Highway 95 practically runs through all of Idaho and is a beautiful drive. If you want to visit some of the best small towns the state has to offer, this highway will take you there. So, we’ve put together the following road trip to some of the most charming small towns in Idaho — and they all are located along this stretch of road. The drive is beautiful, the towns are delightful, and this road trip is unforgettable.
For this road trip, we will begin in the small town of Weiser and travel north until we reach Coeur d’Alene, but you can always start or end anywhere along the highway that you desire. If you complete our itinerary in its entirety, you will travel approximately 345 miles and will spend more than six hours behind the wheel. You can use this interactive map to customize the trip if desired.
Weiser
The first stop on this Highway 95 road trip is Weiser. This unique small town is packed with history and you can learn all about it at the Snake River Heritage Center, a beautiful and large museum located in a historic building with a bell tower.
Council
Council is a small town that is perfect if you want to get out of the car and explore. Take a walk on the Friends of the Weiser River Trail, spend some time at Old Railroads Park, or stop for a meal at one of the tasty local restaurants in town.
Riggins
As you drive into Riggins, be prepared for pure beauty. This small town is adjacent to Hell’s Canyon and sits right along the Salmon River. If you have some time, we suggest spending a few hours or even days here. This is an outdoor lover’s paradise with hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities galore. If you visit during the summer months, take a rafting tour. Riggins is known as the Whitewater Capital of Idaho after all!
Grangeville
The next stop on our Highway 95 road trip is the town of Grangeville. If you are short on time, simply drive around and check out the unique buildings and their architecture. This town was established in the 1860s and this time period can still be seen today. If you have a little more time, pay a visit to the historic Blue Fox Theatre or spend the day near the river. The Clearwater, Salmon, and Snake Rivers are all near this single town.
Lewiston
As you head north into Lewiston, be prepared for some gorgeous scenery. One of our favorite views is located just north of town at the Confluence Overlook. On a clear day, you can see the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, Hell's Canyon, Bitterroot Mountains, and more. If you decide to enter town, watch out for paranormal activity as Lewiston is allegedly one of Idaho’s most haunted small towns.
Moscow
Moscow is located in the heart of the Palouse and may be one of your favorite stops on this road trip. Explore the delightful downtown area, walk around the University of Idaho campus, and even immerse yourself in some of the most beautiful landscapes at the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Coeur d’Alene
The final stop on this trip is the stunning Coeur d’Alene. While this town certainly isn’t small, it is a good ending destination for this particular trip. Here, you can spend days or even an entire week exploring the town and hanging out by the lake. If you have the time, visit the Coeur d’Alene Resort and take a cruise around the lake or nearby rivers.
So, what do you think of this Highway 95 road trip in Idaho? What other small towns would you stop and visit? Let us know in the comments!
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