Want to know the Best Things To Do in Idaho in Summer, but not sure where to start? You’re not alone! Many people feel the same way. But don’t worry – I’m here to help!
We will show you the best places to visit in Idaho. Here are some fun things you can do:
- Sawtooth Mountains: Hike, kayak, and enjoy the view
- Yellowstone National Park: See geysers, hot springs, and wild animals
- Shoshone Falls: Check out the “Niagara of the West”
Follow this simple guide, and you’ll have a great time in Idaho. Keep reading to learn more and get ready for an awesome summer trip!
1. Must-See in Idaho: Sawtooth Mountains
About the Place: The Sawtooth Mountains are in central Idaho, one of the best places to visit in the summer. The sharp peaks rise above green forests and clear lakes. It’s a peaceful and exciting place to explore.
The mountains sit between the towns of Stanley and Ketchum, where Ernest Hemingway once lived. This mountain range is part of the Idaho Rockies and has many trails, rivers, and open land to enjoy during the summer months.
Reasons to Visit: The Small town of Stanley has cozy cabins, small shops, and great places to eat like Stanley Baking Company and Papa Brunee’s.
The area is full of hiking trails. Some are short and easy, others are longer and more challenging. Goat Lake and Alice Lake are popular choices because of their beauty.
You can also paddle a kayak on Redfish Lake or go rafting on the Salmon River. These are fun ways to enjoy the water and mountain views. There are natural hot springs nearby, too. Kirkham Hot Springs is one of the best. In summer, it’s nicest early in the morning or later in the day.
White water rafting on the Payette River is exciting. There are trips for all experience levels. The Sawtooth Mountains offer plenty to do — whether you like walking, paddling, soaking in hot water, or just spending time outside.
2. Must-See in Idaho: Yellowstone National Park
About the Place: Yellowstone National Park is a top place to visit in the United States. Most of it is in Wyoming, but parts of it are in Montana and Idaho, too. A small part is in Fremont County, Idaho. The park is known for its natural beauty and wild animals.
Reasons to Visit: The park sits on a volcanic hot spot. This means it has geysers, hot springs, and other cool natural features. It also has canyons, forests, meadows, and many animals. Yellowstone is huge. It covers about 2.2 million acres. It is one of the biggest national parks in the country.
People can visit the Old Faithful geyser. They can see the bright colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring. There are fun trails to hike in Lamar Valley, where you might see animals. You can also check out the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Another great spot is Tower Falls, which drops 132 feet. There are many exciting things to see and do.
See Also Best Things to Do in San Diego
3. Must-See in Idaho: Snake River
About the Place: The Snake River is a wild and beautiful place, and one of the top natural spots to visit in southern Idaho. It flows through deep canyons and cuts through old lava rock.
The cliffs are steep, and the river is fast in some places. The river area is about 50 miles long and can be up to 500 feet deep.
Reasons to Visit: There are lots of fun things to do at Snake River. Visitors can camp at Hell’s Gate State Park. They can hike on trails with great views or go boating and kayaking. One special stop is Shoshone Falls.
People can also see the river from the Perrine Bridge. This is one of the few places in the U.S. where base jumping is allowed. Watching the jumpers is exciting and fun.
Another hidden gem is Blue Heart Springs. This spring has some of the clearest blue water in Idaho. It is shaped like a heart when seen from above. It sits in a quiet spot under tall canyon walls. Many people say it’s one of the most beautiful places in the state.
4. Must-See in Idaho: Hells Canyon
About the Place: Hells Canyon is a wild and beautiful place. It has cliffs that drop into the powerful Snake River. The area feels untouched and full of adventure. The canyon is part of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.
It sits between western Idaho and eastern Oregon and also stretches into northeast Washington. At over 7,900 feet deep and 10 miles wide, it is the deepest river gorge in North America.
Reasons to Visit: Visitors can go camping, hiking, mountain biking, or try jet boating and white-water rafting on the river. Popular trails offer wide views, especially near the Seven Devils Mountains.
People often spot bighorn sheep and eagles along the way. Many enjoy staying at Hells Canyon Park campsite for easy access to outdoor fun. Hells Canyon is one of the best things to do in Idaho for anyone who enjoys nature and adventure.
See Also Best Things to Do in Maui
5. Must-See in Idaho: Redfish Lake
About the Place: Redfish Lake is a clear alpine lake in Custer County, Idaho. It sits just south of the town of Stanley and is the largest lake in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The lake is surrounded by tall mountains, making it a beautiful place to visit in Idaho.
Reasons to Visit: There are many fun things to do at Redfish Lake, especially in the summer. Visitors can go swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating, or paddleboarding. The Redfish Lake Lodge marina rents out boats and gear.
The lake is 4.5 miles long, so people can paddle across and enjoy the mountain views. For those who prefer to stay on land, there is a beach area to relax, plus ice cream and food near the lodge.
6. Must-See in Idaho: Shoshone Falls
About the Place: Shoshone Falls is a large and powerful waterfall on the Snake River in southern Idaho. It is located about 10 minutes from the city of Twin Falls. The waterfall drops 212 feet, which makes it even higher than Niagara Falls.
It is about 1,000 feet wide and is surrounded by steep, rocky cliffs. Because of its size and beauty, many people call it the “Niagara of the West.”
Reasons to Visit: Visitors can enjoy amazing views of the waterfall and feel the mist rising from the water. The sound of the crashing water adds to the experience.
There are walking paths along the Snake River Canyon that offer more views and places to relax. You can also learn about the area’s past, including how it was once part of Native American trade routes. Visiting Shoshone Falls is one of the top attractions in Idaho for nature lovers.
