6 Of The Most Hospitable Small Towns In Idaho
Flanked by multiple subranges of the Rocky Mountains and bathed in millions of acres of national forests, Idaho has an undeniably nourishing quality to it. This trait is enhanced all the more by its many hospitable small towns. These scenic and low-key but personable places know how to issue a warm welcome and convert first-time visitors into honorary citizens. The Gem State has the undisturbed natural foundation for four-season vacations, plus everything extra to satisfy one's social, culinary, and comfort needs without ever devolving into the excesses of some overwrought tourist hubs. If you're looking for a friendly and memorable spot to settle into this year, then look no further than these six splendid Idaho towns.
Sandpoint
Sandpoint may be tucked away in Idaho's Panhandle, but it is most welcome for any northbound Roadtrippers. Sitting on the northwest wing of Idaho's largest body of water (Lake Pend Oreille), just before it links up with the pronounced Pend Oreille River, and in the shadows of the Selkirk Mountain range (a branch of the Rockies), Sandpoint specializes in outdoor goodness. This Bonner County community accommodates year-round activities – from paddling the dominant waterways in the summer to skiing the slopes of Schweitzer Mountain Resort in the winter to exploring the trails of the Idaho Panhandle and/or Kaniksu National Forests at any time. Plus, Sandpoint proper puts up waterfront restaurants, charming taverns, and loads of live music (especially during their two-week summer bash, Festival at Sandpoint) to keep visitors satiated on all fronts.
Stanley
Situated in the state's center, Stanley is another friendly spot for nature enthusiasts to fill their cups. This Custer County gem is plunked in the thick of Sawtooth Valley, along the shores of the Salmon River (which, unsurprisingly, is beloved by anglers) and dramatically framed by the Sawtooth Mountains. Adventurous visitors can scratch the surface of the 2-million-acre Sawtooth National Forest, and those wanting a low-gear vacation can enjoy the fresh air and simple pleasures of life in a small mountain town. Though serene, Stanley still knows how to wow its visitors. The stunning daytime scenery gives way to an explosion of stars at night (for this town is a designated Dark Sky Reserve). And as the day turns to night, the communal celebrations begin. Time your stay for at least one Thursday, as this is when street dancing and the "Music on the Front Lawn" performances take over the town. Trivia, comedy, and regular festivals also keep the good times rolling. In terms of accommodations, you will have your pick of tried and true hotels, guest ranches, cabins, and camping galore.
Sun Valley
Just an hour or so southeast of Stanley, Sun Valley and Ketchum (aka, "America's first destination ski resort") awaits. 'Tis the season (as of the writing of this article, anyway), so grab your skis or your board and find your happy place amongst both Bald Mountain (a favorite amongst seasoned adventurers) and Dollar Mountain (best for beginners and families). Summer is no slouch, either. Golfing, biking, and horseback riding amidst this indescribable setting helps keep the sun in Sun Valley. At any time of year, Sun Valley Village is a cozy place to hole up for a few nights, grab some grub, catch a movie, bowl a few frames, or simply walk amongst the enchanting pedestrian streets.
McCall
Another gorgeous and hospitable Idaho lake/mountain town is the resort community of McCall. McCall is a preferred summer vacation spot located on the southern shore of Payette Lake (and just a stone's skip from Little Payette Lake). Rotary Park, Ponderosa State Park, and North Beach give visitors a chance to enjoy all sides of the mountain-backdropped, vista-riddled lake. The McCall Golf Club and McCall RV Resort also round out the standard summer necessities. But winter in these parts is nothing to sneeze at, either. McCall has several options for both downhill and Nordic skiing, plus snowshoeing routes, sleigh rides, snow tubing, and the always exciting McCall Winter Carnival (going strong since the 1960s).
Moscow
The northwestern Idaho border town of Moscow (aka "Fest City") is a fun-loving and charming college town. Home to the University of Idaho, this seat of Latah County injects a youthful spirit into the base of the Panhandle. Stroll the 19th-century campus, which includes a public golf course and two arboretums, one of which consists of a botanical garden. The eclectic vibe spills into the local culinary scene, which features fancy, award-winning establishments, savory ethnic options, and seven craft breweries to cap it all off. Finally, Moscow maintains a packed community events calendar. Nearly every day of the year, there is either a workshop, a live performance, or a full-blown festival.
Lewiston
Also on the Washington border, just 32 miles south of Moscow, Lewiston is a moderately-sized city with a small-town feel. Perched at the confluence of the Snake River and Clearwater River, within Lewis Clark Valley, and just beyond the Nez Perce Reservation, this seat of Nez Perce County is every bit as nature-soaked as any of the preceding Idahoan entries. Kick things off by arranging a jet boat or rafting tour through Hells Canyon, where white-sandy beaches and 4,500-year-old petroglyphs both bless this remote gorge. Next, get in touch with the roots of the nation by visiting the nearby Nez Perce National Historical Park (where formal tours are offered by the Nez Perce/Nimiipuu tribal members) before popping over to the Lewis & Clark Discovery Center within the riverside Hells Gate State Park. And finally, visit one of the ten local wineries to sample the surprising fruits of this underrated wine country.
Whether it's the soft powder cushioning your curves, the refreshing embrace of an evergreen forest trail, or the communal warmth of a small-town street festival, Idaho is one heck of a hospitable place. And given its stunning yet undiscovered nature, "The Gem State" is a perfect designation for this northwestern state. Skip the impersonal hustle and bustle of big-city getaways this year and, instead, retreat to the cordial towns of Idaho.
