Enjoy A Scenic Drive Along Idaho’s 7 Most Beautiful Backroads
By Courtnie Erickson|Updated on August 15, 2023(Originally published April 18, 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.
Idaho is one of the most picturesque states in the country. Fortunately, you don’t always have to head into the mountains and tackle a difficult hiking trail to admire some of the Gem State’s greatest scenery. In fact, some of the best views are from the comfort of your own vehicle!
To catch just a small glimpse of Idaho’s natural beauty, here are seven of the most beautiful Idaho back roads waiting for you and your family to explore. So, what are you waiting for? Read on to learn more about these memorable road trip adventures.
This two-lane road is 35 miles and will take you along the shores of the majestic Lake Coeur d’Alene. This is one of the best ways to capture the beauty of the lake without actually hopping in the water. If you drive this scenic drive in Idaho between December and January, it isn't uncommon to see several eagles as they soar in the sky. Just remember to bring your camera to capture what you'll see as you ride along what's known as one of the most beautiful drives in Idaho.
Elk River Back Country Byway will take you through north-central Idaho. While on what's considered one of the prettiest ID scenic drives, you'll get to travel from Orofino to the small town of Elk River. Your 57-mile journey will take you past some remarkable features like Dent Bridge, Dworshak Dam, and Elk Creek Falls. If you love driving through forests, near lakes, and by rivers, this backroad will not disappoint!
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3. Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho, USA
This is one of the most beautiful drives in Idaho. Your journey will go along Highway 93 and Highway 26. It is actually one of the most diverse scenic drives in Idaho as you will travel from the mountains to the lava flows in approximately 140 miles. If you complete this drive in its entirety, you will capture views of Mount Borah, Idaho’s tallest mountain peak, and large fields of lava flow near Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.
The Sacajawea Historic Byway takes you through some of the most remote parts of eastern Idaho. This scenic drive in Idaho is packed with history like the Lewis and Clark expedition and the 1800s mining boom. You’ll pass through areas like the small town that calls itself the birthplace of Sacajawea and the charcoal kilns that were used to process lead and silver more than 100 years ago.
5. Teton Scenic Byway
Teton Scenic Byway, 6535 ID-33, Tetonia, ID 83452, USA
When considering taking a trip on the most beautiful drives in Idaho, put the Teton Scenic Byway on your list. This is one of the best road trips and memorable things to do in Idaho since the views are so spectacular. This scenic byway in Idaho is 70 miles and takes you from Swan Valley to Ashton. You will drive through beautiful small towns and can capture the most incredible views of the Grand Tetons.
6. Thousand Springs Scenic Drive
Thousand Springs State Park - Ritter Island, 1205 Thousand Springs Grade, Wendell, ID 83355, USA
Another one of the best scenic drives in Idaho is the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway. This 67-mile road takes you between the small towns of Bliss and Hansen, and you’ll drive through some of the most extraordinary natural features in the Gem State. Along this drive, you can explore areas of Thousand Springs State Park, visit the remarkable Balanced Rock formation near Buhl, and even stop to see the Perrin Memorial Bridge. You can also see Shoshone Falls in Twin Falls as you zip along this Idaho scenic drive.
Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway is another one of the lesser-known beautiful drives in Idaho that deserves your attention. This road connects Highway 21 and Highway 55 in southern Idaho and is 33 miles long. You will follow the South Fork of the Payette River and will not only enjoy gorgeous river views but you may just see some wildlife in this remote area of the state as well.
Did your favorite scenic drives in Idaho make the list? Let us know in the following comments section — we would love to hear from you! And don’t forget to check out our ultimate road trip essentials list!
If you’re looking for outdoor activities and adventures, feel free to also take a look at these things to do in Idaho.
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Idaho Back Roads
Marla S. |April 21, 2023
What are some of the best things to do in Idaho that are outside?
Hiking: From climbing mountains to meandering through a forest, there are numerous trails scattered around the state that are conducive for hikers of all levels.
Camping: After enjoying one of the Idaho scenic drives, spend the night or weekend relaxing in nature.
Take a dip in a swimming hole: Pack a picnic and spend a warm day splashing around while being surrounded by nature.
Check out a waterfall: Stop by an accessible waterfall when you and your family are looking for a change of scenery and want to spend time outdoors.
What are some of the best road trips in Idaho?
In addition to the Idaho scenic drives mentioned, here are some of the best road trips in the state.
The Ultimate East Idaho Waterfall Road Trip: This day-long adventure takes just over 5 hours of driving time and heads to five stunning waterfalls in the eastern part of the state.
