Here in Idaho, our nature is seemingly endless. Mountains, rivers, lakes, incredible geologic features...there's something for everyone, regardless of the season. While perhaps not as underrated as it used to be, our great outdoors are still an explorer's paradise, no matter your age or ability. If you love the outdoors, the following are 15 things you must do in Idaho. Be sure to add these to your bucket list and let us know what other adventures are a MUST for anyone who loves being immersed in nature!
1. Relax at the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise.
Idaho's largest public garden is a place worth visiting time and time again. New flowers, seasonal displays, and public events are always being added, but a tour at Christmas will take your breath away!
2. Explore Black Magic Canyon.
This unique volcanic river canyon is part hiking trail and part natural sculpture garden, but is only able to be explored during the spring and summer. It's a fascinating journey!
3. Snowshoe Craters of the Moon.
There's something magical about walking across layers of ancient geology.
4. Take a sleigh ride up to Trail Creek Cabin in Sun Valley.
The journey up to this romantic cabin restaurant through powder-covered trees is exhilarating and romantic in all the right ways.
5. Hike to the Darby Wind Cave on the Idaho-Wyoming border.
This unique multi-state wind cave can be a strenuous hike for some, but the views are oh-so-worth it. For an added adventure, take the extra (dangerous) journey to the connected ice cave across the border.
6. Visit every North Idaho lake.
Scooped out during the ancient ice ages of yesteryear, North Idaho's lake country is renowned for pristine glacial waters, mesmerizing sunsets, and perfect sandy beaches for lounging. Start at Coeur d'Alene and work your way up to the top of the Panhandle -- the beauty is simply astounding!
7. Take a waterfall road trip across the state (during peak runoff).
Who doesn't love the thrilling sound of a distant waterfall? How about seeing literally dozens of them up close and personal? Take a scenic adventure across the state to capture the beauty of Idaho's natural falls.
8. Hike the Pulaski Tunnel Trail in Wallace.
Easy and full of lush scenery and incredible history, this scenic, family-friendly trail is a local favorite for good reason.
9. Drive the entire Magruder Corridor.
At one time called the most dangerous road in the country, the Magruder Corridor is a remote back-country trail that isn't for the faint of heart -- or for low clearance vehicles! Here, you'll find peace and quiet, scenic mountains, endless treescapes, historic bridges, and the ultimate Idaho experience.
10. Camp in a back-country yurt.
Idaho's yurts are a slightly glamorous and age-old twist on rustic camping, but particularly made for winter adventures. You'll keep warm and toasty while having easy access to whatever winter recreation your heart desires -- or, a romantic getaway in the heart of Idaho's beautiful wilderness.
11. Stay in a fire lookout tower while you're at it!
Towering above Idaho's expansive mountainscapes, these historic remnants are not only rustic and romantic, they're the perfect destination for those who just want to get away from it all and enjoy the best views of Idaho. Idaho's fire towers are most often perched on our state's tallest and most exhilarating peaks, so you know you're geared for an adventure!
12. Visit one of Idaho's historic cedar groves.
Unexpected to those familiar with Idaho's quintessential Southern landscape, these lush groves of ancient cedar trees are hundreds of years old and tower above the horizon. You can find them scattered near Moscow and up into Northern Idaho.
13. Take a sunset dinner cruise.
Experience the vibrant beauty of Idaho in a way that transcends mere waterfront dining. Romantic, picturesque, and swoon-worthy, these vessels will help you to fall in love with the Gem State all over again.
14. Whitewater raft one of Idaho's epic wild rivers.
Whether the notorious Middle Fork of the Salmon River, the underrated torrents of the Owyhee River, or the mainstream Payette, Idaho is whitewater country for good reason. Book with an adventure company to take this experience to the next level!
15. Take a canopy tour through a national forest.
Combine your childhood treehouse with multiple sky-high zip-lines, epic forest and lake views, and exhilarating bridges and you have an incredible experience from timberline adventures. You'll see Idaho like you've never seen it before. Check here for more info.
So much adventure, so little time! What else would you add to this list?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!