Idaho’s Untamed Wilderness Awaits
Idaho, the “Gem State,” is where adventure seekers find their playground and families create memories that last for generations.
Far from the crowded tourist traps, Idaho offers an authentic outdoor experience where you can paddle pristine waters, hike world-class trails, and camp under some of the darkest night skies in America.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway, a family camping adventure, or a solo expedition with your four-legged companion, Idaho delivers outdoor experiences that will leave you planning your return before you’ve even left.
From the dramatic Sawtooth Mountains to the gentle shores of Lake Pend Oreille, this guide unveils the hidden gems and must-see destinations that make Idaho a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value authenticity over crowds.
Back-Country Destinations
McCall: Your Year-Round Mountain Playground
Gateway: 2 hours north of Boise via Highway 55
McCall sits like a jewel on the shores of Payette Lake, surrounded by the towering pines of Payette National Forest. This former logging community is now an all-season tourist destination where outdoor recreation opportunities abound. Covering over 5,200 acres with its beautiful blue-green waters, Payette Lake is surrounded by towering pines and lush Douglas firs.
3-Day Weekend Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive and check into Ponderosa State Park for camping or nearby cabin rentals. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Payette Lake, then enjoy sunset dining at a lakeside restaurant.
- Day 2: Hike the peninsula trails in Ponderosa State Park, rent mountain bikes to explore the area, and visit Mile High Marina for water equipment rentals. Evening: Experience McCall’s brewery scene along the McCall Ale Trail.
- Day 3: Take a morning cruise with McCall Lake Cruises, visit nearby Brundage Mountain for hiking, and explore downtown McCall’s shops before departure.
Sandpoint: Idaho’s Crown Jewel
Gateway: 1.5 hours northeast of Spokane, Washington
Sandpoint is close to the Canadian border and is one of Idaho’s most inviting mountain towns and a hiker’s paradise, with three mountain ranges overlooking the town and the scenic Lake Pend Oreille. At 43 miles long with 111 miles of shoreline and more than 1,000 feet deep, Lake Pend Oreille is the largest lake in Idaho.
3-Day Weekend Itinerary:
- Day 1: Set up camp at Farragut State Park or check into lakeside accommodations. Explore Sandpoint’s downtown artistic district and enjoy dinner with lake views.
- Day 2: Take the chairlift at Schweitzer Mountain Resort for panoramic views, then spend the afternoon boating or swimming at City Beach Park. Evening: Join a sunset boat cruise on Lake Pend Oreille.
- Day 3: Hike the Gold Hill Trailhead (3.7-mile loop), visit local galleries and shops, and enjoy final lake activities before departure.
Stanley: Gateway to the Sawtooth Wilderness
Gateway: 2.5 hours northeast of Boise via scenic Highway 21
Nestled amidst the Sawtooth Mountains, Stanley is a postcard-perfect town that’s a gateway to the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area encompasses 756,000 acres of jagged mountain peaks and is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring three designated wilderness areas and 700 miles of trails.
3-Day Weekend Itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive and camp at one of the nearby campgrounds. Take an easy evening hike around Redfish Lake to watch sunset over the Sawtooth peaks.
- Day 2: Full day at Redfish Lake – rent kayaks or paddleboards, hike to Fishhook Creek, and enjoy a beach picnic. Evening: Stargaze under some of Idaho’s darkest skies.
- Day 3: Explore Stanley Lake for mountain photography, drive the scenic Sawtooth Scenic Byway, and visit local shops in downtown Stanley before heading home.
Idaho’s National and State Parks
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
This rugged landscape features 40-plus mountain peaks standing over 10,000 feet high, with recreation options endless in all four seasons, including boating, backpacking, and cross-country skiing. The crown jewel is Redfish Lake, an alpine lake named for the brilliant sockeye salmon that once returned from the Pacific Ocean in such massive quantities that the lake shimmered red during spawning season.
Key Activities:
- World-class hiking trails, including Alice Lake and Sawtooth Lake
- Redfish Lake boating, swimming, and beach activities
- Backcountry camping and wilderness backpacking
- Winter snowmobiling and cross-country skiing
Best Time to Visit: June through September for hiking; December through March for winter sports
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Walk the vast lava fields of the Craters of the Moon National Monument, where ancient volcanic activity created an otherworldly landscape. This unique destination offers hiking trails through hardened lava flows, lava tubes to explore, and educational programs about volcanic geology.
Bear Lake State Park
Bear Lake, home to Bear Lake State Park, is known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” due to its intense turquoise blue water. Located on the Idaho-Utah border, this family-friendly destination offers excellent swimming beaches, fishing, and watersports.
Hidden Natural Gem: City of Rocks National Reserve near Almo offers granite spires and towering granite formations with many climbing routes, hiking paths, and ancient landscapes, some over 2.5 billion years old.
Best Places for Watersports: Lakes, Rivers, and Recreation
Lake Pend Oreille: Idaho’s Boating Paradise
As the largest lake in Idaho and one of the deepest in the United States, Lake Pend Oreille is a boating paradise where adventure awaits at every turn, with 148 square miles of water offering endless opportunities for sailing, motorboating, and wakeboarding. Anglers can try for multiple varieties of fish, such as kokanee salmon, Kamloops rainbow trout, bull trout, and lake trout.
Water Activities Available:
- Motorboating, sailing, and wakeboarding
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- World-class fishing (home to state record 37-pound rainbow trout)
- Swimming at sandy beaches
- Guided lake cruises and seaplane tours
Payette Lake: McCall’s Crown Jewel
This vast lake is surrounded by the towering pines and lush Douglas firs of the Payette National Forest, with sandy beaches in the warmer months making it a virtual playground year-round. Mile High Marina offers boat rentals, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards.
Snake River Adventures
The mighty Snake River system provides excellent opportunities for rafting, fishing, and scenic float trips. The Salmon River, often called the “River of No Return,” runs through Challis and is excellent for fishing, swimming, and rafting.
Popular River Activities:
- Whitewater rafting and kayaking
- Fly fishing for trout and salmon
- Scenic float trips for families
- Swimming holes and beach access
Legendary Locations: Idaho’s Unique Points of Interest
Bruneau Dunes State Park
Home to North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune, rising 470 feet above the surrounding desert. Visitors can sandboard down the massive dunes, stargaze at the adjacent observatory, and camp in this unique desert environment.
Shoshone Falls
Known as the “Niagara of the West,” these spectacular 212-foot waterfalls on the Snake River near Twin Falls create a thunderous display, especially during spring snowmelt. The viewing area provides excellent photography opportunities and picnic facilities.
Balanced Rock Park
This natural wonder features a 40-ton rock balanced precariously on a small pedestal, defying gravity for thousands of years. Located near Buhl, this roadside attraction offers easy access and fascinating geology.
These natural wonders showcase Idaho’s diverse geological history, from volcanic activity to glacial carving, providing educational opportunities alongside spectacular photo ops.
Historical Landmarks: Tracing Idaho’s Heritage
Old Mission State Park
Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park is home to the Mission of the Sacred Heart, the oldest building in Idaho. This National Historic Landmark offers guided tours and cultural programs showcasing the region’s Native American and missionary history.
Oregon Trail Sites
Multiple sites across southern Idaho preserve the legacy of westward expansion, including Massacre Rocks State Park and the National Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier. These locations provide important glimpses into pioneer history with interpretive trails and visitor centers.
Lewis and Clark Trail
Take a step back in time to learn more about Idaho’s history by exploring the National Scenic and Historic Trails of Idaho, including the Lewis and Clark, Nez Perce, Oregon, California and Continental Divide Trails.
Cultural Heritage Highlights:
- Native American tribal history and heritage sites
- Mining boom towns and ghost towns
- Pioneer and fur trading history
- Early statehood landmarks
Traveling with Kids
Top Family Attractions
Zoo Boise: Interactive exhibits and native wildlife encounters in the state capital.
Discovery Center of Idaho: Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits designed for curious young minds.
Bear Lake Swimming: The gradual slope and sandy beaches at North Beach Bear Lake State Park are ideal for family swimming, sunbathing, and water fun.
Outdoor Adventures for All Ages
Junior Ranger programs at participating state parks are designed for children ages 6 to 12, encouraging kids to explore the great outdoors, learn about Idaho’s state parks and protect our beautiful landscapes.
Family-Friendly Trails:
- Easy nature walks at Ponderosa State Park
- The 73-mile “Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes” paved bike path runs through Heyburn State Park and connects scenic attractions in the Idaho Panhandle
- Interpretive trails at Thousand Springs State Park
Hands-On Experiences
- Gold panning demonstrations at historic mining sites
- Wildlife viewing at national wildlife refuges
- Camping programs with evening naturalist talks
- Lake swimming and beach play at sandy shores
Traveling with Pets
Pet-Welcoming Outdoor Spaces
Leashed dogs are permitted at Farragut State Park, which offers 4,000 acres on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille with camping, hiking, mountain biking, and water sports. Many state parks welcome leashed pets on designated trails and in camping areas.
Dog-Friendly Lakes and Beaches:
- City Beach Park in Sandpoint (leashed dogs welcome)
- McEuen Park in Coeur d’Alene with waterfront access
- Many state park beaches and picnic areas
- Designated dog swimming areas at select lakes
Pet-Friendly Trails and Campgrounds
Most state parks and national forest areas allow pets on leash. Camping reservations are available at 23 state parks in Idaho, with many offering pet-friendly campsites and nearby trail access.
Tips for Pet Travel:
- Always keep pets leashed and clean up after them
- Bring plenty of water for pets during outdoor activities
- Check for seasonal restrictions (some areas close during wildlife nesting)
- Pack pet first aid supplies for hiking adventures
- Never leave pets unattended in vehicles
Traveling as a Couple
Scenic Romantic Destinations
Sun Valley Resort Area: Sometimes called “America’s First Destination Ski Resort,” Sun Valley offers year-round activities from skiing to golf at the resort’s Trail Creek Golf Course. Cozy mountain lodges and fine dining create perfect romantic settings.
Priest Lake Romantic Retreats: Some of the lodging properties along Priest Lake are beachfront, making both water recreation and relaxing a breeze. Private cabins with lake views offer intimate settings for couples.
Couples’ Activities
- Sunset boat cruises on Lake Pend Oreille or Payette Lake
- Wine tasting at Clearwater Canyon Cellars in Lewiston
- Hot springs soaking at natural geothermal sites
- Scenic drives along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway
- Stargazing at dark sky locations
Romantic Dining and Stays:
- Lakeside restaurants with panoramic mountain views
- Cozy bed & breakfasts in historic mining towns
- Private cabin rentals with hot tubs and fireplaces
- Glamping sites near national recreation areas
Making the Most of a Trip on a Budget
Free and Low-Cost Attractions
Single-day park entry fees range from $7 to $14 per vehicle, and for $80, you can buy a Motor Vehicle Entry Fee sticker providing unlimited access to all Idaho state parks for one year. Many hiking trails, swimming beaches, and scenic drives are completely free.
Budget-Friendly Destinations:
- Free hiking trails throughout national forests
- Public beaches at state parks (entry fee only)
- Scenic drives like the Sawtooth Scenic Byway
- Self-guided tours of historic downtown areas
- Wildlife viewing at national wildlife refuges
Affordable Accommodation and Camping
Adventure and fresh air await you at Idaho’s beautiful state parks, with camping reservations available at 23 locations. State park camping typically costs $15-35 per night, significantly less than hotels.
Budget Camping Options:
- Developed campgrounds in state parks
- Primitive camping in national forests (often free)
- Group campsites for larger families
- RV-friendly sites with basic hookups
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit during shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall) for lower accommodation rates
- Pack picnic lunches for trail days
- Take advantage of free interpretive programs at parks
- Use the annual state park pass if visiting multiple parks
- Camp instead of staying in hotels
- Bring your own outdoor equipment to avoid rental fees
Ready to Explore Idaho’s Outdoor Paradise?
Idaho’s pristine lakes, towering mountains, and charming small towns create the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure.
From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Pend Oreille to the rugged beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho offers outdoor enthusiasts countless opportunities to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Ready to book your Idaho getaway?
Start planning your perfect lakeside retreat today at Lake.com, where you’ll find the ideal vacation rental to serve as your home base for exploring all that Idaho’s outdoor wonderland has to offer.
Whether you prefer a cozy cabin on Payette Lake, a spacious family rental near Bear Lake, or a romantic retreat overlooking the Sawtooth Mountains, your Idaho adventure begins with the perfect accommodation.
