6 Of The Most Walkable Towns In Idaho
Idaho—“the gem state”—is known across the United States for its heart-arresting landscapes, abundant outdoor adventures, and very charming small towns. Idaho’s towns offer an uncommon blend of lifestyle appeal, including walkability and natural beauty that makes them catch the eye of both would-be residents and tourists. Walkability enhances residents’ quality of life and promotes a healthier, more connected community. It can also be a boon for visitation, attracting those who appreciate the ease of exploring on foot. Here are six of Idaho's most walkable towns, each overflowing with quirky character and offering healthy doses of commercial and historical landmarks that showcase local heritage and culture.
Ketchum
Ketchum is a gorgeous small town surrounded by the Rocky Mountains of central Idaho. The mountain elevation fills the natural scenery with crisp, clean air. State Highway 75 cuts through Ketchum, becoming Main Street, the town's bustling heart. It’s on (and just off) Main Street that you’ll find a range of alluring boutiques, such as Lux Shack and The Wildflower, as well as aromatic cafes like The Kneadery and Java on Fourth. If you’re in the mood for art galleries, walk on over to Ketchum Town Square - just across the street is a cluster of fine art galleries awaiting your perusal. Alternatively, you can head to the Sun Valley Art Museum, home to beautiful and inventive exhibitions by local artists.
For a nature-drenched, lengthier stroll, take the frontage walking road north to the historic Sun Valley Lodge. The surrounding area offers a nicely manicured scene for you to saunter through. You’ll get to experience a bit of Ketchum’s elegant history once you reach the lodge, as Hollywood stars once frequented it. Ernest Hemingway’s gravesite in Ketchum Cemetery is also worth visiting. The famed author spent significant time in Ketchum, as he found the Wood River Valley to be something of a refuge. The cemetery is a well-kept and charming property that offers a reflective space for visitors.
Sandpoint
Sandpoint, Idaho, is a picturesque, walkable town filled with lakeside beaches, rivers, parks, and hiking trails. Near the heart of the town, Cedar Street Bridge Public Market sits perched above an old bridge. This market offers a very unique and scenic shopping experience, where you can explore plant and jewelry boutiques, grab a bite to eat, and even find an art class for the kids. You’ll find the historic Panida Theater just a short five-minute walk away. Home to films, live performances, and community events, the theater has been a local staple since it opened in 1927.
History buffs can run wild at the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum. A measly $4 entrance fee allows you to view thoughtfully curated exhibits that are topically arranged and easy to understand. The museum is located within Lakeview Park, so you’ll also have an opportunity to stroll the grounds and catch wonderful views of Lake Pend Oreille. Finally, the wonderful Sandpoint Cty Beach Park is accessible on foot via Bridge Street. You’ll find boat launches, sandy beaches, pickleball and tennis courts, and more.
McCall
McCall is an adorable Idaho town nestled on the shores of Payette Lake. With walkable roads, access to numerous outdoor activities, and a lively community, McCall is a great place to spend a season or to settle down. The commercial center of town includes the McCall Brewing Company, a local favorite known for its excellent craft beers and delectable plates. Another cool spot to consider hitting in town is North Fork Coffee Roasters, a cute, locally owned cafe offering up tasty espresso drinks and authentic matcha. In terms of walkability, the convenient McCall Greenway is a vibrant walking path that takes you from downtown to the municipal airport in under 25 minutes.
For all the history lovers out there, the Central Idaho Historical Museum features a range of incredible historical buildings, all showcasing exceptional handiwork. The Fire Warden’s House, in particular, is amazing both inside and outside. The house on the National Register of Historic Places is beautifully constructed and filled with authentic pieces - a walkthrough will transport you back in time. Just be sure to make an online reservation in advance, as the museum sometimes closes due to it being volunteer-run.
Driggs
Life in Driggs, Idaho, provides a great mixture of handsome scenery and walkability. Though it’s a quaint little town, it has some attractive commercial landmarks like Main Street and Driggs Plaza. Along Main Street, you can enjoy a range of food and drink options, from an excellent American breakfast at The Provision Kitchen to a warm mocha from Rise Coffee, Panang curry at Bangkok Kitchen, and a range of flavorful craft beers at Citizen 33 Brewery. Each option is only a few minutes ' walk from the next.
Driggs Plaza - the bustling town center loaded with charming shops - is literally across the road from The Provision Kitchen. If you’re in Driggs in early-mid springtime, you’ll have a chance to catch the Teton Valley Art Market, which runs every Saturday during a given month. Attending the market means having a chance to view homemade leatherwork, glasswork, skincare, handspun yarn, baked goods, and much more. You often get the chance to speak with skilled makers from outside of Driggs as well who have traveled from areas as diverse as Jackson, Rexburg, and Idaho Falls.
Two more worthwhile visits in Driggs are the 5th Street Disc Golf Course and the 5th Street Skatepark, situated adjacently and only a short 15-minute walk from Driggs Plaza. The disc golf course is somewhat challenging, and the creators made great use of what space they had to fit in a good number of holes. There are well-maintained restrooms on the premises. The skatepark, while primarily a spot for kids or young adults, is a potential alternative for those who aren’t interested in disc golf. The skatepark is never too busy and offers a nice place to safely practice your skills on a board, scooter, or bike.
Hailey
Hailey sits a few miles south of Ketchum on the 75 highway and offers an active lifestyle rich in hiking trails and riverside parks. Some of the best options for hiking include Buttercup Hill, Carbonate Mountain, and the Colorado Gulch Preserve. Each of these trails boasts its unique difficulties and great views of the city. Carbonate Mountain doubles as a historic mining site, which might tickle the fancy of history enthusiasts. The Preserve leads to the Della trail, and the area is less developed and incredibly immersive.
If you’re interested in grabbing food and drink about town, be sure to try out The Hailey Coffee Company, a central spot for locals and visitors. There are plenty of specialty coffees and pastries available to satisfy your java and snacking needs. They’ve got plenty of non-coffee options as well, including chai lattes, London fogs, and Italian sodas. The Power House is an eclectic brew pub that includes a high-end bike shop and a bocce ball court. It’s an interesting intersection of active lifestyle and beer culture that’s not to be missed.
Wallace
Wallace is one of Idaho’s tiniest towns, but don’t let its small size fool you. Wallace is wrapped in the cascades of the Silver Valley and is brimming with historical and cultural riches, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Don’t let some of the sillier aspects of the town distract you, like the infamous “Center of the Universe,” which is basically just a special manhole in the center of town that’s used as a novelty landmark. It’s hilarious to watch visitors stand around taking photos of the street. If you want to find some real historical depth, take a tour with the Sierra Silver Mine Tour. You not only get to experience an interesting and informative mine tour, but the trolley also takes you around town and gives you insight into the day-to-day lives of Wallace’s residents.
If you’re a beer hunter, Wallace Brewing Company is a must-try. They offer flights of either 5 or 10 beers, have an eclectic and exciting tap list, and the locals will offer you the great gift of excellent conversation. This warm and welcoming atmosphere helps visitors savor the carefully crafted beers and gives all who indulge a glimpse into the town’s collaborative and communal spirit. A final historical gem to experience is the Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum, showcasing Wallace's important part in railroad history. The extensive exhibits will help you appreciate the town's origins and development. Upstairs you’ll find a knowledgeable conductor who will joyfully speak further about Wallace’s local history and railroads.
Walkability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for many Americans wishing to tour small towns or perhaps even call one home. This feature helps people build healthy habits and routines in their daily lives without feeling like they’re forcing anything. Whether you’re interested in a lakeside village like Sandpoint or are more intrigued by the hiking opportunities of places like Hailey or Ketchum, every little town in Idaho has its own quirkiness that’s worth investigating. This could be the beginning of a great adventure across some of the central United States’ most unexpectedly cool places to tour. Who knows? You might even find somewhere you want to hang up your hat.
