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Top 17 Hidden Gems To Visit in Idaho

  1. The City of Rocks National Reserve – a cracking spot located in Southern Idaho where you can marvel at the various rock formations, have a go at rock climbing or hiking, and pitch a tent for a good old-fashioned camping trip.
  2. The Craters of the Moon National Monument – a proper weird and wonderful reserve located in Southern Idaho that’ll make you feel like you’re on a different planet. You can take a self-guided tour, go hiking or biking, and sleep under the stars if you’re feeling brave enough.
  3. Shoshone Falls – a splendid and thundering waterfall located in Southern Idaho, where you can admire the falls, hop on a boat for a spin, and try your hand at fishing, hiking, or picnicking in the surrounding area.
  4. The Sawtooth National Recreation Area – a rough and ready national recreation area located in Central Idaho, where you can explore the wild natural features, take a scenic drive, and indulge in outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and horseback riding.
  5. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area – a blindingly beautiful and rugged national recreation area located in Eastern Idaho, where you can get your adrenaline pumping by going whitewater rafting, fishing, camping, and taking in the epic scenery on a scenic drive. Just make sure you bring your sense of adventure and your waterproofs, or you might end up looking like a drowned rat!
  6. Priest Lake – a serene lake located in Northern Idaho, giving visitors a chance to take in the beautiful surroundings, go on a leisurely boat ride, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking. It’s the perfect place to unwind and forget about all your troubles – just don’t forget the sunscreen!
  7. Coeur d’Alene – a peaceful lake located in Northern Idaho, offering visitors a chance to relax by the water, go on a peaceful boat ride, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life – just watch out for those pesky mosquitoes!
  8. Salmon River – a wild and rugged river located in Central Idaho, providing visitors with a chance to admire the untamed beauty of the river, go on a thrilling rafting trip, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and camping. It’s not for the faint of heart, so make sure you bring your sense of adventure and your wits to you!
  9. The Ponderosa State Park: A paradise on earth for nature enthusiasts, with its magnificent 1,000-acre forest and panoramic views of Payette Lake and the mountains. Explore the park’s hiking trails, go mountain biking, or ski cross-country during winter. Camping is available for those who want to rough it out, with options ranging from RV hookups to tent sites, as well as rental cabins and yurts for those seeking more luxurious accommodations. Wildlife abounds in the park, with plenty of opportunities to spot moose, deer, and various bird species. And the best part? The park is open year-round, with different activities and events to suit every season. So, what are you waiting for? Put on your hiking boots and head to Ponderosa State Park!
  10. Ponderosa State Park – a beautiful and peaceful state park nestled in McCall, where visitors can take in the stunning Payette Lake, go on a leisurely boat ride, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and unwind amidst the tranquility of nature.
  11. Bear Lake – a serene lake located in Eastern Idaho, provides a perfect escape for those who love water activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Take a boat ride to explore the beautiful lake and discover the wonders of nature.
  12. Redfish Lake – a peaceful lake located in Central Idaho, offering visitors a chance to take in the picturesque lake, go on a boat ride, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing weekend getaway.
  13. The Palisades Reservoir – a serene reservoir located in Eastern Idaho, provides visitors with an opportunity to admire the reservoir’s beauty, go on a scenic boat ride, and enjoy various outdoor activities, such as fishing, hiking, and camping. Come and experience the tranquil environment of Palisades Reservoir and leave your worries behind!
  14. Farragut State Park, located in Northern Idaho. This serene and picturesque park is perfect for those looking to unwind and take in the beauty of the lake. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride or try their hand at fishing, swimming, and kayaking.
  15. Moving south to the Thousand Springs State Park, visitors can experience the tranquil springs and take a boat ride to see the area’s natural wonders. This park is the perfect place to explore on foot, with hiking trails that will lead you to stunning viewpoints and breathtaking scenery.
  16. In Eastern Idaho, Harriman State Park provides visitors with the chance to admire the river and take a scenic boat ride. Fishing, camping, and horseback riding are also popular activities in this peaceful and scenic park.
  17. Last but not least, we have the Dworshak Reservoir, one of the largest bodies of water in Idaho, located in North Central Idaho. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. With its diverse range of fish species, including kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout, it’s no wonder that anglers flock to this location. The area is also teeming with wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears, making it a nature lover’s paradise. The reservoir boasts several campgrounds, as well as numerous picnic areas and day-use sites for visitors to enjoy.