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.

1. Visit Mesa Falls

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.

3. Go on a cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene

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.

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.

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.

7. Sandboard at Bruneau Dunes State Park

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.

8. Spend a day at Silverwood Theme Park

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.

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.