Bridge (Elk Flat) Hot Springs

Because of the altitude of the this lake, the road to it doesn't open up until mid to late July. You can still get to the lake, but it is a 6 mi round trip hike down a dusty dirt road. It gets old. When the road is open, you can drive right up to the lake.  To get there, right before the town of Featherville, turn left on to Trinity Mountain Road. This is a dirt road. From here it is about 20 m...

Each spring the Camas Prairie comes alive with acres of vibrant Camas lilies. The bloom lasts from late May to mid-June.From Route 20 turn south onto Wolf Lane east of Hill City, following the Centennial Marsh Wildlife Management Area signs. The road is dirt but passable for sedans.Stop at the Centennial Marsh parking lot for picnic tables and excellent bird watching. The wildflowers, combined ...

In just over an hour, you can leave downtown Boise and arrive above Arrowrock Reservoir in a location so unique that you won't believe you're still in Idaho. The South Fork of the Boise River provides excitement for campers, wildlife lovers, and outdoor goers. Although I just visited for the first time, it certainly won't be my last.To get to this particular spot, drive east on Hwy. 84 for abou...

Perhaps one of the best beginner-esque lake hikes closest to Boise, making your way to Jennie Lake can either be packed-in overnight or and out-and-back day hike. You'll be delighted by the secluded ambiance of the lake and the cool mountain breeze rushing through the pines. Getting There: Make your way to the Jennie Lake trailhead by heading north on Hwy 21 (from Boise) past Idaho City but be...

From Baker Creek trailhead, head up the trail as it winds through pine forest and mountain meadows (if you time it right, this hike is ideal for seeing all kinds of wildflowers!). Some sections can be steep, but nothing small children shouldn't be able to handle. The lake itself is a good place to have lunch or a refreshing swim, and it's usually well-stocked with trout, too. Watch for mountain...

From the peak the views are limitless, a full 360 degrees of landmarks like Lucky Peak Reservoir. Wildlife is quite abundant and if you're lucky you may be able to spot herds of antelope, deer, and elk. My favorite time to do this hike is during the earlier hours of the day. It offers a beautiful sunrise and  breathtaking fog on the water below. I also recommend going in the morning due to the ...