There's no doubt that Idaho is a fascinating and complex landscape, full of diversity, beauty, and indescribable natural wonders. But Idaho is also a part of a world that's rapidly changing. While Idaho is fortunate to have a number of preservation groups that work to keep our state beautiful, there are a still dozens of natural spaces and historic icons that are rapidly shrinking or falling into ruin.
The overlooked Clark Fork River is the main tributary to Lake Pend Oreille and the stunningly beautiful Clark Fork River Delta is the largest wetland complex in the Pend Oreille system. In fact, the Clark Fork River provides nearly 80% of the water that is in Pend Oreille--which is especially impressive when you realize that Pend Oreille is Idaho's largest and deepest lake.
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Sadly, however, the Clark Fork River Delta wetlands are receding every year. Besides the benefits the Clark Fork River delta wetlands provide to the environment, the delta is also economically important to the local community and has cultural significance for several tribes. But nevertheless, each year, the 5,600-acre delta loses about 15 acres to erosion. The culprit is fluctuating lake levels that benefit hydropower production but corrode the delta’s natural shoreline. Your best bet for exploring this oasis? A lake cruise by Pend Oreille cruises.
Idaho's breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains are an Idaho treasure--rugged, wild, and pristine in their beauty. They are also one of the few places in the state where perennial snow fields - beds of snow that stay year-round - still exist. These high-elevation snowy spots are vital to maintaining the Sawtooths ecosystem and for scientific research when it comes to the ancient hidden secrets of the region.
Today, despite our state boasting 80 different mountain ranges, only 202 perennial snow fields remain, nearly all of which are in the Sawtooths. The remaining few are found in the Seven Devils.
Idaho's tallest and highest elevation peak is Mt. Borah in the Lost River Range. This rugged, rocky summit was the home of the last true glacier in Idaho back in 1975 - a spot which is rapidly shrinking, and possibly long gone. Since the continental US only has 65 remaining "genuine" glaciers (meaning, not perennial snow fields), most of which are in Montana and Washington, your best bet to see this gem is to take a grueling climb up the mountain.
The victim of time and maybe a few too many curious hands, Idaho's petroglyphs are rapidly fading. Natural erosion has taken its toll over the years, as have hundreds of thousands of visitors touching the irreplaceable rock carvings. The situation is so dire that local college students have been mapping, photographing, and cataloguing every inch of the rock art in and around Celebration Park to ensure that future generations know what once was.
You can also find Kalispel petroglyphs on the north shore of Lake Pend Oreille (by boat only), and around Lewiston (by foot).
It's incredible to think that so many folks passed through the west that their wagon wheels were able to literally bore through rock to leave a lasting impression. But for the ruts that were carved into the landscape directly, time is quickly fading these as well.
Idaho's Snake River Plain was a formidable expanse centuries ago. Hot, barren, rocky--the wagons that crossed through Southern Idaho as part of the Oregon and California Trails were made up of thousands of families and travelers. The long lines of travelers - carts, pack animals, and backs loaded with the weight of lives uprooted from back east - was heavy and consistent enough that the trains pounded grooves into the dust and rock. While the wagon ruts carved into various boulders have more longevity, the markings in the earth are starting to fade with time and natural erosion.
Where are they? Just about everywhere if you look hard enough! Check out Massacre Rocks State Park, the City of Rocks National Reserve, and around Soda Springs just to start. You'll also find some around the Mullan Road much further north.
Idaho's old mining camps and abandoned boom towns are a true treasure, but Mother Nature is taking her toll on the abandoned historic structures little by little. For many of Idaho's most obscure locales, little remains of the past other than a few foundations or headstones. For other "out of the way" places, remaining buildings continue to fall into decay as the elements rot the long-standing wood, rust the nails that hold vintage porches together, and fade paint into unrecognizable text. While a number of Idaho's most famous towns are in a continuous process of preservation, be sure to check out the ones that are off the beaten path to catch a glimpse of overlooked history before it fades completely.
It may come as a surprise to many, but Idaho's once most-populous tree is actually a dwindling piece of Idaho's native landscape. These sturdy trees typically grow in low elevation forests and at the base of Idaho's scenic mountains; however, as these areas fall victim to development, concentrated pine regions are shrinking. One beautiful area to enjoy? The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway to Idaho City. You'll be able to see these gorgeous pieces of Idaho culture from a magnificently scenic distance.
How many of these places have you visited? Be sure to leave no trace when you visit to preserve these gems for future generations!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
There is nothing like summer in Idaho. Whether the warmer months have just arrived or you are trying to end this season with must-do activities, there is no shortage of options. If you are looking for several ideas for your Idaho summer bucket list this year, the following are some of my personal favorites and activities I recommend.
Mesa Falls is a natural wonder tucked away in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in eastern Idaho. It is a beautiful day trip destination as it is surrounded by forests and mountains. Mesa Falls is not small — it is 114 feet tall and 200 feet wide. After a visit to the falls, take a drive along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway. It’s full of natural beauty and only open during the summer months.
2. Walk through the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden
When I lived in Moscow, one of my favorite places to visit was the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden. I spent a lot of time at this 63-acre destination, which is home to thousands of plants, water features, a trail, and more. In the summer, when the grass is green, the flowers are in bloom, and the weather is warm, there is no place better to relax, meditate, observe, and more. Visitor’s tip: keep an eye out for bunnies. They love to scamper from tree to tree.
If you have been reading my articles for a while now, you know that Lake Coeur d’Alene is my favorite lake in Idaho. And while there are beaches to visit and drives that give you magical views of this body of water, I strongly recommend a Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise. There are a variety of options during the summer months from daily scenic cruises to brunch and dinner cruises. For something a little unique, you may consider taking a river cruise, yoga cruise, mimosa cruise, bands on boats tour, and more.
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4. Stargaze at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
If you love to stargaze, one of the best places in Idaho is Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. During the day, you can explore the visitors center, hike the fields of lava flow, and take a scenic drive. At night, you can enjoy some of the most surreal dark skies in Idaho. After all, this unique destination sits within one of the few International Dark Sky Parks in Idaho.
5. Walk or ride your bike along the Boise River Greenbelt
Did you know the Boise River Greenbelt is considered one of the best river walks in America? The Greenbelt is a 25-mile paved path that takes you to several towns and more than a dozen parks. The path is paved with trees that are full of leaves during the summer months, and you never know what animals you’ll spot along your way. Take a short walk or even bike ride the entire path — every mile is worth exploring.
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6. Float the rivers at Roaring Springs Waterpark in Meridian
Roaring Springs Waterpark is one of the largest water parks in Idaho. It is also a family-friendly summer destination as there are 20 attractions that range from lazy and relaxing to heart-racing experiences. We are particularly fond of the 0.25-mile lazy river where you can enjoy a slower pace as well as the Class 5 Canyon, an action river with whitewater waves for you to ride.
Bruneau Dunes State Park is one of the most unique state parks in Idaho. This 4,800-acre state park is home to incredible dunes, including the tallest free-standing sand dune in North America. And to truly enjoy these dunes, head to the Visitor Center Nature Store where you can rent a sandboard and take a ride down the dunes. Try sledding or a stand-up sled — either way, this is a summer activity the entire family will enjoy and never forget.
Silverwood Theme Park is the ultimate place for summer fun. This amusement park is home to 70 rides and attractions, as well as Boulder Beach Water Park. This water park is even home to the first dueling water coaster in the West and the longest dueling water coaster in the United States. Whether you play in the water or on the rides, you are going to have an incredible adventure.
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What activities are on your summer bucket list? Are there any activities you recommend? Let us know in the comments. And, if you are looking for even more ideas, check out our article featuring several of the best things to do in Idaho in summer.
