13 of the Most Quaint Small Towns in Idaho
The mountain state of Idaho is shaped like a logger’s boot. The shape of this state shows off its unspoiled and rugged terrains. From lush forests to several stretches of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho is the ideal place for lovers of the great outdoors.
Hidden underneath the rugged terrains of Idaho are precious stones that have given the state its famous nickname, “The Gem State.” The state is also renowned for its cultivation of potatoes. Idaho is responsible for one-third of the nation's potato production.
Idaho is the 6th least populous state in the US, with only three cities having populations of over 100,000. Visitors and adventurers might pass the state off as an ordinary mining and agricultural state, but there are endless adventures you can embark on in Idaho.
Amid the tall forest trees and mountain plains, the charming small towns in Idaho are worth exploring, so pack your bags for your best adventure yet.
Bonners Ferry
Right in the heart of the Kootenay River Valley is a small Idaho town that serves as an international gateway to Idaho. Bonners Ferry is a small old-fashioned town just 27 miles from Canada. It is surrounded by three mountain ranges, and the Kootenai River passes through this town.
You are in for an adventure when you visit this town. Visitors can go on a bicycle tour around the Selkirk Loop and hike to the Mrytle Peak. Strolling around the Downtown area of Bonners Ferry is a sight for sore eyes. From trying your luck at the Bonners Ferry Inn and Casino to some tasty treats at local restaurants like Two Tones Cafe with some of your win money. Unwind in the evenings with some locally brewed beer from the Kootenai River Brewing Company.
Idaho City
Idaho City was once a city with a population of over 30,000, but now a shadow of itself. It used to be filled with gold and miners; however, the population declined considerably when gold mining was reduced. This county seat of Boise County is located in the mountainous areas of the Boise Basin Forest.
This town has not entirely become a ghost town, as it still receives streams of visitors curious about this historic town. People visit the Boise Basin Museum to learn about the city's appearance during the gold rush era.
The town's location makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking up several trails like the Charcoal Gulch. Visitors can grab a quick bite of what the locals serve at restaurants like Trudy’s Kitchen and the Sarsaparilla Ice Cream Parlour.
Island Park
Island Park is a small town that claims to have the Longest Main Street in the World. This town is a dream come true for lovers of outdoor activities. Despite its size, this town is steaming with tourists looking for an exhilarating adventure in the wild.
Visitors like to visit the Island Park Caldera, one of the largest volcanic caldera in the world. Harriman State Park is a popular spot for hikers, boaters, snowshoers, campers, etc. This small town is home to the historic Henry’s Lake, a perfect spot for fishing.
This town also has several rental accommodations that provide excellent accommodations and exotic meals. These accommodations include the Island Park Village Resort and the Caldera Cottage.
Garden City
Next to the capital city is Garden City, a small town named by the Chinese who first occupied the region. The Garden City is a hub for creatives of different kinds, from sculptors to glass smiths.
A popular spot for visitors is the Greenbelt. With the Boise River twisting through the hearts of the town, it is easy to access the Greenbelt from anywhere in town. This is perfect for a morning jog alone or with a loved one or pet.
Another major attraction is Main Street in Garden City. The street has antique and thrift stores, artworks, and music. A lot is going on in this street. While at it, visitors like to grab a bite at local restaurants like Starbucks and Pastry Perfection.
Priest River
The Idaho Panhandle region is one of the best places to visit in Idaho. Seated between the Priest River and the Pend Oreille River is the small town called Priest River.
Priest River is surrounded by forests, rivers, and mountains, making it a major tourist hotspot in Idaho. Stepping into this town is like stepping into a hub of recreational activities, from hiking up Mount Roothan and Chimney Rock to snowmobiling in Elkins Resort, one of the best snowmobiling areas in the state.
After a long day in the wild, visitors like to spend time on the cozy Main Street of Priest River. They connect with locals over drinks and food from popular shops like the AJ’s Cafe.
Driggs
Driggs, the county seat of Teton County, is a small town in Teton Valley. This town is bursting with activities, from hiking up trails and mountains to dancing late into the night during festivities.
Around the valley, you can find the Snake River, Big Hole, and Teton mountain ranges. These sites are perfect for hiking in Summer and skiing in Winter. Visitors find time to go fishing at the nearby rivers. The locals are always up for entertainment. Whether it is the Annual Snow-carving Competition or the farmers' market and artisan fairs, there is always a party to attend.
Salmon
Salmon is a small charming town situated just at the edge of Frank Church—River of no Return Wilderness. This town might not look like it, but there are many things to do in Salmon.
The River of No Return wilderness is a gold mine for outdoor activities. You can hike the trails around the Salmon River or enjoy fishing while memorizing every inch of the breathtaking wilderness views.
Learn about the rich history of this small town at Lemhi Historical Museum. Pastry lovers can grab fresh pastries from Old Fellows Bakery, the best in the state. You can also attend local events at the Sweetwater Hollow to interact with locals.
Wallace
In the Silver mining district of the Idaho Panhandle is the small historic town of Wallace. This town is known as the “Silver Capital of the World.” This small town is responsible for 21% of the Silver mines in the world.
This town is bursting with activities, from mountain biking on Silver Mountain to the myriad of festivals held all year round. The entire village is on the National Historic Register, so everywhere you step on is an integral part of history.
Downtown Wallace is flooded with shops like Johnson's Gems & Collectibles, where you can get keepsakes and memorabilia, fine dining options like The Fainting Goat, and beautiful museums like the Oasis Bordello Museum. Enjoy some street food while touring around the Downtown area.
Sun Valley
Sun Valley City is at the edge of the Sawtooth and Challis National Forests. This small town is known for its Ski resorts. The mountainous terrains around the city keep visitors busy all year round.
In Summer, visitors go hiking up the trails around Dollar Mountain, and in Winter, visitors go skiing and snowboarding down Baldy Mountain.
Inside the town, you are up for an adventure, from shopping at the multiple store options on Main Street to skating with friends at the Sun Valley Ice rink.
Try out some of the fine dining options in town, from the Ram to the Roundhouse restaurants; your taste bud is in for a treat.
Preston
Preston is a small rural town with a beautiful mountainous backdrop. The view of this town is breathtaking and astonishing. This town stands at the famous "Bear River Massacre" site in 1863. There is always something to do in the mountains or the town. You can go fishing at the Glendale Reservoir or visit the famous "Napoleon Dynamite" filming location.
From playing games at the Preston park to fishing at the Bear Lake, Preston has an activity for everybody. Dine in at Polar Bear Eats or Tattles Bar and Grill, and don’t leave Preston without visiting Pioneer Historic Byway to learn about Idaho’s intriguing history with the Europeans.
Hailey
Hailey, popularly known as the Idaho Hometown in the Mountains, is a small town in the heart of the Wood River Valley. It is known for its outdoor life.
Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and fly fishing are common in Hailey. The town has a ski hill known as Rotarun Ski Area.
The hiking tour takes place at Cow Creek Loop, and its usually moderate and beginner-friendly, but if you want advanced hiking tours, the Greenhorn Gulch and Imperial Gulch Loop have you. Blaine County Museum is a major attraction you should not miss at Hailey. Then, bring your adventurous day to a climax with a dinner at Shorty’s Diner.
Hope
By the northeast shore of Lake Pend Oreille is the little paradise town called Hope. The town has a population of less than a thousand, providing locals and visitors with a peaceful ambiance.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery the Lakeshore has to offer. Visit the significant historic sites in the town, like the Old Railroad and Hotel Hope, to learn a lot about this unique town's history. Have a bite of local meals at the Drift Lakeside and Old Ice House Pizzeria restaurants by the waterfront.
Moscow
Along Paradise Creek is the small town of Moscow. This town was first settled in 1871 and was called 'Hog Heaven' by the local farmer.
Moscow is home to the University of Idaho. Students, visitors, and locals love this town for several reasons, including the city being walkable.
The town is an outdoor paradise with 17 neighborhood parks, hiking trails like Latah Trail, and a ski area called Tamarack Ski.
Head to Main Street in Moscow to try their wood-fired pizza, healthy burgers, and smoothies. Visitors are also allowed to explore the University of Idaho, and if you love gardening, check out the University’s Arboretum & Botanical Garden.
Idaho's Small Town Charm
The mountainous terrains around Idaho make every outdoor lover's dream come true. From the mountain trails of Idaho City to the ski resorts at Sun Valley, there is an activity for everybody in Idaho.
You can visit these quaint small towns in Idaho any time of the year. No matter what time of the year you see this, it is the perfect time to visit Idaho.
