Cascading waterfalls, geologic wonders and superb hot springs are just a few of the Gem State’s many hidden wonders. You can explore them on your own, you just have to know where to look. Gear up for your next road trip with these nine Idaho attractions that will absolutely leave you speechless.
1. Mesa Falls
Start your journey with a stop at one of Idaho’s most unique natural attractions—Mesa Falls. Come and immerse yourself in the splendor of Idaho nature as you stand before the power of two towering waterfalls, Upper Mesa Falls and Lower Mesa Falls. As you behold the wonders at Henry’s Fork, witness the raw, natural beauty of water cascading 114 feet into the Snake River Canyon below.
Upper Mesa Falls stands 10 stories high, tumbling down a volcanic rock face left behind by an ancient super eruption. To check out the second waterfall, hop back in the car or take a short hike south about a mile to find Lower Mesa Falls. Discover a scenic walking path that leads to excellent viewpoints of both falls, then head to the Mesa Falls Visitor Center for fun exhibits on the area’s geology and history.
2. DeVoto Cedar Grove
Next on the list? Hop in the car and cruise the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway to DeVoto Cedar Grove. Here, visitors can wander through a forest of massive ancient western red cedar trees, some of which are thousands of years old and over 100 feet tall. Pack a lunch and take in the views of the trees and the Lochsa River as you explore the two loops at the Devoto Grove Picnic Area and Trailhead.
Note: The loop on the south side of the highway is paved and ADA-accessible.
3. Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs, a traveler’s oasis in southeast Idaho, draws visitors from all over to its world-famous hot pools. These iconic springs have been renowned for centuries, praised as the “healing waters” by the Shoshone–Bannock tribe for its restorative, mineral-rich wonders.
The geology of the region is fascinating, with fresh water rising from deep within the Earth, flowing on the edge of the Snake River plain, purified through ancient volcanic rock formations. Not only are the five pools filtered to bubbly perfection, but each pool is adjusted to a different temperature to suit any soaker. Plus, these hot pools are free of the sulfur smell you might find in other soaking locations.
This family-friendly destination offers a range of lodging to fit any budget, from hotels and camping to cozy bed and breakfasts. Top off your perfect soak in these natural hot springs with a rejuvenating massage. If you’re looking to cool off and let the kids burn a little energy, the Olympic Swimming Complex & Indoor Aquatic Center is just three blocks away and comes equipped with diving platforms, speed slides and picnic areas.
4. Shoshone Falls
The next waterfall stop on the list is Shoshone Falls. This booming giant boasts epic water flows in the spring and early summer months, with water plummeting 212 feet from the canyon rim—that makes this waterfall taller than Niagara Falls! Shoshone Falls Park offers a spectacular view of this cascading natural attraction and the winding Snake River Canyon. If you’ve got some time to spare, it’s also a great place to enjoy a picnic or explore canyon trails.
5. Perrine Coulee Falls
Located within the Snake River Canyon, Perrine Coulee Falls is another Idaho wonder worthy of your itinerary. This unique waterfall can be viewed in two ways: from the top of the canyon rim or up close with a short hike. The best part of taking the hiking route? The trail takes you right behind the falls—talk about a fresh new selfie! If you plan to spend the day exploring this trail and others in the Snake River Canyon, be sure to pack some water and a few snacks.
6. Blue Heart Springs
Set along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, Blue Heart Springs tempts paddleboarders and kayaking enthusiasts with its vibrant turquoise waters, where nature unveils its dazzling, jewel-toned beauty in all of its glory. Paddle up the Snake River to see the convergence of the Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve into the river before making your way through a small passage that opens up into the serene haven of Blue Heart Springs.
Bonus—stop on your way to visit other incredible natural attractions near Hagerman, experience the must-see Devil’s Washbowl at Thousand Springs State Park’s Malad Gorge unit.
7. Island Park
The spirit of fly-fishing thrives in the Teton Valley, an angler’s paradise renowned worldwide as a magical destination where fishing stories become legends. During your visit, cast your line at Island Park Reservoir on the Henry’s Fork River to reel in some rainbow trout and kokanee. Vacation-worthy wonders await in eastern Idaho.
8. St. Anthony Sand Dunes
Boasting 10,600 acres of clear, shifting white quartz sand, St. Anthony Sand Dunes is a sprawling sandbox of natural wonder. While you’re here, carve some turns on a sandboard, or explore the dunes on an ATV. If you’d like to stay overnight and sleep beneath the stars, tent camping and RV pads with services are also available.
9. Balanced Rock
The final stop on this show-stopping trip is one of Idaho’s most peculiar natural attractions. Weighing in at a whopping 40 tons and standing 48 feet tall, Balanced Rock is like nothing you’ve ever seen. This unusual spot is an excellent place to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic before returning to the road.
Updated on November 15, 2024
Published on February 16, 2018
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