Known to have abundant green landscapes and vibrant wilderness, the US State of Idaho offers more than just a memorable trip with your family and friends. Some call it a calming escapade, while others like to just explore the charming nightlife around the region, finding out what suits you the best here isn’t difficult as there’s something for every kind of traveler including kids. Officially called as the ‘Gem State’ due to the fact the 72 different gems are found here! This country has so many interesting facts and history associated with it that you simply have to visit to experience it yourself.
Confused about where to start from? Read on to know about the best places to visit in Idaho for slaying it like an American!
10 Best Places In Idaho
Waiting for someone to tell you where to head to isn’t really what everyone wants. So, why not just read about it here before planning your Idaho trip?
- Coeur d’Alene
- Craters Of The Moon National Monument
- Hells Canyon National Recreational Area
- Boise
- Sandpoint
- Shoshone Falls
- City Of Rocks National Reserve
- Yellowstone National Park
- McCall
- Rolling Hills Of The Palouse
1. Coeur d’Alene
Also known as one of the largest city in the northern region of Idaho, Coeur d’Alene is situated on a 25-mile long lake, Lake Coeur d’Alene. While visiting this town, one doesn’t miss out on cruise tours around Christmas time or Iron Man Competition during the summers. On a bright day, you can party with your friends in the town’s amazing bars and clubs which have a chill downtown vibe to them. But if you’re in the mood for a soothing day, spending some time boating in the lake, or sailing and fishing are highly recommended. What’s more is that this place is only at a 40-minute distance from Spokane in Washington, in case you change your mind about one of the best places to visit in Idaho state!
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2. Craters Of The Moon National Monument
Well, the name certainly attracts more tourists here than any other place in Idaho. The fact that you can get to learn about the lava spread all over the region due to an eruption from ages-old volcanoes, surely fascinates some travelers but more interestingly, a hike through this region, especially with a guide, can be more informative than you thought. Appearing to be the Moon’s surface, it is said that the NASA astronauts were initially made to train here in order to be able to walk on the moon, whereas, later it turned out to be completely different on the real moon!
3. Hells Canyon National Recreational Area
Being the largest river gorge in North America region, it is formed by the gorgeous Snake River, and you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this area via hiking and horseback riding. But the best time to visit this place still remains the winter season, as snowmobiling and skiing are highly popular around that time. You can also spot some great historical sites around the region and a camping trip in this place is some of the experiences that you just cannot resist staying amid this nature’s abode. Not many people may know this, but there are specific signs of human settlement thousands of years ago in the area.
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4. Boise
Idaho’s renowned capital is hard to miss on your trip to this beautiful place. Boise was crowned as one of the best neighbourhoods in America by the American Planning Association in 2008. Biking around the greenbelt is something you can try here along with exploring their famous nightlife which is rapidly growing. Also called as the ‘City of trees’, there’s so much everyone, including, several river activities and biking on the trails around the much-famed Bogus Basin ski mountain. A good news for all the history buffs is that you’ll be able to find the Basque Block and learn about the Basque heritage in Boise. The annual Gene Harris Jazz Festival is attended by all jazz fans in Boise and tourists all over!
5. Sandpoint
One of the major Idaho points of interest are Sandpoint but it is yet to be more popular amongst the tourists. Crowned as the most beautiful Small town, this place sets beautifully on Lake Pend Oreille’s shores. Given the fact that this place is not much crowded, all the lake activities like boating, fishing, and sailing around this area, can be enjoyed peacefully and a prior booking is ever a hassle! While visiting around the winters, be sure to check out Schweitzer Mountain which is the largest ski resort in Idaho. Feels exciting! Doesn’t it?
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6. Shoshone Falls
Known as the Niagara of the West, these falls have a height of a massive 212 feet and are located on the corner of Twin Falls city. Simply put, this gorgeous nature’s wonder is something you would want to witness with a quiet time or a picnic with your loved ones. So, pack your lunch and find your spot for the perfect outing around the region. The areas nearby are full of multiple hiking trails and spot for taking a swim in the calming water. If you’re in the mood for a rejuvenating day, a hike up the area to find absolute bliss here, is a must-try. Don’t forget to capture your moments with a selfie of these falls in the background!
7. City Of Rocks National Reserve
A much talked about site of City of Rocks has been famous amongst the tourists for many years now. Of course, a rock-climbing session here is a must and that goes without saying but more importantly, this place also provides several camping sites for all your camping needs. Mainly composed of granite, these rock formations feature huge boulders and spires. A perfect place to click photos, it is also popular amongst the photographers and provides for an unwind like no other in Idaho. Spotting some unique birds is never a task, so be ready with your cameras too. Only a visit to this place will let you know why this place is amongst the Idaho sightseeing list!
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8. Yellowstone National Park
Amongst all the first, largest and best that you’ll find in charming Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is considered to be the first national park in the world. You’re in for a treat for sure, if you’re a nature and wildlife enthusiast and planning to visit soon. With several wildlife species like buffalos, you can meet these creatures in their habitat. But, be careful because a certain distance is required to be maintained from the wild ones. While visiting, don’t miss out on the famous Old Faithful erupt as this place is known for abundant geothermal activity.
9. McCall
A tiny mountain town like McCall has more in store than you’d expect from it. Situated adjacent to the Payette Lake, it’s a tiny paradise offering something for everyone! During the summers you can do so much around this tiny version of Idaho, such as huckleberry picking and hiking to spend some quiet time in nature. If you must, going for some water sports is highly suggested too! But, don’t worry about the winters, as the Brundage Mountain offers a cross-country ski and a little snowmobiling could never hurt anyone! One of the most beautiful places to visit in Idaho is McCall and surely agree once you go too!
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10. Rolling Hills Of The Palouse
In the mood for a drive surrounding lush green hills? Well, wait no more! Partially located in Idaho and partially rolling into Washington, these rolly hills of the Palouse offer splendid views of the wheat fields and surely feels like you’re under waves when you drive across this region. Also considered as one of the seven wonders of the Washington state, these hills are unique in the sense that they have existed despite several ice ages and other natural problems. Some of these green hills are steep enough to make the large tractors and vehicles fall over. Their green colour is due to the time when the wheat and barley are young as in winters, it turns into a brown shade!
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Don’t miss out on the world! If you’re in for a trip to this enchanting state in the USA, pack your bags right away. Plan a trip to USA, head to Idaho and experience a serene vacation by exploring all the above listed places to visit in the state. The unique natural beauty of this place is surely going to surprise you!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Idaho
Do you need a license for your kayak in Idaho?
No, you don’t need to have a licence, registration or titling for a non-motorised or manually powered vessels in Idaho.
A lawyer from outside and a writer within, Arushi is someone you’ll find eating right after she had her meal. She prefers the company of animals over humans and with a dream of traveling the world someday, she strongly recommends Bali for a chill-out vacay!
