Welcome to Idaho, the nature lover’s heaven and one of the best road trip destinations! This state is big, and be sure that wherever you go, you will end up finding something amazing and spectacular to do or see. From hills and mountains to lakes and waterfalls, Idaho has it all and it is willing to share it with all its residents and tourists passing by.
It does not matter whether you are an adrenalin junkie or a peaceful lover of nature, Idaho will treat you well. It is needless to say that if you love the great outdoors, you will love it here. Check out our nature lover’s guide to Idaho and get ready for a new adventure!
Redfish Lake
First on our list of must-visit places in Idaho is the one and only Redfish Lake. Ask anybody who has visited it and they will tell you that this lake and its surrounding area is a little piece of heaven. The beach has a beautiful reddish color. The sand is soft. The water is crystal clear. And, the view of the mountains is more than picturesque, as the entire lake is surrounded by them. When you combine all of this, you end up with a place looking like something straight off of a postcard.
Visitors can enjoy fishing, trying out different water sports, or something more relaxing like sunbathing or picnicking. Redfish Lake is suitable for all nature lovers, families, children, pets, and anybody who appreciates nature at its best.
Redfish Lake in Idaho will leave you breathless! Be sure to visit it.
Lava Hot Springs
Lava Hot Springs is a city located near Pocatello, Idaho. It is a rather small place, with approximately 400 residents, but that number doubles during summer and spring months as tourists from all over Idaho come here to relax. Moreover, this area is experiencing a slow but steady growth in population as the living conditions here are excellent. So, if you have moved out of state and decide to go back to Idaho for good, this might be the place for you.
But, why is Lava Hot Springs a must-visit place in Idaho? Because it is full of hot springs, as the name suggests. The water in them ranges between 102° to 112° Fahrenheit. And, when you get tired of ‘boiling’ you can always cool off in the nearby river. This place is also amazing if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy something more relaxing and away from the crowds.
Yellowstone National Park
There is not a person in the world who has not heard of Yellowstone National Park. This is the US’s first national park, and according to some research, it is probably the first national park in the world as well. However, we also have to note that only a small percentage of it is located in Idaho – its bigger part is located in Wyoming. Nevertheless, even that small percentage is amazing, and some would say, out of this world.
Yellowstone National Park is an incredible place to see untouched nature. And, of course, to see wild animals in their natural habitat. But, be careful as all animals here are wild, so keep your distance.
When visiting, besides soaking up all that nature and seeing animals running freely, be sure not to miss out on the Old Faithful. Although it is technically in Wyoming, it will definitely be worth the trek.
Yellowstone National Park is also called the land of the buffalos.
Bruneau Sand Dunes
When you think about sand dunes, you probably imagine yourself in Africa, right? Well, you do not have to go that far, as there are sand dunes right here in Idaho, and they are called Bruneau Sand Dunes.
In the past, they were not that big of an attraction, but nowadays, people from all over the state come to see these mountains of sand, as it is great for taking pictures. However, this place is also visited by those who have another thing to tick off on their bucket lists ideas. While you are here, you can take your snowboard and glide down these mountains of sand. Pretty cool, right?
If you want to try something new and different, give Bruneau Sand Dunes a go.
Coeur d’ Alene
As mentioned in the beginning, Idaho is a land of many marvelous mountains and lakes. It is impossible to mention all of them in this short article. However, we have to note one town that has access to both the lake and the mountain. That town’s name is Couer d’ Alene.
It is located right next to one of Idaho’s biggest lakes – Lake Coeur d’ Alene – a great summer destination for people of all walks of life and for all adventurous spirits. The town is full of authentic restaurants and coffee shops that all have the view of the lake. So, when you get tired from all the walking and trying out all possible water activities, you will have a cool place to drink your coffee at.
However, if you are more of a winter person, Coeur d’ Alene got something for you as well. The ski mountain, Schweitzer, is just a short drive away from the town. Do not worry, hiring a car on a budget is possible here. So, if you are looking for a town in Idaho that has everything one nature lover needs, you might have just found one.