Maybe you’re not an outdoorsy person but that certainly doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the beauty that Idaho has to offer! In fact, these scenic drives make it pretty easy to see all of the Gem State’s gorgeous landscapes. There’s a lot to see here in Idaho, so go ahead and fuel up the car and start your engines because these backcountry drives are the perfect way of exploring our beautiful state. Here are eight of the best scenic drives in Idaho. Be sure to put at least one of these on your bucket list!
This scenic byway in Idaho runs for approximately 30 miles, starting from Ashton, Idaho, and leads into the gorgeous Targhee National Forest. The highlight of this drive is the spectacular view of some of the most impressive waterfalls in Idaho — the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. The northern part of the byway contains the wildlife preserve Harriman State Park, which has plenty of hiking trails and opportunities for fly-fishing. This is one of the most spectacular Idaho backroads for a scenic drive.
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2. Sacajawea Historic Scenic Byway
Charcoal Kilns Interpretive Site, Caribou Targee National Forest, Forest Rd 533, Leadore, ID 83464, USA
Along with breathtaking views, this byway offers up some truly incredible history from the days of the Lewis and Clark expedition along with the mining age of the 1800s. On this Idaho byway, you'll see old mining communities and even the incredibly well-preserved charcoal kilns that were used to process silver ore. This history-rich drive goes on for 120 miles.
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3. Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
Thousand Springs State Park & Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Visitor's Center, 17970 US-30, Hagerman, ID 83332, USA
Beginning in Bliss, Idaho, the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway is relatively short at less than 70 miles. However, it offers a lot to do and see. The byway starts off by going through the incredible Snake River Canyon and from there, you have easy access to the historic Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, the pristine Thousand Springs, and the epic Shoshone Falls. As one of the most beautiful drives in Idaho, this byway sure packs a punch!
The Pioneer Historic Byway begins in Franklin, the oldest town in Idaho, located on the Idaho and Utah border. Major stopping points on this byway are Soda Springs where you can check out the Soda Springs Geyser and the impressive Niter Ice Cave in Grace, Idaho.
5. Western Heritage Historic Byway
Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, Murphy, ID 83650, USA
Starting in Meridian, Idaho, this Idaho scenic byway goes south for about 50 miles. As you pass through Kuna, you'll find yourself at the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey Conservation Area. This is one of the most impressive areas in all of Idaho, with 600,000 acres of canyon that is home to hawks, falcons, eagles, osprey, etc. Further along the byway is Dedication Point which offers up some outstanding panoramic views of the Snake River Canyon.
The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway begins in Boise on Highway 21 and goes through the dense Boise National Forest. It goes on for about 130 miles, passing Lucky Peak Lake and the historic mining town of Idaho City (this place makes a great day trip!). It eventually hits the spectacular Sawtooth wilderness which has plenty of opportunities for camping and fishing. Several hot springs line the byway including the highly trafficked Kirkham Hot Springs, as well. It's one of the most spectacular country roads in Idaho.
This is Idaho's longest byway, stretching for 202 long miles. As you drive along, you find yourself traveling along the same exact route that Lewis and Clark traveled through over two centuries ago! This incredibly scenic route begins in Lewiston and spans across expansive wilderness through the stunning Clearwater River Canyon. The route eventually splits, with one section heading south toward Grangeville and the other going along the Clearwater until it reaches Lolo Pass where you can stop at the Visitor Center to learn all about the history and geology of the beautiful Bitterroot Wilderness Area.
This byway lets you travel one of the most magnificent landscapes in all of Idaho — the one and only Hells Canyon. This 22-mile drive begins near Copperfield, Oregon, and continues on the Idaho side of the border along the side of the canyon. You'll likely feel very small among the giant black and green basalt cliffs!
Have taken one of the best scenic drives in Idaho? What do you consider to be the best scenic byways in Idaho? Let us know in the comments! If you are searching for another stunning scenic drive in Idaho, check out one of our personal favorites — Teton Scenic Byway. And, if you plan to spend a lot of time in the car on your scenic drives in Idaho, make sure you are prepared. Before you head on any fun drives near me, check out our ultimate road trip packing list.
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More to Explore
Best Scenic Drives In Idaho
Melissa M.|August 19, 2021
What road trips can I take in Idaho?
Discover someplace new along a road trip through the Gem State. We have a few themed road trips you may want to take including:
If you don’t have enough time for a weekend getaway, a day trip is another fantastic way to explore a part of the state you haven’t been to before. Head to our article, 7 Unique Day Trips In Idaho That Are An Absolute Must-Do, for some ideas.
What are some of the most beautiful places in Idaho?
The Gem State is brimming with beauty between its borders. From charming small towns to a natural wonder like the Palouse region with its vast stretches of hills, you can find beauty just about anywhere you go in Idaho.
