Idaho is breathtaking. It is a state with so much to offer and beauty around every corner. From the panhandle to the Utah/Idaho border, you will find natural wonders that impress, astound, and defy explanation. Below are just 16 incredible natural wonders in Idaho that deserve a spot on every bucket list. Some are destinations you might be familiar with — others may be brand new – but all are going to make you fall in love with this remarkable state.
Best Gorges & Canyons In Idaho
Many out-of-staters believe that Idaho is boring, flat, and ugly. Fortunately, we know better. It is home to some of the most remarkable landscapes including breathtaking gorges and expansive canyons. Below are just three of the best gorges and canyons that Idaho has to offer.
1. Hells Canyon
Location: Lewis and Clark Valley, Idaho
Wow Factor: The deepest point in this canyon is nearly 8,000 feet deep, making it the deepest river gorge in America.
Cost: Free
Hells Canyon in northern Idaho is 2,000 feet deeper than the Grand Canyon. It was carved thousands of years ago by the Snake River and is beautiful from above or on the ground. Explore on a whitewater rafting adventure, a hike, or even on a scenic drive. I recommend the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, which is only 22 miles long and features overlooks that inspire.
2. Snake River Canyon
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
Wow Factor: This canyon extends more than 50 miles and is home to multiple waterfalls, countless hiking trails, and water adventures. It is also where you will find the impressive I. B. Perrine Memorial Bridge.
Cost: Free
The Snake River Canyon is one of the most well-known canyons in southern Idaho. Here, the Snake River cuts through and it is home to the famous Shoshone Falls. You can enjoy views of the canyon while driving across the Perrine Bridge or hiking the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail. If you want to view the canyon from below, paddle on the river or even hike along the Mogensen Trail.
3. Bruneau Canyon
Location: Near Bruneau, Idaho
Wow Factor: Located in the remote desert of southwestern Idaho, this massive canyon with 800-foot walls is almost hidden from view.
Cost: Free
Bruneau Canyon is lesser known than the other canyons on our list but it is nonetheless awe-inspiring. In fact, you may not even know it exists until you are right there. Located near Bruneau, this canyon features 800-foot walls that were carved by the majestic Bruneau River. Hike along the canyon walls or just sit next to the rim and admire its beauty — there’s nothing quite like it.
Best Caves In Idaho
You’ll find hiking trails all around Idaho that take you to extraordinary caves. Just make sure you bring a camera on these incredible adventures — you won’t want to forget the views.
4. Minnetonka Cave
Location: Near St. Charles, Idaho
Wow Factor: Minnetonka Cave is the largest limestone cave in Idaho
Cost: $12 for adults, $9 for youth, children under the age of five are free
Lace up your hiking boots and tackle the short trail to Minnetonka Cave, just a short drive from Bear Lake State Park. The trek is short but there are lots of stairs — so be prepared. However, the journey is worth every step as you can take a tour of the largest limestone cave in Idaho. This cave is covered in stalagmites and stalactites and you may even see a few bats on your journey. This cave is seasonal and open from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day each year.
5. Darby Wind and Ice Caves
Location: Near Driggs, Idaho — along the Idaho/Wyoming state line
Wow Factor: The hike is beautiful and the cave is quite large. If you love exploring caves, there are plenty of opportunities here.
Cost: Free
The hike to this cave can be challenging. You will have a 5-mile journey ahead of you but the trek is stunning. You’ll pass bridges and streams, canyons and waterfalls, and so many other natural attractions that are sure to impress. As you get closer to the cave, the trail becomes more difficult but once you arrive, you’ll be glad you made the effort. If you have the time, explore the cave but be mindful that some areas become quite narrow and tight. Be smart as you explore.
Best Waterfalls In Idaho
It is hard to narrow down the best waterfalls in Idaho. With dozens of waterfalls scattered all around the Gem State, the best nature in Idaho is easy to find and access. The following may be some of the more well-known waterfalls in the state but they are natural wonders that deserve to be visited over and over again.
6. Shoshone Falls
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho
Wow Factor: Shoshone Falls is higher than Niagara Falls back east and is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Idaho.
Cost: Free
Shoshone Falls is easily one of the most impressive natural wonders in Idaho. Often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” this waterfall is 45 feet higher than Niagara Falls. These falls are 212 feet tall and 925 feet wide and are beautiful throughout the entire year. However, spring is when these falls truly roar due to the snowmelt that flows from Idaho’s Rocky Mountains.
7. Mesa Falls
Location: Near Ashton, Idaho
Wow Factor: Mesa Falls is a tiered waterfall that is 114 feet tall and 200 feet wide.
Cost: Free
Just a short drive from Yellowstone National Park and multiple state parks in Idaho is one of my favorite natural wonders in Idaho — Mesa Falls. This tiered waterfall plunges up to 100 feet into the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. Here, there are many platforms where you can enjoy the falls but if you have a little extra time, I recommend a drive along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway — it’s gorgeous.
8. Jump Creek Falls
Location: Near Marsing, Idaho
Wow Factor: Jump Creek Falls is a 60-foot waterfall that falls into a gorgeous swimming hole.
Cost: Free
Jump Creek Falls has quickly become a popular summertime destination and for good reason. This breathtaking 60-foot waterfall plunges into a natural pool that is perfect for wading and cooling off on a cool day. Be aware that there is a short 0.6-mile out-and-back hike to reach the falls but the trail is quite easy and fairly flat.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Idaho
Oh, Idaho! You are absolutely breathtaking and the best overlooks and scenic vistas in Idaho prove that. The following two viewpoints are my personal favorite overlooks in the state and I guarantee that after spending a few minutes at each one, you’ll quickly fall in love with Idaho all over again.
9. Confluence Overlook
Location: Approximately 8 miles north of Lewiston, Idaho
Wow Factor: At this overlook, you can see numerous natural wonders at once.
Cost: Free
Confluence Lookout is one of my favorite views in northern Idaho. Located at a highway pullout on the Lewiston Grade on U.S. Highway 95, this view is breathtaking. On a clear day, you will see many natural wonders including the Bitterroot and Wallowa Mountains, Snake and Clearwater Rivers, and even Hells Canyon.
10. Osprey Point, Ponderosa State Park
Location: Ponderosa State Park, McCall, Idaho
Wow Factor: This is the best place to enjoy views of Payette Lake.
Cost: $7 vehicle entrance fee for accessing the park
Ponderosa State Park is not only one of the most beautiful state parks in Idaho but it is also home to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints — Osprey Point. Here, you can sit back and enjoy the views of Payette Lake and it’s one destination where you will not want to forget your camera.
Best Rock Formations In Idaho
One thing Idaho has no shortage of is rock formations. Spending time next to these formations is the perfect day trip. Hike, rock climb, picnic, or just admire the beauty of these incredible creations — they truly do defy explanation.
11. Balanced Rock
Location: Near Buhl, Idaho
Wow Factor: Balanced Rock is perfectly balanced on a pedestal that is only 3 feet by 17 inches.
Cost: Free
Balanced Rock near Buhl is one destination that will certainly make you scratch your head. This incredible rock formation features a 48-foot-tall, 40-ton rock that is balanced on a pedestal of only 3 feet by 17 inches. There’s not much in the area aside from a small park but it’s perfect for a picnic and even offers a few primitive camping sites.
12. City of Rocks National Reserve
Location: Near Almo, Idaho
Wow Factor: City of Rocks is home to incredible rock formations that have captured the attention of rock climbers from around the world.
Cost: Free
City of Rocks is one destination that belongs on every Idahoan's bucket list. Known as the Silent City of Rocks, this destination is home to unique rock formations that have actually drawn the attention of individuals from around the world. Here, you’ll find hiking trails to better explore these formations as well as a campground for an outdoor getaway. City of Rocks National Reserve is also one of Idaho’s newer International Dark Sky Parks.
Unique Natural Wonders In Idaho
When it comes to the best nature spots in Idaho, the options are endless. In fact, there are some unique natural attractions that will certainly put a smile on your face. The following are four unique natural wonders in Idaho that every Idahoan should experience at least once — believe me, you won’t regret it.
13. Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park
Location: Bruneau, Idaho
Wow Factor: This area is home to the tallest free-standing sand dune in North America.
Cost: $7 vehicle entrance fee for accessing the park
Tucked away in western Idaho is one of the most unique destinations in the Gem State — Bruneau Sand Dunes. Here, you’ll find a 4,800-acre state park that is a delightful place for hiking and camping. Bruneau Sand Dunes is home to the tallest free-standing sand dune in North America and is one of the few places in the state where you can rent a sandboard and glide across the sand.
14. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Location: Along the Snake River Plain in central Idaho
Wow Factor: Craters of the Moon is home to fields of hardened lava flow and at least 25 cinder cones.
Cost: $20 per vehicle or $10 per person if entering on foot
Craters of the Moon isn’t like anywhere else in Idaho, and you may not even consider it one of the most beautiful destinations in the Gem State. However, it is certainly a unique natural attraction in Idaho. Located in central Idaho, this area is essentially fields of hardened lava flow. During your visit, hike, camp, or take a scenic drive around the area. If visiting during the summer, bring lots of water and sun protection — it can become quite hot and there is little shade.
15. Redfish Lake
Location: Near Stanley, Idaho
Wow Factor: This lake is over four miles long and is a mile wide. It features crystal-clear waters and the Sawtooth Mountains create a backdrop that you could stare at all day.
Cost: Varies depending on where you park and what you do at the lake
Redfish Lake is one of the most breathtaking alpine lakes in the Gem State. You’ll find this lake tucked away at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains and near the small town of Stanley. Fish, boat, kayak, swim — there is plenty to see and do here. I also recommend you just spend some time along one of the lake’s pristine beaches. This is the perfect natural wonder for a lake day.
16. The Palouse Region
Location: Northern Idaho
Wow Factor: Miles of rolling hills that were created by dust storms thousands of years ago.
Cost: Free
The Palouse Region may be one of the most overlooked natural wonders in Idaho. Located in the Panhandle, the Palouse is comprised of small hills that were formed thousands of years ago. They are made from dust and silt from dust storms that tore across the area. Each season offers spectacular views of the Palouse as spring and early summer brings rolling green hills, while the harvest transforms the region into waves of gold.
What other natural wonders of Idaho would you add to this list? Are there any natural attractions in Idaho that astound and mesmerize you? When you visit Idaho, where you do love to travel? Let us know in the comments. And, while we couldn’t list every must-see natural attraction in Idaho on this list, take a look at our collection of articles for even more inspiration and bucket-list-worthy destinations you need to check out.
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