Your guide to Idaho
Top destinations in Idaho
Boise
From mountain hikes and whitewater rafting to performing arts venues and a unique take on steak, Idaho’s leafy capital is always up for an adventure.
Idaho Falls
True to its name, Idaho Falls is surrounded by awesome cascades. It’s also the perfect base for outdoor adventures, from fishing and hiking to horseback riding.
Twin Falls
Get wowed in this gateway town to the Snake River Canyon, home to towering rock formations, otherworldly desert landscapes and one of the largest waterfalls in the US.
Idaho: fast facts
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| Currency | United States dollar ($) |
| Time zone | Boise - UTC−7 (MST) and UTC−6 (MDT) |
| High season | June – August; December – March |
| Low season | April – May; October – November |
Idaho highlights
Look at the stars
The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve is one of the best places in North America to go stargazing. Covering more than 364,000 hectares, it’s a prime location for observing the Milky Way, planets and meteor showers. Look out for star parties and ranger-led ‘moon walks’ at Bruneau Dunes State Park and City of Rocks National Reserve.
Take a road trip
Driving the state’s 31 national and state scenic byways is one of the most rewarding things to do in Idaho. The routes showcase the region’s natural wonders, history and cultural heritage while connecting towns and recreational areas. The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is the longest, following the route once travelled by the American West pioneers Lewis and Clark.
Experience outdoor adventure
Idaho claims the most miles of whitewater in the lower 48 states, making it a paradise for rafters. Get your adrenaline pumping along mighty waterways like the Salmon River and Snake River. In winter, powder hounds can hit the slopes at one of 19 ski areas. Home to the world’s first chairlift, Sun Valley Resort is known as the birthplace of destination skiing.
Things to do in Idaho
Top attractions
In Twin Falls, don’t miss the roar of Shoshone Falls, one of the largest cascades in the US. Wander the lava fields at Craters of the Moon, where astronauts once trained. Then head into the Sawtooth National Forest for a night of stargazing in the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, the first of its kind in the US.
Beaches
The best beaches in Idaho sit along the sandy shores of the state’s lakes and rivers. In the southeast, Bear Lake is called the ‘Caribbean of the Rockies’ because of its intensely blue water. Find designated swimming areas and dabble in water sports at Priest Lake State Park. City Beach, Sanders Beach and Tubbs Hill Beach are popular spots on Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Nature
Idaho is blessed with natural wonders, from the snow-capped Rockies to magnificent Shoshone Falls and Perrine Coulee Falls. Plunging more than 2,400 metres on the Idaho–Oregon border, Hells Canyon is North America’s deepest canyon. Hike across dormant lava fields at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. And stroll past ancient cedar trees at Devoto Grove Picnic Area and Trailhead.
Cuisine
Potatoes are the state’s prized crop. You’ll find them in the form of Basque croquettes, chips, gnocchi and more at restaurants in Idaho. Try signature dishes like ‘finger steaks’ (battered and deep-fried beef strips), usually enjoyed with a side of chips and ranch dressing. And don’t miss huckleberry season in late summer, when the sweet berry appears in everything from pies to milkshakes.
Culture and museums
The Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls is an interactive journey into regional history, humanities and science. Native American and pioneer heritage comes to life on the Sacajawea Historic Byway, especially at the Sacajawea Center in the city of Salmon. And walk in the footsteps of the nomadic Nez Percé people on the state’s section of the Nez Percé National Historic Trail.
Nightlife
Boise’s downtown is a top spot for nightlife in Idaho, with bars, clubs, comedy shows and indie movie theatres lining the streets. For something a little more under the radar, check out the city’s speakeasies. Whether you’re slipping through a cleaning cupboard or giving a secret password, you’ll find some of Boise’s best craft cocktails behind unmarked doors.
Find the best time to visit Idaho
Weather in Idaho through the year
March – May: Enjoy mild temperatures during spring, which kicks off Idaho’s festival season. This is an ideal time to explore the outdoors on foot or from your car as waterfalls surge and wildflowers paint the landscape.
June – October: Summer’s perfect for outdoor adventures, from lakeside lounging to high-elevation hikes. Temps can soar, but they vary a lot depending on where you are. In autumn, the colours pop, and it’s prime time for wine tasting during the harvest.
November – February: Winter is the best time to visit Idaho’s excellent ski hubs like Sun Valley Resort and Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Temperatures drop, and the state’s peaks are blanketed with snow. Plan ahead when driving, as inclement weather can shut down roads.
Events in Idaho
Idaho Potato Drop (January): Every New Year’s Eve, partygoers pack the streets of downtown Boise for a day of music and festivity that leads up to the big moment — when the glowing ‘GlowTato’ drops to ring in the new year.
Treefort Music Fest (March): Boise’s biggest music event brings together big names and indie favourites like Bright Eyes and The Linda Lindas. It’s more than a music festival — you’ll find comedy, podcast tapings, yoga sessions and plenty of surprises.
Western Idaho Fair (August): This popular fair celebrates Idaho’s farming roots with rides, concerts and quirky eats. Don’t miss the Idaho ice cream potato, which looks like a baked spud but is actually vanilla ice cream dressed up in disguise.
Know before you go
Budget
Expect to pay around 20 US dollars ($) for an inexpensive meal at a restaurant when visiting the state capital, Boise. A beer or coffee here will cost you about $6. One way to ensure an affordable visit to Idaho is to take advantage of free outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Sawtooth Wilderness.
Health and safety
Idaho’s outdoors are meant to be explored, but a little caution goes a long way. Follow posted signs, including beach closures and fish advisories. Stick to marked trails when hiking, and admire wildlife like bears or moose from a safe distance. It’s smart to carry bear spray and even smarter to know how to use it.
Free things to do
You don’t need a big budget to enjoy Idaho. Wander Boise’s Freak Alley Gallery or visit the Boise Art Museum for free on First Thursdays. Outside the city, explore mountain-ringed Lake Coeur d'Alene with its stunning views and sandy beaches. Or catch the roar of Shoshone Falls. It’s taller than Niagara and, except for a small parking fee, free to view.
Family friendly
Families can bike or stroll the Boise River Greenbelt, a 46-kilometre path with playgrounds, snack stops and plenty of shade. In the north, Silverwood Theme Park delivers big thrills with rollercoasters, water rides and kid-friendly fun. Near the town of Shoshone, explore the Ice Caves, a naturally chilled lava tube with a quirky green dinosaur waiting outside for photo ops.
Getting around Idaho
Public transport
Buses: Several private bus lines connect towns and cities across Idaho. Salt Lake Express has the most extensive coverage, followed by Trailways and Greyhound. Many buses can accommodate bikes or skis, but it’s smart to check ahead. Booking is easy online, and coaches are a reliable option for regional travel, especially to popular outdoor destinations.
Trains: Amtrak makes just one stop in Idaho, at Sandpoint in the north. The route is scenic, linking travelers to Spokane, Washington, and Libby, Montana, but it isn’t practical for getting around within the state.
Domestic flights
Idaho has several regional airports, including Boise, Idaho Falls and Friedman Memorial Airport near Sun Valley. These make it easy to fly in from out of state, but there are no nonstop flights between them. If you’re travelling within Idaho, flying is usually less efficient than driving or busing.
Driving and car hire
Idaho is best explored by car. Scenic byways crisscross the state, and I-84 is the main highway linking the southwest to the southeast. Speed limits vary, so stay alert. For winter trips or rugged areas, a 4x4 vehicle is a smart choice.
