Best summer vacation spots in idaho
The best summer vacation spots in idaho If you’re planning a summer trip, you’re probably already thinking about the best places to go. Places where you can get away from it all and relax without worrying about your everyday worries. If so, then Idaho has some of the best places in the country for your summer vacation.
You’re looking for a list of best summer vacation spots in Idaho? Here it is. If you follow the link to the list, you’ll find a table showing all top 5 locations plus links to pages with more information about each place. Just go ahead and pick one from the first column, or build your own list by picking any number of places you like.
Idaho is often overlooked by travelers familiar with the ski slopes of Sun Valley, the national parks of Yellowstone, and throngs of tourists heading to the coast. However, those who venture into this northwestern corner of the country find a region rich with history and culture, fantastic outdoor recreation and affordable summer getaways.
If you’re looking for the best summer vacation spots in Idaho, look no further.
The state of Idaho is home to several beautiful locations that are perfect for a summer getaway. Whether you’re looking for a tropical paradise or a relaxing mountain escape, there’s something for everyone.
Here are our top five picks for the best summer vacation spots in Idaho:
- Sun Valley Resort
- Boise National Forest
- Lake Coeur d’Alene
- Craters of the Moon National Monument
The best summer vacation spots in Idaho are:
- Aberdeen – this is where you’ll find everything from sandy beaches to cool caves, so there’s something for everyone
- Coeur D’Alene – you can take a hike through the woods and then stop by one of the many shops or restaurants along the way
- Ketchum – don’t miss out on this beautiful town with its breathtaking views of the mountains and lakes
- Moscow – spend some time taking in all that this historic city has to offer, including art galleries and museums
1. Mesa Falls
A view of Mesa Falls from the viewing deck.
Upper Mesa Falls, Ashton. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
Lower Mesa Falls. Photo credit Rexburg Chamber.
Two amazing waterfalls make up Mesa Falls, and each one is worth the stop. Upper Mesa Falls makes its presence known along the Snake River, standing as tall as a 10-story building, and viewable via an observation deck. Lower Mesa Falls can be found roughly one mile south and is majestic in its own regard. Both waterfalls run over what is left of an ancient volcanic super-eruption. Pretty epic.
2. Lava Hot Springs
Geothermal waters pump into Lava’s infamous pools – temperatures range between 102°F -112°F, making Lava Hot Springs the perfect destination for an evening soak. Lava Hot Springs also features an Olympic Swimming Complex with winding slides, indoor and outdoor pools, six-story high-speed slides, and a kids’ cove that is not to be missed. Let’s just say, Lava Hot Springs knows how to have a good time.
3. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Jetboating in Hells Canyon. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
A bear ready for a dip in Hells Canyon. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
A view looking between the towering walls of Hell Canyon. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Jet Boating, Hells Canyon, Near Pittsburg Landing. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Jet boating in Hells Canyon over whitewater rapids. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
Jetboating in Hells Canyon.
Hells Canyon Riverboat Trip.
The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is likely one of the most breathtaking destinations you’ll ever visit. View towering canyon walls as you wind alongside the massive rift that separates the states of Idaho and Oregon. You will be amazed at the size of the massive green and black basalt walls rising above the Snake River below. Get an up close and personal view of wildlife you’ve never seen before, and be sure to stop along the way and visit the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, where guided float and jet boat trips on the Snake River are always in high demand.To find Idaho jet boating outfitters and guides visit the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association here.
4. Redfish Lake
Fly fishing, Redfish Lake, Stanley. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Stanley Lake, Stanley. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
Redfish Lake, Stanley. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
Stargazing at Redfish Lake. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism.
Redfish Lake is the ideal place to visit during the warm summer months. Make memories with your kids that will last a lifetime at this flawless outdoor playground. Redfish Lake sits between the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River and has views that will make you make you feel like you’re vacationing inside of a work of art. The Redfish Lake Lodge is conveniently nestled up against the shore, and next to it, a general store, where you can find maps for your adventures and snacks for the kids.
Soaking in the views along Fishhook Creek Trail near Redfish Lake. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Kayaking on Redfish Lake.
Hiking along Fishhook Creek Trail near Redfish Lake. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness near Redfish Lake. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
SUPing on Redfish Lake
Paddleboat on Redfish Lake.
Fishhook Creek Trail, Near Redfish Lake, Stanley. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Traversing through the meadows along Fishhook Creek Trail near Redfish Lake. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
The lodge also offers rentals including bikes, motorboats, kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, paddleboats, and even pontoon boats. Take a hike, go for a swim, learn how to stand up paddleboard, take the kids out on a paddle boat to explore the shoreline or just lay on the beach and soak up the sun. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
5. Thousand Springs
Thousand Springs may be one of the best-kept secrets in the entire state of Idaho. This massive state park has many places to explore with the kids: Kelton Trail, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, Malad Gorge, Billingsley Creek, Crystal Springs, Ritter Island, and Niagara Springs.
Get an up close view of the springs as thousands of gallons of water gush over the volcanic cliff faces below.This natural phenomenon flows from below the earth’s surface from an enormous underground aquifer, running below the Snake River Plain all the way from the Pioneer Mountains of central Idaho.