There are hundreds of ways to experience Idaho’s incredible scenery up close and personal, but there's something spectacularly All-American about the opportunity to see it from the perspective of a train, barrelling down the tracks. Sadly, Idaho's last Pacific passenger line shut down in 2016, leaving railfans and explorers aching for something new.
Sometimes, Idahoans know how to get creative.
The Gem State is home to thousands of miles of abandoned railroads, crisscrossing and winding through the landscape as a reminder of days gone by.
While plenty of commercial and industrial lines still exist, a major portion of Idaho's tracks are abandoned - left to fall into disrepair and decay in the brutal winters and intense heat of our state's ever-changing seasons. Many of these lines are leftover from the height of Idaho's logging and mining days. They were once used to bring hopeful prospectors to the region or haul away ore, a changing landscape has rendered many of the tracks obsolete.
Depending on the materials and design, these beauties are typically electric or solar-powered, and can go up to 20mph.
While there are no dedicated tracks in Idaho for rail-riding, you can find sections of historic lines just about everywhere - like the Camas Prairie Railroad.
A note of caution: while many of Idaho's railroads seem abandoned at first glance, every line is still privately-owned and permission must be granted before attempting to ride on one, whether in-use or not. You should also take extreme care to know your surroundings and be aware that - without proper research beforehand - this is an illegal and dangerous activity.
What do you think? I'd love to see Idaho's abandoned tracks restored, but this might be a good way to explore Idaho's oldest rails in style! If you have any more info about legal spots for rail-riding, drop a comment below.
There is something magical about the fall. It could be the pumpkin patches and corn mazes for playing and exploring. It might even be the cooler weather and the vibrant fall foliage. But, if you ask me, it’s the seasonal food. While pumpkin spice hits the shelves this time of the year, nothing quite compares to the food you’ll find at some of the most charming remote pumpkin patches and farms, especially Lowe Family Farmstead in Kuna.
Lowe Family Farmstead is one of the best fall attractions in Idaho and is located at 2500 South Eagle Road in Kuna. While it has certainly been delighting locals for more than two decades, Lowe Family Farmstead has also been recognized by numerous national, regional, and local media outlets and publications.
Fall is our favorite time of the year to visit Lowe Family Farmstead as there are activities for all ages — it truly is the perfect fall day trip destination. Of course, you can visit the pumpkin patch or keep busy with the many attractions including the MAiZE, hayrides, jumping pillows, various train rides, farm animals, and even a ropes course.
If you visit in September, you can also stop and smell the flowers. Lowe Family Farmstead offers a u-pick flower field where you’ll find more than 4 acres of flowers including 20 varieties of sunflowers and four varieties of zinnias.
However, one of the things that sets this fall destination apart from many others is its food. There are several food booths at this farm where you can find a little bit of everything. For example, there is the 15 Mile Kitchen, home to delicious burgers, sandwiches, hand-dipped corn dogs, and French fries.
Grab a slice of pizza at Pitchfork Pizza or a smoked turkey leg at the Smokehouse. There are also cookies and churros if you are craving something sweet.
Although, if you are in the mood for autumn flavors, head to the Orchard Stop. This food booth is where you will find some of the best autumn treats around including apple cider donuts that are so good you won’t be able to stop at just one.
There’s also hot, fresh cider, souvenir cider, and even an epic orchard apple freeze. Believe us when we say that you may want to come back to this Kuna farm just for the food. Keep in mind, however, that not all food booths will be open at all times.
Lowe Family Farmstead is open every Monday through Saturday from September 14 to October 30, 2024. If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to visit on a Monday through Thursday evening or on a weekend in September. The busiest days are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in October. You can also receive discounted rates every Tuesday night.
For more information on Lowe Family Farmstead, including hours and admission prices, visit this Kuna farm’s website. Also, follow the Lowe Family Farmstead Facebook page for news and updates.
And if this is your first time in Kuna or the surrounding area, consider staying in a cozy vacation rental. Feel like a local and enjoy this beautiful area in Idaho for a day or two.
Fall is my favorite time of the year in Idaho. Not only does the vibrant fall foliage enhance the state’s natural beauty, but the long list of activities and the cooler weather also make it hard to stay cooped up at home. From the Panhandle to the Utah/Idaho state line, there are bucket-list-worthy Idaho fall activities for the entire family. The following are just 15 of our favorite things to do in Idaho in the fall.
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Idaho Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Idaho For Fall Foliage
My favorite thing about the autumn months is the vibrant foliage and we are blessed in Idaho with incredible fall foliage destinations. Keep in mind, that to view the sea of colors in the following destinations, timing is crucial. Leaves start to change first in the Panhandle and typically, by the middle to end of October, you’ll see fall foliage at its best in Southern Idaho.
Wow Factor: This small town is surrounded by mountains and sits along the banks of the Kootenai River.
Need To Know: Just east of Bonners Ferry is the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, another fantastic place to view fall foliage and observe wildlife.
Located in the Panhandle is Bonners Ferry. This town is unique as it sits right along the banks of the Kootenai River. The gorgeous location makes this town truly enchanting during the autumn when fall foliage is at its peak. While you can head into the mountains, I recommend you also spend plenty of time in town exploring the pedestrian-friendly streets and historic buildings. This town is considered one of the friendliest towns in Idaho after all.
Wow Factor: Bring your camera and capture images of the Teton Mountains surrounded by the fall foliage — it's breathtaking.
Need To Know: If you want to spend some time outdoors and enjoy even more autumn views, hike or bike along the Ashton-Tetonia Trail, a 29.6-mile rail trail in the Teton Valley.
Driggs is beautiful all year long but there is something heavenly about the Teton Valley during the fall. You can always stay in town or head to bucket-list-worthy destinations just a short drive outside of town like Teton Canyon, Darby Canyon, or Horseshoe Canyon. I also recommend a drive along the Teton Scenic Byway, one of the best fall drives in Idaho.
Wow Factor: The fall foliage is breathtaking in this area and the small crowds make it the perfect time to visit this popular area of Idaho.
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Need To Know: The nearby towns of Ketchum and Hailey are also excellent destinations for viewing fall foliage and exploring.
Sun Valley is truly remarkable during the autumn. Not only are there fewer crowds than during the summer and winter months but the yellows, reds, and oranges, create the perfect backdrop. In fact, visiting Sun Valley during the autumn will make you fall in love with Idaho all over again. During your visit, head to the Sun Valley Lodge or tackle a hike to get up close to vibrant colors. Each fall, Sun Valley and the surrounding area also hosts bucket-list-worthy fall events including the Trailing of the Sheep Festival, one of the best and most anticipated fall events in the state.
Wow Factor: The Sawtooth Mountains create the perfect backdrop for the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
Need To Know: Many businesses are seasonal in the Stanley area so make sure to do your research to ensure your favorite places to visit are open.
Stanley is a small town in Idaho but it draws in quite a crowd during the summer months. Fortunately, once fall arrives, many people leave, creating the perfect escape into nature. Even in the autumn months, this is a paradise for hikers, anglers, and hunters. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the Fishhook Creek Trail, enjoy the beauty of Redfish Lake, or even warm up on cooler days at Kirkham Hot Springs.
Best Pumpkin Patches In Idaho
One of the best ways to celebrate fall is to visit a pumpkin patch. Many of the best pumpkin patches in Idaho are not only where you can search for the perfect pumpkin to take home, but also offer a long list of fall activities like corn mazes, hay rides, and corn pits. And, of course, you can’t forget about the food. The following are some of our favorite pumpkin patches in Idaho and each one makes for a fabulous day trip destination.
Wow Factor: Not only are there tons of pumpkins to choose from, but you can purchase fall decor here as well.
Need To Know: This pumpkin patch is open seven days a week throughout October.
In the small town of New Plymouth is Kovick Kountry Farm. During a visit here, you’ll never be bored. Little kids will love to take a ride on the small train or play in the corn pit. Adults can search for fall décor such as corn stalks, straw bales, and more. There are also pumpkins of all sizes to choose from so you can easily find exactly what you want.
Wow Factor: There are more than 20 varieties of pumpkins available at this farm.
Need To Know: Seasonal and day passes are available. If you are looking for a discounted rate, visit Monday through Thursday each week.
Shindig Farms in Nampa is one of the best pumpkin patches in Treasure Valley. Give yourself plenty of time to search for the perfect pumpkin. But don’t be surprised if it will be a challenge — there are more than 20 varieties to choose from. Shindig Farms also offers wagon rides, a straw maze, zipline, giant slide, and so much more. Day trip and season passes are available to this pumpkin Patch near Boise.
Wow Factor: Not only is there a long list of fall activities for the entire family, but the food here is divine. Make sure to try the pizza!
Need To Know: This pumpkin patch typically opens in the middle of September. They also offer a valet service that will load the pumpkins in your vehicle for you.
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You can spend hours at U-Pick Red Barn in Idaho Falls. This incredible fall destination not only has a huge pumpkin patch where you can choose from all types of pumpkins but there are also pumpkin cannons, a corn pit, straw maze, giant slides, and jumping pads. Take either a train, tractor, or wagon hay ride, and don’t leave without grabbing some delicious food (I recommend the Italian Neapolitan pizza!).
Wow Factor: The straw maze is quite large and can take up to 90 minutes to conquer.
Need To Know: If you love a good fright, the maze is haunted on Saturday night.
If you wish to get into the fall spirit, Burley Straw Maze and Pumpkin Patch is the place to go. Here, you will take a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, where you’ll find more than a dozen pumpkin varieties. You can also become lost in the giant straw maze with 8-foot walls, and there is a barrel train, zipline, giant slide, and more for the entire family. And once hunger strikes, head to Whim’s. This is an on-site restaurant where you can order burgers, nachos, chili, hot dogs, delicious caramel apples, and more.
Best Fall Festivals In Idaho
One of the best ways to celebrate fall is at a festival. Whether it’s an entire weekend or just a day, the best fall festivals are full of vendors, activities, and food. You’ll want to mark these events far in advance on your calendar — you won’t want to miss them.
Wow Factor: In addition to the long list of fall activities, local orchards will be available if you wish to pick your own produce.
Need To Know: This event will take place from Friday, September 27, 2024, to Saturday, September 28, 2024. It is located on Main Street in downtown Emmett.
Typically taking place the last weekend in September, the Harvest Festival Street Fair is a fabulous way to welcome the autumn season. In fact, it has become a tradition for more than 30 years and celebrates the community’s hard work growing and harvesting their crops. This weekend event features many of our favorite fall activities like hay rides, pumpkin patches, a scarecrow contest, and loads of vendors.
Need To Know: If you plan to stay for a while in Lava Hot Springs, make reservations early.
You will love visiting the small community of Lava Hot Springs for a family-friendly Oktoberfest weekend. Taking place the first weekend of October each year, you’ll not only enjoy a beer garden with DJ music and food, but there are also activities like an inflatable carnival, pumpkin painting, corn hole, yodeling, a costume contest, and more. Then, when you need a little rest and relaxation from all of your excitement, head to Lava Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
11. Trailing of the Sheep Festival, Sun Valley, Ketchum, and Hailey
Wow Factor: The Big Sheep Parade features more than 1,500 sheep.
Need To Know: Events are held in various towns in the area including Ketchum and Hailey so plan to do a little driving.
One of the most well-known fall festivals in Idaho, and also recognized as one of the best fall festivals in America, is Trailing of the Sheep in Sun Valley. Also taking place the first week of October each year, this event is full of activities that you won’t find at many other fall events including a massive sheep parade with up to 1,500 sheep. You can also enjoy music, storytelling, Sheepdog trials, and good food.
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Free & Cheap Idaho Fall Activities
To enjoy the best that fall has to offer, you don’t have to spend a fortune. In fact, some of the best fall activities in Idaho won’t cost you a thing. All they require is that you head outside, bring along your friends and family, and just have a good time.
12. Walk around the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Moscow
Wow Factor: While this botanical garden is beautiful all year, it truly stuns when fall foliage is at its peak.
Need To Know:Bring your walking shoes so you can hike all around the arboretum. This botanical garden is free to visit.
Located in northern Idaho is one of my favorite places to spend a fall day — the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden. This unique destination in Moscow is 63 acres full of plants, walking paths, water features, and more. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy the fall foliage or go for an easy hike along the walking path. I love to sit next to the pond, read, meditate, or observe wildlife.
13. Cycle along the Boise River Greenbelt, Treasure Valley
Wow Factor: The Boise River and the Greenbelt are lined with trees that feature vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows during the fall.
Need To Know: Some of the path is near busy roads. Keep a close eye on children in these areas.
Boise is known as the “City of Trees” and as you walk or cycle along the Boise River Greenbelt, you’ll quickly understand why. This 25-mile paved path is lined with trees that will inspire you during the fall months. While you can always walk just a short distance and turn around, I recommend hopping on a bicycle and enjoying a longer ride. You’ll ride over bridges, through more than a dozen city parks, and to many small towns.
Wow Factor: While beautiful when surrounded by fall foliage, this waterfall is particularly gorgeous during sunrise and sunset.
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Need To Know: This waterfall is accessible — no hiking is required. Even better, it is located just off a main highway.
There are some incredible waterfalls to visit each autumn but one that is picturesque in every way is Fall Creek Falls near Swan Valley. This waterfall is located right on the banks of the South Fork of the Snake River and falls approximately 60 feet into the river. The falls are easy to access and typically not very crowded, making it an excellent outdoor destination for a little peace and quiet outdoors. Just make sure you don’t forget your camera — it’s absolutely stunning here.
Wow Factor: The trails are quite easy and the views are spectacular.
Need To Know: This area can become quite busy when fall foliage is at its peak. You will want to plan your visit accordingly.
Just outside of Pocatello is one of the best places in southeastern Idaho for a fall day — City Creek. This area is home to an extensive trail system that is quite popular for hikers and mountain bikers alike. The City Creek Loop Trail is one of our favorites as it’s surrounded by deciduous and aspen trees that feature vibrant colors in the fall. Even better, this trail is just under three miles long.
What other fall activities near me in Idaho would you add to this list? What do you consider the best places to visit in Idaho in the fall? What do you love most about Idaho in the fall? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you. Of course, if you are looking for even more adventure inspiration, check out Viator.
