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Two people walk along the Pend d'Oreille Bay Trail in Sandpoint Idaho.

Finding Fall Colors in Sandpoint

Cooler temps, shorter days and the shifting of green to golden yellows, deep oranges and auburns usher in the calm after the busy summer season in Sandpoint. Autumn means uncrowded trails, colorful scenic drives, and the perfect weather for fitting in your last hikes before the chill of winter sets in.

Man climbs Gibson Jack Loop on mountain bike outside Pocatello Idaho.

Fall Mountain Biking Spots Around Pocatello

Those who know, know Pocatello. If Idaho’s mountain biking scene has a secret handshake, Pocatello is it. Situated in a narrow wedge of valley between the Bannock and Portneuf ranges on the Snake River plain and wedged between better-known destinations in Sun Valley and the Wasatch, the riding in one of Idaho’s largest cities remains an open secret, even to locals.

A view of the Kootenai River surrounded by fall colors across Bonners Ferry.

Where to Find Fall Colors in Bonners Ferry

The northern reaches of the great state of Idaho host some of the most pristine lands this beautiful state encompasses. During the autumn months this verdant paradise transforms into nothing short of a Rembrandt painting bursting with vibrance.

A view of the lush and scenic landscapes at Quail Hollow Golf Course.

6 Southwest Idaho Golf Courses to Play This Fall

Embarking on a golfing escapade in Idaho promises an exhilarating and downright fun experience for golf enthusiasts! Southwest Idaho unveils a smorgasbord of golf courses set amidst jaw-dropping landscapes, from the majestic mountains to serene valleys and crystal-clear lakes.

A sprawling field of purple wildflowers at Farragut State Park.

Ranger Talks: Farragut State Park

This gorgeous 4,000-acre park sits on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho. But did you know it was once a World War II-era naval training station? Get the scoop on what to see and do at this park from Park Ranger Mykayla Nations.

Two people riding mountain bikes down a trail in McCall lined with tall brush and trees with fall foliage.

6 Fall Mountain Biking Rides for Striking Fall Colors

Riding bikes and playing in the leaves: two of the giddiest joys of childhood that, when combined, make fall the best season for mountain biking. (It’s just science.) Throughout Idaho, the cooler weather, smaller crowds and perfect autumn dirt set the stage for a final victory lap before winter.

A person on a mountain bike rides a dirt trail that cuts through heavy foliage on Canfield Mountain.

A Guide to Finding Spectacular Fall Colors Around Coeur d’Alene

Autumn anywhere in Idaho is a beautiful sight, but in Coeur d’Alene, one of the jewels of northern Idaho and surely the most popular northern Idaho destination, Autumn is an especially gorgeous spectacle. Trees lining the shores of pristine Lake Coeur d’Alene burst with color and the mountainsides glow with tamarack and deciduous trees alike.

A family sits on a variety of boulders overlooking the valley at Mores Mountain.

5 Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Boise to Explore This Fall

Fall in Boise is incredible and it’s the ideal time of year for this destination to show off its natural beauty. There are so many ways to view the changing foliage and enjoy the cooler temperatures, but what better way than getting out on the trail with your family?

A woman and child approach a developed hot spring pool from a landscaped path.

4 Can’t-Miss Hot Spring Spots in Southeast Idaho

Southeast Idaho is a hot bed of hot spring locations. From family-friendly and full of fun, to relaxing and tranquil, these hot springs offer something for every kind of hot spring enthusiast. Whether you're seeking a bustling small town with multiple pools and amenities like Lava Hot Springs or a secluded and tranquil experience like Maple Grove Hot Springs, southeast Idaho has something to cater to every taste.

Aerial view of Indian Creek Bay at Priest Lake, surrounded by forest in Priest Lake State Park.

Ranger Talks: Priest Lake State Park

Located in the Selkirk Mountains and just 30 miles from the Canadian, Priest Lake State Park showcases the natural and rugged beauty of northern Idaho. Park Rangers Kyle and Christine Briggs share their tips and tricks for visiting this park.

A fly fisherman standing in a river releases a steelhead back into the water.

Fishing for Idaho’s Iconic Steelhead

Referred to as “mariners and mountaineers,” steelhead often climb more than 6,000 vertical feet and travel more than 900 miles during their life-long roundtrips from Idaho’s rivers to the ocean and back again. Connecting with an Idaho steelhead, notoriously powerful, uniquely designed for the wildest terrain in the Lower 48 and unfortunately increasingly difficult to catch, is the experience of a lifetime for many anglers.  A beautiful wild steelhead ready to be released.

Four people on horseback riding in a single file line on a dirt trail surrounded by forest in Harriman State Park.

The 7 Best Summer Activities to Do in Eastern Idaho

Eastern Idaho is a perfect summer destination for any adventure lover. From excursions out on the water, to magnificent sand dunes, to hikes up in the gorgeous Teton Valley, there is something to do for everyone!

a car driving past a grassy area with a creek winding through it, beside a mountain covered with trees

Ride the Caribou Loop Trail in Southeast Idaho

Accelerate your adventure in Idaho by off-roading on the Caribou Loop Trail (CLT). Located in southeast Idaho and western Wyoming, this 200-mile trail offers OHV & ATV riders, all-terrain enthusiasts and those who fall somewhere in between a memorable outdoor activity to explore.

a bridge crossing a reservoir with mountains in the background

Ranger Talks: Lucky Peak State Park

Made up of three unique park units, Lucky Peak State Park just outside of Boise offers a variety of ways to recreate. Learn how to make the most of a visit to this park from Park Ranger Bri Ford.

WOman hikes through wildflowers on mountain side.

Backpacking the Seven Devils Loop Trail

The Seven Devils Mountains sit on the east side of Hells Canyon Wilderness, which covers 218,000 acres of rugged terrain between Idaho and Oregon. The landscape varies between verdant meadows, craggy peaks and talus fields, but solitude is the one constant you’ll find here.

A small child sitting on a raft on the banks of the Boise River eating a sandwich.

The Ultimate Guide to Floating the Boise River With Kids

The Boise River offers an incredible opportunity for families to enjoy a day of both adventure and relaxation together in Boise. Floating the Boise River with kids is the perfect way to create lasting memories as a family and beat the summer heat.

Try This Hidden Waterfall Hike near Mackay

Tucked away in central Idaho’s rugged and rocky Lost River Range is a can’t-miss waterfall trek. Lower Cedar Creek Trail, near Mackay, serves up a three-mile, out-and-back hike with smack-you-in-the-face views, a dazzling mountain stream and a waterfall overlook where you can while away the day.

Breathtaking views on Copper Falls.

Spend a Day Exploring the Old World Charm of Bonners Ferry

The lovely town of Bonners Ferry sits less than 30 miles from the border of Canada and serves as the gateway to northern Idaho. Often a stopover for travelers coming from Canada and Montana, Bonners Ferry is a visual delight with the Kootenai River flanking the city and undulating mountain peaks in the distance.

Idaho's Bruneau Dunes State Park

Ranger Talks: Bruneau Dunes State Park

Home to North America's tallest single-structured sand dune, Bruneau Dunes State Park is full of surprises. Here's what you need to know about visiting this park from Park Ranger Brad Normand.

A woman riding a bike on a paved path with trees lining each side on the Boise River Greenbelt.

10 Must-Visit Stops Along the Boise Greenbelt

Katie Williams worked in partnership to create this Travel Tip. Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Boise? Then you must check out the popular tree-lined Boise River Greenbelt! This 25-mile scenic pathway, most commonly referred to as just the Greenbelt or Boise Greenbelt, stretches through downtown Boise and embraces approximately 850 acres of parks and natural habitats along the Boise River.

Water runs down three different rock faces creating a multi-tiered waterfall.

Try These Accessible Hiking Trails Near Sun Valley

Scott Marchant worked in partnership with Visit Idaho to create this Travel Tip. If you are visiting the beautiful Wood River Valley, home to Sun Valley, Ketchum, and Hailey, you are likely there to experience the great outdoors.

People paddleboarding and kayak near a waterfall at Ritter Island in Thousand Springs State Park.

Ranger Talks: Thousand Springs State Park

Six stunning park units make up southern Idaho's sprawling Thousand Springs State Park. With abundant waterfalls and wildlife, and just a dash of history, this park is sure to delight. Here's what you need to know about visiting this park from Park Ranger Brett Copperi.