Summer is the perfect time to get out of the house do a little exploring. There are certainly no shortages in Idaho when it comes to adventures, especially if you only have a day or two. While there are all types of day trips you can plan, these seven quick and inexpensive day trips offer beauty, history, and lots of excitement. If you’re looking to spice up your summer, be sure to add the following best day trips in Idaho to your schedule.

1. Explore the Old West
Idaho City, ID 83631, USA
Jitze Couperus/Flickr
Visiting Idaho City is like taking a trip back in time since there are still many original buildings from its heyday as a mining town in the wild west. Shop antiques and explore the artifacts of a town rich with history. You can walk on top of original wooden boardwalks, stop by the saloon for sarsaparilla, or even pan for gold in the river! Idaho City is one of the best small towns in the Gem State.
2. Check Out Some Fossils
221 N State St, Hagerman, ID 83332, USA
Jacob Johnson/Google
Hagerman, Idaho, is home to the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument and hundreds of types of fossils from the Pliocene age (3 to 4 million years ago!). Here, you will find fossils that include the Hagerman horse, sabertooth cat, mastodon, camel, and more. More than 200 different types of plant and animal species have been found here so far. You will want to visit the national park service website for hours and seasonal availability.
3. Tour an Ice Cave
1561 ID-75, Shoshone, ID 83352, USA
shelleylyn/Flickr
You might want to bring a light jacket since the ice in these caves can get to be up to 30 feet thick, making it pretty chilly even on the hottest summer days. The Shoshone Ice Cave in Shoshone, Idaho is currently one of the largest volcanic caves open to public tours. You will definitely want to check out this grandiose attraction.

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4. Get Lost in the City of Rocks
City of Rocks National Reserve, Almo, ID 83312, USA
Troy Smith/Flickr
Located 2 miles above Idaho’s border with Utah, the City of Rocks is a United States National Reserve and state park. A plethora of activities are available to suit any adventure you desire including hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, birding, mountain biking, and more. The views of this place speak for themselves — it's absolutely breathtaking!
5. Glide off of Baldy in Sun Valley
Redfish Lake, Idaho, USA
The Buried Life/Flickr
Sun Valley is a hot spot for winter sports but has plenty to offer when it comes to spring and summer activities as well. Explore one of the many hiking trails, go paragliding off of Bald Mountain, fish in Silver Creek, or jump into Redfish Lake. The possibilities are endless in this town. You may need more than just one day!
6. Soak in Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246, USA
fishermansdaughter/Flickr
Sit back and relax in these famous natural hot springs located in the aptly named town of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. The best thing about these hot springs is that they lack sulfur, so you can soak while enjoying the fresh Idaho air. They offer five pools ranging from 102 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can choose the one perfect for you. Lava Hot Springs is one of the best day trips in Idaho.
7. Visit the Northwest’s Largest Theme Park
27843 US-95, Athol, ID 83801, USA
Beaster725/Flickr
Silverwood Theme Park is located in northern Idaho and features over 70 rides. One of its main attractions is the Aftershock roller coaster, which stands at 191-feet high and takes you through loops and rolls at up to 65 mph. The theme park also contains Boulder Beach Water Park for cooling off while you get your thrills.

What do you think of our list of the best day trips in Idaho? Are there any you would add to the list? If so, let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments!

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips In Idaho

Courtnie Erickson | March 16, 2022

What are some unique things to do around Idaho?

In the Gem State, there is never a shortage of things to do. From the panhandle to the Utah and Idaho state line, you’ll find all sorts of intriguing activities. One unique thing to do in Idaho is to take a scenic hot air balloon ride. You can soar thousands of feet in the air above the Teton Valley to capture views of the valley floor, the Teton Mountain Range, and Idaho sunrises. It's one experience you will never forget.

Another unique thing to do in Idaho is to visit Yellowstone Bear World. This drive-thru wildlife park allows you to get close to dozens of bears, elk, moose, and other wildlife. If you visit during the spring months, you can see the adorable baby animals, and don’t forget to sign up to feed the baby bears — it’s an experience of a lifetime.

What are some getaway spots near me in Idaho?

When searching for the best day trips in Idaho, we suggest visiting a state park. Idaho truly has the best state parks in the entire country. You can visit Thousand Springs State Park, which is home to six different units that range from Ritter Island to Malad Gorge. The landscapes are all different but absolutely beautiful.

You also can’t forget about Harriman State Park. Located near Island Park in southeastern Idaho, this state park is a beautiful place to visit regardless of the time of year. While there, keep your eyes out for all types of animals. This state park is located in a wildlife refuge and it isn’t uncommon to see elk, moose, deer, and other remarkable creatures.

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