The Small Idaho Town Locals Hope Stays Off Tourists’ Radar

I live in southeastern Idaho, a corner of the state full of charming small towns and several bucket-list-worthy destinations. Towns like Blackfoot, Rigby, and Island Park can draw in quite a crowd, but there is still one small town in southeastern Idaho that tends to fly under the radar—Ririe. This hidden small town in Idaho is home to approximately 700 residents, beautiful scenery, family-friendly hiking trails, and even a delightful reservoir that’s perfect for the summer months. Outdoor enthusiasts will fall in love with this town, but locals won’t mind if you pass it by. In fact, they hope it continues to stay off your radar.

Ririe is a small town just north of Idaho Falls. It’s a town where, as you drive by, you may not think much of it. There aren’t any big businesses or chain restaurants here—and that’s exactly how the locals like it. However, it wasn’t always such a quiet small town in Idaho. In the late 1800s, settlers came to the area and, while initially worried that the land couldn’t produce strong crops, they were wrong: the soil here was rich, and crops grew well. Eventually, the Oregon Short Line Railroad was built here as well, helping expand the town. But over the years, tragedy struck in many ways, from fires and bank robberies to floods, and several of its residents began to look for other places to call home.

Best Things to Do in This Quiet Small Town in Idaho

Today, the town might not be a bustling center, but if you love the great outdoors, there is plenty to fill your itinerary. One of the most popular spots is Heise Hot Springs, home to natural hot pools, camping, swimming, golf, ziplining, and a delicious pizza parlor (it’s my son’s favorite place to grab a slice in the area). While the hot pools are open year-round, many of the other amenities open when the weather is warm, turning this into an exciting summer destination.

And not only is Heise Hot Springs a popular summer spot, but so is Ririe Reservoir. Visit on a summer day and you'll see individuals of all ages enjoying the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and grassy shore. This is a popular place for picnicking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing in Bonneville County. You can learn more about this reservoir and its most current entrance fees on the Bonneville County website.

Of course, I can’t forget to mention Cress Creek Nature Trail. Not only is this family-friendly hike located in Ririe, but it is one of my favorite hiking trails in Idaho. This gentle trail gives you stunning views of the Snake River and nearby communities. There are places along the path where you can sit and enjoy the scenery, and options to extend your hike if you desire. My young children tackled this loop trail with ease, and we love spending a Saturday morning here. It's absolutely gorgeous.

But the outdoor activities near Ririe aren’t only for the summer months. You can strap on your skis or hop on your snowboard and spend a day on the slopes at Kelly Canyon Ski Resort. This incredible ski resort features more than 640 acres of terrain. And it's no surprise either that Kelly Canyon is a popular mountain biking destination in the summer. Here, you'll find up to 19 miles of bike trails for riders of all ages. My husband and son have spent many hours exploring these trails. Just make sure you have bear spray handy at all times, and watch out for moose! You never know what other creatures also love this area.

Why This Idaho Small Town Flies Under the Radar

Considering all there is to do, especially in the great outdoors, you would assume that Ririe would be full of tourists ... but it tends to fly under the radar. One reason is its proximity to other larger, more popular destinations, such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, Teton Valley, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, and countless state parks.

I love Ririe. It may be one of the best-kept secrets in Idaho. Plan a visit and see for yourself. And if you do wish to get out and explore, make sure to use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for activity, restaurant, and lodging recommendations.