5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Boise, My Favorite Included

Boise is a small city that has something for everyone — delicious food, bucket-list-worthy hiking trails, family-friendly attractions, and so much more. And while it is easy to find things to do in Boise, sometimes, you want to get out of the city and explore. Within just a short drive, you can visit several unforgettable, easy, and even delicious day trip destinations. While I could easily list more than a dozen places to explore, the following are five of my favorites and places that less well-known. So, gas up the car and let's go!

1. Kirkham Hot Springs

• Distance from Boise: Approximately 80 miles
• Things to know: Always check the water temperature before hopping in. There is also a $5 parking fee if you park outside the closed gate near the springs.

Kirkham Hot Springs is comprised of small hot pools along the South Fork Payette River near Lowman. Unlike many other natural hot springs in the state, these hot springs don’t require a long hike to reach, but there is a short walk from the parking area. Kirkham Hot Springs is one of the most beautiful natural hot springs in Idaho, and here you’ll enjoy river, waterfall, and mountain views.

2. Little Redfish Lake

• Distance from Boise: Approximately 75 miles
• Things to know: Motorized boats are not allowed on this lake.

Redfish Lake is easily one of my favorite lakes in Idaho — it is stunning. But it can also draw in quite a crowd. That’s why Little Redfish Lake is worth seeking out. It is located on the edge of the Sawtooth Mountains and is just five miles away from Stanley. It is a beautiful place to spend a day splashing in the water, fishing, paddling, or laying on the beach. There are also camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities all around as well.

3. Kuna Caves

• Distance from Boise: 25 miles
• Things to know: Traveling to the caves requires driving down a dirt road that can be quite muddy if visiting after rainy weather.

Kuna Caves is a unique destination that is hidden beneath the earth's surface. From eye level, it looks like a large hole in the ground but as you climb the ladder down, you’ll find an underground lava tube to explore. For this day trip, make sure to bring a jacket as the cave is quite chilly year round. We also ask that you leave the cave in better condition than you found it. This is one area where graffiti is quite common.

4. Blue Heart Springs

• Distance from Boise: 110 miles
• Things to know: The water stays quite chilly — approximately 60 degrees.

A picture-perfect summer day trip from Boise is to Blue Heart Springs in Hagerman Valley. This is a natural spring where the water is a beautiful blue color and crystal clear. Bring a kayak or paddleboard as you will need to paddle for more than a mile to reach the springs. However, once you reach the beautiful blue water, you’ll find it’s a small slice of paradise. If you want to enjoy this area without the crowds, plan to visit on a weekday. This is a popular destination on a summer weekend.

5. Idaho City

• Distance from Boise: Approximately 40 miles
• Things to know: Trudy’s Kitchen in Idaho City has received nationwide attention for its massive and delicious pies.

Idaho City is a tiny town tucked away in the Boise Basin, and was once the largest city in the Northwest. Today, nearly 500 people live in Idaho City. To reach this small town from Boise, you’ll drive along the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful drives in Idaho. In town, walk around and admire the “Wild West” buildings and spend some time in the museum. Just make sure you stop into Trudy’s Kitchen for homemade food and a slice of pie. I promise you won’t regret it.

What are your favorite day trips from Boise, Idaho? Did it make my list? Please share it with me by filling out this nomination form. And if you are looking for even more day trip inspiration, consider destinations like Bruneau Dunes State Park, Three Island Crossing State Park, and even Shoshone Falls.