Idaho known for its mineral hot pools, river tubing, water park, historic charm and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.

Visitors can soak in hot springs, float the Portneuf River in summer, enjoy local restaurants and use the town as a fun stop between Salt Lake City, Pocatello and Idaho Falls.

Best for: hot springs, families, couples, river tubing, road trips and relaxing breaks.

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Bruneau Dunes State Park is one of Idaho’s most distinctive landscapes. The park is known for its massive sand dune, desert scenery, camping, hiking, fishing, sandboarding and night-sky viewing.

Visitors can climb the dunes, rent a sandboard when available, camp overnight or enjoy the park’s quiet desert atmosphere. It is a great stop for families and travellers looking for something different near Boise and southern Idaho.

Best for: families, sandboarding, camping, desert scenery, stargazing and unusual landscapes.

Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon is one of the most dramatic river canyons in North America, carved by the Snake River along the Idaho-Oregon border. The region is rugged, remote and ideal for travellers who enjoy wild scenery and outdoor adventure.

Visitors can take jet boat tours, go rafting, fish, hike or explore scenic viewpoints. Access points vary, and some areas require careful planning due to remote roads and seasonal conditions.

Best for: rafting, jet boat tours, fishing, rugged scenery, adventure travel and remote road trips.

Salmon River

The Salmon River is one of Idaho’s legendary wild rivers, often associated with rafting, fishing and remote wilderness trips. It flows through rugged mountain country and offers both guided multi-day river adventures and more accessible scenic areas.

Travellers can experience the Salmon River through rafting trips, fishing, riverside camping, scenic drives and small towns such as Salmon and Riggins. Guided tours are recommended for serious rafting adventures.

Best for: rafting, fishing, wilderness, camping, adventure travel and scenic river drives.

City of Rocks National Reserve

City of Rocks National Reserve is a fascinating landscape of granite spires, rock formations, trails and pioneer history in southern Idaho. It is popular with rock climbers, hikers, campers and photographers.

The area has a distinctive Old West feel, with rugged scenery and historic trail connections. Nearby Castle Rocks State Park adds more outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes.

Best for: rock climbing, hiking, photography, camping, history and off-the-beaten-path travel.

Wallace

Wallace is a historic mining town in northern Idaho, known for preserved architecture, mountain scenery, silver mining heritage and a quirky personality. It is a fun stop along Interstate 90 and near the Route of the Hiawatha cycling trail.

Visitors can explore local museums, walk the historic downtown, learn about mining history and use Wallace as a base for biking, scenic drives and mountain activities.

Best for: history, cycling, small-town charm, mining heritage, road trips and northern Idaho exploring.

Route of the Hiawatha

The Route of the Hiawatha is one of Idaho’s best cycling experiences. This scenic rail-trail route passes through tunnels, over trestles and through mountain scenery near the Idaho-Montana border.

It is especially popular in summer, and shuttle services may be available during the operating season. Riders should check seasonal opening dates, rental options and trail conditions before travelling.

Best for: cycling, families, mountain scenery, rail-trails, active travellers and summer adventures.

Moscow

Moscow is a lively university town in northern Idaho, home to the University of Idaho. It offers a walkable downtown, local cafes, farmers markets, arts, restaurants and access to the rolling Palouse landscape.

Visitors can enjoy cultural events, browse shops, explore nearby trails and use Moscow as a relaxed stop between northern Idaho, eastern Washington and the Palouse region.

Best for: university-town atmosphere, food, arts, farmers markets, road trips and Palouse scenery.

Best Lakes in Idaho

Idaho has beautiful lakes across the state, from northern forest lakes to alpine mountain lakes and family-friendly resort destinations.

• Lake Coeur d’Alene: Best for boating, resorts, lakeside dining and summer holidays.
• Lake Pend Oreille: Best for mountain views, fishing, boating and stays around Sandpoint.
• Payette Lake: Best for families, swimming, boating and holidays in McCall.
• Redfish Lake: Best for Sawtooth scenery, hiking access, camping and photography.
• Priest Lake: Best for peaceful cabin stays, camping, fishing and remote northern Idaho scenery.
• Bear Lake: Best for bright blue water, beaches and family holidays along the Idaho-Utah border.

Best Hot Springs in Idaho

Idaho is one of the best states in the country for hot springs. Some are developed resorts, while others are natural pools reached by scenic drives or hikes.

• Lava Hot Springs: A classic developed hot springs town with pools, tubing and family-friendly facilities.
• Kirkham Hot Springs: A popular natural-style hot springs area near Lowman.
• Goldbug Hot Springs: A scenic hike-in hot springs experience near Salmon.
• Burgdorf Hot Springs: A rustic mountain hot springs destination near McCall.
• The Springs near Idaho City: A more developed soaking experience within reach of Boise.
• Stanley-area hot springs: Several scenic soaking spots can be found around the Sawtooth and Salmon River region.

Always follow local rules, pack out rubbish, avoid using soaps in natural pools and respect closures or private-property boundaries.

Best Outdoor Adventures in Idaho

Idaho is built for outdoor adventure. Its mountains, rivers, lakes, forests and volcanic landscapes make it a strong destination for active travellers.

• Hiking in the Sawtooths: Explore alpine lakes, mountain passes and forest trails.
• Rafting the Salmon River: Join guided river trips through rugged wilderness scenery.
• Boating on Lake Coeur d’Alene: Enjoy northern Idaho’s polished lake holiday atmosphere.
• Soaking in hot springs: Choose from rustic natural pools or developed hot springs resorts.
• Exploring Craters of the Moon: Walk lava trails, see cinder cones and learn about volcanic geology.
• Sandboarding at Bruneau Dunes: Try a fun desert activity in southern Idaho.
• Cycling the Route of the Hiawatha: Ride through tunnels and across trestles in mountain scenery.
• Skiing in Sun Valley: Enjoy one of America’s classic ski destinations.
• Fishing Idaho’s rivers and lakes: The state is popular for trout fishing, fly fishing and lake fishing.

Best Small Towns to Visit in Idaho

Idaho’s small towns are a major part of its charm. Many are surrounded by mountains, rivers, lakes or historic landscapes.

• Stanley: A tiny mountain town with Sawtooth views, hot springs and river access.
• Ketchum: A lively mountain town beside Sun Valley with dining, shops and arts.
• McCall: A lake and mountain town ideal for summer and winter escapes.
• Sandpoint: A northern Idaho town with lake views, arts and mountain access.
• Wallace: A historic mining town with museums and cycling nearby.
• Driggs: A relaxed Teton Valley base with mountain views and skiing access.
• Lava Hot Springs: A small town built around soaking, tubing and easy fun.
• Riggins: A river town known for rafting, fishing and Salmon River scenery.

Best Scenic Drives in Idaho

Idaho is an excellent state for scenic drives, with mountain passes, river valleys, lakes, forests and wide-open landscapes.

• Sawtooth Scenic Byway: One of Idaho’s most beautiful drives, connecting mountain towns and Sawtooth views.
• Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway: A forested route from Boise toward mountain and hot springs country.
• Payette River Scenic Byway: A route linking Boise-area travel with McCall and Payette Lake.
• Mesa Falls Scenic Byway: A beautiful eastern Idaho route with waterfall stops near Island Park.
• International Selkirk Loop: A northern Idaho route through lake, forest and mountain scenery.
• Northwest Passage Scenic Byway: A river and forest route through north-central Idaho.
• Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: A dramatic route near rugged canyon and river country.

Best Time to Visit Idaho

The best time to visit Idaho depends on the region and the activities you want to enjoy.

• Spring: Good for waterfalls, wildflowers, lower-elevation hiking and quieter road trips, though higher mountain areas may still have snow.
• Summer: Best for lakes, hiking, camping, rafting, scenic byways and mountain towns.
• Autumn: Excellent for cooler weather, scenic drives, fall colour, hot springs and fewer crowds.
• Winter: Best for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, hot springs and cosy mountain stays.

For the Sawtooth region, summer and early autumn are usually the easiest seasons for hiking and lake activities. For skiing, winter is best in places such as Sun Valley, McCall, Schweitzer and Teton Valley. For waterfalls around Twin Falls, spring and early summer can be especially scenic when flows are stronger.

Suggested 7-Day Idaho Road Trip Itinerary

This 7-day Idaho itinerary gives a strong first-time overview of the state, combining Boise, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, the Sawtooths and mountain towns.

Day 1: Boise

Start in Boise. Walk or cycle the Boise River Greenbelt, explore downtown, visit the Idaho State Capitol and enjoy dinner around the Basque Block or another local dining area.

Day 2: Bruneau Dunes and Twin Falls

Drive from Boise toward Bruneau Dunes State Park to explore the desert landscape and dunes. Continue to Twin Falls for canyon views and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Shoshone Falls and Thousand Springs

Visit Shoshone Falls, walk part of the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail and explore nearby Thousand Springs State Park or Hagerman Valley. Stay in Twin Falls or continue toward Ketchum depending on your route.

Day 4: Craters of the Moon and Sun Valley

Drive to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve for lava fields, short trails and volcanic scenery. Continue to Sun Valley or Ketchum for a mountain-town evening.

Day 5: Sun Valley and Ketchum

Spend the day in Sun Valley and Ketchum. Choose hiking, biking, scenic chairlift rides, galleries, dining or winter skiing depending on the season.

Day 6: Sawtooth Scenic Byway and Stanley

Drive the Sawtooth Scenic Byway toward Stanley, stopping for mountain views along the way. Visit Redfish Lake, take photos and enjoy a relaxed evening in the mountains.

Day 7: Hot Springs and Return to Boise

Spend the morning around Stanley, nearby hot springs or the Salmon River area, then return toward Boise via scenic mountain roads. Allow extra time for stops and changing road conditions.

Longer 10-Day Idaho Itinerary

If you have more time, extend the trip north to see Idaho’s lakes and mountain towns.

• Days 1 to 3: Boise, Bruneau Dunes, Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls and Thousand Springs.
• Days 4 to 6: Craters of the Moon, Sun Valley, Ketchum, Stanley and Redfish Lake.
• Day 7: Travel to McCall and Payette Lake for a relaxed lake stay.
• Days 8 to 9: Continue north to Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint for lakes, dining and scenic drives.
• Day 10: Explore northern Idaho, drive the Route of the Hiawatha in season or return toward your departure city.

Travel Tips for Visiting Idaho

• Rent a car: Idaho is best explored by road, especially if you want to visit mountains, lakes, hot springs and state parks.
• Do not underestimate distances: Idaho is larger than many travellers expect, and mountain roads can be slower than highways.
• Check seasonal access: Some scenic drives, trails, campgrounds and high mountain areas may be affected by snow or weather.
• Book popular areas early: McCall, Sun Valley, Stanley, Redfish Lake and Coeur d’Alene can be busy during peak seasons.
• Pack layers: Weather can change quickly in mountain regions, even in summer.
• Respect hot springs: Keep natural areas clean, avoid soaps, follow local rules and be considerate of other visitors.
• Carry water and sun protection: Southern Idaho’s lava fields, dunes and canyon areas can be exposed and hot.
• Plan fuel stops: Some rural routes have long distances between services.
• Follow wildlife safety: Keep a safe distance from animals and store food properly when camping.
• Slow down for scenic drives: Idaho’s best road trips are about the journey, not just the destination.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Idaho

Idaho is a spectacular destination for travellers who love mountains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs and scenic road trips. It offers the beauty of the American West with a quieter and more relaxed feel than many better-known destinations.

For a first visit, Boise, Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls, Craters of the Moon, Sun Valley, Stanley and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area make an excellent itinerary. Travellers with more time should add McCall, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, Priest Lake, Hells Canyon, Lava Hot Springs, Teton Valley and City of Rocks.

Whether you are planning a summer lake holiday, a winter ski trip, a hot springs escape, a hiking adventure or a scenic road trip, Idaho is full of memorable places to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Idaho

What is the prettiest place in Idaho?

The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is often considered one of the prettiest places in Idaho because of its jagged peaks, alpine lakes and mountain scenery. Other beautiful places include Redfish Lake, Coeur d’Alene, Priest Lake, Shoshone Falls, McCall, Sun Valley and Mesa Falls.

What is Idaho best known for?

Idaho is best known for potatoes, mountains, rivers, lakes, hot springs, skiing, waterfalls, outdoor recreation, Boise, Sun Valley, the Sawtooth Mountains and rugged natural scenery.

Is Idaho good for a family holiday?

Yes, Idaho is a great family holiday destination. Families can enjoy lakes, waterfalls, state parks, easy hikes, hot springs, sand dunes, scenic drives, skiing, river floats and outdoor activities in places such as McCall, Coeur d’Alene, Twin Falls, Boise and Sun Valley.

How many days do you need to visit Idaho?

You can enjoy one region of Idaho in 3 to 4 days, such as Boise and Twin Falls or Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint. For a broader road trip covering southern Idaho, the Sawtooths and northern Idaho, 7 to 10 days is much better.

What is the best time of year to visit Idaho?

Summer is best for hiking, lakes, rafting, camping and scenic drives. Autumn is excellent for cooler weather and fewer crowds. Winter is best for skiing, snow sports and hot springs. Spring is good for waterfalls and lower-elevation travel, although higher mountain areas may still have snow.

Is Idaho good for a road trip?

Yes, Idaho is excellent for a road trip. The state has scenic byways, mountain towns, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs and volcanic landscapes that are best explored by car.

Where should first-time visitors go in Idaho?

First-time visitors should consider Boise, Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls, Craters of the Moon, Sun Valley, Ketchum, Stanley, Redfish Lake and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. With more time, add McCall, Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint.

Does Idaho have nice lakes?

Yes, Idaho has beautiful lakes. Some of the best include Lake Coeur d’Alene, Lake Pend Oreille, Payette Lake, Redfish Lake, Priest Lake and Bear Lake.

Is Idaho good for hiking?

Yes, Idaho is excellent for hiking. The Sawtooths, Sun Valley, Teton Valley, City of Rocks, Hells Canyon, Ponderosa State Park, Craters of the Moon and many forest areas offer trails for different ability levels.

What should I pack for an Idaho trip?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, swimwear for lakes or hot springs, insect repellent and warmer layers for mountain evenings. If visiting in winter, bring proper snow gear and check road conditions before travelling.