3 Days in Idaho: The Ultimate Itinerary & Tips

Grayscale Photo Of City Buildings
© Kevin Bidwell

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Idaho in just 3 days! From stunning national parks to charming towns, this itinerary will guide you through the best experiences, including where to stay, what to eat, and hidden gems you won't want to miss. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Day 1 in Idaho: Explore the Gem State's Natural Wonders

Witness the Niagara of the West

Prepare to be awestruck by the cascading beauty of Shoshone Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in the Snake River Canyon. It's a sight that will leave you breathless!

Witness the Niagara of the West
© Aleš Häusler

Hike and Swim in a Canyon Paradise

Escape the heat and immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of Box Canyon State Park. Hike to cascading waterfalls and take a dip in the crystal-clear pools. It's a perfect way to cool off and connect with nature.

Hike and Swim in a Canyon Paradise
© Xana Lowe

Ride the Dunes of Time

Experience the thrill of riding the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America at the Bruneau Sand Dunes. Whether you choose to hike, sandboard, or simply marvel at the vastness, it's an adventure you won't forget.

Ride the Dunes of Time

Journey to a Volcanic Wonderland

Discover Idaho's volcanic past at the Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. Hike through otherworldly landscapes, explore lava tubes, and learn about the forces that shaped this unique region.

Journey to a Volcanic Wonderland
© Megha Aggarwal

Day 2 in Idaho: Immerse Yourself in Idaho's Rich History and Culture

Uncover the Coeur d'Alene's Past

Delve into the rich history of the Coeur d'Alene region at the Museum of North Idaho. Explore exhibits on Native American heritage, the timber industry, and more, gaining a deeper understanding of this fascinating area.

Uncover the Coeur d'Alene's Past
© Museum of North Idaho

Step Back in Time at the Old Idaho Penitentiary

Take a self-guided tour of the Old Idaho Penitentiary, a chilling reminder of the state's past. Learn about the infamous criminals who once resided here and gain a glimpse into the harsh realities of life behind bars.

Step Back in Time at the Old Idaho Penitentiary
© Old Idaho Penitentiary Site

Experience Boise's Basque Heritage

Discover the unique Basque heritage of Boise by exploring the Basque Block. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, savor authentic Basque cuisine, and learn about the history of this fascinating community.

Experience Boise's Basque Heritage

Reflect on History at Minidoka National Historic Site

Explore the historical Minidoka National Historic Site, a poignant reminder of the Japanese American internment during World War II. Learn about the resilience and strength of those who endured this difficult chapter in American history.

Reflect on History at Minidoka National Historic Site
© Minidoka National Historic Site

Day 3 in Idaho: Adventure Awaits: Explore Idaho's Scenic Byways and Thrilling Activities

Embark on a Scenic Byway Adventure

Drive the spectacular Salmon River Scenic Byway, enjoying breathtaking views, hiking, biking, river activities, and exploring ghost towns. It's a journey that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.

Embark on a Scenic Byway Adventure
© Francisco Jaramillo

Conquer the Rapids on the Salmon River

Experience an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting adventure on the Salmon River. Navigate through exciting rapids, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. It's a thrilling way to connect with the wild side of Idaho.

Conquer the Rapids on the Salmon River
© Jim Metzger

Ride the Waves of the Payette River

Embark on an exciting whitewater rafting adventure on the Payette River. Feel the rush of the rapids as you navigate through stunning canyons and experience the thrill of the wild waters.

Ride the Waves of the Payette River
© Gary Blatter

Explore North Idaho's Rugged Landscapes

Explore the rugged landscapes of northern Idaho in a UTV, traversing challenging terrain and discovering hidden gems. It's an exhilarating way to experience the untamed beauty of this region.

Explore North Idaho's Rugged Landscapes
© Tom Zack

References

Transportation in Idaho

To get around the city in Idaho, USA, you have several options. In Boise, the city is bike-friendly, and you can rent e-bikes or scooters through services like Boise GreenBike, Lime bikes, or e-scooters. This is a great way to explore the scenic riverfront path along Boise River Greenbelt. You can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, which are likely to be cheaper than renting a car for shorter trips. If you prefer public transportation, there are bus routes available, but it's recommended to check the schedules beforehand. Additionally, you can consider purchasing a bike or renting one if you plan to explore the city extensively.

Dos in Idaho

Don'ts in Idaho