As we prepare to ring in the new year in Idaho with our famous Idaho Potato Drop, it’s important to look back and reflect upon 2016. But it’s just as important to think ahead to 2017 and all of the places to see, things to do, and opportunities to explore and experience even more beauty (and delicious eats) here in the Gem State. As we countdown to a brand new season, check out this list of 15 places to add to your 2017 Idaho bucket list. And stay tuned for Part II!
1. Ride the longest gondola in the world at Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg.
Forget the Alps or a trip to Vail; this world record-holding gem runs year-round and is open to all ages. It's 3.1 miles of heartpounding, breathtaking views all the way from the base of Silver Mountain in downtown Kellogg to the snowy, picturesque summit.
2. Feed the bears at Yellowstone Bear World.
Here, you can take a drive-thru tour of the area and see some of Idaho's most majestic creatures up close and personal, take a curator tour for the chance to see them enjoy a delicious snack, feed baby bears, and enjoy the company of wild and tame animals alike.
3. Take an inspirational walk through Cleo's Ferry Museum.
A journey for both heart and soul, this whimsical trail meanders through multiple oases, captivating sculpture gardens, and heartfelt faith retreats right along the historic waters of the Snake River in Melba. The photo ops abound, and the opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation are what this local gem is all about.
4. Hike through Black Magic Canyon.
Uniquely hidden and only hike-able during certain times of the year, Black Magic Canyon is a truly unique journey that is a treat for both the imagination and the senses. Dip and weave around naturally carved rock sculptures, chiseled by the power of the river and challenge your stamina with multiple slippery scrambles in one of the state's most overlooked canyons.
5. Camp at the oldest state park in the Northwest.
Heyburn State Park in Plummer was established in 1908, but you wouldn't know its age from the looks of it. Instead, you'll find some perfect, star-studded views of the Milky Way without the drive into Canada.
6. Hike to the abandoned B-23 Dragon Bomber in Idaho's wilderness.
Idaho's most unique survival story and best-kept secret hike leads through some spectacular scenery in Valley County to a historic plane crash site like no other.
7. Visit the historic New Plymouth water wheels.
Just on the outskirts of the charming town of New Plymouth is scattered a series of century-old water wheels that still run every spring and summer for local irrigation. They're a truly spectacular sight running at full speed --one that will take you back to the simpler time of Idaho's agricultural roots.
8. Stroll through the most unique small town in Idaho--which also happens to be the Center of the Universe.
Enjoy the sweet sounds of the Accordion Festival, the delicious flavors of the Huckleberry Festival, delight in the historic Depot Days, or explore the wealth of phenomenal sights, tours, nature, and architecture of this one-of-a-kind town. This is one quintessential small town that should be on everyone's bucket list!
9. Tour the Butch Cassidy Museum in Montpelier.
The West's most notorious criminal and rural Idaho culture collide in the historic town of Montpelier, where you can tour the bank that Cassidy and his cohorts held up--but don't forget to drop by for Butch Cassidy Days too!
10. Take an extended hike to the most remote spot in Idaho.
Find ultimate peace and quiet, plus unrivaled beauty, miles away from any trace of civilization. But be warned-- this journey will likely take you a full week to complete.
11. Soak your cares away on the full Idaho Soaktennial Hot Springs Trail.
The ultimate relaxing vacation is just a soak away. On this one-of-a-kind trail, 63 hot pools--each tucked away in some of Idaho's best hidden locales and stretching from the Idaho-Utah border all the way to Canada--are mapped for your marinating and hiking enjoyment amongst the trees.
12. Dine at Idaho's oldest restaurant, the Snakepit in Enaville.
Well over a century old and still going strong, this vibrant northern Idaho staple boasts a lively atmosphere, a rockin' dining special, downhome live music, and the perfect gateway setting to everything that the Coeur d'Alene region has to offer. As you tilt back in your chair, you'll have the pleasure of knowing that Wyatt Earp and other western notables probably tilted their hats right where you're sitting.
13. Attend the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic in downtown Boise.
Boise's most colorful and eventful end-of-summer festival just gets bigger and bigger every year, boasting over 3 dozen balloons in every size, color, and shape, multiple launches, and plenty of family-friendly activities from the lush grass of Ann Morrison Park.
14. Dash through the snow on a winter sleigh ride.
Multiple private and resort-owned sleigh outfitters know how to make the most of the holiday and winter seasons with this classic snow activity, but it doesn't have to be in winter to enjoy the trip! Spring and summer still offer plenty of riding opportunities through the trees...sans snow, of course. Hot cocoa, campfires, stories, and blankets included.
15. Stay overnight at an old fire lookout.
Idaho is one of the few states that is still home to dozens of historic fire towers, each with their own picturesque views of our state's deepest wilderness areas and complete with all of the remoteness and roughing-it wonders you could ever dream of.
Are there any other places or activities you’d add to your 2017 bucket list? If so, share them with us! And don't worry... this is only Part 1! We have plenty more Idaho adventures to share with you.
Have a Happy New Year!
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