11 Things You Must Do Underneath The Summer Sun In Idaho
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
Summer is my favorite time to head outdoors and enjoy all of the many activities, natural wonders, and events that Idaho has to offer. While we could certainly make a long list of some of the best things to do underneath the summer sun in Idaho, we’ve limited it to just 11. These are items that deserve a spot on every summer bucket list and even if you check off just one or two of these activities, it will be a summer to remember.
Baker Lake, Idaho 83340, USA
All throughout Idaho, you can find some of the most breathtaking lakes. While many of these lakes draw in quite a crowd, there are dozens of lakes that are tucked away in the mountains and perfect for a little peace and quiet. One of our favorite hidden lakes is Baker Lake, which is gorgeous any time of the year. There is a 2-mile hike to reach the lake but the gorgeous water and beautiful mountain views make the trek well worth it.
Summer is all about ice cream and there’s nothing better than a cone or cup of huckleberry ice cream. While you can find this flavor of ice cream in several shops around the Gem State, check out our list featuring some of the best huckleberry ice cream that Idaho has to offer. Enjoying huckleberry ice cream is one summer experience you need to have.
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Lake Cascade State Park, 100 Kelly's Pkwy, Cascade, ID 83611, USA
Idaho may not be known for its beaches but that doesn’t mean you can’t find them around the state. While there are a handful of beaches you could visit including those at Redfish Lake and Bear Lake, Lake Cascade is home to beaches that are heavenly. Here, you’ll not only enjoy soft sand, but you’ll also enjoy mountain and forest views as well.
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Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises, 115 S 2nd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814, USA
Well … a lake or river cruise that is. While there are several lakes in Idaho that offer scenic cruises, my personal favorite are those on Lake Coeur d’Alene. While you can always experience a lake cruise, check out the cruises on the Spokane River and the St. Joe River. These cruises are a bit longer but the experience is unforgettable.
City of Rocks National Reserve, Almo, ID 83312, USA
City of Rocks National Reserve is one destination we strongly recommend visiting each summer. This unique and incredible area features multiple hiking trails, picturesque scenery, and a delightful campground. Whether you visit for a single summer day or you stay for an entire weekend, City of Rocks National Reserve will impress.
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Green Acres Food Truck Park, 1401 Shoreline Dr, Boise, ID 83702, USA
Tucked away next to the Boise Greenbelt is the Green Acres Food Truck Park. This is the perfect destination to spend a summer evening as there are multiple food trucks, live music, lots of green space, and beautiful views. Plus, the food trucks rotate regularly so you can easily try new foods each time you visit.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho, USA
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is not only one of the most bucket-list-worthy destinations in Idaho, but it is also one of the best road trip stops in the state. You can hike through fields of hardened lava flow, explore a cave, and even climb to the top of a volcanic cone. There is also a 7-mile scenic drive that gives you the most incredible views of the lava flow — you won’t want to miss it.
Heise Hot Springs Inc, 5116 E Heise Rd, Ririe, ID 83443, USA
Your entire family will have a summer to remember when you spend a few days at Heise Hot Springs Resort. This is the ultimate outdoor playground as there is something for everyone. Soak in the hot springs, swim in one of the pools, ride the zipline, golf, eat pizza, and more. Like we said, there really is something for everyone.
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1133 W Chinden Blvd, Meridian, ID 83646, USA
You can beat the heat and cool off at one of the newest attractions in Idaho — Inflatable World. Located in Meridian, this unique inflatable water park features giant inflatables, water slides, water balloons, and more. There are attractions for every member of the family from the thrill seeker to the young toddler.
Summer is our favorite time of the year to chase one of Idaho’s beautiful waterfalls. There are incredible falls around the state that you need to visit at least once like Mesa Falls, Jump Creek Falls, Copper Falls, Granite Falls, and more.
Ashton-Tetonia Rail Trail Idaho State Park, 310 Egbert Ave, Tetonia, ID 83452, USA
While there are a few rail trails around Idaho that deserve a spot on your bucket list, make sure to check out the Ashton-to-Tetonia Rail Trail. This 29.6-mile trail takes you from Ashton to Tetonia in southeastern Idaho and follows the abandoned railroad grade of the Teton Valley Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad. You will enjoy beautiful views along the way and cross multiple trestle bridges — just don’t look down if you are afraid of heights!
This list is just the beginning. There are so many things you can do underneath the summer sun in Idaho. What other activities or attractions would you add? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear from you.
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