Posted in Idaho
February 08, 2023
This Scenic Road Trip Takes You To 7 Natural Wonders Of Idaho
Idaho is a land of incredible beauty. In every corner of the state, you will find natural features that are mesmerizing in every way. From remarkable waterfalls to relaxing hot springs, there really are natural wonders that take your breath away. To help you enjoy some of the best natural wonders in Idaho, we created this scenic road trip where every mile is filled with beauty.
This road trip will take you to just seven natural wonders in Idaho. We recognize these are not the only natural wonders in Idaho that deserve to be on this list but the following made the most sense for this particular trip. On your journey, you will travel approximately 665 miles and it will require at least 13 hours of drive time. You can use this customizable map to help you add even more stops if you desire.
Mesa Falls is tucked away deep in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and it is one of our favorite hidden gems in Idaho. This incredible waterfall cascades more than 100 feet into the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. Plus, the forest views surrounding the waterfall add even more to the enchantment of the area.
Mesa Falls, Upper Mesa Falls Rd, Ashton, ID 83420, USA
Located in southern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs features five separate hot pools that range in temperature from 102 degrees to 112 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, there is a large indoor Aquatic Center and an Olympic Swimming Complex if you want to do more playing than soaking.
Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246, USA
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is considered one of the best road trip stops in Idaho and it is one destination you will not want to drive by. This natural wonder is essentially large fields of hardened lava flow and you’ll feel like you are on another planet — rather than in Idaho. During a visit, you can hike, camp, or just drive around to view this unique natural wonder in Idaho.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho, USA
It wouldn’t be a complete natural wonders road trip in Idaho without a stop at Shoshone Falls. This impressive waterfall is 212 feet tall and plunges over a 925-foot-wide cliff. You won’t want to forget a camera at this stop — the views are breathtaking no matter the time of year that you visit.
Shoshone Falls, Idaho 83341, USA
Balanced Rock is one destination that certainly deserves some attention. This unique rock formation is one that you want to see in person to truly experience its wonder. At more than 48 feet tall and weighing 40 tons, this rock stands on a pedestal that is only 3 feet by 17 inches. Stop at Balanced Rock Park for a picnic and to take a few pictures of this natural wonder — it’s well worth the visit!
Balanced Rock Park, Balanced Rock Rd, Buhl, ID 83316, USA
Bruneau Sand Dunes is one stop on this Idaho road trip where you could stay for quite a while. Stop into the visitor center, go sandboarding, tackle a hike, or just enjoy the views. It’s one destination that the entire family will enjoy exploring.
Bruneau Dunes State Park, 27608 Bruneau Sand Dunes Rd, Bruneau, ID 83604, USA
The last stop on our road trip is Owyhee Canyonlands. This area is where you can enjoy peace and stillness. What makes this area so unique is its deep canyons that are carved by the Owyhee, Bruneau, and Jarbidge Rivers. Keep your eyes out for all types of wildlife during your visit, particularly California bighorn sheep.
Owyhee River Wilderness, Idaho, USA
Are there any other stops you would add to this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!
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