There's no way around it: there are tons of things to see and do in our beautiful state - and day trips in Idaho may be the best way to see them all! That's why we were motivated to put together a list of adventures to fuel your Idaho bucket list. From ghost towns to breathtaking parks, there's something on this list for every adventurous Idahoan to enjoy. And the best part of all? There's an adventure tailored to each month of the year. Take a look at 12 of the best day trips to take in Idaho and be sure to hit the road soon. Adventure awaits!
1. January - The Eagle Tree
January is a fantastic time to go bird watching here in Idaho, specifically for bald eagles. Hundreds upon hundreds of eagles make their way across the Gem State during the winter, and they especially like this big tree in Wendell, Idaho. Believe it or not, bald eagles have been coming to this specific tree for over 15 years! Be sure to see them in January, before they're gone for the year. When it comes to the best day trips in Idaho, the Eagle Tree definitely tops the list.
2. February - Coeur d'Alenes Old Mission State Park
If you have yet to visit this beautiful historic structure in Idaho, consider it a must. Constructed in 1853, the Cataldo Mission is not only the oldest church in Idaho but the oldest standing structure - period. Located within Old Mission State Park in Coeur d'Alene, visitors are welcome to stop any day from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
3. March - Nez Perce National Historical Park
Consisting of 38 individual sites that span four states (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington), Nez Perce National Historical Park is far from your average destination. Idaho is home to 26 of these historic sites, and each of them represents something of importance to indigenous history in the Gem State. Plus, the park is just beautiful! There's just so much to appreciate about Nez Perce National Historic Park. You'll have to see for yourself!
4. April - Idaho City
Once considered the largest city in the Northwest, Idaho City is now a humble and quiet community. However, it still contains plenty of reminders of its days as a massive boomtown, including century-old buildings and authentic wooden boardwalks. Grab a treat at the Sarsaparilla Ice Cream Parlor and peruse the Boise Basin Museum, there's still plenty to do in this ex-mining town! When's the last time you visited the charming destination of Idaho City?
5. May - Cascade
Kick off the end of spring and start of summer with a visit to a beloved mountain town near Donnelly and McCall. Cascade has something for everyone, including hot springs, easy-access camping, a big lake, and even a whitewater park. It's one of the most scenic drives in Idaho, and it's easy to fall in love with this quintessential mountain community! When it comes to the most charming small towns in Idaho, Cascade might just take the cake.
6. June - Fort Hall Replica
Please note, Fort Hall Replica is temporarily closed. For more information, be sure to visit the official Fort Hall Replica website.
Located in Pocatello, this replica of a historic fort is like a time capsule of Idaho's early days. Open to visitors from June through September, exploring the Fort Hall Replica feels like traveling back in time. It makes for a fun way to spend the day with the family learning about a notable period in Idaho history.
7. July - Historic Chesterfield
Hiding in the foothills of the Portneuf Valley is a long-abandoned townsite that exudes historic charm. Chesterfield was founded by Mormon settlers in the 1880s and boasted a peak population of around 700 people. Today, all that's left of it are the structures that were left behind. Visitors are welcome year-round, and docents give guided tours during the summertime. Without a doubt, Chesterfield is a must-see Idaho destination.
8. August - Lucky Peak
No summer is complete without a visit to the popular Lucky Peak State Park, located just outside of Boise. Consisting of three day-use units, you'll find that there are all sorts of great activities to partake in at the park. Splash around, kayak, or paddleboard in the swimming area, or set out on one of the nearby hiking trails. Lucky Peak truly shines during the summertime, so don't miss out! Learn more about what makes Lucky Peak State Park one of the best day trips in Idaho.
9. September - Wallace
Located in the heart of North Idaho's Silver Valley, Wallace is a unique little hamlet that exudes historic charm AND natural beauty. Founded in 1884, it's one of just four cities in the nation that is entirely on the National Register of Historic Places. Meander around the charming downtown area, seek out the "center of the universe", or explore the beautiful parks or hiking trails in the area. Learn more about planning your visit to one of the most charming small towns in Idaho.
10. October - Rocky Bar
October is the perfect time to visit one of Idaho's creepy old ghost towns! Rocky Bar definitely fits the bill. Hiding out northeast of Mountain Homee, what remains of Rocky Bar is definitely worth exploring. The town's dilapidated buildings serve as a poignant reminder of the impact of Idaho's mining industry. Did you know that Idaho had such an infamous ghost town?
11. November - Legacy Flight Museum
If you're a plane enthusiast, you're bound to feel like a giddy little kid when you visit the Legacy Flight Museum in Rexburg. Not only does the museum house a variety of historic aircraft, but it also puts on free air shows right outside the museum's hangar! It's open year-round and it makes for a memorable day trip for both young and old. You'll love visiting this place in Idaho where you can watch planes take off!
12. December - Snowcat Sightseeing Tour in Selkirk
Last up on our list of the best day trips in Idaho is one that will round out your year filled with adventure. Make the most of Idaho's winter beauty and take on a winter sightseeing tour near the city of Sandpoint. Selkirk Powder Company offers snowcat tours of the snowy mountain, in addition to cat skiing, heli-skiing, and snowmobiling tours. It's the perfect activity for families or large groups, and it's bound to be a winter adventure for the books.
Do you agree that these are some of the best day trips in Idaho? What Idaho day trips would you add to the list? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! Looking for more places to explore around Idaho? Check out our guide to all things nature-related in Idaho. There's an adventure for everyone!
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