Summary
- Shore Lodge
- The Coeur d’Alene Resort
- Teton Springs Lodge & Spa
- Schweitzer Mountain Resort
- The Lodge at Sandpoint
- Sun Valley
- Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
- Red Horse Mountain Ranch
- River Dance Lodge
- Middle Fork Lodge
- Teton Valley Lodge
- The Pines at Island Park
- Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort
- Diamond D Ranch
- Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch
Idaho offers an abundance of outdoor activities and experiences. With exceptional skiing, this gateway to the West also features dude ranches and all-inclusive lodges catering to various wilderness pursuits. Visitors to Idaho can select from activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. Additionally, there are opportunities for a tranquil spa retreat in remote locations.
Whether you prefer to be near urban amenities, beside the lake, or in a secluded forest area, Idaho provides a diverse range of options. Visitors can enjoy boating, golfing, or gaming as well as simply relaxing by a fire pit while watching the sunset. The possibilities are extensive.
Here is an overview of the top resorts in Idaho:
1. Shore Lodge
An upscale destination for nature enthusiasts, Shore Lodge is located in McCall on Lake Payette. It is surrounded by numerous biking and hiking trails, as well as several hot springs for relaxation. In winter, activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing are available in the nearby hills, while summer offers opportunities to enjoy the lake and pool. Guests have access to the Whitetail Club, recognized as one of America’s 100 Greatest Courses by Golf Digest.
The Cove Spa provides saltwater immersion pools, floor-to-ceiling pine walls, and various treatments including massages, facials, body wraps, and sugar scrubs. This AAA Four Diamond resort boasts 77 well-appointed rooms and suites with wifi and satellite television. Cottages feature modern kitchens and lakeside hot tubs. The on-site restaurant, The Narrows, specializes in fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine.
Website: http://shorelodge.com/
2. The Coeur d’Alene Resort
Known as the “Playground of the Pacific Northwest,” The Coeur d’Alene Resort is an exceptional location for both leisure and business vacations. It features a remarkable golf course with the world’s only floating green, alongside a spa offering various treatments including couple’s massages and facials. Strategically situated on the lake, the resort provides easy access to boating, jet skiing, and wakeboarding, as well as an infinity pool for those looking to relax.
Rooms are housed in the Lake Tower, showcasing views of the water, town, or mountains. Each room is equipped with free wifi, cotton robes, pillow-top mattresses, and luxury toiletries. The resort boasts several dining options, including Beverly’s—a restaurant renowned for its Northwest flavors and extensive wine cellar—and the Boardwalk Bar, which offers cocktails and light fare with lake views. Additional dining options include a taphouse, an Italian grill, and the historic Cedars Floating Restaurant.
Website: http://www.cdaresort.com/
3. Teton Springs Lodge & Spa
Located just 20 minutes from Jackson Hole, Teton Springs offers a premier location for skiing, exploring Yellowstone, and visiting Grand Teton National Park. In summer, visitors can enjoy top-tier golfing, tennis courts, a 25-meter pool, and stocked ponds. Winter provides access to groomed cross-country ski trails and nearby resorts, along with on-site heli-skiing for adventure-seekers.
The 5,000 square foot spa features spacious treatment rooms, including a couple’s room with a fireplace, relaxation lounge, and eucalyptus steam room. The resort offers a range of accommodations from guest rooms and suites in the lodge to luxurious custom log cabins. Guests can savor casual meals at the resort’s Headwaters Grille.
Website: https://tetonspringslodge.com/
4. Schweitzer Mountain Resort
This ski destination near Sandpoint allows guests to stay on the slopes or in the village, offering various activities without the need to leave the mountain. Guests can choose accommodations in ski-in/ski-out condos or comfortable rooms in the village lodges. The resort is home to a heated outdoor pool and multiple hot tubs, in addition to skiing, horseback riding, disc golf, and hiking opportunities.
In Schweitzer village, activities include mining in a “sluice box,” ziplining, and tackling a 25-foot climbing wall. Visitors can explore shops, restaurants, and an on-site theater. The Nest restaurant provides 360-degree views, serving local coffee, beer, and an impressive selection of small plates. Quick snacks can be enjoyed at the Red Hawk Cafe before heading out to ski.
Website: http://www.schweitzer.com/
5. The Lodge at Sandpoint
Also situated in Sandpoint, this destination is ideal for skiing along with various year-round activities. With boating, golfing, and fishing among the outdoor options, guests will remain engaged. Accommodations include rooms, suites, and studios, or cottages with full kitchens. Each lodging option features pillowtop beds, coffee makers, complimentary wifi, cable TV, and breakfast.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness room, hot tubs, expansive decks, and 600 feet of private lakefront. Activities include a Bungee Jump Trampoline and a climbing wall on the resort’s Power Tower. Dining options comprise Forty-One South, which offers modern American fare, and Shoga Sushi Bar, specializing in fresh fish and Asian fusion cuisine.
Website: http://lodgeatsandpoint.com/
6. Sun Valley
Sun Valley presents an extensive array of activities throughout the year. Featuring the championship golf course, Trail Creek, as well as 400 miles of hiking trails and 30 miles of paved, car-free bike paths, there is much to enjoy. Visitors can partake in sport shooting at the Sun Valley Gun Club, utilize two fitness centers, or engage in ice skating performances.
Moreover, there are opportunities for skiing, sleigh riding, tennis, horseback riding, and fly fishing. The resort features a 340-seat on-site theatre, bowling alley, and game room for leisure. The spa offers relaxation with various treatments while dining options are plentiful, ranging from modern steakhouses to fine dining with an Austrian twist. Lodging options include rooms at the lodge, condos, cottages, and townhomes.
Website: https://www.sunvalley.com/
7. Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
This dude ranch-style destination emphasizes a connection with nature, offering mountain views, daily horseback rides, and the essence of the West. Accommodations are available in the lodge, which features handcrafted quilts and amenities such as complimentary wifi, or in log cabins with wood-burning stoves. Facilities include a recreation room, outdoor hot tub, basketball court, and horseshoes.
Guests can tailor their experience based on their interest in horseback riding, with options for all skill levels available. All-inclusive packages cover lodging, meals, and ranch activities, with three gourmet meals provided daily. Other attractions include archery, trap shooting, mountain biking, or lake cruises, complemented by evening campfires and s’mores.
Website: http://westernpleasureranch.com/
8. Red Horse Mountain Ranch
This all-inclusive dude ranch is situated on 560 acres surrounded by national forests near Coeur d’Alene, making it an excellent choice for families and solo travelers. The staff can arrange various guided adventures and accommodations in the lodge, vacation homes, or one of eight cabins featuring down comforters and rustic decor.
Summer activities include mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing, while winter offers downhill and cross-country skiing. Notably, horseback riding remains a primary draw, with around 100 horses available each summer. Dining emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, featuring buffet-style lunch options and a weekly special Wine Dinner.
Website: https://redhorsemountainranch.com/
9. River Dance Lodge
Identifying as “Idaho’s Outdoor Adventure Resort,” River Dance Lodge provides all-inclusive packages for fishing, white water rafting, kayaking, and hiking. Guests can opt for cabin accommodation or glamping experiences in luxury canvas tents, complete with private porches and claw-footed soaking tubs.
Staff can facilitate horseback riding excursions or guided fly-fishing trips along the Selway River. Meals at the resort’s Syringa Cafe feature healthy Northwest cuisine, and dinner is offered in a family-style format each evening. Additionally, non-inclusive guests can make reservations for dining along the banks of the Clearwater River.
Website: http://www.riverdancelodge.com/
10. Middle Fork Lodge
This exclusive and remote resort is primarily accessible by float plane, boat, or pack trails. Once a trapping site, Middle Fork Lodge capitalizes on the region’s natural hot springs for heating pools and hot tubs, nestled amidst 2,500 acres of wilderness with rich historical significance.
Guests can engage in guided hikes, fishing trips, and archery, with horseback riding opportunities available through scenic mountain ridges. Accommodations are five-star quality, boasting marble bathrooms, luxury bedding, and custom furnishings. The dining hall features gourmet ranch-style dishes, including grilled Alaskan salmon and filet mignon.
Website: https://middleforklodge.com/
11. Teton Valley Lodge
Situated along the river, Teton Valley Lodge specializes in all-inclusive fly-fishing experiences. Vacation packages encompass meals, lodging, and professional guides, while day trips can also be arranged. The lodge prioritizes exceptional service and attentive detail.
Cabins range from one to three bedrooms, each equipped with a daily-stocked minibar featuring complimentary drinks. The main lodge houses the dining hall, lounge, and microbrews on tap, while diners enjoy a four-course family-style meal. Canoes are available for use as sunset-watching opportunities abound from the comfort of the fire pit.
Website: https://tetonvalleylodge.com/
12. The Pines at Island Park
For visitors looking to experience Yellowstone National Park, The Pines offers a tranquil cabin resort as an ideal retreat. Set within Targhee National Forest, the lodge and luxury cabins provide privacy alongside essential amenities. Each cabin features private decks, hot tubs, barbecue grills, and spacious living areas with kitchens or kitchenettes.
Nearby attractions include hot springs, waterfalls, and recreational areas at Henry’s Lake State Park, ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking activities. An on-site restaurant, the Lodgepole Grill, offers casual lunch and dinner options, highlighting burgers, chicken strips, steaks, and seafood.
Website: http://www.pinesislandpark.com/
13. Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort
Located in Worley, near a prominent lake, this resort features a casino alongside various other attractions. The Circling Raven Golf Club provides an inviting afternoon out on the links, while Spa Ssakwa’q’n offers an array of rejuvenating treatments including massages and body wraps. The casino comprises 60,000 square feet of gaming space and additional entertainment options.
Accommodations include modern rooms with amenities such as bathrobes and 42” TVs, with the option to upgrade to suites featuring jetted bathtubs and separate living spaces. For nightlife, guests may enjoy live entertainment at the lounge, while dining options range from buffets to more formal eateries.
Website: http://www.cdacasino.com/
14. Diamond D Ranch
Located amidst the Salmon River Mountains within Frank Church Wilderness, Diamond D Ranch provides an all-inclusive experience ideal for relaxation, connecting with nature, and enhancing horseback riding skills. Guests are offered guided trail rides throughout the day, alongside opportunities for fishing, gold panning, and outdoor activities such as hiking and archery.
Accommodation options range from lodge suites and rooms to cabins suitable for larger groups. Family-style meals are served in the dining room or outdoors by barbecues. Breakfast features fresh coffee, eggs, and pancakes, while the facility offers an extensive selection of beer and wine, complemented by freshly baked pies for dessert.
Website: http://www.diamonddranch-idaho.com/
15. Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch
This ranch offers guests a remarkable experience across 900 acres in the midst of stunning scenery. The accommodations promote a tech-free environment, omitting televisions, phones, and radios to enhance relaxation and seclusion. Charming rooms and cabins feature stone fireplaces and oversized showers.
Visitors can partake in various activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, and rock climbing, ensuring ample engagement throughout their stay. Guests may enjoy drinks in the hot pool or on the porch at sunset, followed by exquisite culinary offerings, from fresh rainbow trout to smoked ribs made with locally sourced ingredients.
Website: http://www.idahorocky.com/