Unseen USA

Gem State

Idaho travel guide

Quiet mountains, wild rivers and far fewer crowds than its neighbors.

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Capital
Boise
Best time to go
Jun–Sep
Daily budget
$$ about $150–220 a day
Fly into
BOI Boise

MountainsLakes & riversWinter & skiing

Top places to visit in Idaho

  1. Sawtooth Mountains

    Jagged peaks and alpine lakes around Stanley.

  2. Shoshone Falls

    Taller than Niagara, best in spring.

  3. Craters of the Moon

    Lava fields that look like another planet.

  4. Sun Valley

    America's first destination ski resort.

  5. Coeur d'Alene

    A lake town with beaches and boat cruises.

What to eat in Idaho

  • Idaho potatoes
  • Finger steaks
  • Huckleberry pie
  • Rainbow trout

When is the best time to visit Idaho?

Jun–Sep is usually the best time to visit Idaho. Moderate: about $150–220 a day for one person, including a shared hotel room and meals.

More of the West

AlaskaArizonaCaliforniaColoradoHawaiiMontanaNevadaNew MexicoOregonUtahWashingtonWyoming

Budgets are rough mid-range costs per person, including a shared hotel room and meals. Always check opening times and prices before you go.