Let’s be honest for a second. Idaho is the most underrated state in the West. Everyone drives through it to get to somewhere else. But they are missing out on jagged peaks, white sand beaches, and the deepest river canyon in America.
And here’s the thing—2026 is shaping up to be a fantastic summer for Idaho adventures. The snow melts into roaring waterfalls, the lakes warm up for swimming, and the hiking is world-class.
Whether you want to raft a river, soak in a hot spring, or climb a peak, these amazing places to visit in Idaho will blow your mind.
1. Sawtooth Mountains
This range is the crown jewel of Idaho. The Sawtooth Mountains are jagged, granite peaks with dozens of alpine lakes. The hiking is challenging but rewarding. The views are stunning.
You can hike to Alice Lake or Toxaway Lake for the classic experience. The drive through the Sawtooth Scenic Byway is beautiful. The town of Stanley is a funky, small basecamp.
It is less crowded than the Tetons. For serious hikers and mountain lovers, this is hands down one of the best places to visit in Idaho.
2. Coeur d’Alene
This is a resort town on a stunning blue lake. Coeur d’Alene has a famous floating golf green (you take a boat to the tee). The lake is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
You can hike Tubbs Hill for a great view of the water. The boardwalk is full of shops and restaurants. The nearby Silver Mountain has a gondola ride.
It is a bit pricey, but beautiful. For a classic, Pacific Northwest lake vacation, this is a top-tier contender for places to visit in Idaho.
3. Shoshone Falls
This is the “Niagara of the West.” Shoshone Falls is a 212-foot waterfall on the Snake River. It is actually higher than Niagara. In the spring, the water flow is massive.
The viewing platform is right at the top. You can hike down to the bottom (steep). The park has a nice swimming area.
By late summer, the flow drops, but it is still beautiful. For an easy, spectacular roadside waterfall, this is one of the most amazing places to visit in Idaho.
4. Hells Canyon
This is the deepest river gorge in North America. Hells Canyon drops nearly 8,000 feet. The Snake River runs at the bottom. You can take a jet boat tour into the canyon.
The Seven Devils Mountains rise on the Idaho side. The hiking is steep and rugged. The views are dizzying.
It is remote and hot in the summer. For adventurers and geology nerds, this is one of the best places to visit in Idaho.
5. Craters of the Moon National Monument
It looks like the surface of the moon. Craters of the Moon is a vast lava field with cinder cones and caves. The black rock is stark and beautiful.
You can hike to the top of a cinder cone. The lava tube caves are cool (bring a flashlight). The wildflowers bloom in early summer.
It is very exposed (no shade). For a surreal, otherworldly landscape, this is easily one of the best places to visit in Idaho.
6. Boise (The Greenbelt)
Skip the downtown and hit the river. Boise has a 25-mile paved path along the Boise River (the Greenbelt). You can float the river in a tube (classic summer activity).
The foothills have great hiking trails. The Basque Block has unique culture and food. The summer outdoor concerts are fun.
It is a surprisingly cool city. For a green, active urban escape, this is one of the most amazing places to visit in Idaho.
7. Redfish Lake
Just south of the Sawtooths, this is a stunning alpine lake. Redfish Lake has crystal clear, cold water. You can rent a kayak or take a boat shuttle across the lake to hike.
The campgrounds are popular (book early). The lodge has a good restaurant. The views of the mountains reflecting in the water are incredible.
For a classic, family-friendly mountain lake experience, this is a hidden gem among amazing places to visit in Idaho.
Conclusion
So there you have it—seven incredible summer escapes in the Gem State. From the jagged Sawtooths to the lunar landscape of Craters of the Moon, Idaho has a perfect spot for every type of traveler.
The hardest part isn’t finding a destination anymore—it’s deciding which incredible river to float first.
Now stop scrolling and go book that trip. Your unforgettable Idaho summer adventure is waiting for you right now.