Summer is my favorite time to head outdoors and enjoy all of the many activities, natural wonders, and events that Idaho has to offer. While we could certainly make a long list of some of the best things to do underneath the summer sun in Idaho, we’ve limited it to just 11. These are items that deserve a spot on every summer bucket list and even if you check off just one or two of these activities, it will be a summer to remember.
All throughout Idaho, you can find some of the most breathtaking lakes. While many of these lakes draw in quite a crowd, there are dozens of lakes that are tucked away in the mountains and perfect for a little peace and quiet. One of our favorite hidden lakes is Baker Lake, which is gorgeous any time of the year. There is a 2-mile hike to reach the lake but the gorgeous water and beautiful mountain views make the trek well worth it.
Summer is all about ice cream and there’s nothing better than a cone or cup of huckleberry ice cream. While you can find this flavor of ice cream in several shops around the Gem State, check out our list featuring some of the best huckleberry ice cream that Idaho has to offer. Enjoying huckleberry ice cream is one summer experience you need to have.
Idaho may not be known for its beaches but that doesn’t mean you can’t find them around the state. While there are a handful of beaches you could visit including those at Redfish Lake and Bear Lake, Lake Cascade is home to beaches that are heavenly. Here, you’ll not only enjoy soft sand, but you’ll also enjoy mountain and forest views as well.
Well … a lake or river cruise that is. While there are several lakes in Idaho that offer scenic cruises, my personal favorite are those on Lake Coeur d’Alene. While you can always experience a lake cruise, check out the cruises on the Spokane River and the St. Joe River. These cruises are a bit longer but the experience is unforgettable.
City of Rocks National Reserve is one destination we strongly recommend visiting each summer. This unique and incredible area features multiple hiking trails, picturesque scenery, and a delightful campground. Whether you visit for a single summer day or you stay for an entire weekend, City of Rocks National Reserve will impress.
Tucked away next to the Boise Greenbelt is the Green Acres Food Truck Park. This is the perfect destination to spend a summer evening as there are multiple food trucks, live music, lots of green space, and beautiful views. Plus, the food trucks rotate regularly so you can easily try new foods each time you visit.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is not only one of the most bucket-list-worthy destinations in Idaho, but it is also one of the best road trip stops in the state. You can hike through fields of hardened lava flow, explore a cave, and even climb to the top of a volcanic cone. There is also a 7-mile scenic drive that gives you the most incredible views of the lava flow — you won’t want to miss it.
8. Spend a weekend at the ultimate campground resort
Your entire family will have a summer to remember when you spend a few days at Heise Hot Springs Resort. This is the ultimate outdoor playground as there is something for everyone. Soak in the hot springs, swim in one of the pools, ride the zipline, golf, eat pizza, and more. Like we said, there really is something for everyone.
You can beat the heat and cool off at one of the newest attractions in Idaho — Inflatable World. Located in Meridian, this unique inflatable water park features giant inflatables, water slides, water balloons, and more. There are attractions for every member of the family from the thrill seeker to the young toddler.
Summer is our favorite time of the year to chase one of Idaho’s beautiful waterfalls. There are incredible falls around the state that you need to visit at least once like Mesa Falls, Jump Creek Falls, Copper Falls, Granite Falls, and more.
While there are a few rail trails around Idaho that deserve a spot on your bucket list, make sure to check out the Ashton-to-Tetonia Rail Trail. This 29.6-mile trail takes you from Ashton to Tetonia in southeastern Idaho and follows the abandoned railroad grade of the Teton Valley Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad. You will enjoy beautiful views along the way and cross multiple trestle bridges — just don’t look down if you are afraid of heights!
This list is just the beginning. There are so many things you can do underneath the summer sun in Idaho. What other activities or attractions would you add? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.
There are many things I love about Idaho and near the top of the list are our state's breathtaking lakes. Dozens of these bodies of water are tucked away, requiring proper gear, physical exertion, and a day full of adventure to visit. Iron Bog Lake, in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, is one of these lakes. This natural wonder is a true hidden gem as you must tackle a nearly 4-mile hike to enjoy the beauty of the area. But this hike isn’t going to be easy. This trail will test you physically and mentally.
Iron Bog Lake is where you’ll feel inspired. It is where you’ll feel disconnected from the world and can enjoy some quiet moments in nature. It is also the perfect reward after a challenging hike.
The trailhead to Iron Bog Lake is at the end of Forest Road 220 near Mackay. You’ll find a small parking area past the Iron Bog Campground. We recommend a high-clearance vehicle as the road to the trailhead can be rough.
The Iron Bog Lake Trail is an out-and-back hike that is approximately 3.7 miles. While the trail isn’t very long, it’s definitely challenging. In such a short amount of time, you will climb nearly 1,200 feet in elevation. You'll find some of the steepest and longest climbs at the beginning of your hike but throughout your journey, there are areas that will give your calves quite a workout.
But the effort you put into this adventure is going to be worth it. The journey is gorgeous as you’ll walk along meadows and can view mountains looming in the distance. You'll trek along ridges where wildflowers and awe-inspiring views surround you.
Preparation is key to a successful journey to Iron Bog Lake. There is little shade on this hike so we recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection. And, of course, you’ll also want a hiking buddy. You are walking in the wilderness and you never know what wildlife may come up and say hello. Be smart as you make your climb.
As you continue on this trail, pay attention to the sounds of nature. Due to the difficulty of the hike and its remote location, this isn’t a busy path. In fact, you may not see another person on your way. This is a great destination to reflect on and enjoy the sights and sounds enveloping you.
And while I love the scenery you’ll encounter on the Iron Bog Lake Trail, nothing quite prepares you for the views at the end of the journey. Iron Bog Lake is surrounded by mountains and trees, creating a gorgeous masterpiece. You'll feel like you've stepped into a painting as you explore.
And make sure to pay attention to the color and clarity of the lake. It’s beautiful. This lake is also a great place to throw in a line and try your luck fishing. Just make sure you have a current Idaho fishing license with you.
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If you love to backpack or want to start, the Iron Bog Lake Trail is an excellent option. There are plenty of areas around the lake where you can set up camp for the night and relax. I also recommend that you watch the weather forecast closely before tackling this trail. Due to the elevation, you may run into storms and it isn’t uncommon to even encounter snow and ice on the trail in the early summer.
But for a hidden gem and natural wonder in Idaho that is sure to inspire and amaze, there is nothing quite like Iron Bog Lake. It’s beautiful, serene, and the perfect adventure.
For more information on the Iron Bog Lake Trail, including access to recent hiker reviews, visit AllTrails. And make sure you check out AllTrails+ for more incredible hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains.
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...
