One of the benefits of living in Idaho is you get to experience all four seasons. While each season has its own benefits, there is no doubt that fall in Idaho is one of the best. In fact, the Gem State is home to many small mountain towns that are absolutely mesmerizing during the autumn months, and because our fall season is typically short, you don’t want to miss out on these gorgeous sights. These small mountain towns in Idaho are scattered all over the state, so we’ve created this list of a few of our favorites to visit during the fall.

1. Bonners Ferry
Bonners Ferry, ID 83805, USA
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Bonners Ferry is located in the northern part of the state and is certainly one of the most beautiful small towns in Idaho during the fall. This mountain town sits right along the banks of the Kootenai River and was originally established during the Gold Rush. As you visit Bonners Ferry, you can spend your day at the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge or exploring downtown. Definitely make Bonners Ferry your next fall getaway in Idaho.
2. Driggs
Driggs, ID, USA
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Driggs is a small town in Idaho that is located in the remarkable Teton Valley. During your visit, you’ll not only have the most incredible views of the Teton Mountain Range, but the fall colors will take the stunning views in this town to a whole new level. While you can always spend some time in the mountains during your day trip in Idaho, don’t overlook the charm of this town as well. Driggs is home to many restaurants, boutiques, and more.
3. Wallace
Wallace, ID 83873, USA
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Wallace is quite a unique small town in Idaho. It is surrounded by trees so everywhere you look will be covered in the most beautiful fall foliage during the autumn. Plus, Wallace has the most interesting history. Did you know the entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places? This is a remarkable mountain town in Idaho that is just perfect for a fall day trip!
4. Challis
Challis, ID 83226, USA
BLMIdaho/Flickr
Challis is a small town in Idaho that many Idahoans don’t even know exists. Challis is located in central Idaho with a population of approximately 1,000 residents. When visiting, you will be near all types of exciting outdoor adventures including hot springs, hikes, and fishing. Challis also sits just outside of Land of Yankee Fork State Park. Between the town proper and Land of Yankee Fork State Park, this is a wonderful fall day trip in Idaho!

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5. Moscow
Moscow, ID, USA
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While is Moscow is technically situated in the Palouse region of Idaho, it is absolutely breathtaking in the autumn. Moscow Mountain is a wonderful place to view fall foliage in Idaho whether by hiking, mountain biking, or on horseback. However, the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden is at the top of the list of the best places in Idaho to view fall foliage. Stroll through the area and you’ll see the brightest and boldest orange, red, and yellow hues.
6. Sun Valley
Sun Valley, ID 83353, USA
ChristyKosnic/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Sun Valley is well known all across the Gem State and after visiting, you’ll quickly see why. Not only is this area filled with a variety of things to do from skiing to shopping, but it is also absolutely breathtaking. No matter what time of year you visit, Sun Valley is truly incredible. Plus, by visiting in the fall and before the busy winter season, this destination will be less crowded -- yet still just as wonderful.
7. Smiths Ferry
Smiths Ferry, ID 83611, USA
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With a population of just over 100 residents, this is one of the tiniest mountain towns on our list. However, it is one area that you do not want to miss during the fall. This small mountain town in Idaho is ideal for outdoor lovers as it is near the Payette River and in close proximity to excellent hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. During the fall, head to the Rainbow Bridge over the Payette River to experience foliage in Idaho like never before. The Rainbow Bridge might just be *the* best place for fall foliage viewing in Idaho, in fact!
8. Stanley
Stanley, ID, USA
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If you want to receive some fresh air, relax, and just enjoy some peace and quiet, Stanley is the place to go. Stanley, Idaho is a small town that is tucked away into the bottom of the Sawtooth Mountains; and during the fall, this town looks like it came right out of a movie. Plus, the outdoor activities are never-ending and whether you want a quiet hike, a soak in the hot springs, or a day on the river, it’s all nearby for you to enjoy.
9. McCall
McCall, ID 83638, USA
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There is no doubt that McCall is one small mountain town in Idaho that stands out. Located on the shores of Payette Lake, this small town is the perfect place to visit regardless of the season. However, in the fall, the beauty of the mountains and the lake create a photo-worthy backdrop. During your visit, spend your time hiking, soaking in the Gold Fork Hot Springs, or just walking through town. When you are in McCall, Idaho, you'll never be bored!

What do you think about our list of beautiful mountain towns in Idaho? Are there any other small mountain towns in Idaho that you would add to it? If so, let us know in the comments!

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Sarah M. | August 19, 2022

Where are the best places to view fall foliage in Idaho?

Idaho generally experiences peak fall foliage in October, and no matter where you're located, you're sure to enjoy a spectacular seasonal show. We love places like Palisades Reservoir, the Sawtooth Wilderness, Table Rock, Hayden Lake, Stevens Lake, Scotchman Peak, Cress Creek, and Lake Coeur d'Alene; but really, anywhere you go in Idaho is going to be beautiful in the autumn! For a fall foliage map of Idaho, be sure to check out this feature.

What are some beautiful mountain towns to visit for a fall getaway in Idaho?

Idaho is often underestimated and overlooked, when the truth is, it is one of the most beautiful states in the country -- especially in the height of fall foliage! One of our favorite fall getaways in Idaho is to the town of Sun Valley. This famous mountain town in central Idaho is legendary; it's where the world's first chairlifts were installed in 1936, helping to cement its status as a modern ski resort destination. (In fact, the oldest resort in America is in Sun Valley!) Here you'll find an abundance of winter activities to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding to even sleigh rides and ice skating during the holidays. However, we happen to think fall is the prime time to visit this mountain town in Idaho. If you visit during the autumn months, you can enjoy amazing recreation such as hiking, horseback riding, fly-fishing, and golf, all surrounded by the spectacularly scenic autumn landscape of Idaho.

We actually put together this road trip to the best mountain towns in Idaho, and there are some really fantastic fall getaway options on this adventure! We love Ketchum and McCall for weekend vacations, and you can never go wrong with an autumn trip to Riggins, either!

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