People who don’t live in Idaho seem to be under the impression that our state is one giant, boring landscape. All Idahoans know that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, our state contains a vast variety of different types of landscapes. From sprawling valleys and looming mountains to wide, expansive canyons…Idaho has it all. Here are six little known canyons that will show a part of our state that is widely underrated.
Hells Canyon and the Snake River Canyon are probably the most widely recognized canyons in Idaho, but Bruneau Canyon could definitely give those two a run for their money. Located outside the small town of Bruneau, a hike along the canyon's rim is simply awe-inspiring. The canyon almost isn't even visible until you get right up the the edge of the canyon wall. Once you do see it, it becomes a sight you will never forget.
This is quite possibly one of the most unusual canyons you'll ever see. This odd geologic wonder is located north of Shoshone, and surprisingly few people know it even exists. The canyon's unusual landscape was slowly carved out by the Big Wood River over a period of thousands of years. The canyon definitely lives up to its supernatural name. The canyon's twisty and jagged formations look like something from a different planet.
The Owyhee Wilderness is another far underappreciated wilderness area in Idaho. It definitely doesn't get the kind of hype that's common for places such as the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area. However, the Owyhee Canyonlands are certainly worthy. The area spans over parts of Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada, and boasts incredibly remote landscapes of sagebrush, juniper, scenic rivers, and wildlife.
The Salmon River is one of our state's most beloved rivers for recreation. Not only is the river great for things like kayaking, fishing, and whitewater rafting, but it winds its way through some of the most splendid canyon scenery that our state has to offer. There's really nothing like the feeling of rafting down the river and looking up at the massive canyon walls surrounding you— gazing in awe at the powerful forces of nature.
Box Canyon State Park is located about 20 miles northwest of Twin Falls. This hidden gem is truly unique for one reason: it contains some of the bluest waters that could probably rival the Caribbean. The turquoise blue waters bubble up from the ground before traveling through the canyon and eventually making its way to the Snake River. The sight of the pristine water in the desolate yet beautiful canyon just can't be rivaled.
Located along the Owyhee River in southwest Idaho, Green Dragon Canyon contains towering red cliffs that don't fail to make you feel miniature in comparison. The canyon offers some of the most isolated landscapes that Idaho has to offer. It's the perfect place to get away from it all and immerse yourself in our state's unending natural beauty.
Have you seen any of these little known canyons up close? Which one is your favorite? For more of Idaho’s amazing geography, be sure to check out these 7 Wonders Of The World That Are Right Here In Idaho.
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