Southwestern Idaho Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Southwestern Idaho with our comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know, from natural and cultural attractions to accommodation, food, safety, and transportation.


Introduction to Southwestern Idaho

Southwestern Idaho is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Boise Foothills, Snake River, and Owyhee Mountains. It is a land of diverse landscapes, from lush forests and sparkling lakes to rugged canyons and rolling hills. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the beauty and culture of Southwestern Idaho.

List of Places to Visit in Southwestern Idaho

There are plenty of places to see and explore in Southwestern Idaho, ranging from museums and historical sites to natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Here are some must-see places to visit in Southwest Idaho:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Idaho State Museum: Explore the rich history and culture of Idaho through various interactive exhibits and artifacts.

  • Old Idaho State Penitentiary: Discover the intriguing history of Idaho’s prison system and explore the cells, gallows, and dungeons of the Old Pen.

  • Basque Block: Visit the Basque Block to experience the unique culture and heritage of the Basque people, including Basque cuisine, music, and dances.

  • Boise Art Museum: Admire the impressive collection of contemporary American art and decorative arts in the Boise Art Museum.

Natural Attractions of Southwestern Idaho: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boise River Greenbelt: Walk, bike, or jog along the 25-mile long Boise River Greenbelt, which offers stunning views of the river, parks, and wildlife.

  • Idaho Botanical Garden: Explore the beautiful flora and fauna of Idaho, including a specialized native plant collection and a meditation garden.

  • Hells Canyon National Recreation Area: Embark on a scenic drive or hike through the largest canyon in North America, which boasts dramatic scenery and world-famous rapids.

  • Bruneau Dunes State Park: Climb the tallest sand dune in North America or rent a paddleboard and explore the lake at Bruneau Dunes State Park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southwestern Idaho

Southwestern Idaho is a heaven for hikers and bikers, with plenty of scenic trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Southwestern Idaho:

  • Boise Foothills Trail System: Explore the 200 miles of interconnected trails and enjoy panoramic views of Boise, the Snake River Plains, and the Owyhee Mountains.

  • Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail: Hike through the shaded gulch and enjoy the scenic views of Boise and the Foothills.

  • Military Reserve Trail: This moderate trail offers a beautiful hike through the wildflower-dotted foothills and to the top of Mt. Heinen.

  • Camel’s Back Park Trail: This popular trail offers stunning views of the city and Foothills and is perfect for an early morning or sunset hike.

Best Things to Do in Southwestern Idaho: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy during your visit to Southwestern Idaho.

  • Rafting on the Snake River: Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling rafting trip on the Snake River, which offers rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Southwestern Idaho boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the country, including Bogus Basin, Brundage Mountain, and Tamarack Resort.

  • Hot Springs Soak: Soak in the natural hot springs of Southwestern Idaho, which are nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and rolling hills.

  • Wine Tasting: Savor the flavors of local wines by taking a tour of one of the many wineries and vineyards in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southwestern Idaho

Here’s a recommended itinerary for a week-long visit to Southwestern Idaho.

Day Itinerary
1 Explore Downtown Boise, Boise Art Museum, and Boise River Greenbelt
2 Visit the Idaho State Museum and Old Idaho State Penitentiary
3 Hike Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail and Military Reserve Trail and enjoy a hot springs soak
4 Take a scenic drive to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area
5 Visit Bruneau Dunes State Park and go sandboarding or just wander around
6 Enjoy a full-day rafting trip on the Snake River
7 Visit one of the wineries and vineyards in the region and enjoy a wine tasting experience

Food and Drink Scene of Southwestern Idaho

Southwestern Idaho boasts a diverse food and drink scene, influenced by the region’s diverse cultural heritage, local ingredients, and creative chefs. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to savor during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Basque-style Chorizo: made from locally-grown pork, garlic, and pimentón, and served with bread and peppers.

  • Huckleberry Ice Cream: This local berry is a hot commodity, and you can savor it in ice creams, syrups, and jams.

  • Trout: With plenty of water bodies, Idaho has awesome and flavorful trout that you should give a try.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Southwestern Idaho has a burgeoning wine scene, with several wineries producing exquisite blends of grapes.

  • Beer: With more than 50 breweries in the state, Idaho remains a top destination for beer lovers.

  • Coffee: With distinct roasting styles and unique flavor profiles, the coffee in Idaho delights everyone’s taste buds.

Where to Stay in Southwestern Idaho: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you want luxury, privacy, or affordability, Southwestern Idaho offers plenty of accommodation choices. Here are some top picks:

  • Inn at 500 Capitol: A boutique hotel located at the heart of downtown Boise that offers superb customer service.

  • Hotel 43: Another downtown Boise hotel that provides guests with elegantly designed rooms and an excellent restaurant.

  • Oxford Suites Boise: This all-suite hotel is conveniently located near the airport and offers free breakfast and evening snacks.

  • Riverside Motel: An affordable motel that provides the essential amenities and easy access to downtown Boise.

What to Buy in Southwestern Idaho: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take a piece of Southwestern Idaho home with you, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to choose from. Here are some top picks:

  • Boise-made pottery: From plates to mugs, Boise pottery is handcrafted and feature stunning designs.

  • Huckleberry products: From jams and syrups to candles and soaps, huckleberry products are available all around the region.

  • Idaho wine: From crisp whites to bold reds, Idaho wines are worth taking home.

Local Culture and Customs of Southwestern Idaho

Southwestern Idaho prides itself in the variety of cultures residing in the region. It is essential to respect the local culture and customs to have an enjoyable experience.

  • Basque Culture: The portion of Basque culture found in southwestern Idaho is one of the best introductions to historic cultures found along cultural trails throughout the region.

  • Outdoor Lifestyle: From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and hot springs soaking in the summer, outdoor activities are at the core of Southwestern Idaho’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Southwestern Idaho

Southwestern Idaho is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. Generally, the best time to visit is in the spring (March and June) or fall (September and November). The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller, making it the perfect times for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southwestern Idaho

To have a smooth and fun trip, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the environment: Do not litter, stick to hiking and biking trails, and reduce your carbon footprint.

  • Purchase a state parks stickers: If you plan on visiting several state parks, purchasing an annual sticker will save you money rather than paying daily entry fees.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect closed areas: If an area is closed, do not attempt to enter and respect signs that indicate hiking is not allowed.

  • Change the flora: Southwestern Idaho is home to unique flora, please avoid picking flowers or plants that you find.

Safety and Health

Southwestern Idaho has a relatively low crime rate and excellent medical facilities. Here’s some key information for you:

Safety in Southwestern Idaho

  • Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a life-saver, and with an elevation of almost 6,000 feet, the sun in Southwestern Idaho can be dangerous.

  • Bear Awareness: Do not climb or take pictures near bear dens and reduce the chances that bears will approach you.

Health in Southwestern Idaho

  • Altitude Sickness: As Southwestern Idaho has high elevations, you might experience altitude sickness.

  • Water: Avoid drinking water from streams and empty areas. Tap water is safe and drinkable.

Getting to Southwestern Idaho: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southwestern Idaho is easily accessible with several transportation options available. Here are some things you should know about getting there:

Airports Near Southwestern Idaho

  • Boise Airport (BOI): The main international airport used by visitors to Southwestern Idaho.

Bus Stations Near Southwestern Idaho

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Offers several bus services from Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Montana.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is an easy and flexible way to explore Southwestern Idaho’s scenic highways and byways.

How to Get Around in Southwestern Idaho

Getting around in Southwestern Idaho is easy, depending on your preferred mode of transportation.

  • Car: Renting a car is the best way to get around Southwestern Idaho, as the public transit system is limited.

  • Public Transit: Public transit is limited, but Boise does operate a bus system that provides visitors with easy access around the city.

Where to Go Next from Southwestern Idaho: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of exciting destinations located within a few hours’ drive of Southwestern Idaho. Consider adding one or more of these to your itinerary:

  • Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Jackson Hole is a popular ski destination, located less than 6 hours from Boise through scenic highways.

  • Craters of the Moon National Monument: Craters of the Moon is a surreal moonscape of volcanic craters, fissures, and caverns located around 2 hours away from Boise.

  • Sun Valley, Idaho: Sun Valley is a famous ski and snowboarding destination, located just 2.5 hours north of Boise.

Conclusion

Southwestern Idaho is a stunning destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or culture vulture, our comprehensive travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to this hidden gem of the Rocky Mountains.



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    Nampa
    Payette-Fruitland