Summary
Boise, the largest city in the remote northwestern state of Idaho, serves as an attractive hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located alongside the Boise River, from which it derives its name, the city is surrounded by greenery in what might otherwise be described as a semi-arid climate characterized by extreme summer heat and substantial winter snowfall.
Boise’s proximity to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains provides an ideal setting for an array of outdoor activities that Idaho is celebrated for.
Despite the sometimes challenging climate, the stunning landscapes are undeniably captivating.
The region is recognized as an outdoor haven, featuring winding canyons to traverse, crystal-clear rivers for swimming, and magnificent waterfalls to appreciate.
Surrounding Boise are other cities worthy of exploration, all situated within the Boise River Basin.
Farther afield in the rugged terrain, there are even several abandoned ghost towns for the adventurous; these are remnants from the mining era that could not endure Idaho’s isolation.
Here is a detailed exploration of the best day trips from Boise:
1. Craters of the Moon
The Craters of the Moon is a remarkable geological feature; so unique that it is often compared to the lunar surface.
Located east of Boise, this protected expanse of basalt lava fields extends across 600 square miles of the Idaho terrain.
Its striking landscape bears resemblance to Iceland more than to typical North American scenery; the expansive black lava formations have reshaped the land, creating craters and cloaking hills in a remarkably surreal yet captivating sight.
Vantage points are available for observation, or the more intrepid can venture into this wilderness for hiking expeditions.
During winter, the area is enveloped in snow, with blizzards sweeping across the lava fields, transforming an already surreal landscape into something akin to a science fiction setting.
2. Bogus Basin
Situated a mere forty-minute drive north of Boise, Bogus Basin is a prominent destination.
This elevated area, reaching over 2,300 meters, primarily functions as a ski resort in winter, catering to the local population.
While it serves as a ski haven close to the city, in summer, it provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat, becoming a favored spot for hikers and campers seeking to engage in Idaho’s outdoor lifestyle.
3. Bruneau Sand Dunes
Another extraordinary landscape near Boise is the Bruneau Sand Dunes.
This unique environment ranks among the most distinctive in the United States. Massive sand dunes—one approaching 500 meters in height—have accumulated over millennia around two small lakes.
It is both a peculiar and aesthetically pleasing location, encouraging visitors to engage in various adventurous activities.
Opportunities abound for horseback riding through the dunes, hiking, swimming in the lakes, as well as sandboarding and sledding.
4. St Anthony Sand Dunes
For those captivated by sand dunes, Idaho provides an exceptional destination.
The St Anthony Sand Dunes, located near Boise, form a vast expanse of dunes that shift with the wind, creating an adrenaline-inducing playground.
Visitors can enjoy the view from a distance, or those seeking adventure can navigate the dunes using motorized ATVs and custom dune buggies, which allow for a thrilling experience across the sands.
5. Nampa
Nampa is the second largest city in Idaho, a mere twenty miles from Boise and situated within the same river basin.
Originally established as a railroad town when the east-west tracks were constructed across the nation, Nampa has blossomed into a larger city since its modest beginnings.
This city hosts numerous green parks and showcases the historic old town, an outstanding example of 19th-century pioneering architecture.
One of the most notable events occurs annually in June when Nampa holds its popular rodeo.
6. Meridian
Meridian ranks as Idaho’s third-largest city and lies centrally between Boise and Nampa.
Once a predominantly agricultural area, it has evolved but maintains a rural ambiance with urban farmers’ markets and complimentary outdoor movie screenings in parks during pleasant weather.
7. Idaho City
Idaho City was once the largest urban center in the state.
Established during the early settlement days, it flourished rapidly during the gold mining boom that swept through Idaho.
However, its prosperity was short-lived; as mining opportunities diminished, the population dwindled, leading many to relocate along the Boise River.
Once home to thousands, Idaho City now hosts a few hundred residents.
Located just a short drive from Boise, it offers a glimpse of historic frontier architecture and the divergent outcomes of Idaho’s earliest settlements.
8. Silver City
One of the most extreme locations to visit is the abandoned ghost town of Silver City, which experienced significant decline.
Silver City developed during the gold rush, similar to Idaho City, once boasting a population in the thousands.
Nevertheless, it soon faced abandonment when the mining operations ceased.
Now a historic site, a handful of steadfast residents remain, their descendants continuing to inhabit this area amidst the remnants of former businesses, mines, and homes.
9. Twin Falls
Twin Falls serves as the gateway to the stunning canyons and waterfalls of southeastern Idaho.
The most prominent waterfall in this area is Shoshone Falls, located just a few kilometers east of Twin Falls.
Dubbed the ‘Niagara Falls of the West,’ it actually surpasses Niagara Falls in height.
This remarkable waterfall offers a breathtaking visual experience for visitors.
10. Snake River Canyon
Adjacent to Twin Falls lies the remarkable Snake River Canyon, which extends for over 50 miles, with the Snake River carving its way through, reaching depths of up to 500 meters in places.
The breathtaking vistas have garnered fame notably in 1974 when Evel Knievel attempted to leap across the canyon on a customized rocket motorcycle.
11. Hells Canyon
Hells Canyon represents the deepest gorge in the United States and spans ten miles along the borders of Oregon, Idaho, and Washington, shaped by the same Snake River that carved out the Snake River Canyon.
Accessing Hells Canyon can be challenging due to limited roadways, but the breathtaking scenery and the myriad of recreational activities available both in the canyon and on the river are worthwhile pursuits.
12. City of Rocks
City of Rocks is an area renowned for its multitude of rock formations, which aptly explains its name.
It is an exceptional destination for rock climbers, featuring thousands of climbing routes within this state reserve.
For those who do not climb, the rocks present impressive monumental features; massive boulders, towering peaks, and gigantic stone pinnacles reaching skyward create a truly unique environment.
This site is distinct from other locations in Idaho, offering yet another exceptional outdoor attraction accessible from Boise.
13. Hagerman Fossil Beds
Located a short distance from Boise are the remarkable Hagerman Fossil Beds.
This site ranks among the largest fossil beds globally and is notable for its discovery of many extinct animal species from pre-ice age historical periods.
These fossils are exceptionally preserved within the Idaho wilderness.
A visitor center provides valuable insights into the significance of this notable fossil bed.
14. Sawtooth National Forest
The Sawtooth National Forest encompasses a vast expanse of pristine wilderness in central Idaho, not far from Boise.
This area offers numerous trails and hiking options, with many spots ideal for day trips from the city.
However, its vastness means that some areas are only accessible through full hiking expeditions.
With countless opportunities for hiking and scenic views, it represents a quintessential component of Idaho’s uniquely spectacular natural environment, perfect for frequent visits from Boise.
15. Boise National Forest
Boise National Forest is Idaho’s largest forest reserve, extending across thousands of square miles of untouched wilderness.
This area presents ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and river rafting for the adventurous spirit.
In winter months, snowfall transforms the area, shifting focus towards skiing and snowshoeing.
One of the significant appeals of Boise National Forest is the presence of some of the most breathtaking scenic drives, with paved roads traversing extensive sections of the park.
The drives through the landscape offer unforgettable views for those embarking on journeys from the city.
