The 5 Best Spring Adventure Destinations in Idaho

We love adventures in the snow, but winters in Idaho can be long and cold and we know you’re getting just as excited as we are for springtime. With the weather warming up and the days growing longer, now is the time to plan your trip to explore Idaho this spring. Gather your friends and family and get ready to make some memories at all of these beautiful locations.

1. Boise

Photo: Dusty Klein

The beauty of Idaho is even in the state’s capital, you’re never too far from adventure. Boise is the ultimate base camp and staging ground for adventures just a short drive away. Just ask a local, the options for trail to tavern and beyond are endless.

• Explore the South Fork of the Boise River

• Hike the Bruneau Sand Dunes

• Soak in Kirkham Hot Springs

2. Sun Valley

Photo: Dusty Klein

With a name like Sun Valley, who wouldn’t want to come here after a long, cold winter? It’s more than just a name, though. This area is bursting with beautiful trails, lakes, and incredible views.

• Backpack to Pioneer Yurt

• Hike to Hyndman Peak

• Camp at Coyote Yurt

3. The Sawtooth Mountains

Photo: Dusty Klein

The Sawtooth Mountains don’t typically carry the same clout as say the Rockies or the Sierras, but they ought to. These mountains are as rugged and wild as they come and the benefit of being less famous, of course, is fewer crowds.

• Paddle on Stanley Lake

• Photograph the Sawtooth Mountains

• Hike to Goat Lake

4. East Idaho

Photo: Josh Packer

If you’re chasing waterfalls this spring, better head east. These numerous falls are beautiful all year round, but in the spring they’ll be rushing at full force.

• Explore Upper and Lower Mesa Falls

• Camp at Fall Creek Falls

• Hike along Palisades Creek

5. The Idaho Panhandle

Photo: Rachel Christiansen

Explore amazing lush forests and high alpine terrain in the northernmost region of Idaho. This area is another gem of the Northwest that is sometimes overshadowed by neighboring states, but the landscape is unbelievable and the crowds are fewer – win, win.

• Hike to Shadow Fern Falls

• Hike to Roman Nose High Mountain Lakes

• Hike to Beehive Lakes

Discover more adventures all over the state at Visit Idaho.

Cover photo: Eric Bennett