Adventure Vacations in the Idaho Rocky Mountains! White Water Rafting, Horseback Riding, Cabins, Campgrounds, Dude Ranches, Gold Prospecting, and Fishing! Idaho's best vacation attractions!
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Updated 01/07/10
Idaho Vacation Guide
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Blackfoot
Blackfoot, Idaho stands as an oasis in the desert with many attractions, and facilities for its citizens, and visitors. First named Grove City because of the abundance of trees, Blackfoot is still a city of trees and parks.
Boise
Boise is a delightful blend of traditional and non-traditional sights and attractions. The City of Trees boasts one-of-a-kind museums and urban parks, a river flowing through the heart of the city and a 25-mile river front greenbelt. Among the many unique sites to visit are the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center, Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Idaho Black History Museum and the World Center for Birds of Prey. Southwest Idaho's easily accessible outdoors beckons the Boise visitor to enjoy nearby mountains, desert sand dunes, canyons and whitewater rafting rivers. Boise is the perfect city for a memorable visit.
Bonners Ferry
When gold was discovered in the East Kootenays of British Columbia in 1863, thousands of prospectors from all over the West surged northward over a route that became known as the Wildhorse Trail. Edwin Bonner, an enterprising merchant from Walla Walla, Wash., established a ferry in 1864 where the trail crossed the broad Kootenai River. In 1875 Richard Fry leased the business, but the location retained the name of the original founder and later became the town of Bonners Ferry.
Burley
Burley's History goes farther back than the potato; it began with a rich Native American background. Burley area is home to the Oregon and California Trails along with thirty plus other pioneer trails. Burley City was founded around 1905. Burley is the county seat for Cassia County. There are over twenty thousand people in Cassia County and most of the population live in and around Burley. Burley enjoys outdoor activities year round. In the summer the beautiful Snake River is a haven for boaters and personal water craft. The mountains surrounding Burley are full of intense mountain bike and hiking trails, pristine lakes and hidden hot springs. Near by City of Rocks offers world class rock climbing with camping available too. In the winter, Pomerelle Ski Resort offers 24 amazing runs. There are also many perfect getaways for snowmobiling.
Caldwell
The Treasure Valley area of Idaho has been experiencing significant growth, and Caldwell is welcoming new businesses and residents as this trend continues. They are committed to advancing the economic climate of the community and the quality of life of their citizens. Cascade
Cascade, home to approximately 1000 permanent residents, is nestled in the majestic mountains of Southwestern Idaho, 75 miles north of Boise on Highway 55 at an elevation of 4800 feet. The community is a recreational haven offering year-round activities from boating and golf, to skiing and snowmobiling. The lake in Cascade is one of the top largest lakes in Idaho and there are over 250 smaller lakes and streams in the county.
Coeur d'Alene
Ours is a special community. We're blessed with natural beauty that most people can only dream about, plus a true, four-season climate that brings unique beauty no matter the season. Whether you enjoy lakes or mountains in the great outdoors or world class amenities in a friendly indoor environment, Coeur d'Alene has a lot to offer you. Even more than the outstanding beauty of the area, it is the people who have chosen to live here that makes Coeur d'Alene such a special place to be. It is their energy and vision that have created a quality of life that we who live here are proud to enjoy. We invite you to share it with us either as a full-time resident or as a visitor.
Driggs
Driggs, Idaho is the County seat for Teton County, Idaho. Nestled at an elevation of 6200 ft between the majestic Tetons and the beautiful Big Hole Mountains, Driggs has a diverse population of approximately 1300 people in an incorporated area of nearly 350 acres. Driggs has numerous housing opportunities along with a large range of business enterprises. The historic business district combines the old west with the eclectic, from an "old fashioned soda fountain" to an eclectic local bookstore that shows local artists' works.
Grangeville
As county seat of Idaho County, Grangeville is proud of its interesting history and heritage. Part of that heritage is the BORDER DAYS, Idaho's oldest rodeo! The first rodeo was held in 1912 and it remained until today as a main attraction during the 4th of July celebration.
Hayden
Welcome to the City of Hayden, a community of 13,000 located in scenic Northern Idaho and nestled among the timbered and sloping shores of Hayden Lake. Once known as "Hayden Village", the City was officially incorporated on June 27, 1955 and began its rich history as an area steeped in Indian folklore, cattle ranching, lumber and farming. Families from as far away as Spokane traveled frequently along the electric Coeur d'Alene and Spokane Railway to recreate in Hayden and enjoy its simple, natural beauty.
Heyburn
Heyburn is friendly little town in Minidoka County, in the Burley metro area. The community is believed named for Sen. Weldon Brinton Heyburn The latitude of Heyburn is 42.558N. The longitude is -113.763W. Elevation is 4,154 feet. The estimated population, in 2003, was 2,790.
Idaho Falls
The city of Idaho Falls, originally known as Eagle Rock, found its beginnings with the influx of miners, fur trades, trappers, travelers, pioneers, and early settlers. That, along with the development of the railroad, ferries, and bridges which spanned the Snake River, solidified the existence of Idaho Falls. Idaho Falls is situated on the valley floor astride the Snake River at an elevation of 4,744 feet and is the county seat of Bonneville County. Idaho Falls lies 50 miles north of Pocatello and 100 miles from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. It is one of Eastern Idaho's regional centers for shopping, medical care, education, and cultural awareness. There are superb opportunities for recreational activity in the nearby mountains. Wildlife is abundant in this area; you can catch sight of deer, elk and many other animals among the golden leaves of the aspen trees and the forests of pines that inhabit this wonderland of nature.
Island Park
Island Park and Eastern Idaho have always been a magnet for adventurers. As a neighbor to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, it shares much of the same spectacular beauty and awesome adventure...but without the crowds!
Jerome
Located in south-central Idaho, the city of Jerome is surrounded by a burgeoning agricultural countryside, with purple mountains to the north and the Majestic Snake River Canyon to the South. Jerome is the seat of Jerome County and the center of a large Carey Act irrigation project. The town was established in 1907 by the Kuhn Brothers, as part of the North Side Twin Falls Canal Company. It takes its name from Jerome Hill, one of the investors in the project, and a brother-in-law of W.S. Kuhn. The city of Jerome became a municipal corporation on March 24, 1919.
Kellogg
It happened in 1885. A gentleman by the name of Noah Kellogg, a gold prospector and carpenter, lived in the Town of Murray which is 20 miles northeast as the crow flies. Being a gold prospector down on his luck, he ran around the Town of Murray looking for someone to give him a grubstake. He finally ran into two business men, Mr. Peck and Mr. Cooper, who loaned him enough money to buy grub and they loaned him a jackass (burro) to carry the tools. He started down the great north fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, came onto a trail and headed south over the mountains. Coming out on the south fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, he crossed it and went further on south up Milo Gulch and ended up about 1,000 yards above the present City Hall of Wardner. There he made camp, ate and went to sleep, and during the night, the jackass wandered off. In the morning he got up looking around for the stupid animal and hearing him braying, spotted him way up high on the hillside. Where the animal was standing he saw the sunshine glittering on something which turned out to be a large outcropping of galena (lead ore). And that was the discovery of the great Bunker Hill and Sullivan mines on September 4, 1885.
Ketchum
In 1880, the Town of Ketchum, named after David Ketchum, a trapper and guide, was one of the richest mining districts in the Northwest. By the early 1890's, the price of silver declined and the mining boom ended. By 1890, a new industry appeared in Ketchum. Sheepmen from the South drove their herds through Ketchum to summer grazing in the Sawtooth, Boulder and Pioneer Mountains. By 1920, Ketchum was the largest sheep/lamb shipping station in the U.S. In 1935, the Union Pacific Railroad came to town attracting passengers to a destination ski resort called Sun Valley. Gambling flourished during 1937 to 1947, then in 1954 gambling was totally banned.
Lewiston
Nestled between the Snake and Clearwater Rivers, Lewiston and Clarkston boast a rich history and diversity for even the most discriminating outdoor or cultural enthusiast. The celebrated Lewis and Clark Expedition brought Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to the Clearwater Valley in 1805. Lewis and Clark embarked on a search for a trade route through the Northwest. They followed the Clearwater River from the Bitterroot Mountains to its merger with the Snake River, the site of the present-day twin cities of Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston,Washington.
Mccall
McCall is a small resort community nestled on the shore of beautiful Payette Lake and is known as one of Idaho's most popular resorts. McCall was founded as a timber town and has grown into a popular year round destination. Located 100 miles north of Boise, McCall is just a two-hour drive along the Payette River Scenic Byway from its gateway city. McCall is home to Brundage Mountain, Ponderosa State Park, the U.S. Forest Service Smokejumper Base, and the annual Winter Carnival. McCall offers something for everyone throughout the year.
Meridian
Welcome! Meridian is a vibrant and caring community that is a premier place to live, work, and raise a family.
Montpelier
The Bear Lake valley has long been known as a potential settlement area. The first vanguard of Mormon colonists was sent to the valley by their leader Brigham Young in September 1863. The following spring, the first sixteen families settled the Montpelier area to establish a fledgling community. Like many western communities, the town's name was changed numerous times. First known by Oregon Trail travelers as Clover Creek, it later became Belmont and finally was given the name Montpelier by Brigham Young after a town in his birth state of Vermont. Within the first year, businesses sprang up along the strip later known as Fourth Street. It was a choice location because of the heavy Oregon Trail "traffic". Records from these pioneers tell of fresh produce, dairy products and beef that was available for purchase. On August 13, 1896, Montpelier was the site of an infamous bank heist that became an integral part of Bear Lake folklore, Butch Cassidy and the Montpelier Bank Robbery.
Moscow
Located in North Central Idaho's panhandle, Moscow is cradled between Moscow Mountain and the beautiful rolling hills of the Palouse. The current Moscow community of 22,000 people personifies the image of small town friendliness. In addition to Moscow's small town charm, this college town also provides a rich assortment of cultural and recreational activities. With a mild climate, clean air, highly rated schools, and a low crime rate, Moscow attracts a diverse group of residents and visitors. We invite you to visit the Palouse and experience this undiscovered paradise.
Mountain Home
Mountain Home is approximately 40 miles southeast of Boise and currently has a population over 11,000 and growing due to the nearby Air Force base. The original site of Mountain Home is now known as Rattlesnake Station and is located seven miles northeast of 1-84 Exit 95, on Idaho Highway 20.
Nampa
Whether you are planning on a vacation, attending a special event or conference, or considering Nampa for your place to call home, the amenities and friendly people will surely make you feel right at home. Nampa, Idaho's second largest city, is located in the southwest corner of Idaho, and easily accessible from Interstate 84, about 20 minutes west of Idaho's capitol city of Boise.
Orofino
Orofino, Idaho, is the land of all seasons, and has something for everyone the year round. This beautiful mountainous country is full of crystal clear rivers, babbling brooks and turquoise lakes. The equal distribution of all four seasons creates an ever changing landscape. Orofino's regional history follows Lewis and Clark, the early mining rushes, and the great lumber industry. Surrounded by wilderness areas on three sides, this land is truly a haven for those who desire THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
Pocatello
The transcontinental railroad created a mix of cultures which is reflected in the architecture of Old Town and menus of the restaurants. Pocatello works hard and plays hard year around. Two golf courses, a zoo devoted to the indigenous wildlife, several large municipal parks, and nearby lakes provide summer fun while snowmobiling, downhill and cross country skiing are winter pastimes. Plays, concerts, lectures and exhibits fill every season so be sure to call for a list.
Post Falls
From an issue of the Spokane Times dated December 25, 1879, we quote the following: Mr. Frederick Post, owner of the grist mill at this place, left on last Tuesday to go to his old place at what is known as the Upper Falls. Mr. Post located there some eight years ago (1871), and began the construction of a sawmill at that point.
Rexburg
In the late 1870's men pushed into Montana hoping to mine the precious ore from the mountains. The mining operations needed support, they needed a railroad to bring in equipment and food for miners. As a consequence of the railroad and mining activities, many men were exposed to the fertile Snake River Valley. Later some of these men returned to the valley and claimed land, a privilege granted by the Homestead Act of 1862.
Riggins
Riggins lies deep in a canyon at the confluence of the Salmon River and the Little Salmon River in west Central Idaho. If any place deserves its reputation as a year-round center for outdoor and vacation fun, it's Riggins! Riggins not only offers access to the legendary Salmon River, but just to the west are the famed Hells Canyon and Snake River. This unique mix of rivers, streams, high mountain lakes, rugged canyons, alpine meadows, and forests offers a variety of wildlife, wildflowers and wilderness access.
Salmon
Encircled by Salmon National Forest, the Rocky Mountain town of Salmon lies at the confluence of the Lemhi and Salmon rivers, which are followed by the main routes into town. It is about ten miles as the crow flies west of the Idaho Montana border, where it is on the continental divide.
Sandpoint
Nestled at the base of the Selkirk Mountains in North Idaho's Panhandle region, the community of Sandpoint can be found 60 miles south of the Canadian border and 75 miles northeast of Spokane, Washington. With a population of approximately 6,000 residents, Sandpoint is located in a land of uncompromising natural beauty on the northern shore of Lake Pend Oreille (pronounced Pon-da-ray). A spectacular, glaciated body of water 43 miles long, Pend Oreille is the fifth deepest lake (1,158 feet at its greatest depth) in the United States!
Tetonia
Over the 8400 foot Teton pass sits the quiet side. Formerly inhabited for hundreds of years by Native American tribes like the Blackfeet, Crow, Shoshone, and Nez Perce, this side of the Tetons is much mellower geologically and socially. The economy of this area was centered around agriculture until the local ski resort brought so much business that locals started focusing on tourism.
Twin Falls
Twin Falls began as an agricultural center, springing up from the high desert of Southern Idaho. The town served the pioneering farmers who homesteaded the irrigated lands of the fertile Snake River Plain. Twin Falls is still at the heart of one of the world's most productive farming regions. But it's also developing into a small urban center the very kind of place many people seek as a refuge from the faster pace and challenges of larger metropolitan areas.
Wallace
The historic mining town of Wallace (population 960) is nestled beneath Interstate 90, halfway between two ski and recreation areas in northern Idaho's beautiful Silver Valley. The town has long been famous as the "Silver Capital of the World" with 1.2 billion ounces of silver produced in Shoshone county since 1884. Silver mining is still a big part of our economy, but today it is carried out in total harmony with a pristine four season paradise that attracts outdoor recreation enthusiasts from around the world.