Idaho Overview
You’ll find much more than potatoes in this northern state! Often overlooked compared to other American Rockies states like Wyoming and Montana, Idaho offers an even more quaint experience of the Rockies with its charming, picturesque towns and access to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park.
On the western side of the continental divide, Idaho has more kilometres of designated wilderness than anywhere else in the continental USA. These wilderness areas, national forests, and state and local parks offer easy access to spectacular waterfalls, blue ribbon trout streams, ancient lava flows, surprising sand dunes, free-flowing rivers, sparkling lakes and towering mountains.
Take the road less travelled on any of Idaho’s 31 scenic byways to explore while learning about the state’s history, geology and outdoor recreational opportunities. Idaho’s highways and byways showcase the state’s diverse beauty and lead to memorable adventures. Don’t miss the Craters of the Moon National Park, a vast ocean of lava flows and internationally recognised as a Dark Sky Park.
Idaho’s rivers access some of the most pristine terrain in The United States. They are home to abundant flora and fauna, an impressive network of hiking trails, and some of the country’s most fun Whitewater. No river displays all these characteristics quite like the Main Salmon. The main section of the longest undammed river in the mainland U.S., the Main Salmon offers a rich river experience. Free-flowing Class III Whitewater that’s great for any age and experience level, big sandy beaches perfect for camping and playing, beautiful mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and a natural hot spring are among the hallmarks of the Main.
We offer all types of holidays in Idaho, which can be tailor-made to suit your interests, timeframe and budget. Whether your interest is in riding the white-water or visiting the luxury resort settings of Coeur d’Alene, Sun Valley and McCall as part of an independent self-drive, our travel specialists will be able to plan you the perfect Idaho adventure.
Must See Places in Idaho
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area consists of 756,000 wildland acres within the Sawtooth National Forest of central Idaho. The National Recreation Area provides more than 700 miles of hiking and equestrian trails, 40 peaks rising over 10,000 feet, and enough alpine lakes to visit a new one nearly every day of the year.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
South of Arco, in southeastern Idaho, is a lunar-like landscape created by volcanic eruptions between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago. This region of lava flows can be explored on signposted circular routes. Although it has not erupted in the last two millennia, this area is still geologically active. This unique National Monument also contains five caves to explore, which serve as a stark contrast to the sometimes searing temperatures above ground. Free permits are required to explore the caves and can be obtained at the Monument entrance station.
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.
Lake Coeur d’Alene
Steamboat traffic began on Lake Coeur d’Alene in 1889 when local lakes and rivers were used to move supplies to mining and lumber camps. The lake itself was created well before then, and its creation can be geologically traced back to glacial deposits from the last Ice Age. The overall aesthetics of this mountain-ringed lakein Northern Idaho is readily apparent with just one visit. The lake is 25 miles long and is surrounded by a forest filled with hiking trails. Boating, sailing, and fishingare popular during the summer months.
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.
Shoshone Falls
Also known as the “Niagara of the West,” the 212-foot-tall Shoshone Falls can be found on the northeast edge of the city of Twin Falls. Created by the turbulent force of the Snake River, this massive block waterfall spans more than 900 feet and flows year-round with a surge season between April and July. The area surrounding the falls, including the adjacent Dierks Lake, is full of hiking trails, swimming spots, and scenic overlooks.
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
Located within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest of northern Idaho, Hell’s Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America. It has been carved out by the Wild and Scenic Snake River for a distance of 95 miles along the border with Washington and Oregon. Drive the scenic byway, go on a contemplative hike or take a thrilling tour of the Snake River aboard a jet boat.
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Video Credit: Visit Idaho