Things to do in Idaho in summer are virtually endless in quantity and variety. The Gem State's dramatic contrasts in geography make getting out in nature here a delight to the eyes just about anywhere you go on the water, in the mountains, hills, and valleys – and even underground. And you won't go hungry for delicious food: Idaho is a leading agricultural producer that helps feed the entire country. While here, you're able to enjoy the summer season's most delicious bounty fresh from the source.

Idaho is the perfect place for a summer vacation, with the only challenge being choosing which region to explore. To help guide your planning, we've created a guide of hot tips for the places and events that shine brightest during the summer season.

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Idaho

You really can't go wrong going anywhere in Idaho in the warm weather months because the state is chock full of hidden summer spots alongside better-known destinations. With that in mind, we highlighted a one-of-a-kind tiny community, a small town widely celebrated for its outdoors, and a mid-sized city that makes a great home base for exploring the entire southern part of the state.

1. Bayview, ID

Location: Bayview, ID

Popularity: Hidden gem

Need To Know: The biggest event of summer is Bayview Daze, the town's Fourth of July celebration.

You won't find anywhere else in the world like Bayview, with its "Floating Village" of over 100 historical floating homes on the southwest end of Lake Pend Oreille. Established in the early 1900s, the homes first gave shelter to Kokanee salmon fishermen and today are inhabited by year-round residents or vacationers.

2. Twin Falls, ID

Location: Twin Falls, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: You can drive right up to one of the city's most loved waterfalls, Perrine Coulee Falls, which is just west of the iconic Perrine Bridge and overlooks Centennial Waterfront Park.

Home to the Niagara of the West, Shoshone Falls (and many more!), the beautiful Snake River Canyon, and thriving downtown, Twin Falls has plenty to offer without leaving the city. Yet if you have time to stay awhile, this city makes the perfect central location for exploring all the Southern Idaho region has to offer. To the south are the City of Rocks National Preserve, Castle Rocks State Park, and the South Hills. Go east to Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge or northwest to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. And to the west extends the multiple units of Thousand Springs State Park.

3. McCall, ID

Location: McCall, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: In mid-July, the McCall Folklore Society presents The Music Festival at Roseberry just south of town, which has become one of the state's most popular music fests.

Surrounded by mountains, lakes, and majestic forests, McCall is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. In the summer, the crystal waters of Payette Lake draw visitors for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Ponderosa State Park extends onto a long lake peninsula, offering multiple lake access points as well as trails on land with incredible views.

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers To Visit In Idaho This Summer

More than offering only relief from the heat, Idaho's sparkling alpine lakes, scenic rivers, and warm sands of lakeside beaches are prime places to simply sit back, relax, and appreciate their natural beauty. On the water, people can take part in paddle sports, world-class fishing, high-speed boating, and whitewater thrills.

4. Redfish Lake Lodge, Stanley, ID

Location: Stanley, ID

Popularity: Busy during summer weekends

Need To Know: At over 1,500 acres, Redfish Lake is the largest lake in the Sawtooth National Recreational Area.

You'll be mesmerized by the crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain scenery of Redfish Lake. Located at the headwaters of the Salmon River in central Idaho, the lake is part of the Sawtooth National Recreational Area and adjacent to the Sawtooth Wilderness. You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards for leisurely floats or fishing. The marina also offers motorized boat rentals for those who prefer a quicker pace. A fun way to see the lake in a most leisurely way is to take a sunset appetizer cruise offered at Redfish Lake Lodge.

5. Henry's Fork of the Snake River, Island Park, ID

Location: Island Park, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: Mack's Inn Resort River Adventures rentals are available from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.

Renowned for its world-class fly-fishing, Henry's Fork of the Snake River is home to many species of trout, and early summer is the prime time for anglers there. If you're more into paddlesports and wildlife watching, floating along this section of the river will be a treat. You can rent rafts, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and the like at Mack's Inn Resort to take on a five-mile adventure. Expect to see lots of wildlife, from moose casually wading by to eagles soaring overhead.

6. Honeysuckle Beach, Hayden Lake, ID

Location: Hayden Lake, ID

Popularity: Busy during summer weekends

Need To Know: Arrive early to get a parking space and a prime spot on the beach, especially on weekends.

A sandy beach with pretty blue topaz waters, Honeysuckle Beach Honeysuckle Beach, is a favorite spot for families. The beach has a roped-off swimming area, dock, changing The beach has a roped-off swimming area a roped-off swimming area, dock, changing rooms and restrooms. If you care to drop a line in the water, there's a dedicated fishing dock and boat launch to explore the lake beyond the swimming area.

7. Hells Canyon & The Snake River, Riggins, ID

Location: Riggins, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: At 7,993 feet deep, Hells Canyon is North America's deepest river gorge.

After the Snake River flows southwest and loops around Southern Idaho, it rushes north along the Oregon border, where it created the dramatic landscapes of Hells Canyon over about six million years. Thrill seekers can take to the water for whitewater rafting and or jet boat cruises offered by several outfitters. To see the geological marvel from above and at a more leisurely pace, take the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway by car.

Parks To Visit In Idaho This Summer

When a visit to a park is just what summer ordered, Idaho doesn't disappoint. We have hundreds of fine city and neighborhood parks for impromptu sunny adventures and 30 state parks, to boot. Here are just a few of our most unique parks to visit in Idaho this summer, from waterparks to otherworldly lava fields atop cool underground caves.

8. Roaring Springs Waterpark, Meridian, ID

Location: Meridian, ID

Popularity: Very popular during the summer

Need To Know: For more family fun beyond the waterpark features, note that this park is connected to the Wahooz Family Fun Zone, which has more activities like go-karts, bumper boats, mini-golf, laser tag, and arcade games.

Experience the ultimate in family entertainment at the Northwest's largest water park. Embrace the heat and make a splash as you zoom down thrilling water slides, wade the wave pool, and float the winding lazy river at Roaring Springs. The waterpark has over 20 water attractions, including several just added for summer 2024. Many of the play spaces and activities include elements that speak to unique features of the state, like the 650-gallon Tippin’ Tater potato tipping bucket in the IdaH2O interactive play area.

9. Boise Whitewater Park, Boise, ID

Location: Boise, ID

Popularity: Popular during the summertime

Need To Know: As of 2024, the park's second phase is open only to expert skill level athletes for monitored sessions as park officials and engineers put finishing touches on configurations.

A true urban oasis in the heart of the city, Boise Whitewater Park on the Boise River features two phases with adjustable wave features for kayakers and surfers of all skill levels. The second phase of the park is newer and open only to expert athletes for monitored sessions as its design is finalized. Ultimately, that phase will welcome beginner and intermediate skill-level kayakers and surfers to features designed specifically for them. If you'd rather soak up sun as a spectator, the park has a plaza with plenty of viewing spots and space for picnics.

10. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Near Arco, ID

Location: Near Arco, ID

Popularity: Hidden gem

Need To Know: This park is remote, and it gets hot in the summer. Bring sunscreen, snacks, and water. Pack a headlamp and sturdy shoes if you plan to explore caves.

Hanging out at the largest lava field in the country may not seem like the most pleasant activity in the heat of summer, but hear us out: While it is a lava field, it's dormant. It does get super hot above ground during the day, summer is the perfect time to venture underground to see Craters of the Moon's cool caves. It's cooler after the sun sets when you will experience incredible stargazing. There are over 70 lava tube caves in the park which was designated a Dark Sky Park in 2017. To see that show, you'll need to book a stay at the Lava Flow campground.

Best Free Summer Activities

Summer fun is even better when you can create long-lasting memories without straining your wallet, am I right? Idaho has many ways to enjoy the season without spending a fortune – some don't cost a thing! Take a look at these great options for free activities and experiences in our great state this summer.

11. Free Fishing Day & Idaho Fish and Game Take Me Fishing Events, Statewide

Location: Statewide

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: Free Fishing Day is always the second Saturday in June.

No fishing license? No problem ... at least one day every summer, that is! On Idaho's annual Free Fishing Day every June, anyone can fish anywhere they want without a license. Not only that, but Idaho Fish and Game now holds "Take Me Fishing" events throughout the summer. During these, agency teams visit different fishing holes with a trailer full of gear to loan, plus free instruction and bait. If the trailer is present, you don't need a license then, either. Check the Idaho Fish and Game website for a full listing of events and dates. Note that all other regulations – closures, bag limits, and size restrictions – still apply on Free Fishing Day and special IDFG events.

12. Sun Valley, Music Festival

Location: Sun Valley, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: Seating at the Sun Valley Pavilion and lawn is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

World-class classical and pops music fills the mountain air at this annual summer festival at the nation's first destination resort, Sun Valley, built in 1936. The annual summer festival season begins in late July and runs through August, including over a dozen performances by renowned musicians. It's the perfect blend of culture and nature at a destination treasured by notable people in literature, film, industry, and politics over many decades.

13. Scott Spencer Spirit of Boise Balloon Festival, Boise, ID

Location: Boise, ID

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: This event began in 1991 and is now named for its founder, Scott Spencer, who passed in 2020

Watch the bold colors and massive structures of hot air balloons take to the skies during the Scott Spencer Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, held annually at the end of summer in late August. Arrive at Ann Morrison Park early (7:15-ish) to see morning balloon launches and get an entirely different view in the evening during the Nite Glow spectacular. Besides the balloons, there are plenty of other family-friendly activities and vendors for five whole days full of fun.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Idaho

Summertime in Idaho is filled with festivals and events highlighting our love for music, culture, and local produce. There are countless festivals to choose from every season, and we've chosen just a few standouts that best showcase the best the state has to offer.

14. Pebble Creek Wildflower & Music Festival, Inkom, ID

Location: Inkom, ID

Popularity: Hidden gem

Need To Know: Proceeds from the event support the Pebble Creek Ski Patrol, a volunteer organization that provides emergency care and safety services at Pebble Creek Ski Area.

Blooms and tunes are the name of the game at this charming summer festival in the Pebble Creek Ski Area. Ride the Sunshine Chair Lift up the mountain, enjoy the hike down, then drop down a blanket on a field bursting with wildflowers to enjoy live music from five bands. You can buy barbecue and other goodies cooked by the event beneficiaries, Pebble Creek Ski Patrol. Of-age patrons may also buy adult beverages. Also bring your wallet to shop the many craft vendors on site.

15. Braun Brothers Reunion, Challis, ID

Location: Challis, ID

Popularity: Popular

Need To Know: This festival began in 1984 in Stanley before moving to Challis and welcomes about 3,000 fans annually.

Peak Western vibes, camaraderie, plus roots and red dirt music all come together beautifully at this family-founded and family-friendly festival in the beautiful, historic town of Challis. The Brauns are longtime locals and longtime musicians, starting three generations back and carrying on through festival founder Muzzie Braun and his four sons, all known for their work in groups together including Muzzie Braun and the Boys, Reckless Kelly and Micky and the Motorcars. You'll see those last two bands on the bill along with other top artists like Steve Earle, Jeff Crosby Band, Cody Canada & The Departed, and Wade Bowen.

16. Emmett Cherry Festival, Emmett, ID

Location: Emmett, ID

Popularity: Very popular

Need To Know: Local cherries are truly the centerpiece of this event, with farmers bringing their freshest for attendees to enjoy.

Celebrate delicious, bright colors and flavors of cherries in a community event that is the longest-running festival in the region. Founded in 1935, the

Emmett Cherry Festival of today features a classic midway with carnival rides and food booths alongside classic attractions cherry pie-eating contests, cherry pit spit contests, a traditional parade, and more. This festival draws folks from all over the state because for quintessential family-friendly summer fun.

Do you agree these are the best things to do in Idaho in summer? We'd love to hear your picks and whether you've experienced any of these wonderful places. If you're planning a road trip this season, make the most of it with our Road Trip Essentials Guide.