There's No Better Place To Spend Your Summer Than These 7 Hidden Idaho Spots
By Courtnie Erickson|Published August 01, 2022
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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.
There’s no doubt that summertime in Idaho is one of the best times of the year. With all of the camping, hiking, and swimming opportunities in the Gem State, there is plenty to see and do. But, did you know that you can also find all types of unique, unusual, and hidden spots that are typically lesser known and get you away from the crowds? It’s true! Check out these seven hidden Idaho spots to spend your summer days.
Blue Heart Springs is a swimming hole near Box Canyon in southern Idaho with the most vibrant blue water. This gem is truly tucked away as the best way to reach it is on a kayak, canoe, or paddle board. The water also remains at a constant temperature of 58 degrees, making it the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day!
Nestled on the Boise Greenbelt is the Green Acres Food Truck Park. This summer destination is like the ultimate party with multiple food trucks to order from each day, daily live music, lots of green space, and even regular events. Stop by each day to see what new trucks are parked here or you can always visit the Green Acres website for a current schedule.
For many people, summer means chasing waterfalls and there is no better waterfall in Idaho to chase than Jump Creek Falls. This 60-foot waterfall deserves to be on your bucket list and features a swimming hole. There is a short trail to reach this waterfall swimming hole through the Owyhee Wilderness but the trail is easy and kid-friendly.
Located right next to the river in Idaho Falls is Sportsman Park. This beautiful park is home to a friendship garden, which was developed to celebrate more than three decades of association with Idaho Falls' Japanese sister city Tokai-Mura. This park is a beautiful place filled with water features, viewing platforms, plants and flowers, and more.
If you are searching for a quiet place to immerse yourself in nature, look no further than Spring Valley Reservoir. Located near the small town of Troy in northern Idaho, this small reservoir is the perfect day trip destination. You can fish from the docks, camp, or even explore the Spring Valley Reservoir Loop Trail that takes you around this stunning body of water.
6. Priest River Experimental Forest, Priest River
Priest River Experimental Forest, Idaho 83856, USA
The Priest River Experimental Forest was established in 1911 as one of the first experimental forests for research. You will find over 6,000 acres of forests, creeks, grasslands, and more here. If you plan to visit this unique forest, it is asked that you call ahead.
7. Boise Whitewater Park, Boise
Boise Whitewater Park / Greenbelt, 318 E 34th St, Garden City, ID 83714, USA
Boise may not be anywhere near the ocean, but you can still hop on a surfboard and spend the day surfing! Boise Whitewater Park is one of the most unique parks in the capital city as it features a special wave-shaping structure, which creates waves perfect for surfers, kayakers, and boogie boarders. And if you don’t want to get into the water yourself, sit along the shores and watch others practicing their skills.
What do you think of our list? Have you been to any of these Idaho gems? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! And, if you have a few additional suggestions for this list, let us know about those too!
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