Among the peaks and valleys of Idaho's most stunning mountain ranges, new worlds of beauty are waiting to be explored, photographed, and transformed into the best memories of your life. With over 80 ranges rising and falling throughout the state, escaping into Idaho's beautiful mountains typically doesn't take much driving, but nevertheless, you'll feel worlds away from the mundane, day-to-day grind.

From picture-perfect valley ranches and lodges to some of our favorite getaway trips in the Gem State's highest elevations, these overlooked mountain trips beckon with the promise of fresh air, fabulous scenery, and a chance to get away from it all.

1. Stay in rustic luxury at the Idaho Rocky Mountain Guest Ranch in the heart of Sawtooth country.

The living history of the Old West mingles with solitude and adventure in the heart of the Sawtooths. You can take an extended hike to one of dozens of alpine lakes, drink in the rural views of the valley, tackle the Sawtooth Recreation Area's famous sportsman opportunities, or just soak up some history. While you're there, a stay at the Idaho Rocky Mountain Guest RAnch will keep you wrapped in luxury from day one. Built in 1930 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this western-style lodge is the perfect place to return after a long day of adventuring.

2. Hike, fish, and explore the hidden beauty of Idaho's Palisades and South Fork region.

Living in the shadow of the Tetons, Idaho's Palisades country is rich with opportunities to unwind, drink in eastern sunrises like you wouldn't believe, and explore the outskirts of a diverse scenic region that goes unnoticed by many Idahoans. A trip up into the to Upper and Lower Palisades Lakes is a beautifully rewarding one, but don't stop there! Continue up to Waterfall Canyon and the Little Elk Creek Trail. Or, take a breather along Palisades Creek, make the easy trek to Fall Creek Falls. Hole up in the beautiful Palisades Creek Ldoge for a beautiful, welcoming adventure.

3. Explore the unspoiled beauty of the Green Monarchs.

Whether by foot or admired from a distance on a lake cruise, the Green Monarchs are a North Idaho treasure. Thousands of years ago, a monster flood of biblical proportions tore through the region, forming Lake Pend Oreille and carving the spectacular rock faces that form its scenic shores. Today, hiking the Green Monarchs Trail ridge offers not only stunning views of the lake, but uniquely woodsy paths that are vibrant in fall and delightfully leafy in spring.

4. Drink in the magic of Idaho's overlooked Bitterroots.

High in the Bitterroot Mountains, the rugged raw granite pinnacles rise up in every direction and form an intimidating border between Idaho and Montana. So numerous are the peaks that many of the 9,000-footers are still unnamed, despite not being as tall as many of Idaho's other mountains. Deep in the Bitterroot National Forest, the spectacular Continental Divide Trail - the line that separates Pacific and Atlantic watersheds - is a spectacular ridge hike that is the only one of its kind in the country. While the main access point is in Lemhi, make your basecamp in Salmon and stay at the rustic Syringa Lodge for a phenomenal basecamp.

5. Find meaning in one of the prettiest rural spots on earth.

An overlooked part of the Boise Mountains, you'll find the gently, rural Trinity Mountains near Pine-Featherville, patiently waiting for eager outdoors lovers. With over 380 miles of marked trails and service roads, these rich green trails wind their way through uncrowded territory, while half a dozen ghost towns stand guard around Trinity Mountain. Take the back route hike to Paradise Hot Springs and you'll never regret it. Hayhurst B&B in Featherville makes for the perfect basecamp as you explore

Ready to kick back and drink in Idaho's beauty?