6 Most Laid-Back Small Towns In Idaho
Beautiful Idaho is a nature-loving traveler's paradise, with its spectacular landscapes, including mountains, scenic vistas, vast acres of protected wilderness, and pristine rivers and waterways. The state's lush, green spaces and bustling cities, such as Boise, the capital, draw visitors in all year long. Idaho is also known for having a rich arts and culture scene, as well as interesting historic sites. It's Idaho's small, laid-back towns, however, that are the heart of the state and give tourists a warm, welcoming feel, as well as plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Experience Sawtooth Valley's Indigenous cultures in Stanley, enjoy skiing in the world-class ski resorts of Sun Valley, and stroll along the vibrant downtown area of McCall; these six Idaho towns are perfect for a relaxing getaway from the everyday grind.
Stanley
The quaint, relaxed town of Stanley is surrounded by more than 100 miles of untouched wilderness filled with local flora, fauna, and native animal species. Scenic Stanley is set in the Sawtooth Valley, which is home to Horstmann Peak, Observation Peak, Grandjean Peak, and Thompson Peak, all of which call to adventure-seeking mountain climbers. For those who prefer a calmer getaway, however, the area's many waterways, such as Lake Sawtooth, Lake Stanley, Redfish Lake, and the Salmon River, are ideal for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and boating.
The expansive Boise National Forest and the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness are nearby —both of which call to visitors who have a deep love and appreciation of nature. If you're a history enthusiast, don't miss the introspective Stanley Museum, an attraction that houses a wide variety of artifacts from the Sawtooth Valley's Indigenous cultures.
Wallace
Lovely Wallace has the distinction of being one of just four United States cities to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has a rich history as a silver mining town. You can learn about the area's interesting past by signing up for a Sierra Silver Mine Tour, which winds through the stunning Bitterroot Mountains. Another place to learn about Wallace's unique history is at the Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum, where you can browse old photographs, artifacts, and much more.
Consider quaint, laid-back Wallace as your base camp as you explore all that the Silver Valley has to offer, including both the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes and the Route of the Hiawatha. Both of these trails will lead you to the Idaho Panhandle National Forest and the Coeur d'Alene National Forest, to the delight of nature lovers. If you want to relax and enjoy local cuisine and drinks after a long day of sightseeing, head over to the Wallace Brewing Co & Orehouse Tasting Room.
Garden Valley
Nestled on the pretty Payette River at the entrance of the verdant and expansive Boise National Forest, Garden Valley is the perfect getaway spot for travelers craving a relaxed trip. During the warm summer months, adventure seekers can go whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking or swimming on the pristine river, and hunters can take their shot at designated areas of the forest during the fall hunting season. If you want to immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty in comfortable accommodations, check into the Terrace Lakes Resort, which offers views of the Sawtooth Mountains.
Although Garden Valley is just over 50 miles away from busy Boise, it will feel a world away as you explore the river, mountains, lush green spaces, wildlife and hot springs that the area is blessed with. Depending on when you're in town, don't miss the biggest small-town fireworks show in the Northwest in July or the cozy and festive lantern lighting celebration on New Year's Eve.
Sun Valley
Sun Valley is the place to visit if you want to celebrate and experience all the best that Idaho has to offer. Situated on the edge of the impressive Challis National Forest, the small, charming town is best known for its ski resorts, world-class skiing opportunities, fun festivals and special events, and jaw-dropping mountain vistas year-round. If you're lucky enough to be in Sun Valley during October, don't miss the Annual Trailing of the Sheep Festival or the Sun Valley Jazz and Music Festival.
Sun Valley is within easy driving distance of the boundaries of the country's first Dark Sky Reserve, where you can view the Milky Way, meteors, comets, and other objects in the sky without any urban light pollution. Other must-see attractions and sites include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Sun Valley Pavilion, where you can attend free summer symphony concerts.
McCall
Welcoming and relaxed McCall is surrounded by natural beauty and is known as an outdoor lover's paradise with its abundance of boating, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, swimming, climbing, and many other recreational opportunities. The small town is situated on Payette Lake, surrounded by the beautiful Payette National Forest. If shopping and sightseeing is more your thing on vacations, downtown McCall features historic sites, art galleries like Gallery Fifty-Five, antique shops, and eateries like My Father’s Place and Steamers Steak & Seafood.
If you find yourself in the charming town during the holiday season, don't miss the Annual McCall Winter Carnival, which treats visitors to lively parades, a fireworks show, eye-catching ice sculptures, and local cuisine and beverages. Explore local nature and wildlife at the Ponderosa State Park, a nature preserve that features laid-back trails and campsites for those wishing to stay overnight.
Homedale
Quaint Homedale as appropriately named as it has a warm, welcoming feel and a laid-back atmosphere. The small town is located on the banks of the stunning Snake River, and is the ideal vacation spot for those who love spending their free time on the water. Outdoor enthusiasts can also check out Homeday City Park, Sundance Park, or swing their clubs at both the scenic River Bend Golf Course and TimberStone Golf Course.
The over-21 crowd won't want to miss the Koenig Distillery, the Fujishin Winery, or the Huston Vineyards. The Annual Basque Dance at the Txoko Ona Basque Center, draws in crowds from all over, as does Homedale Farmers Market during the summer months.
No matter where in Idaho you're visiting or what time of year you are traveling, you will find a sweet, small town that will play host as you discover all the beautiful state has to offer. Idaho's quiet hometowns are the ideal destinations for vacationers seeking more relaxed trips, although they don't lack interesting things to do, see, and experience. The next time you find yourself in Idaho, consider exploring one of the state's laid-back communities instead of fighting the big-city crowds.
