Go With the Locals: IDAHO'S Alternative Destinations

Trail of the Cóeur DÁlenes CREDIT Visit Idaho

Looking for smaller crowds or local favourites? Explore these lesser-known yet still impressive Idaho destinations.

Perrine Coulee Falls vs. Shoshone Falls Shoshone Falls draws major crowds, but Perrine Coulee Falls offers better access. Take the walking trail to the base and behind these incredible falls descending 200 feet (61 meters).

Castle Rocks State Park vs. City of Rocks National Reserve City of Rocks National Reserve claims attention for its towering granite domes, but Castle Rocks State Park offers similar activities just a few miles away. Plus, you’ll find pictographs left by the area’s original inhabitants.

Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes vs. Route of the Hiawatha The Route of the Hiawatha is a popular rail to trail in northern Idaho, but don’t pass on the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes – a paved, 73-mile (117-km) path winding through Native American territory and along Lake Coeur d’Alene. Glimpse eagles, deer and spectacular scenery as you ride.

Garden City Wineries vs. Sunnyslope Wine Trail Sunnyslope Wine Trail is southwest Idaho’s renowned wine country, with its 17 wineries and vineyards. But if you prefer a wine-tasting experience a short bike ride from Boise, visit the urban wineries in Garden City – some providing beautiful riverside views.

For more information on Idaho, visit VisitIdaho.org.

Hidden Local Treasures Abound in Southeast Idaho

Bear Lake- Bloomington Lake CREDIT Southeast Idaho High Country

• Southeast Idaho is full of hidden local treasures. Here are a few from each city:
• American Falls: Attend the Free Family Birding Festival each May.
• Pocatello: The city hosts an Art Walk in historic downtown every first Friday. Dine at the Yellowstone or Café Tuscano.
• Fort Hall: Stop at the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel or attend the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival, a kaleidoscope of dance, tradition and regalia every August.
• Blackfoot: Visit the Idaho Potato Museum and enjoy an all-American burger and milkshake at Rupe’s Drive-in or sweets at the Candy Jar.
• Lava Hot Springs: Locals and visitors love Idaho’s world-famous hot spring. Dine at Portneuf Grill & Lounge or Eruption Brewery.
• Preston: See sites from the film “Napoleon Dynamite.” Dine at Sydney’s Restaurant, followed by Polar Bear for ice cream.
• Soda Springs: Oregon Trail history is spread across town. Don’t miss the Applegarth Apothecary or the Main Street Diner (voted Yelp’s best diner in Idaho). Bear Lake Valley: Hike the stunning Bloomington Lake Trail, followed by a raspberry milkshake.
• Malad: Don’t miss the Malad County Fair Rodeo in August, followed by Ganache Pastry & Gelato.
• Montpelier: Explore the National Oregon/California Trail Center, followed by El Jaliciense for mouthwatering tacos and enchiladas.

For more information on Southeast Idaho, please visit IdahoHighCountry.org.