Idaho combines a rich heritage, friendly communities, and a taste of the American West. From the glacial lakes in the panhandle to the lunar-like landscapes on the southern border and the slithering Snake River, these unmatched terrains entice explorers from across the world.
1. STAY AT A FIRE LOOKOUT IN FERNWOOD, IDAHO
One of the most unique Airbnbs in Idaho isn’t a cabin…or a house…it’s a fire lookout! This bright red escape is open year-round and available for rent by adventurous couples.
This fire lookout has one bed, provides plenty of firewood, local coffee, fun Idaho-inspired reads, and 360-degree views of the surrounding forest.
2. GO GLAMPING IN A YURT
Why go regular camping when you can stay in your very own yurt? There are so many amazing places to go glamping in Idaho, and yurts are just the beginning.
Yurts are easily rented through the Idaho State Department of Recreation site. There are many to choose from, all the way from backcountry yurts, to easily accessible ones in campgrounds.
3. SOAK IN THE VIEWS AT HELLS CANYON
Did you know Hells Canyon is actually the deepest canyon in North America – deeper than the Grand Canyon? At 7,993 feet from the highest point of the Seven Devil’s Mountain, Hells Canyon is full of adventure!
Spend some time driving the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, which crosses the border into Eastern Oregon. For some history about the area, visit the Hells Canyon Dam in Council, Idaho.
4. EXPLORE SCENIC HIKING TRAILS AT TUBBS HILL
Hiking Tubbs Hill is one of the best things to do in Coeur d’Alene, pretty much all year long!
Come in the summertime to find private coves for swimming, or search for some iconic cliff jumping spots. No matter what your reason for coming, stay to watch the sunset and have a picnic!
5. ENJOY THE DOWNTOWN SCENE AT COEUR D’ALENE
For the perfect combination of outdoor adventure, great coffee, and ample lakefront to enjoy, don’t skip out on Coeur d’Alene!
This beautiful getaway town is the perfect place to spend a few days enjoying the water. Kayaking, boating, fishing, and parasailing are just the icing on the cake – you can even golf on a private island on the lake!
6. KAYAK, CANOE OR PADDLEBOARD ON PRIEST LAKE
Priest Lake is one of the most popular lake destinations in North Idaho. The lake is huge – nearly 20 miles long with tons of boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
For a unique adventure, paddle down the thoroughfare to upper Priest Lake. Upper Priest Lake doesn’t have any lakeside real estate, which makes it a wilderness haven that is quiet and serene. There are several boat-in campsites to reserve, and plenty of beachfront to enjoy a beach picnic.
7. TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE THROUGH LEWISTON, IDAHO
Lewiston, Idaho is often referred to as the LC Valley, which combines Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA in the same region.
It’s known for its dry, arid climate, with rolling hills of wheat, wine, and plenty of sunshine. It is also close to the Palouse Scenic Byway, a 200+ mile route that winds through photogenic viewpoints and charming small towns.
Lewiston is famous for its boating activities on the Snake River, especially in the summertime. Lewiston is also a great growing region for grapes, which makes wineries and vineyards in abundance here!
8. DISCOVER A PIECE OF IDAHO’S HISTORY IN WALLACE, IDAHO
Wallace, Idaho is a historic mountain town located in the Panhandle of Idaho. It’s located in the Silver Valley mining district, which at one time in history produced more silver than anywhere else in the United States!
Wallace is also a nearby access point to the extremely popular biking trail, The Route To The Hiawatha (more on that a little later). With a population of less than 1,000, this tiny town boasts a lot of friendly locals, historic charm, and access to tons of North Idaho adventure.
9. RELAX BY THE LAKE IN SANDPOINT, IDAHO
Sandpoint, Idaho is the largest city in Bonners County, Idaho. It’s known for its recreational opportunities, downtown shopping district, and gorgeous lake access.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in North Idaho, Sandpoint has lots of options. From luxury lakefront hotels to gorgeous and secluded cabins, look no further than for your next relaxing getaway!
10. SILVERWOOD THEME PARK
Silverwood Theme Park is the state’s major theme park – and the largest in the Northwest!
Located 50 miles north of Coeur d’Alene, this park boasts 0ver 400 acres of rides, including a train that takes visitors around the entire perimeter of the park. Other popular rides in Silverwood are the Corkscrew, Timber Terror, Aftershock, and the Panic Plunge.
Silverwood and Boulder Beach are included in one ticket, which means you get a theme park AND a water park all in one! Don’t forget to bring your suit and come with your friends on a hot summer day!
11. THE ROUTE TO THE HIAWATHA BIKE TRAIL
Ticket and Bike Pickup Location: I-90 Exit 0, Mullan, ID 83846
The Hiawatha bike trail is one of the best things to do in Idaho during the summertime! Riding your bike up in the mountains is the perfect way to cool off, get immersed in nature, and enjoy time with friends and family. My family tries to get out here at least once every summer to enjoy the trail!
This historic Hiawatha Route is 15 miles long at a gradual decline. Along the route, you’ll cross under 10 train tunnels and ride over 7 train trestles. At the end of the trail, hop on the shuttle that will take you back to the starting point!
One of the highlights of the trip is passing through Saint Paul Pass Tunnel. Not only does it cross the border from Montana back into Idaho, but it’s also 1.66 miles long! Headlamps are absolutely required!
12. ZIP LINING + TREE ADVENTURES
With dense forest covering much of the Idaho Panhandle, what better way to experience it than zipping through the trees? There are several ways to get your adrenaline pumping, but no better way to do it than several feet off the ground!
