If you’re anything like us, you’ve likely searched “day trips near me in Idaho.” With Idaho’s diverse landscape and seemingly endless miles of back-country roads, it’s no surprise to learn that just about any road trip you take in our gorgeous panhandled state is going to make for an incredible trip (and require a somewhat lengthy trek). These wild and unique excursions throughout the Gem State will lead you to some of the most unforgettable and historic places in our slice of paradise. Of course, because of the amount of drive time, it might be wise to break each of them up with an overnight stay or two so that you can fully drink in the stunning beauty around you, and take advantage of all of the hidden gems you’re sure to discover.
To view the interactive Google Map of each mapped trip in a separate tab or window, simply click on the title or use the link beneath each map photo.
- Travel the Magruder Corridor
Aaron/Flickr Historic, remote, and beautifully back-country, this rugged corridor crosses not only the wilderness mountains of Idaho, but cuts through a few sleepy, quiet towns as well. You’ll find yourself overlooking the glory Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness in a relatively unexplored portion of Idaho near the Montana border. Magruder Corridor Road, Magruder Corridor Rd, United States
- Take a Fall Foliage Road Trip
Google Map
Stan Peterson/Flickr The east coast gets all of the glory when it comes to fabulous fall colors, but Idaho knows how to rock the rich hues of autumn just as vibrantly if you know where to look. While a fall road trip isn’t exactly a year-round possibility, this is one spectacular, photo-worthy, and family-friendly trip to look forward to until it the seasons change a few more times. And while you’re up in Idaho’s Panhandle… be sure to check out the town of Wallace or take a ride on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes for even more spectacular colors!
- Explore the International Selkirk Loop
Antoine 49/Flickr Rated one of the Top 10 most scenic drives in the Northwest and the only multi-state, multi-country road trip in the US. Multiple scenic byways, some of the most picturesque mountain views in the state, and plenty of waterfront beauty makes this road trip one you’ll never forget. International Selkirk Loop, 6373 Bonner St, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA
- Sightsee at Idaho’s Greatest Natural Wonders
Google Map
katie wheeler/Flickr From towering waterfalls to the deepest river canyon in the country, Idaho is full of spectacular sights–far too many to weave into one road trip! We’ve done our best to hit some of the highlights in this cross-Idaho trip. Add in a few detours and photo ops along the way and you have the perfect spring vacation!
- Take the Road to Nowhere
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr We’ve all thought at one time or another that we live “in the middle of nowhere.” This unique road trip actually takes you into nowhere, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
- Brave One of Idaho’s Most Haunted Road Trips
Weiser Museum/Facebook Idaho isn’t known for its widespread paranormal activity, but these places have gained quite a reputation for spooky happenings. For even more haunted goodness, check out our additional stops here and here.
- Take a Top-Rated National Geographic Road Trip
Miguel Vieria/Flickr When National Geographic set out to name the 500 best road trips of all time, naturally, a journey through Idaho had to make the list. This easy “culture” trip is deigned to take travelers through the “heart” of Idaho–from Boise to Sun Valley.
- The Southern Idaho Waterfalls Road Trip
Google Map
Steve Glauner/Idaho Only/Facebook There’s nothing southern Idahoans love more than surprising friends and family with all of the rich and unexpected beauty that the Snake River Canyon and surrounding desert landscape has to offer. Few people realize just how blessed the lower half of the state is with glorious waterfalls, some of which can only be hiked to. Pay close attention to the details on this one, because there are dozens more gorgeous cascades to see that can’t be mapped!
- The Eastern Idaho Waterfalls Road Trip
Google Map Short and sweet but worth every mile, on this road trip to some of Eastern Idaho’s best falls, you’ll have the opportunity to see Idaho from a whole new perspective… literally.
- Explore the Historic Mullan Road
Charles W. Bash/Flickr This scenic journey through Northern Idaho meanders across a fantastic landscape that was once thought to be impenetrable by all except one man: John Mullan. While the original road remains a great mystery that stretches far beyond Idaho’s borders, portions of the road can be followed along I-90 and its outskirts, creating a fantastic and rugged journey across the Panhandle that offers plenty of insight into Idaho’s history.
- The Central Idaho Waterfalls Road Trip
Google Map In Central Idaho’s rugged, mountainous wilderness, literally dozens of waterfalls of every size are tucked away in the hidden recesses of the landscape. While our most grueling road trip in terms of stamina, this challenging trip is only the starting point to what you’ll find once you begin exploring outside the map.
- The Northern Idaho Waterfalls Road Trip
Google Map Idaho’s Panhandle is a truly magical land that boasts endless rivers, lakes, and waterfalls tucked within its woodsy depths. With so much natural beauty, this is our longest and most expansive trip yet. Determined waterfall-hoppers will be rewarded with some towering cascades that are truly inspiring, however.
- Get Lost in Idaho’s Tunnel of Trees
Mark Kent/Flickr Winding through McCroskey State Park, one of our state’s most overlooked state parks, is a unique tunnel of trees that is the very definition of peaceful. Perfectly idyllic year-round, this is one of the best weekend drives to get a beautiful, uncrowded view of the Palouse, or to turn into an extended camping vacation. Mary M. McCroskey State Park, Farmington, ID 99128, USA
We hope we’ve provided at least a few ideas for the next time you’re wondering, “what are some scenic day trips near me in Idaho?” If you’ve ever taken any of these trips or have your own to share, please do! And don’t forget to tag those photos as well!
Aaron/Flickr
Historic, remote, and beautifully back-country, this rugged corridor crosses not only the wilderness mountains of Idaho, but cuts through a few sleepy, quiet towns as well. You’ll find yourself overlooking the glory Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness in a relatively unexplored portion of Idaho near the Montana border.
Magruder Corridor Road, Magruder Corridor Rd, United States
Google Map
Stan Peterson/Flickr
The east coast gets all of the glory when it comes to fabulous fall colors, but Idaho knows how to rock the rich hues of autumn just as vibrantly if you know where to look. While a fall road trip isn’t exactly a year-round possibility, this is one spectacular, photo-worthy, and family-friendly trip to look forward to until it the seasons change a few more times. And while you’re up in Idaho’s Panhandle… be sure to check out the town of Wallace or take a ride on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes for even more spectacular colors!
Antoine 49/Flickr
Rated one of the Top 10 most scenic drives in the Northwest and the only multi-state, multi-country road trip in the US. Multiple scenic byways, some of the most picturesque mountain views in the state, and plenty of waterfront beauty makes this road trip one you’ll never forget.
International Selkirk Loop, 6373 Bonner St, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA
katie wheeler/Flickr
From towering waterfalls to the deepest river canyon in the country, Idaho is full of spectacular sights–far too many to weave into one road trip! We’ve done our best to hit some of the highlights in this cross-Idaho trip. Add in a few detours and photo ops along the way and you have the perfect spring vacation!
Bureau of Land Management/Flickr
We’ve all thought at one time or another that we live “in the middle of nowhere.” This unique road trip actually takes you into nowhere, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Weiser Museum/Facebook
Idaho isn’t known for its widespread paranormal activity, but these places have gained quite a reputation for spooky happenings. For even more haunted goodness, check out our additional stops here and here.
Miguel Vieria/Flickr
When National Geographic set out to name the 500 best road trips of all time, naturally, a journey through Idaho had to make the list. This easy “culture” trip is deigned to take travelers through the “heart” of Idaho–from Boise to Sun Valley.
Steve Glauner/Idaho Only/Facebook
There’s nothing southern Idahoans love more than surprising friends and family with all of the rich and unexpected beauty that the Snake River Canyon and surrounding desert landscape has to offer. Few people realize just how blessed the lower half of the state is with glorious waterfalls, some of which can only be hiked to. Pay close attention to the details on this one, because there are dozens more gorgeous cascades to see that can’t be mapped!
Short and sweet but worth every mile, on this road trip to some of Eastern Idaho’s best falls, you’ll have the opportunity to see Idaho from a whole new perspective… literally.
Charles W. Bash/Flickr
This scenic journey through Northern Idaho meanders across a fantastic landscape that was once thought to be impenetrable by all except one man: John Mullan. While the original road remains a great mystery that stretches far beyond Idaho’s borders, portions of the road can be followed along I-90 and its outskirts, creating a fantastic and rugged journey across the Panhandle that offers plenty of insight into Idaho’s history.
In Central Idaho’s rugged, mountainous wilderness, literally dozens of waterfalls of every size are tucked away in the hidden recesses of the landscape. While our most grueling road trip in terms of stamina, this challenging trip is only the starting point to what you’ll find once you begin exploring outside the map.
Idaho’s Panhandle is a truly magical land that boasts endless rivers, lakes, and waterfalls tucked within its woodsy depths. With so much natural beauty, this is our longest and most expansive trip yet. Determined waterfall-hoppers will be rewarded with some towering cascades that are truly inspiring, however.
Mark Kent/Flickr
Winding through McCroskey State Park, one of our state’s most overlooked state parks, is a unique tunnel of trees that is the very definition of peaceful. Perfectly idyllic year-round, this is one of the best weekend drives to get a beautiful, uncrowded view of the Palouse, or to turn into an extended camping vacation.
Mary M. McCroskey State Park, Farmington, ID 99128, USA
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The OIYS Visitor Center
day trips near me in Idaho September 02, 2021 Beth C. What is the most scenic drive in Idaho? If you’re someone who appreciates a good road trip, we have just the destination in mind. So load up the car, pack plenty of snacks, and prepare to embark on one of the region’s most stunning drives. The International Selkirk Loop belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list. Marked by breathtaking natural landscapes and a diversity of scenery, this drive is one that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. It will take about seven days to complete; however, every mile is loaded with scenery. And the coolest part of all is that this route travels into Canada (hence the “International” distinction in the name). Traveling through small towns and beautiful stretches of rural regions, this drive has a little something for everyone. Learn more about the International Selkirk Loop and why it’s considered to be one of the most scenic drives in America. What are some fun things to do in Idaho? If you’re scouting out some unique adventures in Idaho, it’s best to figure out where the locals go. Fortunately, we’ve done most of this work for you, so you can experience Idaho as a true local. Some of these fun things to do in Idaho include Sportsman Park, a trip to the underwater town of Roosevelt, Winchester Lake State Park, Owyhee Canyonlands, the town of Weiser, Lilly Lake, Salmon River Lodge Resort, Black Magic Canyon, Box Canyon Springs, Trail Creek Cabin, and Independence Point. This last destination is particularly interesting, as it’s a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty! Learn more about how you can experience Idaho as the locals do. What should I put on my Idaho bucket list? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor of the Gem State, you’ll find there are several attractions and adventures that are bucket-list-worthy. Some of these things include Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park, enjoying pie from Trudy’s Kitchen in Idaho City, the Silver Mountain Resort gondola in Kellogg, McCall Winter Carnival, Shoshone Falls, Hiawatha, a float trip down the Boise River, a tour of the Idaho State Capital Building in Boise, the sand dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park, and Shoshone Ice Caves. Learn more about which destinations you should add to your Idaho bucket list.
The OIYS Visitor Center
day trips near me in Idaho
September 02, 2021
Beth C.
What is the most scenic drive in Idaho? If you’re someone who appreciates a good road trip, we have just the destination in mind. So load up the car, pack plenty of snacks, and prepare to embark on one of the region’s most stunning drives. The International Selkirk Loop belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list. Marked by breathtaking natural landscapes and a diversity of scenery, this drive is one that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. It will take about seven days to complete; however, every mile is loaded with scenery. And the coolest part of all is that this route travels into Canada (hence the “International” distinction in the name). Traveling through small towns and beautiful stretches of rural regions, this drive has a little something for everyone. Learn more about the International Selkirk Loop and why it’s considered to be one of the most scenic drives in America. What are some fun things to do in Idaho? If you’re scouting out some unique adventures in Idaho, it’s best to figure out where the locals go. Fortunately, we’ve done most of this work for you, so you can experience Idaho as a true local. Some of these fun things to do in Idaho include Sportsman Park, a trip to the underwater town of Roosevelt, Winchester Lake State Park, Owyhee Canyonlands, the town of Weiser, Lilly Lake, Salmon River Lodge Resort, Black Magic Canyon, Box Canyon Springs, Trail Creek Cabin, and Independence Point. This last destination is particularly interesting, as it’s a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty! Learn more about how you can experience Idaho as the locals do. What should I put on my Idaho bucket list? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor of the Gem State, you’ll find there are several attractions and adventures that are bucket-list-worthy. Some of these things include Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park, enjoying pie from Trudy’s Kitchen in Idaho City, the Silver Mountain Resort gondola in Kellogg, McCall Winter Carnival, Shoshone Falls, Hiawatha, a float trip down the Boise River, a tour of the Idaho State Capital Building in Boise, the sand dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park, and Shoshone Ice Caves. Learn more about which destinations you should add to your Idaho bucket list.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
If you’re someone who appreciates a good road trip, we have just the destination in mind. So load up the car, pack plenty of snacks, and prepare to embark on one of the region’s most stunning drives. The International Selkirk Loop belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list. Marked by breathtaking natural landscapes and a diversity of scenery, this drive is one that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. It will take about seven days to complete; however, every mile is loaded with scenery. And the coolest part of all is that this route travels into Canada (hence the “International” distinction in the name). Traveling through small towns and beautiful stretches of rural regions, this drive has a little something for everyone. Learn more about the International Selkirk Loop and why it’s considered to be one of the most scenic drives in America.
What are some fun things to do in Idaho?
If you’re scouting out some unique adventures in Idaho, it’s best to figure out where the locals go. Fortunately, we’ve done most of this work for you, so you can experience Idaho as a true local. Some of these fun things to do in Idaho include Sportsman Park, a trip to the underwater town of Roosevelt, Winchester Lake State Park, Owyhee Canyonlands, the town of Weiser, Lilly Lake, Salmon River Lodge Resort, Black Magic Canyon, Box Canyon Springs, Trail Creek Cabin, and Independence Point. This last destination is particularly interesting, as it’s a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty! Learn more about how you can experience Idaho as the locals do.
What should I put on my Idaho bucket list?
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor of the Gem State, you’ll find there are several attractions and adventures that are bucket-list-worthy. Some of these things include Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park, enjoying pie from Trudy’s Kitchen in Idaho City, the Silver Mountain Resort gondola in Kellogg, McCall Winter Carnival, Shoshone Falls, Hiawatha, a float trip down the Boise River, a tour of the Idaho State Capital Building in Boise, the sand dunes at Bruneau Dunes State Park, and Shoshone Ice Caves. Learn more about which destinations you should add to your Idaho bucket list.
