{"id":648771,"date":"2025-09-07T10:00:13","date_gmt":"2025-09-07T09:00:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=648771"},"modified":"2025-10-27T10:58:12","modified_gmt":"2025-10-27T10:58:12","slug":"top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-idaho","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-idaho\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 19 Beautiful Places to Visit in Idaho"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"sub-headline\">Often overshadowed by neighboring <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-16-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-montana\/\">Montana<\/a> and Oregon, Hemingway&#8217;s favorite state still boasts stunning beauty waiting to be uncovered. Deciding where to go can be a challenge, but after traveling around the whole state in four weeks, here are my must-visit spots I&#8217;d love to share&#8230;<\/p>\n<h2>1. Boise&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Boise.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770023 sp-no-webp\" alt=\" Boise in Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"562\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Boise-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686548 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Boise Idaho - great cities\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777825\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777825\" style=\"width: 774px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.webp 784w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 784px) 100vw, 784px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.jpg?resize=784%2C492&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"492\" width=\"784\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.jpg?w=784&amp;ssl=1 784w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.jpg?resize=640%2C402&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-snapshot-of-Boise-farmers-market.jpg?resize=768%2C482&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 784px) 100vw, 784px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777825 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snapshot of Boise farmers market\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777825\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Boise farmers market &#8211; it was an awesome experience sampling all the creative flavors!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"335\">I was a big fan of Boise, the \u201cCity of Trees.\u201d I thought it was an understated beauty spot with tree-lined streets, a striking mix of historic and modern architecture, and mountain scenery as its backdrop. I loved its laid-back feel and strong sense of community \u2014 a perfect mix of urban perks and unspoiled nature.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"450\" data-end=\"815\">Flying into Boise Airport, I made it my starting point and stayed three days, strolling the Boise River Greenbelt, mural-spotting and caf\u00e9-hopping in the Linen District, touring the Idaho State Capitol, exploring the <a href=\"https:\/\/boiseartmuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boise Art Museum,<\/a> hiking the foothill trails at Camel\u2019s Back Park, and wandering the peaceful <a href=\"https:\/\/www.idahobotanicalgarden.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Idaho Botanical Gardens<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong>&nbsp;along the Boise River and at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in the southwestern part of the state.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Boise,+ID,+USA\/@43.6006872,-116.3990502,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54aef172e947b49d:0x9a5b989b36679d9b!8m2!3d43.6150186!4d-116.2023137!16zL20vMDk5dHk?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Staying at the quirky 4\u2011star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-anniversary-inn-boise.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCBWJvaXNlSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEHyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIDuAKpr9i5BsACAdICJDU4ZjBlN2Y0LTUwMDEtNDYwMi05YzI5LTdhNDI5MDA1YmZhNdgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=90980124_393008374_2_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20031434&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;highlighted_blocks=90980124_393008374_2_1_0&amp;hpos=3&amp;matching_block_id=90980124_393008374_2_1_0&amp;nflt=ht_id%3D204%3Bclass%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=90980124_393008374_2_1_0__21363&amp;srepoch=1731598272&amp;srpvid=3fbf6d1647a701c9&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Anniversary Inn<\/a>, I loved my room\u2019s jetted tub, plush chenille robes, four\u2011poster bed, and romantic touches &#8211; especially the chocolate\u2011dipped strawberries waiting on arrival!<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\">Joining a scavenger hunt was a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems &#8211; I especially loved the edgy Jimi Hendrix portrait at Freak Alley Gallery, splashed with electric purples and jagged neon outlines, and the mesmerizing borosilicate \u201cjellyfish\u201d sculptures at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.freakalleyboise.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boise Art Glass<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. Sawtooth Mountains <img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648778 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sawtooth mountains Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"750\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sawtooth-mountains-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686550 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Sawtooth mountains Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_776169\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-776169\" style=\"width: 2550px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 2560w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 150w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.webp 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1200%2C575&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"575\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?w=2560&amp;ssl=1 2560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=640%2C307&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1000%2C479&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=768%2C368&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1536%2C736&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=2048%2C982&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=150%2C72&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Sawtooth-Mountains-taken-in-Septmber-in-2023-scaled.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-776169 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Sawtooth Mountains taken in Septmber in 2023\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-776169\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Sawtooth Mountains taken in Septmber in 2023 &#8211; the views were jaw\u2011dropping!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"101\" data-end=\"284\">I thought the Sawtooth Mountains were breathtaking \u2014 jagged peaks, forested valleys, and sparkling alpine lakes created a peaceful yet adventurous vibe I couldn\u2019t get enough of.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"286\" data-end=\"489\">Part of the Idaho Rockies and near <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/biography\/Ernest-Hemingway\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ernest Hemingway<\/a>\u2019s former home in Ketchum, the area felt wild, remote, and creatively inspiring, with wildlife like elk, moose, bears, eagles, and otters.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"491\" data-end=\"650\">After landing at Boise Airport (BOI), I drove three hours, spent a week in Ketchum, then four nature-filled days at the rustic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Hotel_Feature-g35609-d670474-zft1-Triangle_C_Cabins.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Triangle C Cabins<\/a>. I hiked the Alice Lake Loop, kayaked Redfish Lake, rafted the Salmon River, soaked in Kirkham Hot Springs, and explored Stanley\u2019s charming log-cabin streets and boutiques.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> central Idaho, between the towns of Stanley and Ketchum<\/li>\n<li><strong>Size: <\/strong>678 square miles within the 756,000-acre Sawtooth National Recreation Area.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Sawtooth+Range\/@43.9532976,-115.0112425,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a91c21f1be1a19:0xadc5fbf7597ef33e!8m2!3d43.9533!4d-114.9906!16s%2Fm%2F02pvp8_?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the trendy 4\u2011star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/limelight-ketchum.en-gb.html?aid=318615&amp;label=New_English_EN_GBIE_5226315625-gb5CBbvG5uEFQfHlegWAMgS640874805040%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atidsa-64415190745%3Alp1006624%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Aag5226315625%3Acmp108539665&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=176462401_96172984_3_1_0_688542&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=2997&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;highlighted_blocks=176462401_96172984_3_1_0_688542&amp;hpos=2&amp;matching_block_id=176462401_96172984_3_1_0_688542&amp;nflt=uf%3D20031950&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=176462401_96172984_3_1_0_688542_34066&amp;srepoch=1731577339&amp;srpvid=ffac43df1cab03b5&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Limelight Hotel Ketchum<\/a> &#8211; I loved unwinding in the spa with its hot tub and pool, then sipping a potent Spiked Hot Chocolate topped with peppermint bark during afternoon apr\u00e8s hour while watching the soulful local blues band, Lost Ox!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Sun Valley&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648790 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sun Valley = best places to visit in Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sun-Valley-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686565 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Sun Valley Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"1b9001e4-c8d0-45b1-9779-ef7a84b35066\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p data-start=\"135\" data-end=\"387\">This upscale resort town was all about world-class skiing \u2014 breathtaking alpine landscapes, pristine mountain views, and a charming village vibe made it feel like a celebrity hideaway. I loved how it blended chic comfort with rugged mountain thrills.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"683\">Tucked in the Sawtooth Mountains near Ketchum, it\u2019s a small town of just 1,500 residents and famously home to the world\u2019s first chairlifts, installed in 1936. I learned that Bald Mountain offers steep, challenging runs for pros, while Dollar Mountain is perfect for beginners.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"685\" data-end=\"875\">After a 2\u00bd-hour drive from Boise, I hit the slopes, relaxed at the elegant <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/sun-valley-inn.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAso7AFCDnN1bi12YWxsZXktaW5uSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEzuAEHyAEM2AED6AEB-AEBiAIBqAIBuAKWt5LGBsACAdICJDNkZWIxOGEwLWZiNjgtNDUwMy1iYjQyLTA3YzljMzg0ZDY3MNgCAeACAQ&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=105756211_333368837_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-10-30&amp;checkout=2025-10-31&amp;dest_id=20032412&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=105756211_333368837_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=105756211_333368837_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=105756211_333368837_2_0_0__30062&amp;srepoch=1757715355&amp;srpvid=4a349c8b79e3006a&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Sun Valley Resort<\/a>&nbsp;spa, snowshoed through magical trails, and twirled around the romantic outdoor ice rink.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Sun+Valley,+ID+83353,+USA\/@43.6821091,-114.3744618,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a982df1c512e13:0x70c6a2366b42c50!8m2!3d43.6971294!4d-114.3517172!16zL20vMHMxMHA?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sunvalley.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sun Valley\u2019s Ski Resort Website<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the Bavarian-style upscale 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/knob-hill-inn.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCCnN1bi12YWxsZXlICVgDaFCIAQGYAQm4AQfIAQzYAQHoAQH4AQKIAgGoAgO4Aquj2bkGwAIB0gIkNWI3NDIwMzgtNDY3ZC00NDVlLTg0MDItZjRmMjJlOGYzM2Y22AIF4AIB&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=36301001_288472431_2_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20032412&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=36301001_288472431_2_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=36301001_288472431_2_1_0&amp;nflt=ht_id%3D204%3Bclass%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=36301001_288472431_2_1_0__30414&amp;srepoch=1731613116&amp;srpvid=501f8a1745dc012e&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Knob Hill Inn<\/a> &#8211; I loved going for a mineral-rich thermal mud bath at the onsite spa while sipping on a refreshing wild Huckleberry Iced Tea!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. McCall&nbsp; <img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-664084 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"McCall and Lake Payette Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Payette-Lake-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"562\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/McCall.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770030 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"McCall in Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C566&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"566\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C362&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C435&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/McCall-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C85&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686553 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"McCall Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_776172\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-776172\" style=\"width: 2550px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 2560w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 150w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.webp 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=1200%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"665\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?w=2560&amp;ssl=1 2560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=640%2C355&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=1000%2C554&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=768%2C426&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=1536%2C851&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=2048%2C1135&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?resize=150%2C83&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photo-of-Downtown-McCall-taken-in-September-2024-scaled.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"wp-image-776172 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Downtown McCall taken in September 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-776172\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Downtown McCall &#8211; it was a place filled with rustic storefronts and cozy hotels!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"131\" data-end=\"324\">I was a huge fan of McCall \u2014 a peaceful, low-key mountain resort town with an idyllic setting on Payette Lake, surrounded by forested peaks, rustic cabins, and alpine-style buildings.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"326\" data-end=\"453\">I loved its laid-back vibe, with downtown lined with cozy caf\u00e9s, artisan shops, and sweeping Salmon River Mountain views.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"455\" data-end=\"668\">After a 2-hour 20-minute drive north from Boise, I spent a dreamy summer weekend swimming in the lake, hiking forest trails, watching climbers on Fireman\u2019s Point, and braving the <a href=\"https:\/\/zipmccall.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zip McCall zip-line<\/a>. I\u2019ve returned in winter too \u2014 skiing and snowboarding at Brundage Mountain and soaking up the festive energy of the Winter Carnival with its sparkling ice sculptures.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> in the Payette National Forest in west-central Idaho&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/McCall,+ID+83638,+USA\/@44.9001417,-116.1558483,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a659e630979ba1:0x63b51760e0318a36!8m2!3d44.906183!4d-116.1171311!16zL20vMHMyc2o?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the charming <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/scandia-inn.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCBm1jY2FsbEgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gC9L7YuQbAAgHSAiQ1MWM3YmMxNi00ZDUyLTQ5OGUtYTA1NS1iODdhMzdiNmU1ZmHYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=342891004_330866728_0_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20032054&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;highlighted_blocks=342891004_330866728_0_0_0&amp;hpos=2&amp;matching_block_id=342891004_330866728_0_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=342891004_330866728_0_0_0__18515&amp;srepoch=1731600255&amp;srpvid=42a370fbc9060448&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Scandia Inn<\/a>, I loved its trendy Scandi\u2011chic decor and cozy hygge vibe, especially soaking in the communal hot tub on the deck under twinkling string lights with the fresh scent of pine drifting in from the surrounding trees.<\/li>\n<li>Visiting the local farmer\u2019s market and browsing stalls piled high with freshly bundled lavender and sampling the rich, caramel\u2011toned Bear Basin Medium Roast from Long Valley Coffee!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>5. Lake Coeur d&#8217;Alene<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lake-Coeur-d-Alene-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686559 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lake Coeur d&#039; Alene Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Lake-Coeur-dAlene.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770043 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lake Coeur d&#039;Alene\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"336\">I thought this was a true gem \u2014 a sweeping 25-mile-long lake in northern Idaho with bright blue waters framed by beaches, forests, and mountains. It struck the perfect balance of serenity and adventure.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"338\" data-end=\"668\">After a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Sandpoint, I settled in for five relaxing days. I swam, paddle-boarded, and kayaked, picnicked at City Park Beach, took a scenic lake cruise, hiked trails with incredible views, visited <a href=\"https:\/\/www.silverwoodthemepark.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Silverwood Theme Park<\/a>, and strolled Coeur d\u2019Alene\u2019s artsy downtown and floating boardwalk.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Lake+Coeur+d&#039;Alene\/@47.5265882,-116.9602559,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5361d2081e1eeabd:0x2c0d0d7c8d2d0c6e!8m2!3d47.6463795!4d-116.767375!16zL20vMDczc3F2?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">Staying at the nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Hotel_Review-g35418-d114334-Reviews-The_Coeur_d_Alene_Golf_Spa_Resort-Coeur_d_Alene_Idaho.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Coeur d\u2019Alene Golf &amp; Spa Resort<\/a>, I loved its sleek modern design, the soothing on\u2011site spa &#8211; especially the Signature Massage which used warm basalt stones and locally sourced lavender oil &#8211; and its iconic golf course which had a unique movable floating island green!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Yellowstone National Park&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777832\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777832\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?resize=1024%2C637&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"637\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?resize=640%2C398&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?resize=1000%2C622&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?resize=768%2C478&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777832 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777832\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone &#8211; the sound of the roaring cascade was really something!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777833\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777833\" style=\"width: 1011px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.webp 1021w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1021px) 100vw, 1021px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.jpg?resize=1021%2C603&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"603\" width=\"1021\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.jpg?w=1021&amp;ssl=1 1021w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.jpg?resize=640%2C378&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.jpg?resize=1000%2C591&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-snapshot-of-Yellowstone-National-Parks-hot-springs.jpg?resize=768%2C454&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1021px) 100vw, 1021px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777833 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My snapshot of Yellowstone National Park\u2019s hot springs\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777833\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My snapshot of Yellowstone National Park\u2019s hot springs &#8211; I thought it had an otherworldly beauty!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777834\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777834\" style=\"width: 894px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.webp 904w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 904px) 100vw, 904px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.jpg?resize=904%2C614&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"614\" width=\"904\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.jpg?w=904&amp;ssl=1 904w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C435&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Old-Faithful-geyser-erupting-in-Yellowstone-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C522&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 904px) 100vw, 904px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777834 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of Old Faithful geyser erupting in Yellowstone National Park\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777834\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of Old Faithful geyser erupting in Yellowstone National Park &#8211; I watched this for ages!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"279\">I was genuinely awestruck \u2014 this iconic park, perched on a volcanic hot spot, delivered nonstop natural drama and beauty. It\u2019s world-famous for a reason! I saw bubbling geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, dramatic canyons, wildflower meadows, and wildlife everywhere \u2014 bison, grizzlies, elk, wolves, and coyotes roaming free gave the park a wild, untamed energy.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"495\" data-end=\"822\">From Idaho Falls, I drove two hours to the gates and spent four unforgettable days watching Old Faithful erupt, marveling at the rainbow colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, hiking wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, taking in the views of Yellowstone\u2019s Grand Canyon, and standing in awe at 132-foot Tower Falls.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"1505\" data-end=\"1599\"><strong data-start=\"1505\" data-end=\"1518\">Location:<\/strong> Mostly in <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-15-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-wyoming\/\">Wyoming<\/a>, with sections in eastern Idaho (Fremont County) and <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/top-16-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-montana\/\">Montana<\/a><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1602\" data-end=\"1695\"><strong data-start=\"1602\" data-end=\"1611\">Size:<\/strong> Approximately 2.2 million acres (one of the largest national parks in the U.S.)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Yellowstone+National+Park\/@44.5838902,-111.1748241,9z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5351e55555555555:0xaca8f930348fe1bb!8m2!3d44.5979182!4d-110.561249!16zL20vMDg4NzQ?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the rustic\u2011chic 4\u2011star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/river-lodge-island-park.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCC2lzbGFuZC1wYXJrSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEHyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIDuAL74de5BsACAdICJDU0ZmEwMTkzLTMyZWMtNGU4YS1hMjAwLTBjMzkwZWNmZTg0ZdgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=320560401_371062809_0_0_0_622257&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20031912&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=320560401_371062809_0_0_0_622257&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=320560401_371062809_0_0_0_622257&amp;nflt=class%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=320560401_371062809_0_0_0_622257_16145&amp;srepoch=1731588392&amp;srpvid=5f4c59cfc48c017c&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#room_320560401\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">River Lodge in Island Park<\/a>, I loved my huge pillow\u2011topped bed layered with plaid throws and soft flannel cushions, the balcony with stunning mountain views, the cozy shared stone fire pits, and the scenic wooded trails right outside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>7. Sandpoint&nbsp; <img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648783 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sandpoint - beauty spots in Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Sandpoint.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sandpoint-Beach.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770033 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Sandpoint Beach\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777830\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777830\" style=\"width: 954px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.webp 964w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 964px) 100vw, 964px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.jpg?resize=964%2C580&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"580\" width=\"964\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.jpg?w=964&amp;ssl=1 964w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.jpg?resize=640%2C385&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/I-took-this-shot-while-visiting-quirky-boutique-in-Sandpoint.jpg?resize=768%2C462&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 964px) 100vw, 964px\" class=\"wp-image-777830 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"I took this shot while visiting quirky boutique in Sandpoint\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" title=\"I took this shot while visiting quirky boutique in Sandpoint\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777830\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of a quirky boutique in Sandpoint \u2014 I thought the cool and creative shops really matched the arty vibe of the city!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"378\">This picturesque small town is often called one of the nation\u2019s most beautiful \u2014 a stunning lakeside gem ringed by mountains, dotted with historic buildings, and filled with galleries, caf\u00e9s, and quirky shops. I loved its warm, welcoming vibe.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"380\" data-end=\"571\">Set on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille at the base of the Selkirk Mountains, it has just 9,000 residents yet is home to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the state\u2019s largest ski area.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"573\" data-end=\"888\">After a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Lake Coeur d\u2019Alene, I kayaked the glassy lake, browsed the artsy downtown, and hiked mountain trails with incredible views. In winter, it turned into a snowy wonderland \u2014 I skied Schweitzer\u2019s famous slopes, snowshoed peaceful trails, and joined in the festive local events.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Sandpoint,+ID+83864,+USA\/@48.2846885,-116.5971203,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5363d1332dff4541:0xab5434ebcfe9717b!8m2!3d48.276577!4d-116.553465!16zL20vMHMxNTQ?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">\n<p class=\"sr-only\">Staying at the unique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/talus-rock-retreat.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo7AFCCXNhbmRwb2ludEgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gCks_YuQbAAgHSAiRmZDg0YmJiMC1hMDhjLTRjZGEtODA0Ni03ZDU5OWQ3ZTY1OGHYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;all_sr_blocks=53355101_226120385_2_2_0&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20032331&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;highlighted_blocks=53355101_226120385_2_2_0&amp;hpos=5&amp;matching_block_id=53355101_226120385_2_2_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=53355101_226120385_2_2_0__22236&amp;srepoch=1731602369&amp;srpvid=5396750b5a150109&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Talus Rock Retreat<\/a>, I adored the extraordinary rustic\u2011chic style, my guest room\u2019s soaking tub, the warm welcome with Chai Spice Snickerdoodle cookies, and the relaxing onsite communal sauna and hot tub!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. Wallace&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770032 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Wallace in Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686567 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Wallace - pretty towns in Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648791 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Wallace Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wallace-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"287\">I thought this was such a unique and picturesque spot \u2014 with historic architecture, quaint brick streets, and mountain views, it felt like stepping back in time. Nestled in the Silver Valley of the Bitterroot Mountains along I-90, this tiny town of around 800 residents is known as the \u201cSilver Capital of the World\u201d and is fully listed on the National Register of Historic Places.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"523\" data-end=\"880\">After a 5\u00bd-hour drive from McCall, I stayed at the charming <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-brooks-restaurant-and-lounge.en-gb.html?aid=311076&amp;label=the-brooks-restaurant-and-lounge-vs24Pi0VgFAAegjzOByhdQS201176915948%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-11602945478%3Alp1006624%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9YVcLb15uXY9d4aFGjQ5ByA0&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;dest_id=20032502&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753305190&amp;srpvid=fd809530faeb018b&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brooks Hotel<\/a> for four days, touring historic underground silver mines, browsing the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/p\/Wallace-Mining-Museum-100064644584362\/?_rdr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wallace District Mining Museum<\/a>, wandering antique-filled downtown streets, taking the fascinating <a href=\"https:\/\/silverminetour.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sierra Silver Mine Tour<\/a>, biking the scenic Route of the Hiawatha, and hiking mountain trails.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"523\" data-end=\"880\">I returned in winter to ski and snowboard at Lookout Pass, snowshoe and snowmobile through the valley, and join in the lively seasonal celebrations.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Wallace,+ID+83873,+USA\/@47.4738161,-115.9391199,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5360f7d036cde3a1:0x13f817539562ab63!8m2!3d47.4740945!4d-115.9279386!16zL20vMHMybWI?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">Sampling locally brewed craft beer at the retro <a href=\"https:\/\/wallacebrewing.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wallace Brewing Company<\/a> which was filled with vintage black and white mining photos&nbsp;&#8211; my favorite was the potent Huckleberry Shandy which had a really fruity kick!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>9. Silver Mountain&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648792 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Silver Mountain idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Silver-Mountain-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686569 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Silver Mountain Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"122\" data-end=\"377\">I thought this was a fantastic pick for a family-friendly ski resort \u2014 with mountain vistas, thick forests, and sweeping Idaho views all reached by North America\u2019s longest gondola. I loved how its friendly, laid-back vibe matched its adventurous spirit.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"598\">Nestled in Kellogg in the Coeur d&#8217;Alene Mountains, this little town of 2,493 has a 1,600-acre ski area with 73 trails across two peaks, a 2,200-foot vertical drop, and the Centennial Trail, a 2.5-mile run.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"600\" data-end=\"900\">From my four-day base in Wallace (just 15 minutes away), I biked and hiked the mountain trails, glided up the gondola, and splashed around at Silver Rapids Waterpark. Locals told me winter brings skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and a scenic snowshoe trail that starts from the Mountain House.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Silver+Mountain+Resort\/@47.5852145,-116.2174963,10.51z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x536050d8d31ee43d:0xb9e74b3d24383c44!8m2!3d47.540718!4d-116.133171!16zL20vMGd6d2Y3?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"p1\">Taking a leisurely float down the Lazy River, tackling the thrilling rapids at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.silvermt.com\/index.php\/mountain\/silver-rapids-indoor-waterpark\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark Resort<\/a> and then relaxing with a frosty mango\u2011lime smoothie under a stripy umbrella!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">10. Lava Hot Springs&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-664080 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs.jpg?resize=1000%2C734&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Lava Hot Springs Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"734\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs.jpg?resize=640%2C470&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs.jpg?resize=768%2C564&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs.jpg?resize=150%2C110&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C751&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"751\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C481&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C577&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Lava-Hot-Springs-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686561 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lava Hot Springs Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"128\" data-end=\"300\">This was such a relaxing geothermal escape \u2014 a resort town with mineral-rich hot pools framed by mountains, early-1900s brick buildings, and a wonderfully laid-back vibe.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"302\" data-end=\"439\">There were a dozen public soaking pools at varying temperatures, all fed by sulfur-free hot springs famous for their healing qualities. After a two-hour drive from Craters of the Moon, I spent the weekend soaking in the mineral pools, tubing the rippling Portneuf River, splashing around the Olympic-size pool with slides and diving platforms, and browsing the town\u2019s heritage shops.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> along the Portneuf River in the southeastern part of the state<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Lava+Hot+Springs,+ID+83246,+USA\/@42.619749,-112.0460925,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x875571853b2187ab:0xb3eaf2390954401d!8m2!3d42.6193625!4d-112.0110712!16zL20vMHMwdDE?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Population size:<\/strong> 380 residents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">Staying at the characterful <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/riverside-hot-springs-inn.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso7AFCGXJpdmVyc2lkZS1ob3Qtc3ByaW5ncy1pbm5ICVgDaFCIAQGYAQm4AQfIAQzYAQHoAQH4AQKIAgGoAgO4AuuY2bkGwAIB0gIkZjRhMjg0MzEtYzNhMS00ZTJmLTkyNmItZDQyMGVkMWM0N2Vm2AIF4AIB&amp;sid=25425c0c991cecf6c7018bc25ca17568&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=106516302_103938625_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-05-11&amp;checkout=2025-05-12&amp;dest_id=20031985&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=106516302_103938625_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=106516302_103938625_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=106516302_103938625_0_1_0__14486&amp;srepoch=1731611761&amp;srpvid=0dc787766b0e006a&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Riverside Inn and Spa<\/a> &#8211; I loved its 1914 historic charm, the unique spa treatments &#8211; especially an aromatic soak infused with native herbs like lavender, rosemary, and sage &#8211; along with the inviting communal hot tub and the Colonial Revival d\u00e9cor featuring ornate crown moldings, antique sideboards, and vintage black\u2011and\u2011white photos!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>11. Snake River Canyon&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Snake-River-Canyon.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770029 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Snake River Canyon\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Snake-River-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686551 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Snake River Canyon Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"138\" data-end=\"345\">I thought this was a wonderfully rugged beauty spot \u2014 a deep blue river cutting through basalt cliffs, roaring currents, and sightings of eagles, otters, and mountain goats made it feel wildly adventurous.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"347\" data-end=\"483\">After a 1 hour 20 minute drive from Bruneau Dunes State Park, I camped at Hells Gate State Park Campground for a long weekend. I gazed down from the steel-arched Perrine Bridge, visited thundering Shoshone Falls, hiked rugged trails like Mogensen and the Rim Route, kayaked the ever-changing canyon waters, and watched brave base jumpers leap legally from the bridge.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> southern part of the state, near Twin Falls city<\/li>\n<li><strong>Size: <\/strong>50 miles in length and depths of up to 500 feet in some areas<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Snake+River+Canyon\/@45.5823822,-116.5021725,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a132edd14a01f3:0xf60a092ead913afd!8m2!3d45.5823846!4d-116.48153!16zL20vMGRudzZq?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Hiking the challenging Snake River Canyon Rim Trail &#8211; I really enjoyed seeing the iconic steel arch Perrine Bridgebridge and the mound of dirt and 8\u202ffoot tall earthen ramp perched on the south rim of the canyon which marked where daredevil Evel Knievel attempted to jump the canyon in 1974!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>12. Idaho Falls&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777827\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777827\" style=\"width: 709px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photograph-of-the-Idaho-Falls-waterfall-with-the-striking-Idaho-Falls-Temple-rising-behind-it.webp 719w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photograph-of-the-Idaho-Falls-waterfall-with-the-striking-Idaho-Falls-Temple-rising-behind-it.webp 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photograph-of-the-Idaho-Falls-waterfall-with-the-striking-Idaho-Falls-Temple-rising-behind-it.jpg?resize=719%2C595&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"595\" width=\"719\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photograph-of-the-Idaho-Falls-waterfall-with-the-striking-Idaho-Falls-Temple-rising-behind-it.jpg?w=719&amp;ssl=1 719w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/My-photograph-of-the-Idaho-Falls-waterfall-with-the-striking-Idaho-Falls-Temple-rising-behind-it.jpg?resize=640%2C530&amp;ssl=1 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777827 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photograph of the Idaho Falls waterfall with the striking Idaho Falls Temple rising behind it\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777827\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photograph of the Idaho Falls waterfall with the striking Idaho Falls Temple rising behind it &#8211; it was a really peaceful spot!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_777828\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-777828\" style=\"width: 1014px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.jpg?resize=1024%2C470&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"470\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.jpg?resize=640%2C294&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.jpg?resize=1000%2C459&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/A-picture-I-snapped-of-downtown-Idaho-Falls.jpg?resize=768%2C353&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-777828 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"A picture I snapped of downtown Idaho Falls\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-777828\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A picture I snapped of downtown Idaho Falls &#8211; it had a friendly small-city feel!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"0191ea76-da19-4ca9-bb9e-23fc69b3e3af\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p data-start=\"125\" data-end=\"355\">I had a real affection for this small, picturesque city \u2014 with serene Snake River views, green parks, a striking namesake waterfall, and charming greenbelt pathways lined with historic brick buildings and quaint storefronts.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"863\">After a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Lava Hot Springs, I spent two packed days strolling the River Walk to capture Insta-worthy waterfall views, exploring the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/museumofidaho\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Museum of Idaho<\/a>, visiting the peaceful temple, cruising around on an e-bike, wandering the Japanese Friendship Garden, and checking out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Attraction_Review-g35489-d3369750-Reviews-The_Art_Museum_of_Eastern_Idaho-Idaho_Falls_Idaho.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Art Museum of Eastern Idaho<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"863\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> along the Snake River in eastern Idaho, about 100 miles southwest of Yellowstone National Park<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"863\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Idaho+Falls,+ID,+USA\/@43.4950174,-112.3311454,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5354594e739512b5:0x2311c9fc094c49c9!8m2!3d43.4926602!4d-112.0407506!16zL20vMHMxNXY?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li data-start=\"515\" data-end=\"863\"><strong>Population size:<\/strong> 67,000 residents.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">Taking a stroll along the riverwalk and greenbelt, I loved discovering historic sites and the interesting art installations before stopping at a charming independent caf\u00e9 for a zesty carrot\u2011zucchini spice muffin, an aromatic lavender\u2011honey latte, and a nostalgic Ironport soda!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>13. Hells Canyon&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648789 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon.jpg?resize=1000%2C647&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Hells Canyon\" width=\"1000\" height=\"647\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon.jpg?resize=640%2C414&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon.jpg?resize=768%2C497&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Hells-Canyon-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686563 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Hells Canyon Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"134\" data-end=\"338\">This rugged canyon was breathtaking \u2014 the deepest river gorge in North America, with sheer cliffs plunging into the roaring Snake River. I loved its wild, untouched feel \u2014 it was pure adventure.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"340\" data-end=\"629\">After a 3-hour drive from McCall, I camped at Hells Canyon Park, went jet boating and white-water rafting on the river, hiked trails with sweeping views from the Seven Devils Mountains, biked the thrilling Hells Canyon Trail, and spotted bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Part of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, this canyon is carved by the Snake River along the Idaho\u2013Oregon border and into northeastern Washington.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Hells+Canyon\/@47.8235144,-116.6233332,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x5361bd129a634567:0x90f695a11b8c2e51!8m2!3d47.8235168!4d-116.6026907!16s%2Fg%2F1tvm2fd0?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> 10 miles in width and reaches depths of over 7,900 feet&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favourite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"24a1b813-59e9-4880-a19d-90aa98caa67d\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">Tearing upstream on a Hell\u2019s Canyon <a href=\"https:\/\/hellscanyon.tours\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jet Boat Tour<\/a> was an adrenaline-raising experience &#8211; towering basalt cliffs streaked with ochre and rust closed in, scraggly junipers clung to ledges etched with ancient petroglyphs, and icy spray hit my face as we blasted through the churning rapids!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>14. Shoshone Falls&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Shoshone-Falls.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770035 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Shoshone Falls\u00a0\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"130\" data-end=\"341\">Dubbed the \u201cNiagara of the West,\u201d this spot left me spellbound \u2014 torrents of water plunged 212 feet into the Snake River, mist swirling through rugged cliffs and a roar that felt both wild and calming.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"343\" data-end=\"524\">Set in the Snake River Canyon, a 50-mile rift through dark basalt cliffs, it offered scenic overlooks, interpretive trails, picnic areas, boat ramps, and shady spots to relax. After a two-hour drive southeast from Boise, I took in the epic viewpoints, enjoyed a romantic picnic in Shoshone Falls Park, and wandered the peaceful canyon trails.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>Snake River, southern Idaho (near Twin Falls)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> around 1,000 feet in width<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Shoshone+Falls\/@42.5951646,-114.474603,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54aca1b2390a4b81:0x936e82a75e0c6c1c!8m2!3d42.5951887!4d-114.4008694!16s%2Fg%2F12hv1bh79?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">Taking a refreshing swim in Dierkes Lake was the perfect cool\u2011down after the falls, with beautifully clear water, a soft pebbled bed, and serene canyon views that felt like a hidden oasis!<\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>15. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve&nbsp; <img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648785 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Craters of the Moon National Monument\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770027\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-and-Preserve.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-and-Preserve.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-and-Preserve.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-and-Preserve.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-and-Preserve.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Craters-of-the-Moon-National-Monument-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686557 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Craters of the Moon National Monument Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"132\" data-end=\"401\">I was completely enchanted by Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve \u2014 a surreal landscape of sprawling lava fields, volcanic cones, rugged caves, and strange rock formations under vast, dramatic skies. It truly felt like stepping onto another planet.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"403\" data-end=\"548\">After a 1.5-hour drive from Thousand Springs State Park, I camped under a blanket of stars at the L<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/crmo\/planyourvisit\/camping.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ava Flow Campground<\/a> for the weekend. I hiked the eerie Broken Top Loop, climbed the surreal Inferno Cone for endless lava panoramas, and wandered Devil\u2019s Orchard, with its bizarre rock sculptures.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\"><strong>Location:<\/strong> south-central part of the state, near the city of Arco.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li class=\"p1\"><strong>Size and Facts:<\/strong> 753,000 acres and the landscapes were formed by volcanic eruptions between around 15,000 and 2,000 years ago.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Craters+of+the+Moon+National+Monument+%26+Preserve\/@43.1717744,-113.4867362,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54aa5f3acc0c2525:0x593b4ba65a2caf7b!8m2!3d43.1717745!4d-113.4821281!16zL20vMDFuNW0y?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">Going on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/twin-falls-idaho-l177566\/central-idaho-craters-of-the-moon-day-tour-with-lunch-t425623\/?ranking_uuid=7208c4ee-a32a-4771-840a-912192b1c39a\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">guided jeep tour<\/a> and then hiking through the jagged North Crater lava \u201cmonoliths,\u201d I was fascinated to feel them radiating stored heat from the sun, it was almost like touching a warm stove!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>16. Thousand Springs State Park&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C562&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"562\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770037 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Thousand Springs State Park\u00a0\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 2274w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=1200%2C742&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"742\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?w=2274&amp;ssl=1 2274w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C396&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C618&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C475&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=1536%2C950&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=2048%2C1266&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Thousand-Springs-State-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C93&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-771923 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Thousand Springs State Park\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"129\" data-end=\"311\">I loved visiting this quieter, less-crowded gem \u2014 with crystal-clear springs and waterfalls spilling down rugged canyon walls into the Snake River, it felt like a hidden oasis.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"313\" data-end=\"436\">Tucked in the Hagerman Valley about 40 miles northwest of Twin Falls, this 1,000-acre area was a peaceful escape. Just 36 minutes from the river, I spent the day chasing falls at Ritter Island, soaking up canyon views at Malad Gorge, admiring the glassy waters of Niagara Springs, hiking scenic trails, and ending with a relaxed picnic.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/search\/Thousand+Springs+State+Park%C2%A0\/@42.8033686,-114.9509091,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"17da509a-7f67-4199-9f72-88808a828b8b\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"3dd2fe14-f9f8-4b04-b363-3e1ae9a77a91\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"256\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Going on the leisurely 2.8\u2011mile Malad Gorge Walk, which took me about an hour, I loved how the trail wound past wild sagebrush and bright yellow balsamroot before reaching the spot where the Malad River plunged dramatically into a deep, bowl\u2011shaped cavern.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\">17. Bruneau Dunes State Park<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park-Idaho.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686570 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bruneau Dunes State Park \" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-664086 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bruneau Dunes State Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"665\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Bruneau-Dunes-State-Park.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"123\" data-end=\"338\">I was seriously wowed by this unique spot \u2014 North America\u2019s tallest sand dunes rising nearly 470 feet from the desert, with blazing sunsets, starry skies, and an eerie, peaceful silence that felt otherworldly.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"496\" data-end=\"790\">After an hour\u2019s drive south of Boise, I camped for three nights at Eagle Cove Campground, hiked trails winding through dunes and lakes, went sandboarding (rentals available!), stargazed at Idaho\u2019s only public observatory, and even spotted fish, frogs, and turtles in the desert ponds.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> near the small town of Bruneau, in the southwestern part of the state<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Bruneau+Dunes+State+Park\/@42.9111653,-115.7176637,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54ac2c3fe0d8663b:0xbb665c38639484b0!8m2!3d42.9111653!4d-115.7150834!16zL20vMDI0aDV3?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> covers over 4,800 acres and is home to the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America, reaching nearly 470 feet high!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">Going bird-watching and seeing swallows dart and swoop over the dunes and lakes, saw red\u2011tailed hawks gliding effortlessly on the thermals, and even spotting a few rust\u2011feathered kestrels and golden\u2011breasted meadowlarks!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. Stanley&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686572 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Stanley - pretty towns in Idaho\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><strong> <img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-648793 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Stanley Idaho\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Stanley-Idaho.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ve long been a fan of this quiet and unspoiled small mountain town! I&#8217;m always enticed by its breathtaking mountain vistas and pristine rivers but also by its rustic, charming buildings and cozy cabins which give the town a quaint, alpine character!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I kicked back at a cozy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/stanley-spacious-home-with-panoramic-views.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=stanley-us-4-04y1_l9zSVXZ1Uz9q3WGWgS625968506832%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-1742602760%3Alp1006624%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=fae3c16166adadc3ab93b3f77b20b182&amp;dest_id=900058505&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753306097&amp;srpvid=5af396f6d44d0872&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">holiday home<\/a>&nbsp;for three days after a five\u2011hour drive from Yellowstone, slipping into natural hot springs by the Salmon River, exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness on foot, rafting sparkling waters, and soaking up live music in Stanley\u2019s laid\u2011back lodges.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains along the Salmon River, in the central part of the state&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Stanley,+ID+83278,+USA\/@44.2106081,-114.975471,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54a8f65559fd639b:0xb9c8c4a2fb0a918b!8m2!3d44.2155392!4d-114.9351998!16zL20vMHMxbHo?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Population size:<\/strong>&nbsp;around 100 residents.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"dbe31b71-cf62-4afd-bc83-daa61ccb742a\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"240\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Mountain biking the rugged 10\u202fkm White Clouds Trail took me through peaceful forests, past the glassy Washington Lake, and out to breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Range and the Insta-worthy sun\u2011lit peaks of the White Clouds glowing brilliantly!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>19. Idaho State Capitol Building<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"666\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770039 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Idaho State Capitol Building\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Idaho-State-Capitol-Building-Interior.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770040 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Idaho State Capitol Building Interior\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"139\" data-end=\"341\">I loved visiting this historic attraction \u2014 with its majestic neoclassical architecture, gleaming marble, soaring dome, and intricate interior details, it felt elegant, dignified, and truly inspiring. Designed by John E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel and completed in 1920, it beautifully reflects the state\u2019s pride and history.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"830\">While based in Boise, I joined a free guided tour (no entry fee!) and wandered the marble halls and Roman-style columns, admired the stained-glass dome, visited the life-size Abraham Lincoln statue, explored fascinating exhibits, spotted the Liberty Bell replica outside, and came away with a deeper understanding of Idaho\u2019s government.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>end of Capitol Street in downtown Boise, southwestern Idaho<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Idaho+State+Capitol\/@43.6177493,-116.2021793,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x54aef8e3ae724b49:0x9f4299b3580cdf59!8m2!3d43.6177493!4d-116.199599!16zL20vMDlubHAx?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> around 208 feet tall and covered about 201,720 square feet.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/idaho.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Idaho State Capitol Building Website<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"p1\"><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[72rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"211f210a-61df-427a-b350-97c4702dae03\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"194\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">The Roots of Capitol History exhibition &#8211; I loved how the old photographs, well\u2011preserved handwritten letters, and original architectural fragments made the building\u2019s past feel very alive!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Often overshadowed by neighboring Montana and Oregon, Hemingway&#8217;s favorite state still boasts stunning beauty waiting to be uncovered. Deciding where to go can be a challenge, but after traveling around the whole state in four weeks, here are my must-visit spots I&#8217;d love to share&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":777832,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,7],"tags":[3625],"class_list":["post-648771","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-north-america","tag-idaho","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/My-photograph-of-Lower-Falls-in-the-Grand-Canyon-of-the-Yellowstone.jpg?fit=1024%2C637&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/648771","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=648771"}],"version-history":[{"count":67,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/648771\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":779148,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/648771\/revisions\/779148"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/777832"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=648771"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=648771"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=648771"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}