If you have spent any time in Idaho, you know the beauty our state boasts. From the Panhandle to the Utah/Idaho state line, you'll come across some of the most beautiful destinations in the country — and many people don’t even know they exist. Fortunately, Idahoans all around the state keep their cameras close by and capture incredible photos. We asked our OnlyInYourState readers what they considered to be the best places to take photos in Idaho and the answers were spread far and wide. According to our readers, and in no particular order, these are the top 11 destinations to take photos in Idaho.
1. Ritter Island
Ritter Island is part of Thousand Springs State Park. It actually sits along the Snake River and is nestled between two springs. Not only can you enjoy beauty at Ritter Island but this area has quite a history as well.
2. Idaho Highway 55
Idaho Highway 55, also known as the Payette River National Scenic Byway, is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Idaho and one of the most popular. This byway is 112 miles long and takes you from Treasure Valley to U.S. Highway 95 in New Meadows. You will follow the Payette River as you twist and turn through forests and mountains. It’s truly breathtaking.
3. Bonners Ferry
Located at the top of the Panhandle is one small town that is known for its gorgeous scenery — Bonners Ferry. But it’s not just the beauty that is a big draw here. This small town is also considered the friendliest town in Idaho and after you visit just once, you’ll quickly see why.
4. Priest Lake
Also located in the Panhandle is a breathtaking lake that is a wonderful destination any time of the year — Priest Lake. During the winter, this is a fantastic place to admire the views from snowshoes or skis, and in the summer, capture unforgettable views on a boat or even on the nearby natural waterslide.
5. Mesa Falls
Mesa Falls is one of the most impressive natural wonders in southeastern Idaho. Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, these tiered waterfalls fall over 100 feet into the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.
6. Teton Valley
With the Grand Tetons boldly standing in the distance, there is nothing quite like the scenery found in the Teton Valley. The charming small towns, rivers, farm lands, and more all greatly enhance this area. I love to take a drive on the Teton Scenic Byway for some great photo opportunities and to truly capture the beauty of this area.
7. Palouse Region
If you have never spent time exploring the Palouse, I strongly recommend you do so. This is one of my favorite areas of the state and another destination that is beautiful all year long. I particularly love early summer when the rolling hills are bright green and during the harvest when all you see are fields of gold.
8. Downtown Boise
I was actually quite surprised to see so many OnlyInYourState readers nominate downtown Boise as one of the best destinations for taking photos in Idaho but once you think about it — it makes sense. Boise is home to incredible city parks, the Boise River Greenbelt, and many other destinations that are beautiful in their own special way.
9. Camas Prairie
The Camas Prairie-Centennial Marsh WMA (better known to locals as Camas Prairie) has much to offer, especially when it comes to observing animals of all shapes and sizes. This area is particularly picturesque in late spring and early summer during the Camas Lily bloom.
10. Stanley
Numerous OnlyInYourState readers nominated Stanley as one of the best places to capture photos in Idaho and I couldn’t agree more. This town in the Sawtooth Valley is extremely small but no matter the time of year, it comes alive with beauty. Fall is particularly a wonderful time to visit — there’s plenty to do and see!
11. Redfish Lake
Not far from Stanley is one of my personal favorite lakes in Idaho — Redfish Lake. This alpine lake is not only extremely clear and beautiful, but the recreational opportunities are endless. Hike, camp, boat, fish, paddle — you can do it all here.
What other destinations would you add to this list? Did your favorite location make the list? Let us know in the comments. And, if you are searching for a new adventure in Idaho, visit Viator for some inspiration!
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