The Most Affordable Idaho Road Trip Takes You To 6 Stunning Sites For Under $100
By Courtnie Erickson|Updated on February 07, 2023(Originally published February 02, 2023)
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
If you want to do something fun with your entire family but don’t want to spend a fortune, our adventure today is for you. We’ve put together an affordable road trip in Idaho that takes you to six stunning sites around the Gem State. Even better, a family of four will likely spend less than $100 during the entire journey. So, why wait? Let’s go!
We will begin our road trip in Boise and travel just under 200 miles to the Land of Yankee Fork State Park, just outside of the small town of Challis. You will want to plan at least four hours of drive time one way, so we recommend breaking this trip into two days to enjoy every single stop. You can use this customizable map to add more stops on this affordable road trip in Idaho if you'd like.
The Idaho Fish and Game MK Nature Center in Boise is the first stop on our road trip and it’s a great way to kick off this adventure! This 4.6-acre site features a StreamWalk and Visitor Center where you can enjoy all types of landscapes and wildlife. There are even underwater viewing windows you can peer into, giving you a glimpse into life under the water. Even better individuals of all ages will enjoy this stop and admission is always free!
Our next stop is the Boise River Greenbelt. This 25-mile paved pathway has been named one of the best river walks in the entire country and it definitely deserves your attention. You can walk, cycle, rollerblade, run, skateboard, and so much more to explore this trail and there are dozens of bridges and parks you will visit if you complete the trail in its entirety. Plus, it doesn’t cost anything to use this trail, even if it's only for a short distance.
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Lucky Peak State Park, Boise
Lucky Peak State Park, 9725 ID-21, Boise, ID 83716, USA
Just a short drive outside of the city is Lucky Peak State Park. This state park is made up of three separate day-use units so there’s something for everyone. We recommend spending some time at Discovery Park, which is right by the highway and the perfect place to have a picnic or fish. If you want to bring a kayak or canoe, you can even hop in the water from this area as well. Be prepared to pay a $7 vehicle fee to enter this state park.
Our next stop is going to be one of the sweetest! In the small town of Idaho City, you will find Trudy’s Kitchen. This is a family-owned, small-town restaurant that not only serves home-cooked meals but award-winning pies. While you can spend as much or as little as you desire at this restaurant, you won’t regret a visit here. Plus, each slice of pie is so big that if you really want to, you can share it with a family member. But, we don't recommend it — get your own slice!
Kirkham Hot Springs
Kirkham Hot Springs, 7658 ID-21, Lowman, ID 83637, USA
Approximately 4.5 miles from Lowman are some of the most beautiful hot springs in Idaho — Kirkham Hot Springs. These natural hot springs are easily accessible, beautiful, and warm. You’ll find a combination of natural and man-made pools and the pools all range in temperature, making it easy to find the perfect area to just sit back and relax. Plus, access to the pools is free. You just must be willing to tackle the short hike.
Land of Yankee Fork State Park
Land of Yankee Fork State Park, 24424 ID-75, Challis, ID 83226, USA
If there is one destination on this road trip where you’ll want to stay for a while, we suggest Land of Yankee Fork State Park. This unique historic site is home to three different ghost towns, abandoned buildings, old mines, and so much more. This state park also has a vehicle entry fee of $7.
What do you think of this affordable road trip in Idaho? Are there any stops you would add? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments! You can also tell us about some of your favorite affordable vacations in Idaho by filling out this form. You may just see your suggestion in an upcoming Only In Your State article.
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Road trips in Idaho
Courtnie Erickson|February 07, 2023
In addition to the road trip in Idaho that is mentioned above, what are some other affordable trips in Idaho I should take?
One of the benefits of living in the Gem State is that there is so much to do without breaking the bank. There are numerous places to visit for free in Idaho and vacation destinations where you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg. If you are looking for even more affordable trips in Idaho, consider the following:
Yearly scenic road trip from Shoshone Falls to Lake Coeur d’Alene
Don't forget that if you do plan a road trip in Idaho that you always head out prepared. Fortunately, we have created a road trip guide and essentials packing list to get you started. This list features all types of road trip must-haves so you can enjoy your trip no matter what situation comes your way.
What are some places to visit for free in Idaho?
If you are searching for things to do for free in Idaho, how about taking a drive on a scenic byway? Idaho is home to some of the most beautiful scenic drives and they are located all around the state. Some of our favorite routes include:
