Here is our comprehensive guide to the best day trips from Boise:
Boise is a city that is located in the heart of IdahoThe city is known for its beautiful parks, rivers, and mountains. However, there are many other things to do and see in the area, and as a local I am always looking for the best day trips near me.
In this guide, we will provide you with some of the best day trips from Boise. These destinations are perfect for those who want to explore the surrounding area and experience the beauty of Idaho.
1. McCall
McCall is a small town that is located in the mountains of Idaho. The town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
McCall is a great place to visit for those who love to ski, snowboard, or snowmobile. In the summer, McCall is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and boating.
One of the most popular attractions in McCall is Payette Lake, which is a beautiful lake that is surrounded by mountains.
- Activities include hiking, skiing, and hot springs
- Payette Lake and Brundage Mountain Resort
- Plenty of accommodation and dining options
2. Sun Valley
Sun Valley is a popular destination for those who love to ski and snowboard. The resort is located in the mountains of Idaho and is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding.
Sun Valley is also a great place to visit in the summer. The resort offers a variety of outdoor activities, including golfing, hiking, and fishing.
Sun Valley is also home to a number of shops and restaurants, making it a great destination for those who want to shop and dine.
- Skiing, hiking, and fishing
- Bald Mountain and Sawtooth National Forest
- Luxury and budget accommodation and dining options
3. Hells Canyon
Hells Canyon is a deep canyon that is located on the border of Idaho and Oregon. The canyon is one of the deepest canyons in North America and is known for its rugged beauty.
Hells Canyon is a great destination for those who love to hike and explore the outdoors. The canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk.
- Snake River and the deepest canyon in North America
- Fishing, rafting and hiking
- Accommodation options available
4. Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located on the Snake River in southern Idaho. The falls are 212 feet high and are often called the “Niagara of the West.”
Shoshone Falls is a popular destination for those who love to hike and explore the outdoors. The falls are also a great place to fish and boat.
5. Craters of the Moon National Monument
Craters of the Moon National Monument is a unique destination that is located in southern Idaho.
The monument is home to a vast field of volcanic rock that was created by a series of eruptions over thousands of years.
The monument is a great destination for those who love to hike and explore the outdoors. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and coyotes.
- Unique geological features and history of the area
- Camping, hiking, nature adventures
- Accommodation and dining options
6. Bruneau Dunes State Park
Bruneau Dunes State Park is a unique destination that is located in southwestern Idaho. Tallest sand dunes in North America, which are over 400 feet high.
The park is a great destination for those who love to hike and explore the outdoors. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, badgers, and owls.
- Tallest single-structured sand dune in North America
- Sand-boarding, hiking and camping
- Some accommodation and dining options available nearby
7. Stanley
Stanley is a small town that is located in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains. The town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting.
One of the most popular attractions in Stanley is the Redfish Lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal clear water for swimming.
- Whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking and camping
- Redfish Lake
- Luxury and budget accommodations available
8. Idaho City
Idaho City is a historic town that is located in the Boise National Forest. The town is known for its preserved buildings from the gold rush era and offers visitors a glimpse into Idaho’s past.
Idaho City is a great destination for those who love history and outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing.
- Historic buildings and gold rush history
- Hiking, fishing and camping
- Dining and accommodation available.
9. Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
The Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area is a unique destination that is located just outside of Boise.
The area is home to over 800 pairs of raptors, including eagles, falcons, and owls. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the area and observe these majestic birds in their natural habitat.
- Abundance of raptors in the area
- Birdwatching, hiking, nature conservatory
- Accommodation and dining options offered nearby
10. Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth National Recreation Area is a beautiful destination that is located just north of Stanley.
The area is known for its stunning mountain scenery, crystal clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike, fish, and camp in the area and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
With so many amazing day trip destinations from Boise, there is no shortage of adventure and exploration to be had.
Whether you are interested in outdoor activities or historic towns, there is something for everyone in the surrounding area. So, pack your bags and hit the road to discover the beauty of Idaho.
- Stunning mountain scenery and crystal clear lakes
- Activities available, including hiking, fishing, and camping
- Picnic areas
Conclusion
From the majestic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the tranquil waters of McCall and the rugged terrain of Hells Canyon, there is something for everyone in and around Boise.
With careful planning and a sense of adventure, your day trip from Boise is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and start exploring the best day trips in Boise today!
For more detailed informaiton about Idaho, parks and recreation, you can click here to learn more.
Also, check out my recent article on about Idaho Hot Springs, which is truly unique feature of Idaho.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
McCall, Ketchum and Sun Valley, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Silver City, Bruneau Dunes State Park, Stanley, Idaho City, Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, and Sawtooth National Recreation Area are all popular day trip destinations from Boise.
The distances vary, but all of the destinations listed are within a 3-hour drive from Boise.
Activities available range from hiking and fishing to skiing and rafting. Each destination offers unique activities based on its location and terrain.
Yes, many of the destinations listed are great for families, including McCall, Bruneau Dunes State Park, and Sawtooth National Recreation Area. These destinations offer activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Yes, many of the destinations listed are great for outdoor enthusiasts, including Ketchum and Sun Valley, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, and Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area. These destinations offer activities such as skiing, hiking, and birdwatching that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
It depends on the destinations and their proximity to each other. Some destinations, such as McCall and Stanley, may be able to be visited in one day, while others, such as Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, may require a full day trip.
There are many accommodation options available at each of the destinations listed, including hotels, cabins, and camping sites. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Each destination offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local restaurants to fast food chains. Some destinations also offer grocery stores or markets for those who prefer to pack their own food for their day trip.
The best time of year to visit these day trip destinations depends on the activities and terrain of each destination. Some destinations, such as Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, may be best visited in the spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures, while others, such as Bruneau Dunes State Park, may be best visited in the summer for optimal sandboarding conditions.
Some destinations may require entrance fees or permits, such as Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve or Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. It is recommended to research the requirements for each destination before visiting.
