Whether you are looking for an idyllic camping spot in the mountains or your next big adventure in the desert, Southwest Idaho delivers. Read on for a few of our favorite can’t-miss activities! Follow the Snake River into Hell’s Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America. The dramatic basalt rock formations, abundant wildlife, and perfect rapids make Hell’s Canyon a popular spot for backpacking, fishing, and whitewater fun. Several companies offer jet boat rides, rafting adventures and fishing charters you’ll never forget (check out our Whitewater Guide for the best rafting in Southwest Idaho). Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge. Locals Tip: Try exploring the miles of trails in Hell’s Canyon during the early spring. Temps are often already warm during the day, and you’ll probably get the place to yourself. Bruneau Dunes State Park Stretching from Bruneau Dunes to Three Island Crossing, you will find the most spectacular hikes, rivers, biking and ATVing. Or rent a sand board and surf the dunes! With the snow off the slopes, McCall becomes a great destination for a wide range of outdoor activities. Hiking. Biking. Boating. Fishing. Kayaking. Camping. And all within a quick drive of one of the top mountain towns in the West. Payette Lake next to McCall, Idaho Live like a local and enjoy the miles of easy-access trails, nature reserves and water activities all summer long. (Check out our Food & Wine Guide for the best dining spots in the Boise area.) Biking at Brundage MountainSummer in Idaho is all about getting outside. The fun starts the minute you step out your door.
Playing in the Sun!
Hell’s Canyon
Escape into the Idaho Wilderness on a premier river trip with Mountain River Outfitters.
Kick up your feet and relax on a working guest ranch.
Desert & Dunes
Fishing, boating, picnic area, birding, hiking, horseback riding, star gazing, dune skiing/sledding.
Camping, hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife, wildflower viewing, disc golf, picnic area.McCall Central Mountains
Brundage has several mountain biking trails with various levels of terrain that cater to both first-timers and experienced bikers. The lift service will drop you off at BlueBird Quad, which leads to a 20-mile downhill cruise through the wilderness.
Guest Ranch, restaurant, golfing, cabins, mountain biking and more.
Camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, volleyball, horsehoes, swimming, fishing, boating.
Camping, picnic area, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, boating, ATV.
Boise Metro Area
Nearly 200 miles of singletrack mountain biking trails in the foothills surrounding Boise.
Hiking, mountain biking, scenic views.
The Boise Greenbelt is a 20-mile urban trail that follows the Boise River, providing the perfect way to see the city by foot or by bike. You’ll discover plenty of great stops along the way, including breweries, restaurants, and concert venues. Bike rentals are available at many locations.
Walking, biking, swimming, tubing, parks, downtown Boise.
Sitting just 30 minutes outside of downtown Boise, Bogus has some of the best mountain biking trails in all of Idaho.
Hiking, mountain biking.
Incredible SUPing opportunity right in the middle of town. For the more adventurous, try urban river surfing in a kayak or on a board.
SUPing, surfing, kayaking.
Start your visit to Deer Flat at the Refuge Visitor Center. Grab a refuge brochure, view wildlife from the observation room, enjoy hands-on activities in KidSpace, or learn from interpretive displays.
Hiking, boating, swimming, birding.
