Rich history and beautiful scenery combine on the Curlew National Grassland Scenic Drive in Idaho. As the only national grassland in the Intermountain West and one of the best scenic drives in Idaho, exploring this incredible area is a must for both nature and history enthusiasts. Chock full of historic, long-abandoned homesteads and endless grasslands, your journey on this scenic drive in Idaho will be one to remember.

Dotted with historic homesteads in between vast landscapes of serene grassland, the Curlew National Grassland Scenic Drive in Idaho is an adventure unlike any other.
Max Rae/Flickr
As the only national grassland in Idaho, this landscape is extraordinary in so many ways. Established in 1960, it is comprised of over 47,000 acres of wide-open grassland in southeast Idaho.
Max Rae/Flickr
The grassland is primarily located in Oneida and Power counties. First inhabited by the Bannock and Shoshone native tribes, the rich landscape now provides an area for the grazing of livestock, watershed management, wildlife, and recreational use. It's considered an especially spectacular birdwatching destination!
Lance Kohs/Google

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White settlers started flocking to the area in the late 1800s and early 1900s because of the landscape's great agricultural opportunities. Back then, the entire Curlew Valley was filled with ranches and homesteads. It's said that there was a ranch on every 160-acres across the grasslands during this period.
Max Rae/Google
Most of those homesteads were abandoned long ago and have sat vacant for decades. Exploring these empty, dilapidated structures today gives us a rare glimpse at the region's very first settlers, and it's a mesmerizing way to spend a few hours on the road.
Richard Brown/Google
Visitors can experience the unending beauty of Curlew National Grassland by driving a straight shot on Idaho State Highway 38 north of Holbrook. From there, a variety of dirt roads will take you to the region's different pastures and fields, most of which can be identified by prominently placed signs.
Max Rae/Flickr
Surround yourself with both incredible history and never-ending grassland scenery when you take on this scenic drive in Idaho. Just don't forget your camera! These are the types of sights you won't ever want to forget.
Max Rae/Flickr

To learn more about this beautiful destination in Idaho, check out our past article on Curlew National Grassland. Looking for accommodations along this route? Check out Booking.com, where you’ll find an array of options for all tastes and budgets.

So, did you know about the Curlew National Grassland Scenic Drive? It’s amazing to think of the history that resides in this beautiful region of Idaho. Tell us about your experience with exploring this area!

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Curlew National Grassland

Daniella DiRienzo | August 18, 2023

What are the best scenic drives in Idaho?

The Curlew National Grassland Scenic Drive is just one of the beautiful drives in Idaho. There are several other scenic drives in Idaho, including:

  • Sawtooth Scenic Byway: Spanning more than 100 miles, this scenic drive in Idaho winds through the Sawtooth Mountains, offering breathtaking views of alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and pristine wilderness.
  • Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway: At roughly 130 miles, this drive takes you through dense forests of ponderosa pine, offering access to the Shoshone Ice Caves, along with views of beautiful river valleys and stunning mountain vistas.
  • Sun Valley Loop: This famed drive, which extends from Ketchum to Sun Valley, boasts spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Bald Mountain and the Boulder Mountains.

 

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in Idaho?

There are several stunning natural wonders in Idaho. Here are some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Idaho:

  • Shoshone Falls: Often referred to as the "Niagara of the West," Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States, making for a spectacular sight, especially during the spring when water flow is at its peak.
  • Sawtooth National Recreation Area: This area is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wilderness, making it a paradise for hiking, camping, fishing, and photography.
  • Coeur d'Alene Lake: This pristine and scenic lake, which stretches over 20 miles and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a picturesque destination. Even better, features a boardwalk, allowing for its stunning beauty to be easily adored.

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Curlew National Grassland, Idaho 83342, USA