Summary
Idaho is a state where adventures await regardless of the season. During winter, snowboarders, skiers, and snowmobilers arrive from across the nation, while summer invites tourists seeking lakeside retreats. With an abundance of mountain peaks, lakes, and natural reserves, this state serves as an ideal destination for those yearning to connect with the great outdoors.
Unlike many small towns across America that employ gimmicks to attract visitors, Idaho relies on its warm hospitality and stunning scenery. Most small towns maintain a simple charm, allowing the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and towering trees to enhance their appeal. Established by pioneers in search of a better life, who often settled as miners or homesteaders, the resourcefulness and friendly atmosphere have endured over the decades.
Residents readily offer outdoor recommendations, guiding visitors searching for tranquility toward the best experiences. The most effective way to experience Idaho is through a road trip, with a vehicle filled with sporting gear. It is advisable to take full advantage of the state’s attractions.
Here are the fifteen best small towns to visit in Idaho:
1. Stanley
With a population of fewer than one hundred residents, Stanley ranks as one of Idaho’s smallest yet most picturesque towns.
Encircled by snowcapped mountains, Stanley is a required stop for adventurous travelers.
Visitors can choose to stay in a cozy hotel or camp in the wilderness, using Stanley as a base for hiking, climbing, river rafting, horseback riding, hot springs, mountain biking, and exploring the vast surrounding forests.
Due to its welcoming community, numerous visitors find themselves reluctant to depart.
2. Salmon
Salmon maintains a connection to an old Wild West identity, devoid of its rough edges.
The western-themed architecture and pristine surroundings may evoke a feeling of stepping back in time, particularly for urban visitors.
Accessing Salmon requires traversing unpopulated and rugged terrain by car, yet the journey proves rewarding.
Salmon serves as an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering white water rafting opportunities and proximity to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area.
During winter, guests can engage in skiing, cozy up in wooden cabins, and savor comfort foods at the town’s numerous restaurants.
3. Sandpoint
Sandpoint frequently appears on top ten lists featuring the best locations in Idaho.
This scenic small town is situated along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille and is bordered by the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains.
Sandpoint is worth a visit throughout the year.
During warmer months, visitors can enjoy stand-up paddling, fishing, swimming, and boating on Lake Pend Oreille.
As winter approaches, skiing, sledding, and snowboarding are popular activities at Schweitzer Mountain.
The town attracts a wide array of creatives, including writers, painters, sculptors, and performers, who find inspiration in the region’s beauty.
Consequently, Sandpoint boasts a vibrant cultural and arts scene, offering year-round events for visitors to enjoy.
4. Priest River
Priest River lies where two rivers converge, just seven miles south of the Canadian border.
The town previously hosted one of the region’s timber companies, making it worthwhile to visit during the Timber Day Festival and stop at the Timber Education Center.
In winter, it serves as a fantastic base for skiing at Schweitzer Mountain and snowshoeing along the river beds.
Summer temperatures remain mild, allowing visitors to enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, rafting, and mountain biking.
5. Wallace
Wallace was once a thriving mining town that contributed silver to the economy of the American West.
The allure of this precious metal drew people to Idaho in hopes of attaining wealth.
Currently, silver mining continues in Wallace, and visitors can witness the process at the Sierra Silver Mine, where a retired miner guides guests of all ages through an underground silver mine and trolley ride.
Wallace is a well-rounded town that also features delightful dining options, a wide array of cultural events, and proximity to various outdoor recreational activities.
It stands out as a unique small town within Idaho.
6. Preston
Prior to the release of the popular film “Napoleon Dynamite,” Preston was largely unknown to most of America and beyond.
However, when resident Jared Hess illustrated Preston as a quirky, endearing, and enjoyable small town, visitors flocked to the area.
The town capitalized on its newfound fame by becoming the premier location for selling “Vote for Pedro” shirts, tater tots, and chapstick.
Though the influence of Napoleon has diminished over time, Preston has managed to sustain its charming atmosphere.
Even if you’re not an enthusiast of the quirky film, consider visiting nearby natural parks such as the Glendale Reservoir and other lakes.
7. McCall
Located along the shores of Payette Lake, McCall offers a tranquil small-town experience amidst lush forests.
The town prides itself on being safe, enjoyable, friendly, and beautiful—attributes that have yet to be contested.
During winter, McCall hosts the Winter Carnival, attracting visitors from across the state to appreciate the ice sculpture displays, games, live entertainment, and skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Brundage Mountain Resort.
As warm weather arrives, McCall becomes renowned for its pleasant climate and sunshine, making it an advantageous location for hiking, water skiing, horseback riding, and various other outdoor activities.
Diverse lodging and dining options are readily available in McCall as well.
8. Hailey
Hailey originated as a pioneer colony, where settlers had to establish a community capable of withstanding harsh winters.
Positioned at the northern end of the Rocky Mountain Range, Hailey serves as a hub for outdoor recreation, water activities, and snow skiing.
Autumn showcases stunning scenery, with vibrant red leaves carpeting the streets.
Residents of Hailey frequently celebrate, creating a high probability that visitors will arrive during one of the numerous local festivals.
Some noteworthy annual events include the Trailing of the Sheep Festival, the Northern Rockies Music Festival, Crosstober Bike Race and Beerfest, the Sun Valley Film Festival, and the Independence Day Rodeo.
Additionally, Hailey is host to local performances and smaller events throughout the year.
The town attracts a diverse array of artists, leaving an indelible cultural impact with each visit.
9. Hope
Despite its population of fewer than one hundred residents, Hope possesses more character than many towns many times larger.
When locals assist you in finding “Beyond Hope,” they will lead you to a nature reserve teeming with whitetail deer and flocks of geese.
It is also common to encounter a Bald Eagle in the area.
Camping at the Sam Owen Campground offers an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the exquisite natural surroundings.
Serene and tranquil, Hope is the perfect location to escape the stresses of everyday life.
Visitors may easily spend the day unwinding by Lake Pend Oreille, enjoying a water taxi tour, swimming, and hiking.
When desirous of a bit more activity, Hope is just a short drive away from Sandpoint, another premier small town more tailored to tourists.
10. Island Park
Visitors to Yellowstone National Park should not overlook a stop in Island Park.
This small town constitutes a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, offering fishing, hiking, camping, snow sports, and much more within a short distance.
For those not inclined towards camping, Island Park features numerous wooden lodges, providing cozy retreats after long days of exploration.
The town boasts the longest main street in America, adorned with unique shops waiting to be explored.
Best of all, staying in Island Park allows you to evade the majority of the Yellowstone crowd while remaining a short drive away.
11. Garden Valley
Garden Valley is a small town that embodies the tranquility suggested by its name.
This destination is aptly suited for thrill-seekers who still desire a peaceful retreat.
The typical itinerary involves exploring and then rejuvenating at one of the hot springs or resorts.
In winter, visitors may partake in extreme tubing at the Idaho X-Sports Adventure Park or enjoy a charming sleigh ride.
In summer, experience the Idaho Whitewater Unlimited tour, which involves exhilarating rafting down the Payette River and horseback riding through scenic trails.
Locals can frequently be found socializing at the Starlight Mountain Theatre, a venue hosting live performances, or at the Dirty Shame Saloon, which offers pizza and a western-style pub ambiance.
12. Bonners Ferry
Bonners Ferry is nestled within the Kootenai River Valley and surrounded by various mountain ranges.
If you appreciate history and a leisurely lifestyle, this small town should be on your list.
Within the town, enjoy a locally brewed beer, tour the Fairbanks-Morse Generator Plant, and visit the Pearl Theatre.
Additionally, you can explore several restaurants and antique shops.
Natural attractions such as the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, Katka Peak Trail, Myrtle Peak, and the Selkirk Scenic Loop are just a short drive away.
During winter, visitors can engage in snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and even outdoor ice skating.
13. White Bird
White Bird represents an exceptional small town well-suited for any adventure traveler.
Set up a tent or park an RV at one of the pristine campsites.
Subsequently, immerse yourself in nearby wildlife areas offering opportunities for swimming, hiking, horseback riding, off-roading, birdwatching, hunting, and fishing.
White Bird is located near the Salmon and Snake rivers, two essential waterways for anyone traversing through Idaho.
14. Montpelier
Do not let the “Beware of the Bears” sign deter you from exploring Montpelier, a quirky small town.
Montpelier is ideally suited for history enthusiasts and those eager for a touch of adventure.
Surrounded by natural reserves, this town offers a plethora of outdoor activities year-round.
Historically, the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy executed one of the most significant bank heists in Montpelier.
Although the fate of Butch Cassidy remains unknown, his legacy endures in Montpelier, which houses the last bank he ever robbed.
Today, visitors can enjoy reenactments of the heist and visit a small museum dedicated to this fascinating chapter of history.
15. Cottonwood
Cottonwood is renowned for the Dog Bark Park Inn, a beagle-shaped bed and breakfast affectionately called “Sweet Willy” by locals. This unique accommodation was the creation of a husband-and-wife team who initially profited by selling chainsaw art (art created exclusively with chainsaws).
Today, guests can view Cottonwood from the vantage point of the world’s largest beagle sculpture.
Apart from this distinctive inn, Cottonwood is home to the Monastery of St. Gertrude, the Cottonwood Butte Ski Course, and the Raspberry Festival.
Notably, this small town features its own airport.
