The Ultimate Idaho Family Vacation: Mountains, Hot Springs & Kid-Friendly Outdoor Fun
Arrive in Boise & Explore
Fly into Boise Airport (BOI)
Top Things to Do in Boise
- Explore the Idaho State CapitolA historic landmark in downtown Boise.
- Stroll Through the Boise Basque BlockTry Basque cuisine at The Basque Market or Bar Gernika.
- Walk or Bike the Boise River GreenbeltA scenic trail along the river.
- Hike to Table RockA short but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the city.
Overnight in Boise.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
Drive from Boise to Craters of the Moon (3.5 hours).
Top Things to Do in Craters of the Moon
- Explore the Lava Tubes & CavesBring a flashlight to venture into underground lava formations!
- Hike the Inferno Cone TrailA short but steep climb with a surreal volcanic view.
- Drive the 7-Mile Scenic LoopStop at Devil's Orchard and Spatter Cones.
- Catch Sunset Over the Lava FieldsThe landscape looks otherworldly at dusk.
Overnight in Arco or Twin Falls.
Shoshone Falls & Twin Falls Adventures
Drive from Arco to Twin Falls (2 hours).
Top Things to Do in Twin Falls
- Visit Shoshone FallsThe "Niagara of the West," taller than Niagara Falls!
- Walk Across the Perrine BridgeOne of the most famous BASE jumping spots in the world.
- Kayak in the Snake River CanyonPaddle to Pillar Falls or the base of Shoshone Falls.
- Hike to Perrine Coulee FallsA hidden waterfall you can walk behind.
Overnight in Twin Falls.
Sawtooth Mountains & Stanley
Drive from Twin Falls to Stanley via Sawtooth Scenic Byway (3 hours).
Top Things to Do in the Sawtooth Mountains
- Kayak or Paddleboard on Redfish LakeCrystal-clear waters with mountain views.
- Hike to Alice Lake or Sawtooth LakeSome of the most scenic alpine hikes in Idaho.
- Soak in Boat Box Hot SpringsA unique natural hot spring along the river.
- Dinner in StanleyTry local trout at The Redd Restaurant.
Overnight in Stanley.
Sun Valley & Ketchum
Drive from Stanley to Sun Valley (1.5 hours).
Top Things to Do in Sun Valley & Ketchum
- Visit Sun Valley ResortOne of the most famous ski resorts in the U.S. (also great for summer hiking & biking).
- Tour Ernest Hemingway's Memorial & GravesiteThe famous author spent his final years here.
- Mountain Bike or Hike Bald MountainStunning views over the valley.
- Explore Downtown KetchumGreat art galleries, local shops, and cozy cafes.
Overnight in Sun Valley.
Salmon River & Hot Springs Adventure
Drive from Sun Valley to McCall via Salmon River Scenic Byway (4.5 hours).
Top Things to Do Along the Way
- Stop at Sunbeam Hot SpringsA scenic riverside soaking spot.
- Whitewater Rafting on the Salmon RiverOne of the best rafting destinations in the U.S.!
- Hike in the Frank Church WildernessOne of the largest protected wilderness areas in the U.S.
- Drive to McCallA charming lakeside town.
Overnight in McCall.
McCall & Return to Boise
Explore McCall before heading back to Boise (2 hours).
Top Things to Do in McCall
- Relax at Payette LakeA beautiful alpine lake with beaches and hiking trails.
- Soak in Gold Fork Hot SpringsA luxurious natural hot spring experience.
- Bike or Hike in Ponderosa State ParkGreat lake views and wildlife spotting.
Drive back to Boise for your flight home.
Fly out of Boise Airport (BOI).
Ready to plan your Idaho trip?
Dave will build a custom itinerary and find the best options for your budget and travel style.
Tell Me About Your TripHeader photo: HalcyonToast, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.