As a part of the Meridian, ID community, we try and keep any topics that aren’t car related close to home. We love being a part of such a great community, but there is so much majestic beauty to be found in the great state of Idaho. So, pack your bags, prepare your vehicle (don’t forget your roadside emergency kit), and get ready to hit the road! We promise you won’t be disappointed in these seven gorgeous Idaho destinations.
Spanning around 750,000 acres (about the size of the state of Rhode Island), Craters of the Moon is a vast ocean of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush. For a great view of the vast lava formations, take a light walk to the top of the Inferno Cone.
2. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
From its highest point, the deepest canyon in America plunges an astounding 7,913 feet to the valley floor below. Hells Canyon is located along the Idaho-Oregon border near the Seven Devils Mountain Range. The Hells Canyon National Recreation Area offers a little something for everyone. Enjoy the scenic, spectacular mountain peaks, and great reaches of secluded wilderness for hiking and/or horseback riding. Take part in the world-class whitewater boating. Keep your eye out for the assorted, plentiful wildlife and the artifacts left behind from prehistoric tribes and early miners and settlers.
Nestled on the South Fork of the Payette River below a highway campground, a staircase leads adventurers down to the soaking pools and small steaming waterfalls. The South Fork Payette River offers whitewater rafting, kayaking and trout fishing. The Deadwood and Danskin River Access areas are nearby. Numerous natural hot spring pools can be found along Highway 21, known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, and the Banks-Lowman Highway, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway. Both byways offer scenic views, wildlife watching, historical information kiosks and several trail opportunities.
Spanning around 26 miles and boasting over 135 miles of shoreline, this pristine lake is a sight to see. Lake Coeur d’Alene is an international resort destination and home of the renowned Coeur d’Alene Resort and Silverwood Theme Park (the largest theme park in the Northwest). There is a never-ending list of outdoor activities to partake in from fishing to hiking to kayaking and more.
Don’t forget your camera! Once called one of the most scenic stretches of railroad in the country, this converted rail to trail winds alongside the St. Joe River for 15 miles. Ride your bike over seven beautifully crafted trestle bridges and cruise through 10 train tunnels. This family-friendly trail is all downhill with shuttle buses available to transport you and your bike back to the top.
6. Sawtooth National Recreation Area
The Sawtooth area has 300 high-mountain lakes and roughly 700 miles of trails to explore. You could stay a week and not see everything this stunning area offers. Sawtooth is a nature lovers’ dream come true.
Visit the “Niagara Falls of the West.” The Shoshone Falls are a remarkable 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide. The falls are most stunning between the months of April and July. when water flow is high. For an exceptional family photo, make sure you visit the scenic overlook at the Shoshone Falls/Dierkes Lake Complex which is operated by the City of Twin Falls. Also at the complex are playgrounds, hiking trails, a swimming area, and picnic areas.
This is only a very small sampling of the amazing scenery that can be discovered in the state of Idaho. More gorgeous Idaho destinations can be found on the Visit Idaho website.
Remember to make sure your vehicle is ready for a road trip before you head out to any of these destinations. If you have any concerns, we are happy to help you address them. Meridian Automotive provides complete automotive repair in Meridian, Idaho for most cars, light trucks, and SUV’s. Call us today (208) 297-5573 or schedule an appointment online.
