The Most Picturesque Small Towns in Idaho
Idaho is one of the most stunning outdoor destinations in the US and is considered a gem of the Northwest. This scenic state offers diverse landscapes, from its capital city, Boise, to its charming small towns. These picturesque small towns present a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, boasting a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're looking to soak in pristine wilderness, explore endless rural areas, or enjoy adventure-filled natural attractions, these small towns provide an enchanting experience that stands apart from the typical tourist trail.
Moscow
The town of Moscow is beautifully situated in the Palouse region of north-central Idaho. This picturesque town is renowned for its rich community culture, educational institutions, shopping, and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities. Spring Valley Reservoir is notable for its diverse habitat and bird observation features. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and exploring the Idaho Birding Trails. Another natural landmark is the University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden, which spans 45 acres and is home to 2,500 kinds of plants arranged according to their geographical regions.
The Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute’s Nature Center is perfect for exploring more of Moscow's natural beauty. Walk the trails to discover native flora and fauna. For a fun shopping experience, visit Main Street, bustling with unique outlets, vintage shops, and boutiques that offer plenty of local flavor.
Sandpoint
Sandpoint is Located on Lake Pend Oreille's northern shores, a postcard-perfect town. Surrounded by abundant forests and a magnificent lake, the town offers both adventure and relaxation. Summertime here means engaging in numerous water activities and exploring the nearby mountains. The first thing to check out in town is Lake Pend Oreille. You can spend a whole day at the picturesque city beach, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or taking a relaxing lake cruise. If water sports aren’t quite your speed, you can go on wildlife or history tours on the lake, searching for eagles or ospreys and learning about the town's history.
Another fun adventure is Mountain Horse Adventures, which offers a variety of trail rides from spring through fall. Based out of Schweitzer Mountain, the rides take you into the high country with spectacular views of Lake Pend Oreille from the top. The 2.5-hour rides are suitable for families and riders of all abilities. Summer activities flourish at Schweitzer Resort, where visitors can enjoy miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, along with a variety of other recreational options. This resort serves as the hub for outdoor adventures in the area, offering a vibrant summer season that appeals to all ages and interests.
Lewiston
This Idaho gem, known as the gateway to Hells Canyon, is celebrated for its excellent wine-growing terrain, lively cultural scene, and outstanding recreational opportunities. Lewiston boasts several popular attractions, including Hells Gate State Park. This park is situated on a river bottom exposed after the great Ice Age floods around 15,000 years ago. At the park's southern end, you can find basaltic columns formed from the Pomona flows 14 million years ago. Hells Gate State Park was once the site of a Nez Perce village. Although little remains of the village today, you can learn more about its history by visiting the Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum. This museum is excellently curated, with thoughtful and engaging displays. It's a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours learning about the Nez Perce Indians and the history of Nez Perce, Idaho.
Another excellent stop to add to your itinerary is Lindsay Creek Vineyards. This winery on the edge of town offers delicious food and stays open late. It provides a sunny, relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy great tapas and excellent wine, making it an absolute delight to visit.
Sun Valley
Sun Valley, popularly known as a resort town, is a gorgeous destination with exciting sites and revitalizing natural surroundings. Whether you’re searching for adventure or a relaxing escape, Sun Valley Resort provides the perfect offerings for any preference. Sun Valley Resort has everything you need, from luxurious lodging and delicious dining options to mountain adventures and world-class golf. The area boasts over 400 miles of dirt singletrack and more than 30 miles of paved bike paths separated from the roads. For those who want to explore the valley on paved trails, grab a comfort bike or e-bike and head out on the Wood River Trail system, which offers a variety of destinations and scenic views throughout the valley.
Visit the Blaine County Historical Museum for a dose of history. Visitors can explore the Wood River Valley’s pioneer past, research family histories, and view exhibits showcasing mines, schools, ranches, famous literary figures, and political memorabilia. Each display highlights different aspects of life experienced by the early inhabitants and pioneers.
Rexburg
Rexburg is an exciting town with scenic parks and premier fishing spots, such as the beautiful Rexburg Nature Park situated close to the South Fork of the Teton River. The park features unique walking paths through the trees and ponds, providing a tranquil environment for relaxing amidst nature while feeding the ducks. Fishing ponds at the park are open to all, with one designated for children under 12. Kids will also love spending time at the play area and the disc golf course. A visit to Rexburg wouldn’t be complete without experiencing Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-through wildlife park where animals roam freely as you tour the park from your vehicle. Visitors can see bison, Rocky Mountain goats, white-tail deer, moose, grizzly bears, and black bears, among others. Kids especially enjoy bottle-feeding the bear cubs.
The most unique attraction in town is the five-story Rexburg Idaho Temple. Resting atop a hill, this striking landmark is visible for miles along the Highway 20 corridor. The temple also features an immaculately kept garden area where visitors can sit back or take quiet strolls in beautiful natural surroundings, offering moments of reflection.
Eagle
In the Boise Foothills lies Eagle, a charming town celebrated for its abundant green spaces. A standout attraction is the Riverside Eagle Island State Park, offering hiking trails, a swimming beach, and a zip line course, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and relaxation. Additionally, the Payette River Scenic Byway is a stunning route featuring tree-lined canyons with the Payette River winding alongside the road. Starting just 30 minutes outside Boise, the drive can be as short or as long as you wish. You can easily spot deer, eagles, elk, and even mountain lions along the way, making it a breathtaking journey.
For a relaxed day, plan a visit to 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards. The spectacular views here and the food and wine experience is delightful. Not far from the vineyard is Banbury Golf Course, a premier golfing facility in Eagle that is consistently rated among the top ten golf courses in the area by Golf Digest. After a day of indulging in fine wine and enjoying a round of golf, you'll leave with beautiful memories of Eagle's charming attractions.
Idaho offers countless reasons to fall in love with it. Its picturesque small towns present an ideal mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming charm. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a tranquil retreat, these small towns in Idaho promise an unforgettable vacation. From bird watching at Spring Valley Reservoir to golfing at the top-rated Banbury Golf Course, each town has unique attractions worth exploring. Additionally, all these towns are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, ensuring your trip is delightful and leaving you eager to return for more.
