Away from the Crowds in Idaho

Idaho is the Gem State and is home to 72 different types of semi-precious and precious stones—and some of these are only found in Idaho.

Balanced Rock is an impressive geological formation. This massive rock stands on a narrow base. It is a natural sculpture and one of the wonders of nature. There are hiking trails for exploration and adventure.

Nearby is Balanced Rock Park, where you can go camping or have a picnic.

The lovely Salmon Falls Creek and Canyon are an oasis in the desert.

Bruneau Dunes State Park offers a desert-like landscape. Visitors climb the dunes to get panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and can try out sandboarding. Around the lakes you can enjoy stargazing at night, bird watching, and fishing. The park is home to the tallest free-standing dunes in North America. You’ll enjoy hiking, camping, swimming, and the horseback riding trails around the dunes.

At the Bruneau Dunes Observatory you can use a telescope for stargazing.

City of Rocks National Reserve is known for its impressive granite formations. The rugged landscape offers hiking and climbing for all skill levels. Traces of the California Trail highlights the role the area had in westward expansion. It combines outdoor recreation with a touch of history.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve offers an unusual geological experience. It has rugged lava fields and strange formations. Visitors enjoy taking the hiking trails through this terrain to find hidden caves and ancient lava tubes. This is a US national monument and preserve in the Snake River Plain in central Idaho. Wild animals most often seen are grizzly bears, bison, and bighorn sheep. Nocturnal animals include woodrats, skunks, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, bats, nighthawks, owls, and other small desert rodents.

The Dog Bark Park Inn is where you can have some fun and stay at an inn shaped like a beagle. It is located in Cottonwood and is a bed and breakfast designed by chainsaw artists. You enter through the dog’s belly and find a canine-themed décor.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway stretches along the Pacific Northwest, offering many breathtaking views. You can experience Hells Canyon, which is the deepest river gorge in North America. The byway features dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and the winding Snake River. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Kirkham Hot Springs are found along the banks of the South Fork of the Payette River. These are natural hot waterfalls that cascade into rock pools. They are surrounded by scenic forested hills. The therapeutic waters are a popular retreat of both locals and visitors. There are multiple pools with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. Basic amenities include restrooms and picnic areas.

Ritter Island is located in Thousand Springs State Park. It is a place for nature and wildlife lovers, offering great views of the Snake River. This is a lovely spot for birdwatching and picnics. It is home to one of the last remaining areas of natural springs in the Thousand Springs complex.  A two-mile path circles the island, and you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. In September Ritter’s Island hosts the annual Thousand Springs Festival with arts and crafts, music, and food and drink.

Shoshone Ice Caves are a natural wonder. They remain frozen even in summer. Guided tours are available. Trained guides explain the geologic, volcanic, and historical background in these large lava ice caves. A museum contains Indian artifacts, gems, and minerals of local and world interest.

Silver City Ghost Town lets you step back to the Gold Rush days. You’ll find wooden buildings and dusty streets and some spirits wandering about. The town is located in the Owyhee Mountains.

Among the well-preserved buildings are

The Idaho Hotel, built in 1866

The Masonic Lodge was built in the same year and is one of the oldest in Idaho.

Our Lady of Tears Catholic Church