Why Idaho Should Be Your Next Destination

Idaho has something for everyone, whether you're a hiker, camper, cyclist, birder, or whatever you want to call yourself, and I'm offering eight reasons why Idaho should be your next outdoor getaway.

Idaho is the king of whitewater, with over 3,100 miles of recreational river. Whether you're looking for a 7-day trip on the world-famous Middle Fork of the Salmon River or a day trip on the Cabarton stretch of the Payette River, Idaho has plenty of rafting options to get your adrenaline racing and, of course, sit back and enjoy the magnificent scenery on the flat parts. Outfitters are located throughout the state and can help you plan a trip that suits your degree of adventure. Whitewater parks may be found in numerous places across the state if you want to practice your paddling talents.

After a long day on the trail, there's no better way to unwind than bathing in a mineral-rich, all-natural hot spring. Idaho boasts 130 of them that are good for soaking, several of which are right off the side of the road. With a map and a little detective effort, you can find your own little hidden pool if you want to relax in peace. In any case, study up on your hot springs etiquette before you arrive, and always pack up all of your rubbish so Idaho's hot springs may remain pure.

Climbing crags and bouldering chances may be found all over Idaho, from Boise's Black Cliffs to northern Idaho's Q'emilin Park, but the City of Rocks National Reserve is possibly the most famous. The rocks here are 2.5 billion years old, making them among of the oldest in the Western United States, with part of the ancient land belonging to the Shoshone and Paiute tribes. This location will keep you on your toes whether you favor trad, crack, or sport climbing, or simply enjoy geology.

The Snake River carves its way through Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river canyon, measuring 10 miles across and up to 8,000 feet deep. If that isn't enough to impress you, Idaho also has the country's second and third deepest canyons, located in the Frank Church Wilderness, the second biggest wilderness region in the Lower 48. You can take a jet boat, trek, or float down the Snake River while immersed in some of Idaho's most challenging terrain to experience this area.

If bird photography is your thing, Idaho has plenty of opportunities. To see bald eagles, owls, and osprey, all you have to do is ride your bike on the Boise Greenbelt. Every spring, some 800 pairs of hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons migrate to the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area to marry and raise the next generation of predatory birds, providing even more activity. Check out the Idaho Birding Trail for more birding options, which is a network of 175 locations that birders consider to be the most intriguing in the state.

Hikers will love the Sawtooth and Boulder White Cloud Mountains. Hundreds of turquoise alpine lakes, serrated ridge lines, and some of the best backcountry wilderness in the lower 48 may be found in these inaccessible mountains. You could spend the entire summer visiting these regions and not see everything, whether it's a leisurely stroll, a strenuous day trek, or a multi-day backpacking excursion. Keep in note that some areas do not allow campfires, and the locals respectfully request that you remember to Leave No Trace when visiting this beautiful backcountry.

There are almost 2,000 designated lakes in Idaho, so there are plenty of options for water enjoyment no matter where you are. In Northern Idaho, Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho's largest body of water, is surrounded by beautiful green trees and is a world-class fishing destination. It boasts a huge range of catchable species, including kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, the largest bull trout ever captured at 32 pounds, and many others. Lake Cascade or Payette Lake, a 5,330-acre glacial lake with more than half protected as part of Ponderosa State Park, lies further south and an easy weekend excursion from Boise. This means there are lots of public access spots, beaches, and campsites to enjoy your summer vacation by the sea.

In the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, you may hone your night photography talents. The International Dark-Sky Association gave this location Gold Tier classification for its best stargazing opportunities, which encompass over 1,400 square miles and significant portions of public lands. So take your tripod or just hang your hammock between a couple of lodgepole pines and watch the Milky Way sweep over the huge Idaho sky.