10 Family-Friendly Adventures In Idaho
Explore Idaho with the people you love most.
Don’t worry about finding a babysitter if you’re planning an adventure-filled trip to Idaho. While there are plenty of towering, rocky peaks to summit across the state, there are even more leisurely hikes, peaceful lakes, and kid-sized adventures that will be plenty of fun for Mom and Dad, too. Whatever adventures your family is looking for, you’ll find them in Idaho.
1. Hike Fishhook Creek
This hike is a great way to get out and catch amazing views of the Sawtooth Mountains without working too hard. Learn more.
2. Paddle Stanley Lake
With great campsites, hiking trails, and a gorgeous trout-filled lake waiting to be explored by SUP or canoe, Stanley Lake is the ideal destination for a weekend escape with the family. Learn more.
3. Climb in Idaho’s City of Rocks
If your family likes to climb, or is ready to try out an exciting new sport, head to City of Rocks. There are hundreds of routes with a wide range of difficulty and plenty of beginner-friendly routes. Learn more.
4. Hike to Shadow and Fern Falls
At just over one mile round-trip, this is a nice and easy hike that’s perfect if you have younger kids. Learn more.
5. Explore Shoshone Falls
Hike around the “Niagara of the West” for epic views of these falls that are actually 45 feet taller than Niagara Falls. You can also hike down into the canyon to look up at the falls. Learn more.
6. Hike Tubb’s Hill
During late May and early June, you’ll find beautiful wildflowers blooming along the trail. Start making your plans ASAP! Learn more.
7. Hike the Bruneau Sand Dunes
Depending on how adventurous your family is feeling, you can hike or sandboard on the tallest single structured sand dune in North America. Learn more.
8. Visit Balanced Rock
Make the short scramble up the hill to Balanced Rock and let your kids explore this unique and locally famous rock formation. Learn more.
9. Explore Upper and Lower Mesa Falls
If you’re road tripping around Idaho or on your way to West Yellowstone, exploring this massive waterfall is a must-do pit stop. Learn more.
10. Explore the South Fork of the Boise River
Just over an hour outside Boise, this area offers great campsites, incredible views, hiking, fishing, and an idyllic spot to have a bonfire with the family. Learn more.
To learn more about these adventures and more, check out Visit Idaho.
Cover photo: Ross Miller
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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