13 Things You Must Do In Idaho On A Hot, Summer Day

Summer is officially just a few weeks away, and now that Idaho is starting to heat up, it's time to plan your bucket list for the season. But in addition to all the awesome places to go and things to see in the Gem State, there are also just a few things that every Idahoan MUST do in order to make summer complete. Be sure to add these easy, stay-cool activities to your summer road trips and adventures!

1. Slide the City

Slip n' slides are awesome enough, but when they span world-record lengths through the middle of downtown and tubes are included? It's an awesome way to spend a summer day!

Slide the City is coming to RExburg June 25 and to Boise August 13. For yet another way to cool off, check out the Dirty Dash Mud Run on June 18.

2. Enjoy a picnic at the park.

Or, take it to the next level and pack a picnic along with you on your next hike for a mountaintop lunch. Where are your favorite picnic locales?

3. Visit ye old swimming hole.

Locals always know best, but here are a few swimming hole ideas to check out... and don't forget the rope swing!

4. Eat all the ice cream cones you can get your hands on.

Or, just eat it by the gallon. We won't judge. For some unique ice cream treats, check out these local favorites.

5. Visit every State Park, Preserve, and Monument.

Pictured is Craters of the Moon.

6. Make it a beach day.

You won't find starfish here... but really, what more do you need besides warm sand and water to dip your toes in? Fortunately, Idaho has a number of islands to visit, as well as soothing beaches.

7. Stock up on fresh produce.

Whether picking it yourself or buying from a local farmers market, nothing beats fresh berries sprinkled on ice cream.

8. Make a splash at a water park.

You can find a few epic day parks scattered across the state. Check out Lava Hot Springs, Roaring Springs, or Boulder Beach, just to name a few!

9. Go camping in the mountains.

Idaho has hundreds of campgrounds to choose from, but higher elevations = cooler temperatures and plenty of shade trees and alpine lakes to take an edge off the heat.

10. Grab an ice-cold one from a local brewery.

Or, just take a tour of the brewery itself!

11. Beat the heat by going underground.

Idaho's caves are typically frigid, even in the middle of summer - often around 50 degrees!

12. Take a trip out on the water.

Many people associate Idaho with epic whitewater rafting, but sometimes a relaxing float, kayak, or boat ride is just what a body needs!

13. Catch some rays on the porch with your favorite beverage in hand, and think about how lucky you are to live in such a beautiful state!

After a long day of adventuring, sometimes a porch swing and some lemonade is the perfect end to a memorable day.

There’s no reason to lock yourself inside with the AC this summer when there are so many excellent ways to get out of the house and cool off! Of course, these are just a few of the many great activities and opportunities to make the most of the summer, even when the temperatures hit terrifying highs.

Do you have a favorite spot or pastime to help beat the Idaho heat? Tell us about it in the comments below and help your fellow Idahoans enjoy summer to the fullest!