Your Guide to Outdoor Activities in Idaho
Known for its mountainous landscapes, extensive areas of protected wilderness, and outdoor recreation areas, Idaho is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. Idaho is located in the northwestern region of the United States and shares a small border area with Canada. The Columbia and Snake Rivers within the state boast a series of dams and locks, making the city of Lewiston, Idaho the farthest inland seaport on the Pacific coast of the contiguous United States. Another interesting feature is that Idaho is known as ‘The Gem State’ because of the wide variety of gems located within the state. In fact, nearly every type of gemstone can be found within Idaho’s borders!
Whitewater Rafting
The lower 48 states is home to an extensive network of whitewater rafting trails, but no state can compare to Idaho’s whitewater river mileage. Rafting season in the state goes from April to November, and with over 3,000 miles of whitewater rafting, almost anyone can enjoy the sport. The rafting range in Idaho varies from 1-5, and rafters can enjoy whitewater in trips ranging anywhere from 1-8 days.
If you’re wondering where to start your rafting trip, then Middle Fork, Salmon River, Idaho is the place to be. Stanley, Idaho is home to the Salmon River (located just north of Sun Valley). One can enjoy single or multi-day rafting trips to suit all experience levels, including trips for the family. The rapids here are up to Class IV, and rafters can view alpine and forest scenery on this world-favorite river.
Fishing
There are several rivers in Idaho that are ideal for those seeking to do a little fishing on their trip to The Gem State. You can opt to catch and release or catch a meal on any of these rivers in the state:
Selway River: Located right in the middle of Idaho, this river boasts clarity unmatched, allowing fishermen to see fish up to 50 feet away! Fish for Chinook Salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout.
Salmon River: While this river is known for its whitewater rafting, it also boasts many areas ideal for fishing too! With a perfect mix of scenery and ideal fishing conditions, one can fish this free-flowing river.
Silver Creek, the Henry’s Fork, and the South Fork of the Snake: These areas are world-renowned for their fly-fishing opportunities, so be sure to check out these locations in particular if fly-fishing is your goal.
Skiing, Boarding, and Snowmobiling
Idaho is home to over 20,000 ski’able acres, making it a great destination for those interested in winter sports. There are a multitude of resorts ranging from first-class accommodations to budget-friendly lodging, and many of these lodging options also come with stay-and-play packages, making it easy for one to travel to Idaho and enjoy all that the winter season has to offer. Check out Ski Idaho for more information on where you can stay, play, and enjoy Idaho’s wintry climates. Keep in mind that many resorts and slopes offer free passes to children below a certain age as well.
