If you have spent any time in Idaho during the winter months, you know it gets cold — like really cold. In fact, Idaho is consistently found on lists featuring the coldest places in America, with several of our small towns and cities being recognized as some of the coldest places in the lower 48.

Idaho is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The incredible mountains, beautiful lakes, fabulous hiking trails, and gorgeous hot springs entice individuals of all ages to head outdoors all year long and enjoy some of Mother Nature’s greatest creations.
SEASTOCK/ iStock / Getty Images Plus
When winter comes, Idaho transforms into the most beautiful wonderland. The snow creates awe-inspiring scenery and activities such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and skiing become extremely popular — even despite the cold weather.
knowlesgallery/iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Although, if you want to experience true cold weather, head to Stanley. This small town is considered one of the coldest places in the lower 48 and is certainly one of the coldest places in Idaho. In fact, Stanley sees an average of 290 days each year that are below freezing.
Steve Smith/Tetra images Via Getty Images

Related Stories

7 Idaho Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

7 Idaho Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

 The Small Town In Idaho That Comes Alive During The Winter Season

The Small Town In Idaho That Comes Alive During The Winter Season

 This Mountain Lodge In Idaho Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other

This Mountain Lodge In Idaho Offers A Dining Experience Like No Other
And some temperatures in this small town get REALLY cold. It isn’t uncommon during the winter for Stanley to experience temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit. In 1983, this small town even saw a record low of -54 degrees Fahrenheit!
christiannafzger /iStock Via Getty Images Plus
So, what makes Stanley such a cold place in America? Well, it is this small town's location. Stanley sits at the bottom of the Sawtooth, Boulder, and White Cloud Mountains, and the cold air that surrounds the mountain peaks drops to the valley floor as cold air is heavier than warm air.
However, Stanley isn’t the only Idaho town that is extremely cold. Island Park is another small town where frigid temperatures are common.
Praveen P.N/Moment Via Getty Images
Island Park is not only one of the snowiest towns in Idaho, but it is also one of the coldest. In fact, the record low for this small town near Yellowstone National Park is -60 degrees Fahrenheit! Now, that is cold!
Tetonia also experiences extremely cold temperatures. In 1933, this town of just over 300 residents saw a temperature of -57 degrees Fahrenheit!
Barbara Ann Spengler/Flickr
While Island Park and Tetonia can see extreme temps, it isn’t as frequent as in Stanley.
Even with cold temperatures, Idaho is worth bundling up and exploring. When you have such beautiful, snowy views, there is no reason to stay indoors.
knowlesgallery/iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Did you know that these small towns in Idaho are considered some of the coldest places in America? Does that surprise you? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

If you want to get out of the house and enjoy the winter weather, check out this chilly weekend road trip through Idaho. From Lava Hot Springs to Kirkham Hot Springs near Lowman, this is a great way to enjoy an Idaho winter. But don’t forget to bundle up for the cold weather. Check out our ultimate winter packing list so you have everything you need for chilly temps outside.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Coldest Places In America

Courtnie Erickson | November 21, 2023

What are the coldest places in America?

Did you know about the coldest place in Idaho? Did you know that the small town of Stanley is considered one of the coldest places in the lower 48? However, we know that it isn’t just Idaho that experiences some cold — like really, really cold — temperatures. Below are just a few of the coldest places in America:

  • Fairbanks, Alaska
  • Grand Forks, North Dakota
  • Williston, North Dakota
  • Fargo, North Dakota
  • Aberdeen, South Dakota
  • Duluth, Minnesota

 

What is winter like in Idaho?

While we now know about the coldest city in Idaho, what is the rest of the state like during the winter? Well, winter in the Gem State is definitely cold and snowy. If you visit many of the mountain towns throughout the state, don’t be surprised to encounter many 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, in this part of the state, you may not receive as much snow as you may expect but that’s okay. 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?

I love the winter in Idaho. Yes, it may be cold, but it is beautiful and the plethora of activities makes me excited to get outside and explore. Below are just a few of the best winter activities in Idaho.

 

And for even more winter activities in Idaho, take a look at our list featuring everything from holiday events you won’t want to miss to cold-weather getaways.

Related Articles

Explore Idaho

Featured Addresses
Stanley, ID 83278, USA
Island Park, ID, USA
Tetonia, ID 83452, USA