Drive Through Canyons, Small Towns, And A State Park On This 67-Mile Scenic Byway In Idaho

What are some other scenic drives in Idaho?

Thousand Springs Scenic Byway is certainly a well-known scenic drive in Idaho, but it's one of many beautiful routes in the Gem State! Some of our favorite beautiful byways in Idaho include the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, Sacajawea Historic Scenic Byway, Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, Pioneer Historic Byway, and Western Heritage Historic Byway. The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is one of our favorites; 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.

If you're up for a dose of history and a lengthier road trip through several states, intrepid explorers can travel the more than 2,000-mile route of the infamous Oregon Trail, which starts in Independence, Missouri, where, once upon a time, thousands of pioneers set forth upon the trail. Before heading out on your own modern-day odyssey, visit the National Frontier Trails Museum for perspective and inspiration. As you make your way across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, you’ll be surrounded by plains and desert landscapes, viewing the same stark and untouched landscape seen by thousands of brave folks. Keep an eye out for the tombstones of those who perished on the Oregon Trail, as well as the wagon wheel ruts they left behind; it's a humbling reminder of a sad period in American history.