Map view
Johnny Sack Cabin, Big Springs
- The Johnny Sack Cabin is a historic log bungalow located at Big Springs near Island Park
- Built between 1932 and 1934, it is recognized as a landmark in the area, featuring unique architectural elements and handmade furniture created by Sack himself
- Johnny Sack also built a water wheel to harness the power of the springs, allowing him to generate electricity for the cabin
- The cabin now serves as a visitor center for the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and the Big Springs Recreation Area
Boise Greenbelt
Best time to visit: March-May
- The Boise River Greenbelt is a scenic and recreational pathway that stretches approximately 25 miles along the banks of the Boise River in Boise, where it serves as a vital connection between various parks and natural areas
- The Greenbelt is designed for both pedestrians and cyclists, providing a multi-use trail
- The pathway is lined with trees and offers views of the river
- Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including songbirds, ducks, Canada geese, and bald eagles, particularly during early morning or late afternoon
- The Greenbelt provides access to numerous restaurants, wineries, coffee shops, and parks
Old Idaho Penitentiary, Boise
Best time to visit: March-May
- The Old Idaho Penitentiary, located east of Boise, is a historic site that served as a functional prison from 1872 to 1973
- Built in 1870, it is one of only four territorial prisons in the United States that are open to the public today
- During its operation, the penitentiary housed over 13,000 inmates and was known for its distinctive architecture
- The facility included various structures such as cell blocks, solitary confinement areas, and even a gallows
- After closing due to a major riot in 1973, the site was preserved and is now managed by the Idaho State Historical Society
Kirkham Hot Springs, Boise National Forest
- Kirkham Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in the Boise National Forest, east of Lowman
- It is situated alongside the South Fork Payette River, at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet
- Kirkham Hot Springs features several natural hot pools, which are surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and wooded areas
- The springs provide an environment for relaxation, enhanced by the sounds of cascading water from nearby waterfalls
#19 in Best Attractions in the USA
Mesa Falls, Caribou-Targhee National Forest
- Mesa Falls is a natural attraction located near Ashton, featuring two prominent waterfalls: Upper Mesa Falls and Lower Mesa Falls
- Upper Mesa Falls is drops about 114 feet over volcanic rock remnants from an ancient super-eruption, which creates a thunderous cascade that can be viewed from various vantage points, including a visitor center that provides access to trails leading to the falls
- Lower Mesa Falls, located downstream, offers a different perspective and is also accessible via scenic overlooks
Lake Coeur d'Alene
- Lake Coeur d'Alene is a natural lake located in northern Idaho
- The lake was formed during the last Ice Age and is surrounded by forested mountains
- The lake serves as a recreational hub, offering a variety of water sports and outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming
Tubbs Hill, Coeur d'Alene
- Tubbs Hill is a natural park located in Coeur d'Alene, bordered by Lake Coeur d'Alene
- It features several miles of hiking trails, offering scenic views
- The area is known for its forested areas and rocky outcrops, as well as swimming opportunities
#10 in Best Easy Hikes in the USA
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
- Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a geological area located in southern Idaho
- It features a dramatic landscape of lava flows, cinder cones, and sagebrush, created by volcanic activity over the past 15,000 to 2,000 years
- The region is characterized by a variety of trails, caves, and scenic overlooks along a 7-mile Loop Road
- The monument was formed during eight major eruptive periods, primarily from the Great Rift, a series of deep cracks that extend for about 52 miles
Lava Hot Springs (Thermal Mineral Springs)
- Lava Hot Springs is located in southeastern Idaho, where it is famous for its natural geothermal hot springs
- The springs are known for their mineral-rich waters, which bubble up from underground sources and are free from sulfur odors
- In addition to the hot springs, visitors can enjoy various facilities, including indoor swimming pools, water slides, and diving platforms
Shoshone Falls
- Shoshone Falls is a waterfall located on the Snake River, northeast of Twin Falls
- It is renowned for its height of 212 feet (about 65 meters) and a width of 900 feet, making it one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States
- The falls are 45 feet taller than Niagara Falls, which has earned it the nickname "Niagara of the West"
- The falls are particularly noted for their beauty during the spring when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt
Sun Valley
Best time to visit: Jan-Feb, June-Sept, Dec
- Sun Valley is a resort city located in Blaine County, renowned as one of the premier ski destinations in the United States
- The city is part of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, making it a great spot for stargazing
- Historically, Sun Valley attracted many celebrities and elite athletes, contributing to its reputation as a luxurious getaway
- Today, it continues to be a destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and summer visitors looking for hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventures
#22 in Best Ski Resorts in the World
#13 in Best Ski Resorts in the USA