Take a scenic road trip through Idaho’s stunning landscapes and unique geological wonders with this comprehensive Idaho travel guide. Follow along as we share how we spent two incredible weeks exploring the Gem State, complete with 12 unforgettable stops.
After spending an unforgettable nine days at Glacier National Park in Northern Montana, we pointed our truck toward a state we’d never visited before: Idaho! We had heard glowing reviews about everything from boating on Lake Coeur d’Alene and soaking in the crystal-clear waters of Redfish Lake, to exploring the massive 800,000-acre lava fields at Craters of the Moon National Monument. Needless to say, there is no shortage of incredible outdoor activities and natural beauty in Idaho.
We kicked off our road trip in late August, soaking up the warm summer weather across Northern Idaho before the autumn chill set in. Whether you are planning a quick weekend getaway or a full itinerary, Idaho is a destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list.
Idaho Itinerary at a Glance: 12 Unforgettable Stops
1. Route of the Hiawatha: Ride or e-bike through historic dark tunnels and across towering mountain trestles on this scenic rails-to-trails path.
2. Coeur d’Alene: Enjoy vibrant lakeside charm, sandy beaches, and incredible boating in Northern Idaho’s panhandle.
3. Goldbug Hot Springs: Hike into the canyon for a rewarding soak in natural, cliffside thermal pools near Salmon.
4. Craters of the Moon National Monument: Explore an otherworldly 800,000-acre volcanic lava field that feels like walking on another planet.
5. Sun Valley: Discover legendary alpine scenery, rich outdoor recreation, and historic mountain resort culture.
6. Ketchum: Experience the lively mountain town adjacent to Sun Valley, known for great food, arts, and Hemingway history.
7. Redfish Lake: Take in the breathtaking backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains mirrored in crystal-clear alpine waters.
8. Stanley: Base yourself in this rugged mountain outpost for incredible outdoor adventures in the heart of the Sawtooths.
9. Sawtooth Scenic Byway: Drive one of Idaho’s most breathtaking routes, winding past rivers, ranchlands, and jagged peaks.
11. Perrine Bridge: Watch BASE jumpers leap from this iconic 1,500-foot-long span high above the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls.
12. Shoshone Falls: Marvel at the stunning “Niagara of the West,” a massive cascading waterfall even taller than Niagara Falls.
1. Route of the Hiawatha Bike Trail
Pedaling across soaring mountain trestle bridges with sweeping views of the Bitterroot Mountains is a highlight of the Route of the Hiawatha trail.
Kicking off our Idaho road trip on the Route of the Hiawatha was hands down one of the most unforgettable outdoor adventures of our entire journey. Spanning 15 miles across the rugged Bitterroot Mountains along the Idaho-Montana border, this famous rails-to-trails path takes you right through the heart of historic mining country.
The Experience
Riding the Hiawatha means coasting through 10 dark, echoing train tunnels—including the massive 1.6-mile-long Taft Tunnel—and crossing 7 soaring mountain trestle bridges that sit high above the canyon floor. Because the entire trail has a gentle, downhill grade averaging about two percent, it makes for a fun and manageable ride.
Of course, what goes down must come back up! Since you ride downhill all the way to the end at Pearson, a convenient shuttle bus scoops you and your bikes back up to the top. However, if you are feeling extra adventurous like my husband & I, you can skip the shuttle and cycle the grueling 9-mile uphill climb back to the trailhead just like we did!
Quick Tips for RVers & Travelers
Trailhead & Ticket Location: Tickets and the main hub are located at Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area (Exit 0 off I-90), while the actual trail starting point is at the East Portal.
What to Bring: Even in late summer, the long tunnels are chilly (around 50°F) and dripping with water. Bring a good jacket and a reliable bicycle headlight or flashlight!
Tickets: You will need to purchase trail tickets and shuttle passes in advance online or at the pass.
If you want a complete breakdown of the trail history, tunnel tips, and bike rental logistics, head over to our detailed guide on riding the Route of the Hiawatha.
2. Coeur d’Alene
Bright red blooms frame the scenic waterfront views at the Coeur d’Alene resort marina.
After tackling the mountain trails, we headed west into the northern panhandle to experience the vibrant lakeside charm of Coeur d’Alene. Located in Northwest Idaho right near the Washington border, this city is named after a local Native American tribe and centers around a stunning 25-mile-long glacial lake.
Why It Stood Out to Us
Coeur d’Alene was genuinely one of our favorite stops in Idaho because it felt more like home (Florida) than any other place we’d visited on our trip. With clear blue skies, the familiar smell of sunscreen and gasoline, and the sound of boat engines and water hitting the docks, we were so surprised that a mountain town so close to Canada could carry such a tropical, coastal feel.
The Experience
We drove about 45 minutes in from the town of Osburn and spent a gorgeous day hanging out at McEuen Park, taking in the panoramic views, and watching seaplanes take off right from the water near the Buoy Bar & Grill.
Beyond relaxing by the shore, the area is famous for its incredible water recreation on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Some of the most popular things to do include playing a round of golf right on the shore at the renowned Coeur d’Alene Resort, walking the world’s longest floating boardwalk, and renting a boat to spend a sunny day out on the water. If you want a great land-based view, taking a short hike up Tubbs Hill along the lake edge is also a must.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Where to Stay: There are several great RV parks and campgrounds around the lake, making it an easy and scenic base camp.
Best Time to Visit: Late summer is ideal because the water is warm for swimming and boating, but the peak summer crowds have started to thin out.
Getting Around: You can easily park your vehicle and walk right from the downtown shopping and dining district straight down to the public beaches and marina.
If you find yourself anywhere near Northern Idaho, definitely check out Coeur d’Alene!
3. Goldbug Hot Springs
Soaking in the natural thermal pools at Goldbug Hot Springs—easily one of the best views in Idaho.
Stepping away from the lakes and shifting deep into central Idaho’s rugged backcountry, our next major stop was Goldbug Hot Springs near Salmon. If you love a rewarding adventure that blends a great mountain hike with natural relaxation, this spot is an absolute must-add to your itinerary.
The Experience
Located off Highway 93 near the small community of Elk Bend, Goldbug requires a bit of legwork—clocking in at roughly a 4-mile round-trip hike with about 900 feet of elevation gain. The trail starts out winding through open sagebrush hills before climbing more steeply into a rocky canyon.
The payoff at the end is completely worth every step. The hot springs consist of multiple terraced, rock-and-boulder-lined pools fed by natural thermal water cascading down over scenic waterfalls. Sitting in the warm, crystal-clear water while looking out over panoramic views of the Lemhi County mountains and the Salmon River valley below is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Quick Tips for Travelers
The Terrain: The final stretch gets steep and rocky, so make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes rather than casual walking shoes.
What to Pack: Bring plenty of water for the climb, a packable towel, and your swimsuit.
Timing: Because it’s one of the premier natural hot springs in Idaho, it is a popular spot. Hitting the trail early in the morning helps you beat the midday heat and secure a good spot in the pools.
If you want a full breakdown of the trail logistics, what to pack, and tips on navigating the steep climb, check out our complete guide onhiking to Goldbug Hot Springs.
4. Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
Exploring the otherworldly lava fields and cinder cone views on a 1-day trip to Craters of the Moon.
Leaving the rugged mountain canyons behind, our next stop felt like we had literally been launched into outer space. Spanning an incredible 800,000 acres across the high desert of central Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is a vast ocean of ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and deep volcanic fissures.
The Experience
Driving the 7-mile Loop Road gives you front-row access to some of the most surreal geological landscapes in the country. The landscape is a stark, fascinating mix of jagged black basalt, spatter cones, and surprisingly resilient desert plants struggling to grow out of the volcanic rock.
We loved exploring the walking trails and stepping down into the dark, cool depths of some of the park’s famous lava tube caves (like Dewdrop Cave or Indian Tunnel), which require a quick flashlight scramble. Walking across the black lava rock under the wide-open Idaho sky is an unforgettable experience that completely redefines what you expect out of a desert landscape.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Visitor Center Start: Stop by the visitor center first to grab a map, check trail status, and see if you need a free permit to explore the underground lava tube caves.
Footwear Matters: The volcanic rock is razor-sharp and abrasive. Leave the soft sneakers at home and wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with thick soles.
Sun Protection: There is very little shade on the lava flows. Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are absolute essentials, especially if you visit during the warmer afternoon hours.
If you are curious about the volcanic history of this otherworldly landscape and want a full walkthrough of the best trails and cave explorations, check out our complete guide onexploring Craters of the Moon National Monument.
5. Sun Valley
Strolling through the colorful, flower-lined pathways across the Sun Valley Resort property in late summer.
Moving from the volcanic high desert into the stunning Wood River Valley, our next stop brought us to the legendary alpine paradise of Sun Valley. As America’s very first destination ski resort—established back in 1936—this iconic mountain town is steeped in rich history while offering world-class outdoor recreation year-round.
The Experience
Surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Smoky Mountains, Sun Valley is a dream for anyone who loves crisp mountain air, pristine alpine scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Even outside of ski season, the area offers incredible paved multi-use trails for biking, gorgeous open meadows, and a vibrant community atmosphere. We loved soaking in the historic charm of the village, exploring the grounds of the famous Sun Valley Lodge, and taking in the sweeping views of Bald Mountain towering overhead.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Getting Around: The area is extremely pedestrian- and bike-friendly, with great paved pathways connecting Sun Valley directly to neighboring Ketchum.
Best Time to Visit: Late summer and early autumn bring gorgeous cooler weather, golden fall foliage, and much quieter trails for hiking and cycling.
Where to Stay: There are plenty of upscale resort amenities, vacation rentals, and nearby campgrounds if you are traveling with an RV or trailer.
6. Ketchum
Enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and drinks under the covered patio bar at Warfield Distillery in downtown Ketchum.
Right next door to Sun Valley sits Ketchum, a vibrant, historic mountain town that serves as the energetic heartbeat of the Wood River Valley. While Sun Valley leans into its resort-village elegance, Ketchum brings an authentic, rugged mountain-town culture filled with great food, local art galleries, and a fascinating literary history.
The Experience
Ketchum is deeply intertwined with the legacy of author Ernest Hemingway, who spent his final years here writing, hunting, and fishing. You can visit landmarks like the Hemingway Memorial or pay your respects at his gravesite in the local cemetery.
Beyond the history, this is a wonderful place to spend a sunny summer day outside enjoying local cuisine and the lively mountain atmosphere. If you’re looking for great food and drinks during your visit, definitely check out Warfield Distillery and Glow Cafe. After grabbing a bite, you can wander through the walkable downtown core, browse local outdoor outfitters, and soak up the culture.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Dining & Shopping: Give yourself an afternoon just to wander downtown on foot and sample the local culinary scene.
Trail Access: You can hop straight onto the regional bike path system from town to pedal over to Sun Valley or further down the valley.
Stargazing: Ketchum and the surrounding valley sit within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, making the night skies here some of the clearest and darkest in the entire country.
7. Redfish Lake
Taking in the stunning blue waters and towering Sawtooth mountain views along the shoreline of Redfish Lake.
Leaving the Wood River Valley behind, we journeyed into the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area to reach what is easily one of the most stunning alpine settings in the West: Redfish Lake. Framed by the dramatic, jagged granite peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, this crystal-clear glacial lake completely stole our hearts.
The Experience
Redfish Lake is an absolute paradise for outdoor lovers. The water glimmers with a deep, clear blue, and on a calm morning, the towering jagged peaks mirror off the surface like glass. We spent our time relaxing on the sandy shores, walking the lakeside trails, and soaking in the sheer scale of the surrounding wilderness. If you have time to get out on the water, renting a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon boat from the marina is one of the best ways to experience the lake from a new angle.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Where to Stay: There are phenomenal campgrounds right around Redfish Lake and along the Salmon River corridor, making it an incredible spot to park an RV or pitch a tent for a few nights.
The Lodge & Dining: Stop by the historic Redfish Lake Lodge to grab a drink or a bite to eat on the lawn while taking in the iconic view of the lake framed by Mount Heyburn.
Wildlife & Hiking: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and check out the trailhead options nearby if you want to venture deeper into the Sawtooth backcountry.
8. Stanley
Grabbing a delicious bite outside the rustic log-style storefront of Stanley Baking Company & Cafe.
Just a few minutes down the road from Redfish Lake sits Stanley, a small, rugged mountain outpost that feels like stepping straight into an old Western frontier movie. With a permanent population of fewer than 100 people, Stanley punches way above its weight class when it comes to jaw-dropping scenery and authentic wilderness charm.
The Experience
Flanked by the towering Sawtooth Range on one side and the Salmon River on the other, Stanley is the ultimate base camp for outdoor adventure. We loved strolling down the historic main street, popping into local shops, and taking in the unobstructed, front-row views of the jagged peaks rising directly behind the town buildings. Be sure to stop at Stanley Baking Company & Cafe for some great coffee and breakfast to fuel up before your adventures. It has a slow-paced, remote mountain vibe that makes you want to immediately unplug and stay awhile.
Quick Tips for Travelers
River Adventures: The Upper Salmon River runs right past town, making Stanley a premier hub for whitewater rafting and fly-fishing.
Gas & Supplies: Because Stanley is quite remote, make sure to top off your fuel tank and grab any essential provisions before heading into the deeper backcountry.
Night Skies: Like much of central Idaho, Stanley’s lack of light pollution offers some of the most phenomenal stargazing you will ever witness.
9. Sawtooth Scenic Byway
Taking in the breathtaking panoramic mountain views from the Galena Overlook along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway.
Leaving the high mountain air of the Sawtooths behind, our next stretch of the journey took us along the breathtaking Sawtooth Scenic Byway. Spanning roughly 116 miles along Highway 75, this designated All-American Road traces the path of the Big Wood River and links the rugged mountain wilderness of central Idaho down through the rolling foothills.
The Experience
Driving this byway feels like watching a grand geographic documentary unfold right through your windshield. Starting from the alpine heights near Stanley and winding down past Alturas Lake, Ketchum, and Hailey, the landscape constantly transforms. You transition from jagged granite peaks and dense pine forests into wide-open grassy valleys, ranch lands, and rolling hills. We loved pulling over at the various scenic turnouts to snap photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and watch the changing light play across the valley walls.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Plan for PULL-OFFS: There are numerous historical markers and scenic viewpoints along Highway 75. Give yourself extra driving time so you can safely pull over whenever a view catches your eye.
Wildlife Watch: This corridor is a major highway for local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and even raptors soaring overhead, especially during the morning and evening hours.
Fuel & Logistics: While there are plenty of amenities in towns like Stanley and Ketchum, the stretches in between are wonderfully remote. Check your tank before heading out on the full route.
10. Bruneau Dunes State Park
Standing on the crest of North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune gives you an incredible sense of scale over the sprawling desert basin.
Transitioning completely from alpine peaks and rivers, our next stop brought us into a startling and dramatic desert oasis: Bruneau Dunes State Park. Located in southwestern Idaho, this park features the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, rising a staggering 470 feet above the surrounding desert floor.
The Experience
Stepping onto the sand at Bruneau Dunes feels like you’ve been instantly teleported to the Sahara. The immense, wind-sculpted hills of sand frame two lovely desert lakes, creating a surreal contrast of towering dunes, shimmering water, and wide-open skies. We loved climbing up the ridge of the dunes to take in the sweeping desert vistas, watching the wind ripple patterns across the sand, and exploring the unique desert ecosystem.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Beat the Heat: If you are visiting during the warmer months, the sand gets intensely hot. Plan your dune climbs for early morning or late evening, and bring plenty of water.
The Observatory: Be sure to check out the Bruneau Dunes Observatory located right in the park. It features a massive public telescope and is a phenomenal spot for stargazing thanks to the dark skies.
Campground Setup: The park offers great developed RV and tent campsites right near the lakes, making it a peaceful and unique place to spend the night under the stars.
If you want a full guide on hiking the giant dunes, visiting the observatory, and tips for camping in the desert, check out our complete guide on exploring Bruneau Dunes State Park.
11. Perrine Bridge
Looking out over the dramatic canyon walls and the Snake River from the Perrine Bridge viewpoint in Twin Falls.
Leaving the quiet desert sands behind, our next stop brought us right into Twin Falls for one of the most visually stunning and adrenaline-pumping engineering marvels in the state: the Perrine Bridge. Spanning the dramatic, sheer-walled canyon of the Snake River, this massive four-lane truss arch bridge sits almost 500 feet above the rushing water below.
The Experience
Walking across the pedestrian sidewalk of the Perrine Bridge offers a breathtaking—and slightly dizzying—perspective of the Snake River Canyon. Not only is it an incredible spot to take in the sweeping views of the canyon walls and the blue river cutting through the basalt, but it is also one of the only bridges in the United States where BASE jumping is legal year-round without a permit. We loved standing out on the walkway watching colorful parachutes blossom as jumpers leaped from the center span down toward the river below.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Visitor Center Stop: Right next to the bridge, you’ll find the Twin Falls Visitor Center, which has fantastic walking paths leading to the canyon rim and great interpretive exhibits.
Catch the Action: Head out onto the pedestrian walkways in the late morning or afternoon when jumper activity is highest, or stick around for golden hour when the canyon walls glow in the sunlight.
Safety & Wind: Because the bridge sits so high above the canyon, it can get quite windy. Bring a light jacket even on warm days.
12. Shoshone Falls
The breathtaking scale and roaring power of Shoshone Falls, known as the Niagara of the West.
For the grand finale of our Idaho road trip, we headed just a few miles down the road from Twin Falls to witness one of the most magnificent natural spectacles in the American West: Shoshone Falls. Often affectionately called the “Niagara of the West,” these roaring waterfalls drop an astonishing 212 feet—making them actually taller than Niagara Falls!
The Experience
Hearing the thunderous roar of the water before you even fully see it sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. As you walk out to the rim overlooks, the sheer power and scale of the Snake River plunging over the 900-foot-wide basalt horseshoe cliff is breathtaking. We loved taking our time wandering the paved rim trails, catching the mist on a warm afternoon, and watching the sunlight create shimmering rainbows in the spray. It was the ultimate, awe-inspiring note to cap off our 12-stop Idaho adventure.
Quick Tips for Travelers
Timing Your Visit: Springtime (April through May) offers the highest and most thunderous water flow due to mountain snowmelt. By late summer, flows are controlled for irrigation, though the falls are still stunning.
Park Amenities: The surrounding Shoshone Falls Park features great grassy picnic areas, walking paths, and scenic overlooks equipped with viewing scopes.
Entry Fee: There is a small per-vehicle entry fee during peak seasons, so it’s a good idea to keep a few dollars or a card handy.
Wrapping Up Your Ultimate Idaho Road Trip
Wrapping up an unforgettable Idaho road trip with relaxing mountain views along the shores of Redfish Lake.
From the historic rails of the northern panhandle and crystal-clear mountain lakes to the volcanic fields of the high desert and the roaring mists of Shoshone Falls, Idaho is a state of breathtaking contrasts. Whether you are navigating a truck and travel trailer through winding mountain passes, pulling off for a quick slice of local pie, or stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country, an Idaho road trip delivers an unforgettable mix of rugged wilderness and warm hospitality.
Which of these 12 stops are you adding to your travel itinerary first? Have you already explored any of these hidden gems along the way? Drop a comment below and share your favorite Idaho memories!
Planning a trip through Idaho? Check out these other Idaho adventures and travel guides to help you discover more of the state’s scenic trails, outdoor activities, and hidden gems.
Dee
