Anyone who has passed through Idaho knows just how beautiful it is. From the rolling plains, luscious mountains, gorgeous forests, and expansive lakes; there’s truly nothing missing in our beautiful Gem State. Not to mention the food, attractions, history, and celebrations all add to the sheer charm of Idaho.
With all this in mind, it’s no wonder so many are dying to experience all their state has to offer in the form of a fun road trip. Below is a rundown of what just might be the ULTIMATE Idaho road trip —
So, what does the Ultimate Idaho Road Trip include?
According to many Idaho travelers, the best route is the one that goes through the ten places below. You will be able to see some of the beautiful forests, mountains, lakes, wildlife, and natural wonders of Idaho along the way and truly see just how special our state is.
- Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
If you can believe it, Hells Canyon is America’s deepest canyon, carving down 7,993 feet to the valley below. Just along the Oregon-Idaho border, the massive walls of this canyon seem to engulf everything below. Many people recommend taking a boat or kayak through the canyon to get the full effect, so make sure to call ahead to schedule a boat or kayak tour.
- Lake Coeur d’Alene
The second location on the map, approximately 222 miles from Hells Canyon, Lake Coeur d’Alene is an Idaho favorite for its outrageous beauty as well as its flourishing downtown area, fun events, and killer fireworks show during the 4th of July. It also boasts the Northwest’s largest theme park, Silverwood Theme Park for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
- Route of the Hiawatha
A far shorter 81-mile trip from Coeur d’Alene, the Route of the Hiawatha is definitely a family favorite due to its absolutely stunning 15 mile trail through train tunnels and over miraculous bridges through the heart of the forest. It’s a completely downhill ride for bicyclists, with shuttles at the bottom to bring you back to the top, and is definitely a haven for the selfie-enthusiast in your life.
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area
This one is a long trip with 420 miles between it and the last destination but, trust me, it’s worth it. With 300 high-mountain lakes and 700 miles of trails at your disposal, this gorgeous hiking paradise is the perfect spot to take a break on your trip, spend a few days, and really get a feel for the serene and beautiful forests of Idaho.
- Craters of the Moon
After spending a bit of time in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, head 72 miles away to the Craters of the Moon for a little piece of space on earth. It’s not a place you can even describe, with its strange and somewhat alien-look as well as simply how large it is. Millions of porous volcanic rocks rest beneath your feet as you walk through the area finding massive craters, strange formations, and a seemingly endless expanse of volcanic wonder.
- Yellowstone Bear World
From Craters of the Moon, your next destination is only 104 miles away. Yellowstone Bear World is a treat for the animal lover in your family (especially if that happens to be you) and is a wonderful way to get up close and personal with bears, bison, elk, deer, wolves, and moose in the safety of your own car.
- Museum of Idaho
Only 21 miles away sits the Museum of Idaho. Get ready to explore some of the fascinating and unique history that makes our state so wonderful as you travel through exhibits like The Race for Atomic Power, Local Idaho History, and Eagle Rock.
For those with children, the Children’s discovery room is a great way to get your kids involved in their local history and develop a love for their culture and state from an early age.
- Shoshone Falls
159 miles from the Museum of Idaho sits the gorgeous 212-foot Shoshone Falls. The falls are a hotspot for kayaking and paddle boarding. Still, even without getting that close to the falls, they are a marvel to see in real life.
- Balanced Rock
Weighing in at 40 tons and standing over 48 feet tall, balanced rock is one of Idaho’s strangest natural wonders. From the falls, balanced rock is only 84 miles away and is a great place to snap some photos and have a picnic before hitting the final stop on your trip.
- Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park
According to Visit Idaho, “Over 12,000 years ago, the Bonneville flood waters receded leaving a large amount of sand. The wind transported the sand to Idaho’s Bruneau Basin, and Bruneau Dunes State Park now boasts the highest single-structured sand dune in North America.” This is a great way to finish off your trip. Be sure to bring some sleds as it is a popular destination for sand sledding and sandboarding.
Now that you know the route to take, it’s important to not only prepare yourself but also your car. After all, a trip this huge calls for some precautions. At Meridian Automotive, we know every trip deserves a good start and that’s why we always take the time to look over each part of your vehicle to ensure you are ready to go from the second you turn they key.
So, give us a call today and let us help you get out on the trip of a lifetime!
