The Latest and The Greatest from The Great American West - Idaho

Idaho’s first alpine mountain coaster

Idaho’s first alpine mountain coaster at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
From skiing to tubing to snowshoeing, Idaho winters are filled with a variety of activities to keep anyone active and entertained. Just outside of Boise is Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area which is a perfect all-ages getaway that’s grown into more than a ski area. In addition to day-skiing terrain, Nordic and snowshoe trails and tubing hill, Bogus Basin added to its recreation mountain status with Idaho’s first alpine mountain coaster. The coaster snakes along more than 1,220 meters through the woods of Boise National Forest at speeds of over 40 kilometers per hour.

Idaho iconic destinations 

City of Rocks National Reserve

City of Rocks National Reserve, Malta

Home to some of the world’s best rock climbing, City of Rocks National Reserve is filled with back country adventures between hiking, biking, climbing and bird watching. The park is also ripe with Oregon Trail and California Trail history, including markings from some of the emigrants who traveled through during the Gold Rush. Views of sage meadows, aspen groves and granite domes grant non-stop exploration and scenery, not to mention great material for photographers.

Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls

Shoshone Falls

Tucked away in the high desert of Southern Idaho, Shoshone Falls thunders as it plunges into the rugged Snake River Canyon. Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the U.S.A. and is taller than Niagara Falls at 64.6 meters. Spring and early summer are the best times to see the full power of the falls when water flows are high. Shoshone Falls provides a stunning backdrop while you are hiking, picnicking, swimming or stand-up paddle boarding.

Route of the Hiawatha

Route of the Hiawatha 

Ride the Route of the Hiawatha to enjoy a breathtaking adventure along the crest of the Bitterroot Mountains. The track is an old railway line that has been transformed into a great bike path or hike trail that spans 24 kilometers. The path has panoramic views of Idaho’s gorgeous mountain scenery and passes through ten tunnels and seven trestle bridges up to 230 feet high. Begin at the Lookout Pass Ski Area where you can hire mountain bikes including helmets and lights, with an optional shuttle service available on return.

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Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

A trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is practically mandatory for any visit to The Great American West. Marvel at the expanse of lava flows and explore caves and craters during a hike. As a designated International Dark Sky Park, the preserve is filled with killer views day and night. Only a few hours from Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon is a perfect fit to round out your trip of natural wonders.

Featured accommodation

Sun Valley Lodge

Sun Valley Lodge

Sun Valley Lodge offers luxurious accommodation with spacious guest rooms, and 65 of these rooms include fireplaces. The Lodge features five ‘Celebrity Suites’ named after the stars who have stayed here before, including ‘The Marilyn Monroe Suite’ and ‘The Eastwood Suite’ named after famous director and actor Clint Eastwood. While you are here, relax in the Lodge’s 20,000 square foot spa or yoga studio, or stay active in the fitness center or outdoor pool.

EVENTS

October 11-14: Idaho Horror Film Festival, Boise
December 13-16: Ballet Idaho, The Nutcracker, Boise
January 27, 2019: Potato Cup Pursuit Ski Race, Pocatello
July 12-13, 2019: From the Ashes Idaho, Coeur d’Alene

More information: www.VisitIdaho.org

The Great American West is the perfect place to go if you want a holiday which combines adventure, culture and relaxation. Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming have beautiful national parks, unique wildlife, thrilling extreme sports, and countless museums which will help you trace the U.S.A.’s rich history. The Great American West is an exciting place to visit with new restaurants, ski lodges and recreation areas constantly opening.

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