Scenic drives for discovery and adventure

Idaho’s section of the International Selkirk Loop weaves through some of the most stunning landscapes (especially in autumn). Stop at the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge to enjoy views of the amazing scenery and the resident wildlife, including elk, bears, otters and waterfowl. 

Pack in big adventure and stunning sights along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. North America’s deepest river gorge is a source of breathtaking views, pictographs and petroglyphs etched into the canyon walls by early Native American settlements.

Tranquil beauty and history abound on the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway. Learn about the Nimiipuu at the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center. Enjoy a glass of wine at a vineyard in the Lewis-Clark Valley wine region. Cruise through the picturesque grain fields of The Palouse (“Tuscany of America”).

Discover pristine wilderness and photo-worthy landscapes along the Payette River Scenic Byway. Stretching from Eagle, to the mountain playground of McCall, there’s a full mix of relaxed luxury and outdoor adventure to satisfy nearly any taste.

A world of wonder at Idaho’s national park sites and state parks

Traverse a landscape unlike any other at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Reserve. Navigate through the volcanic remains via a loop drive or by taking the network of trails on foot to explore the lava flows and exposed caves. As a designated International Dark Sky Park, the preserve is filled with killer views day and night.

The expansive Thousand Springs State Park is a wonder of water and nature, made up of six smaller parks. The abundance of water throughout the park makes for ideal kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing conditions and scenic hiking views along the waterfalls. For an even greater water rush, check out nearby Shoshone Falls and Perrine Coulee Falls.

By day, City of Rocks National Reserve is a playground for rock climbers, outdoor adventure seekers, and nature photographers with scenery full of sage meadows, aspen groves, and granite domes. By night, its dark skies are so well-preserved that visitors can experience the same night sky as the Shoshone people and pioneers on the historic California Trail centuries before.

The dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park—rising 470 feet at the peak—are unique in the Western Hemisphere and claim the status of the tallest freestanding sand dunes in North America. Sandboards are available for rent or visitors can take a hike or go horseback riding around the park to investigate the Idaho desert. When night settles in, visit the Bruneau Dunes Observatory to scope out the stars and moon.

Glimpse dark skies at Idaho’s designated places

Idaho is home to the nation’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), the authority on light pollution worldwide, has recognized five distinct areas in the Gem State that offer stellar night-sky viewing of the Milky Way, meteors, planets and more:

• Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve
• Ketchum, Idaho (Community)
• Craters of the Moon National Monument (Park)
• City of Rocks National Reserve (Park)
• Bruneau Dunes State Park (Park)

Navigate Idaho’s powerful rivers

Home to 3,100 miles of whitewater—the most in the contiguous U.S.—Idaho is the destination for whitewater rafting. Some of the state’s most stunning scenery and wildlife-viewing opportunities are accessible only by raft or jetboat. Traverse through Hells Canyon—the deepest river gorge in North America—with Class II to IV rapids on the Snake River. The Main Payette River is an easy half-day trip and perfect for families and first-timers to enjoy approachable Class I and II rapids. The legendary Main Salmon River (“River of No Return”) is a bucketlist experience for avid rafters.

For visitors wanting to experience the sights and landscape on a more comfortable ride, a thrilling jet boat tour is the ticket. These allages friendly watercraft are guided by experienced captains some tours include stops for swimming, capturing photos and learning about the local history.

Ski mountain peaks & twilight slopes

For an elevated winter activity, get the VIP treatment on a private, guided catskiing trip. Cat-skiing provides fresh powder seekers the rush of gliding through untouched terrain. Brundage Mountain Resort presents an impressive 18,000 acres of backcountry terrain in the Payette National Forest. Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures offers 4,350 acres of backcountry terrain to explore. Soldier Mountain provides access to 2,000 acres of skiable backcountry terrain with impressive vertical.

Two of Idaho’s ski resorts offer night skiing for illuminated evening fun. Kelly Canyon Resort is a family-friendly ski hill paired with challenging terrain and access to deep, backcountry powder. Night skiing is open on two-thirds of its 51 runs. Pomerelle Mountain Resort enjoys major, consistent snowfall and is known for perfectly groomed runs. Night skiing plus no lines means nearly endless runs.

Fish world-class streams

Known for its abundant rivers, lakes, and streams, Idaho is a popular destination for flyfishing, offering opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. Many guest ranches, resorts and lodges offer allinclusive fly-fishing packages that provide a hassle-free experience for anglers, including accommodations, meals, professional guides and gear. Whether it’s wading in rivers or floating downstream in a drift boat, a variety of outfitters offer options for any skill level or preference.

Among the over 42 game fish species in Idaho, the giant white sturgeon may be the most unique. This prehistoric fish can be found in the Snake River in Hells Canyon and provides a complex and largerthan-life fishing experience.

For more information: https://visitidaho.org/