Here in Idaho, there is no shortage of unique destinations to explore. No matter where you travel in the Gem State, you will come across hidden gems. Idaho is full of them and while some have become pretty popular over the years, there are still a few that are lesser-known and absolutely remarkable. We thought it would be fun to visit several of these lesser-known hidden gems in Idaho. So, we created this road trip that is just waiting to be explored. From remarkable canyons to historic areas that are fascinating to learn about, this hidden gem road trip is a trip worth taking! Ready to start exploring? Load up the car — adventure awaits!

Google Maps
We’ve mapped out this route and it is approximately 428 miles and 10 hours of drive time. We suggest you break this trip up into multiple days to enjoy each and every hidden gem to its fullest. If you want to customize this trip, check out this interactive map.
1. Owyhee River Wilderness, Owyhee County
Owyhee River Wilderness, Idaho, USA
BLMIdaho/Flickr
Our road trip to lesser-known hidden gems in Idaho begins in Owyhee County in southwestern Idaho. Here, you will find the Owyhee River Wilderness. This area offers the most incredible, remote landscape that will take your breath away. In this area, you can enjoy a short hike, a multi-day backpacking adventure, float the river, or even rock climb. No matter what activities you choose, make sure you stop at the Bruneau Overlook, which gives you the most awe-inspiring views of the 800-foot-deep Bruneau Canyon and Bruneau River.
2. Three Island Crossing State Park, Glenns Ferry
Three Island State Park, Three Island State Pk, Glenns Ferry, ID 83623, USA
Linda Hoernke/Google
Three Island Crossing State Park is one of the most underrated state parks in Idaho. However, this state park is quite fascinating and history buffs will love this hidden gem in Idaho. At Three Island Crossing State Park, you will get a look at pioneer life decades ago. You can see original wagon ruts on the Oregon Trail, view Conestoga replicas, and enjoy interactive exhibits at the Oregon Trail History and Education Center. This is also an excellent place to spend the night as there are multiple campsites and cabins.
3. Blue Heart Springs, near Hagerman
Blue Heart Springs, Idaho 83316, USA
Briar Garduno/Google
Get ready to be impressed by the most gorgeous views and the bluest water at Blue Heart Springs. This is also one area where you can experience peace and quiet as it’s far away from the public. In fact, the easiest way to get here is by kayak from Banbury Hot Springs. Blue Heart Springs is not known for warm swimming waters, but you can float in your kayak or sit along the rocks and just admire the surrounding beauty.

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4. Balanced Rock Park, Buhl
Balanced Rock Park, Balanced Rock Rd, Buhl, ID 83316, USA
Stephen Hanafin/Flickr
Balanced Rock Park is quite the sight. This park is located south of Buhl and is filled with the most incredible rock formations including the mesmerizing 48-foot-tall Balanced Rock. This stop on our hidden gems road trip is the perfect photo destination and a great place to stop and enjoy a picnic. If you're interested, there are primitive campsites around the area. Click here for more information on this hidden gem in Idaho.
5. Black Magic Canyon, Shoshone
Black Magic Canyon of Big Wood River, State Hwy 75, Shoshone, ID 83352, USA
Management/TripAdvisor
Black Magic Canyon may just become your favorite stop on our road trip. This one-of-a-kind canyon was carved by the Big Wood River and is filled with unique lava sculptures. This stop is not for the faint of heart as there is quite a hike to reach it. Irrigation water is also diverted through the canyon during the spring and early summer months, so it is crucial that you avoid exploring inside the canyon during this time of year.
6. Silver Creek Preserve, Bellevue
165 Kilpatrick Bridge Rd, Bellevue, ID 83313, USA
Tom Hall/Google
You can enjoy peace and quiet at the Silver Creek Preserve in Idaho. This area is home to large and small wildlife including moose, bobcats, and more than 150 species of birds. Make sure to bring your fishing pole as Silver Creek Preserve is an excellent fishing destination. Fun fact about this area: this was one of Ernest Hemingway's favorite places to spend his time.
7. Charcoal Kilns Interpretive Site, Leadore
Charcoal Kilns Interpretive Site, Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 533, Leadore, ID 83464, USA
Greg Stringham/Google
The Charcoal Kilns Interpretive Site is certainly a lesser-known place in Idaho but it’s one area that you need to visit at least once. These charcoal kilns date back to the 1880s when the area was busy with miners at the Viola Mine. While there is not much out there but the kilns, this is a great picnic area. The kilns are pretty interesting to explore and play an important role in Idaho history.

So there you have it: an adventure-filled road trip that will take you to some of Idaho’s best-kept secrets. Are there lesser-known hidden gems in Idaho that you’d add to this road trip? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments — we would love to hear from you! For related content, you may be curious to check out this list of Idaho’s top natural wonders. Or, if you enjoy exploring waterfalls, check out this incredible waterfall road trip in Idaho. There’s so much to see and do in the Gem State!

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More to Explore

hidden gems in Idaho

Beth C. | November 15, 2022

What are the most famous historic landmarks in Idaho?

The most famous historic landmarks in Idaho include:

  • Nampa Train Depot
  • Bear River Massacre Historical Site
  • USS Hawkbill
  • Idaho Veterans Cemetery
  • Wallace
  • Birch Creek/Nicholia Charcoal Kilns
  • Idaho State Capitol Building
  • Salmon Sacajawea Center
  • Johnny Sack Cabin, Island Park
  • Fort Hall Replica, Pocatello

 

What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Idaho?

Hiking in Idaho is amazing! The most beautiful hiking trails in Idaho include:

  • Bloomington Lake Trail (Paris)
  • Crown Point Rail Trail (Cascade)
  • Bruneau Dunes Loop (Bruneau)
  • Shoreline Picnic Area Trail (Athol)
  • Mesa Falls Nature Trail (Ashton)
  • Round Lake Trail (Sagle)
  • Baker Lake Trail (Ketchum)
  • Summit Creek (Mackay)

 

There are also a fair amount of shorter, easier trails if you're hiking with little ones or consider yourself to be more of a beginner. Blue Lake Trail is a great option if you're looking for a short-and-sweet hike. Located near Cascade, Idaho, this 1.7-mile out-and-back trail will lead you up to a gorgeous overlook -- the perfect spot for an epic sunrise. While this trail can get crowded on the weekends, it's relatively calm on the weekdays, especially early in the morning. Learn more about some short trails in Idaho perfect for all skill levels.

 

 

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