Feel like going for a drive? There is no shortage of scenic drives in Idaho boasting spectacular views of mountains, valleys, canyons, forests, and whatever else you could imagine. Never is it a bad time to fuel up and explore one of the Gem State’s beautiful backcountry highways, but we’d argue that the fall season may be the best time. During this transition from summer to winter, our state takes on some amazing landscapes as the foliage shifts colors. See the best of them with these seven fall scenic drives that are bound to impress!

1. City of Rocks Scenic Byway
City of Rocks National Reserve, Almo, ID 83312, USA
Andrew Geiger/Photodisc via Getty Images
Boasting nearly 50 miles of epic, pristine scenery, the City of Rocks Scenic Byway takes you through the rural landscape that surrounds the Albion Mountain Range in southern Idaho. Traversing past glorious natural attractions like the City of Rocks National Reserve and the Pomerelle Ski Area, you'll be in awe for the entirety of this scenic highway.
2. Sawtooth Scenic Byway
Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho 75, Stanley, ID 83278, USA
Charles Knowles/Flickr
It doesn't get much better than autumn in central Idaho! The Sawtooth Scenic Byway stretches for 116 miles along the jagged Sawtooth Mountains, rolling through charming resort towns like Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley. In between Sun Valley and Stanley is where you'll witness the outstanding landscape of Galena Summit.
3. Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway
Snake River Canyon, Idaho 83549, USA
twildlife via Getty Images
The Snake River Canyon makes for a spectacular sight all year long, but you'll especially love seeing it during the fall season. Hop on the Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway which covers more than 50 miles of pristine landscape. Stretching from Walters Ferry to Nyssa, Oregon, you'll be treated to incredible views and plenty of fantastic pit stops along the way.

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4. Auto Tour Road at Kootenai Wildlife Refuge
Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, 287 West Side Rd, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA
gjohnstonphoto via Getty Images
Located in Bonners Ferry, Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is a sight to be seen in fall. Although you can certainly explore the refuge on foot, the Auto Tour Road gives you the opportunity to enjoy the area's beauty from your car. Traverse the gravel roads to various wildlife viewpoints and enjoy this serene landscape up close.
5. Teton Scenic Byway
Teton Scenic Byway, 6535 ID-33, Tetonia, ID 83452, USA
GPA Photo Archive/Flickr
Meandering along the western slopes of eastern Idaho's Teton Range, the Teton Scenic Byway never disappoints when it comes to showing off the area's grandiose beauty. Consisting of 70 miles, the highway takes you to dreamy vistas, historic sites, quaint towns, and the Grand Targhee Resort.
6. Payette River Scenic Byway
Payette River Scenic Byway, Smiths Ferry, ID 83611, USA
Darwin Fan/Moment via Getty Images
The Payette River Scenic Byway starts west of Boise and stretches north on Idaho 55. It takes you past the most magnificent forest scenery including both the Boise and Payette National Forests. Some of the highway's most prominent destinations include Smiths Ferry, Roseberry, Ponderosa State Park, and Cascade Reservoir.

Author's Note: Construction has begun on portions of the Payette River Scenic Byway. Please check the Idaho Transportation Department website for details on what's currently closed off.
7. Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway
Old Oregon Road, Old Oregon Rd, Idaho 83276, USA
Nicholas D/Flickr
Winding approximately 50 miles along the Idaho-Utah border, this scenic drive in Idaho most famously takes you past the turquoise blue waters of Bear Lake and into Oregon Trail country. Lush and green during summer, the area becomes swathed in shades of red, orange, and bright yellow as the fall season settles in.

Are you ready for fall’s beauty? These scenic drives are the perfect way to explore Idaho’s autumn scenery! What are your favorite Idaho scenic drives in the fall? Let us know in the comments. And if you plan to spend a lot of time in the car as you explore some of the best fall drives near me, make sure you are prepared. Check out our ultimate road trip packing list so you are always ready for any journey, particularly those that involve the fall colors in Idaho!

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More to Explore

Idaho In The Fall

Katie Feldkamp | September 08, 2022

What Are Some Places To Visit In Idaho In The Fall?

For many people, fall means pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and enjoying the slightly cooler temperatures while the leaves are bursting with bright colors. One unique way to take in the fall foliage in Idaho is with a visit to Deadwood Outfitters in Central Idaho for a guided horseback trail ride. You may also want to plan a visit to one of these campgrounds in Idaho to truly experience the Gem State’s beauty in the fall. Nestled into Idaho’s mountainsides you’ll often find a charming small town. Fall is the perfect time to plan a visit to any of these quaint mountain towns.

Where Are Some Of The Best Places To See Fall Foliage In Idaho?

From the mountain tops to the river valleys, Idaho has some of the most gorgeous natural landscapes. Fall is the perfect time of year to show off nature’s beauty as the leaves change from green to bright reds, oranges, and yellows. We have chosen several state parks you’ll want to consider checking out to take in the picturesque fall foliage in Idaho. Stay outside and enjoy this fall foliage hike or any of the other nearby trails in the charming area of City Creek. If you’re feeling adventurous you can plan an entire fall foliage road trip to see all the autumn beauty throughout the Gem State.

What Are Some Scenic Drives In Idaho?

Sometimes the easiest way to take in a state’s natural beauty is by taking a scenic drive. Idaho has plenty of options for routes that guarantee to take your breath away. Winding through central Idaho is the most diverse scenic drive you can imagine, the Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway. There’s no shortage of backroads you can take on the best scenic drives in Idaho. If you find yourself in Northern Idaho, be sure to make time for this 33-mile scenic drive.

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