Adventure Awaits: Top Day Trip Destinations in the Treasure Valley
Adventure is calling in Treasure Valley, and there’s no shortage of incredible day trip destinations to explore! Whether you’re craving scenic mountain drives, charming small-town vibes, or thrilling outdoor activities, Treasure Valley has something for everyone. Hike the breathtaking trails of the Boise Foothills, float along the Boise River, or take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Idaho City. Foodies can indulge in local flavors at Snake River wineries, while history buffs can uncover fascinating stories at the Warhawk Air Museum. From nature lovers to adventure seekers, Treasure Valley offers the perfect escape just a short drive away. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the best that this scenic Idaho gem has to offer!
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McCall, Idaho
McCall, ID, is a picturesque mountain town on the shores of Payette Lake, rich in history and year-round recreation. Once home to the Shoshone and Nez Perce tribes, it later became a hub for French Canadian fur trappers and gold miners before evolving from its logging roots into a popular four-season resort destination. Today, McCall offers a welcoming atmosphere with a perfect mix of historic charm and modern attractions. In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, and hot springs, while winter brings world-class skiing at Brundage Mountain and the renowned McCall Winter Carnival. Must-visit attractions include Ponderosa State Park, offering scenic trails and abundant wildlife; the Central Idaho Historical Museum, which provides insights into the area's rich past; and Burgdorf Hot Springs, a rustic retreat perfect for relaxation. Downtown McCall features a variety of shops, restaurants, and the famous Ice Cream Alley, a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Visit City of McCall Website for more info.
Drive Time: 2hrs North of Boise
Sunnyslope Wine Trail
The Sunnyslope Wine Trail in Caldwell, Idaho, is a premier wine destination with a rich history and a thriving wine culture. Once recognized by early settlers for its viticultural potential, the region has flourished over the past century into a must-visit spot for wine lovers. Its unique terroir, shaped by ancient geological events, gives rise to distinctive and flavorful wines. Visitors can enjoy scenic vineyard tours, wine tastings, and exceptional local dining while exploring the 19 wineries that make up the trail, each offering a unique and memorable experience in Idaho’s wine country. Some Wineries along the Sunnyslope Wine Trail include Ste. Chapelle Winery, Scoria Vineyards, Kindred Vineyards, Huston Vineyards, Kerry Hill Winery and Fujishin Family Cellars.
Drive Time: 30-45 Minutes West of Boise
Bruneau Dunes
Bruneau Dunes State Park in Idaho is a natural marvel, home to North America's tallest single-structured sand dune, towering 470 feet above the landscape. Formed over 15,000 years ago by the Bonneville Flood, the dunes now serve as a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike the trails, sandboard down the slopes, or fish and boat on the park’s small lakes. The Bruneau Dunes Observatory offers incredible stargazing opportunities, while the visitor center provides educational exhibits and rentals. With camping facilities available, the park is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to experience Idaho’s unique geological beauty.
Drive Time: 1hr Southeast of Boise
Lowman Loop
Garden Valley and the Lowman Loop, located just north of Boise, Idaho, are rich in history and natural beauty, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Garden Valley, nestled along the Payette River, is known for its breathtaking mountain views, hot springs, and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy fishing, white-water rafting, and off-road trails, as well as local attractions like the Starlight Mountain Theatre and the Garden Valley Museum. The scenic 33-mile Lowman Loop, which connects Garden Valley and Lowman, follows an old miners' route along the South Fork of the Payette River, offering stunning views and wildlife sightings. Lowman itself is a hub for hot springs, rafting, hiking, and scenic drives, including the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway. Both Garden Valley and the Lowman Loop provide a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and historical charm, making them top destinations in Idaho.
Drive Time: The Loop Starts in North Boise
Owyhee Mountains
Silver City, located in the Owyhee Mountains, is a historic mining town that dates back to the 1860s, once thriving during the silver rush with a population of 2,500. Today, it stands as a well-preserved ghost town with 75 historic structures, including the charming Idaho Hotel. The surrounding Owyhee Mountains offer rugged terrain, stunning desert landscapes, and the Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway, a scenic 101-mile route providing breathtaking views of the area. Visitors can explore the town’s mining history, hike, off-road, or enjoy wildlife viewing in the mountains. With both historical intrigue and outdoor adventure, Silver City and the Owyhee Mountains are ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Drive Time: 1hr Northeast of Boise
Twin Falls, Idaho
Twin Falls, ID established in 1904, is a city with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Originally settled by Mormon pioneers, it was named after the nearby Twin Falls on the Snake River. Today, the city offers a vibrant blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures, with notable attractions like Shoshone Falls, known as the "Niagara of the West." At 212 feet tall, it surpasses Niagara Falls in height. Visitors can enjoy hiking the Canyon Rim Trail, zip-lining over the Snake River, and exploring parks like Centennial Waterfront Park. The downtown area is filled with dining, boutique shops, and cultural events, including the Twin Falls County Fair and Snake River Canyon Half Marathon. Twin Falls is a diverse destination, offering natural wonders, outdoor activities, and local culture for every type of traveler.
Drive Time: 2hrs South of Boise
Idaho Guest Ranch (Lazy R Ranch)
Lazy R Ranch, located in the scenic Drybuck Valley, is a working guest ranch with over 50 years of history. Spanning thousands of acres, it offers a true Western experience amidst Idaho's stunning mountainous terrain. Guests can enjoy activities like horseback trail rides, cattle drives, and participate in ranch operations. The ranch also hosts events, including weddings and family reunions, in a historic barn with loft seating for up to 250 people. In addition to ranch activities, visitors can explore hiking trails, fish in the Payette River, experience whitewater rafting, or try zip-lining. Lazy R Ranch combines authentic ranch life with a variety of outdoor adventures, making it a top destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Drive Time: 1hr North of Boise
Cascade, Idaho
Cascade and Donnelly, ID, are neighboring towns in the picturesque Long Valley, about 100 miles north of Boise. Cascade, founded in 1912, is known for the stunning North Fork of the Payette River and the creation of Lake Cascade in 1948 after the Cascade Dam was built. This transformed the valley and displaced many residents. Donnelly, established in 1914, was relocated to its current site to accommodate the new railroad line. Both towns offer a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Cascade is popular for outdoor activities, especially around Lake Cascade State Park, offering boating, fishing, and hiking. Donnelly, situated near Payette and Cascade Lakes, provides access to the Payette National Forest for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Donnelly also hosts the Huckleberry Festival, celebrating the local harvest. Both towns are rich in history and natural beauty, attracting visitors with their outdoor adventures and historical sites.
Drive Time: 2hrs North of Boise
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley, ID established in 1936 by the Union Pacific Railroad, is America's first destination ski resort, offering a blend of rich history and modern amenities. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area has evolved into a year-round destination attracting visitors with a variety of recreational and cultural activities. In winter, Sun Valley is known for skiing and snowboarding at Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain, along with Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, golf, and water sports. The town is also home to vibrant cultural events like the Sun Valley Summer Symphony, local art galleries, and fine dining options. Sun Valley offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both recreation and rejuvenation.
Drive Time: 2.5hrs West of Boise
Idaho City
Idaho City is a historic town founded in 1862 during the gold rush. Once a bustling mining hub, it now offers a blend of preserved 19th-century architecture and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore the historic district, including the Idaho City Hotel and the Boise Basin Museum, while enjoying activities like hiking, fishing, and camping in the nearby Boise National Forest. The town is also a popular destination for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling in winter, and boasts natural hot springs for relaxation. With events like Idaho City Days and nearby trails for gold panning, Idaho City provides a charming escape for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Drive Time: 1hr Northeast of Boise