The Natural Wonders In Idaho
Idaho is an all too often looked-over state in the Pacific Northwest that is an absolute treasure trove of natural beauty. From the mountainous forests of its northern panhandle to the arid deserts and grasslands to the south, it is one of the most diverse states in the union in terms of the variety of landscapes. You can find places to hike, camp, boat, sightsee, and more in all corners of the state when you embark on an adventure here. On your next vacation or weekend getaway, explore seven of the natural wonders in the Gem State that you can visit today.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, located in central Idaho, is a seemingly otherworldly landscape that very much showcases the inner workings of the planet. This protected area, just a short trip west of the city of Idaho Falls, covers over 750,000 acres and contains notable geographic features such as dried lava flows and cinder cones, all surrounded by a sagebrush steppe environment. Established in 1924, this national monument will give you a glimpse into the region's dynamic geological history, shaped by eruptions that occurred between 15,000 and 2,000 years ago.
Here, you are encouraged to explore a variety of trails that wind through the lava fields. The 7 Mile Loop Road, for example, offers access to key sites such as the Devil's Orchard, Inferno Cone, and the Spatter Cones. One of the main highlights is the opportunity to venture into lava tube caves like the Indian Tunnel, formed by flowing lava that created underground channels.
In the spring months through to mid-summer, landscape photographers flock to the area to catch the wildflower bloom amidst this otherwise desolate terrain.
Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara of the West," is a jaw-dropping waterfall located on the Snake River and right on the northern edge of the city of Twin Falls. Plunging 212 feet— well over 40 feet higher than Niagara Falls— and at 900 feet wide, Shoshone Falls is the clear main attraction within the Shoshone Falls Park, providing locals and visitors alike with a top-tier natural wonder.
The falls are particularly spectacular during spring when snowmelt from the nearby mountains swells the Snake River, creating a powerful cascade of water. Enjoy the sights from differing angles at the various viewing platforms along the rim, and be sure to bring a lunch for a break at one of the local picnicking areas. It is also recommended that you embark on the scenic hike along the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail.
Beyond its natural beauty, Shoshone Falls has historical significance too. It was a crucial landmark for Native American tribes and later for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail. Today, the falls remain one of the state's most popular attractions, drawing tourists and nature enthusiasts year-round.
Lake Coeur d'Alene
This huge freshwater lake in northern Idaho is over 25 miles in length and covers more than 30,000 acres. Surrounded by lush forested hills and the snowcapped Rocky Mountains, this area is vastly different than the deserts and potato farms many outsiders imagine when they think of Idaho. Having been glacially carved, Lake Coeur d'Alene is the centerpiece of the region, drawing visitors and cottagers for its clear and pristine waters.
A plethora of activities are popular here, including boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Anglers can come to hopefully catch the various fish species that call Lake Coeur d'Alene home, such as bass, trout, and salmon. A selection of marinas and boat ramps in the city of Coeur D'Alene facilitate easy access to the water. At the same time, several public beaches offer perfect spots to swim and chill out on a nicer summer day. In town, you will also be able to find hotels, restaurants, outfitters, museums, and more amenities to complement your visit.
There are also cruises around the lake, where you can soak in the view of this picturesque area from the water. Keep your eyes open, and you may spot wildlife like bald eagles and ospreys above hunting for fish down below.
Hells Canyon
On the Idaho-Oregon border sits Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America. Reaching depths of nearly 8,000 feet and a width of 10 miles at certain points, this immense gorge was carved by the powerful Snake River and is certain to blow you away simply by gazing at its massive scale and the idyllic wildlands in and around it. The canyon is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, and camping.
The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area encompasses over 217,000 acres of prime wilderness and has very limited road access. Because of its remoteness, species like elk, a variety of deer, and numerous bird species flourish within its depths. Still, several main hiking trails, including the Hells Canyon Rim Trail, provide adventure-seekers with unmatched views of the canyon and river below.
Known for its unique geology, showing off colorful rock formations and ancient volcanic activity, this is a must-visit for anybody who truly wants to see the best and most impressive natural wonders that Idaho has to offer.
Yellowstone-Teton Territory
Yellowstone National Park is widely regarded as a park in Wyoming, but many don't realize that its borders reach into other surrounding states, such as Montana and even Idaho. Often referred to as the Yellowstone-Teton Territory, the more rugged area of Yellowstone in Idaho is a place of true wild beauty and endless opportunities for adventure.
Located in southeastern Idaho, this region holds one of the western gateways to not only Yellowstone but also Grand Teton National Park, where the iconic Teton Mountain Range can be seen and explored. Here, you can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Highlights on the Idaho side include Buffalo Lake, a popular backcountry camping spot, and the nearby Mesa Falls, which features trails and observation decks at both its upper and lower portions and a visitor center (at the parking lot near the upper falls).
This region of the state is not very developed but still contains pleasant small towns, like Driggs and Island Park, where you can stop.
This sliver of land poses one of the country's most puzzling legal questions. Known ominously as the "Zone of Death," not enough people live within it to form a jury, and confusion over whether the federally run park or the state of Idaho has jurisdiction over its land makes it theoretically possible to commit a crime here without facing punishment from the law.
Balanced Rock
The Balanced Rock is a remarkable natural formation located in southern Idaho's Balanced Rock Park. This 48-foot tall rock, balancing on a stem just 3 feet by 17 inches and weighing approximately 40 tons, is simply something that can't be unseen. Formed over millions of years by erosion, Balanced Rock stands as a testament to the power of wind and water in the deserts of the Pacific Northwest.
The short hike to the rock is easy for people of all ages to navigate, and overnight accommodations can be made at the nearby Balanced Rock Campground. This gorgeous campground, nestled in a steep canyon along Salmon Falls Creek, can be a stand-alone attraction for anybody looking to spend the night under the stars in this remote area of Idaho, which has very little light pollution (or any kind of pollution for that matter).
Boise River Greenbelt
Enjoying a serene, natural environment that is not far from home does not have to be a difficult undertaking, especially in Boise, Idaho's capital and largest city. The Boise River Greenbelt is an impressive recreational corridor that spans over 25 miles along the banks of the Boise River, which flows directly through the heart of the downtown area. This scenic pathway features paved trails that cater to both pedestrians and cyclists.
The Greenbelt is often called the "Ribbon of Jewels" due to how it connects numerous parks, including Julia Davis Park, Ann Morrison Park, and Esther Simplot Park, making it an ideal location for urban outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and biking. The paths here meander through lush wooded zones, giving you a number of unobstructed places to soak in views of both the city's skyline and the river. Wildlife is more abundant along the Greenbelt than in the surrounding cityscapes, with several bird species, deer, and other wildlife calling it home.
Explore the Wonders of the Gem State
From urban greenspaces to dried-up lava fields and beyond, the aptly named Gem State is full of amazing natural treasures for you to explore. So, head out to discover the many things Idaho has to do on your next road trip to the state. From Boise to Coeur d'Alene, these wonders of nature will give you a new perspective on the Pacific Northwest, making Idaho a perfect place to escape the crowds too.
