There’s no denying that Idaho truly shines during winter. As the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall, the Gem State turns into a giant winter wonderland. There are just as many things to do here in the winter as there are in the summer — maybe even more! If you choose to stay indoors during the winter, then you are truly missing out on all of the incredible beauty in our state. These eight places are the perfect locations to experience winter in Idaho. So, check each of the following Idaho winter vacations out and start planning your next adventure.

1. Take a trek to one of Idaho's gorgeous frozen waterfalls.
Cathy Nash Wilson
Waterfalls are an amazing sight during all times of the year, but especially in winter when they are frozen solid. Many people are surprised to discover that Idaho is a treasure trove of waterfalls. Most famously, the Shoshone Falls even tops Niagara Falls in height. However, there are dozens of gorgeous, lesser-known waterfalls hidden around the state. The sight of these frozen waterfalls in winter is simply not to be missed.
2. Go on a winter horseback adventure.
Visit Lakeland/Flickr
Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Equus Journeys no longer offers winter rides.

Here in Idaho, horseback riding is an iconic activity during spring and summer. However, there's really nothing like exploring Idaho's terrain via horseback during wintertime. The horseback adventuring company Equus Journeys offers an incredible, week-long horseback adventure right here in Idaho. The adventure starts near Idaho Falls and takes you to Warm Creek, stopping at some of the most dramatic, snowy scenery in the state. This horseback adventure is the stuff of dreams!
3. Enjoy a winter getaway at this enchanting guest ranch.
1413 Upper Gold Creek Rd, Sandpoint, ID 83864, USA
Western Pleasure Guest Ranch/Facebook
Vacationing isn't solely reserved for summertime. In fact, winter is one of the best times to get away from your everyday stresses. Western Pleasure Guest Ranch is one of the most scenic places to make a winter getaway. This cozy lodge is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking winter scenery in North Idaho. You'll feel like you've been transported to a scene from a winter fairytale!
4. Visit the snowiest spot in Idaho.
Island Park, ID, USA
Island Park Chamber of Commerce
Idahoans are more than familiar with snow. The entire state gets its fair share of the white stuff during the winter months. However, there is one place that consistently gets an incredible, record-breaking amount of snow every year — Island Park. This is a hidden gem of a town with only around 250 residents. It's beautiful all year long but it's absolute bliss during winter when the entire area is blanketed in pristine, white snow. Island Park gets an average annual snowfall of a whopping 211 inches! It's an incredible winter destination that you absolutely have to experience.

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5. Dine at a restaurant on a mountain...that you can only get to by gondola.
Sun Valley Resort, 1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley, ID 83353, USA
Sun Valley Resort/Facebook
Is there anything better than enjoying dinner with an epic view? The Roundhouse sits on the side of Bald Mountain in idyllic Sun Valley, Idaho. Not only is the restaurant's location unique, but the means of transportation to the restaurant is truly one of a kind. The place is only accessible by gondola ride up the mountain, guaranteeing a dining experience you really will never forget.
6. Visit McCall during their famous winter festival.
McCall, ID 83638, USA
McCall Winter Carnival/Facebook
McCall's Winter Carnival is iconic here in Idaho. Every year, the town totally transforms into a winter playground of snow sculptures and events. The festival itself draws thousands of visitors to this beautiful town. Parades, traditional events, fireworks, and more all take place during the carnival. However, it's the massive snow sculpture competition that is the main attraction. These incredible sculptures are something that must be seen up close and in person.
7. Go for a scenic winter hike.
Verius Photography/Flickr
Hiking is an iconic Idaho activity during the summer. However, it can be just as enchanting during winter. You don't have to be a professional skier or snowboarder to go out and explore Idaho's snowy landscapes. Hiking will do the trick just as well. Throw on some extra thick socks under your hiking boots and check out one of Idaho's many breathtaking winter hiking trails.
8. Enjoy a beautiful holiday light display.
Locomotive Park, 2101 Main St, Lewiston, ID 83501, USA
Winter Spirit Official Website
Your winter isn't complete until you go out and see some epic light displays. Idaho hosts many impressive holiday light displays throughout the state. This is an activity the entire family, young and old, will enjoy and treasure. Pictured above is the Winter Spirit light display in Lewiston.

Have you done any of these quintessential Idaho winter activities? What else would you add to this list of winter vacations in Idaho? When you’re done taking in the Idaho outdoors, check out these unique places in Idaho to warm up this winter!

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More to Explore

Idaho Winter Vacations

Courtnie Erickson | November 25, 2022

What are some of the best places to visit in Idaho during winter?

The opportunities are endless when it comes to the perfect winter vacation in Idaho. From hot springs to cozy bed and breakfasts to delightful ski resorts, there is always something to do during the winter in Idaho. Here are a few of our favorite activities during this chilly time of year.

 

What is winter like in Idaho?

Winter in Idaho is definitely cold and snowy. When you head into various mountain towns throughout the state, don’t be surprised to encounter even more snowy days and winter wonderlands to explore. However, up north in the panhandle, you’ll experience lots of foggy, cold, and cloudy days during the winter months. In fact, this part of the state may not receive as much snow as you may expect. But, the temperatures will still be cold and the overcast skies may make you want to stay cooped up indoors.

What are some of the best winter activities in Idaho?

Once winter arrives, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the great outdoors in the Gem State. Some of our favorite outdoor winter activities in Idaho include:

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