The Top 10 Can’t-Miss Scenic Drives in Idaho

Idaho isn’t just for potatoes. It’s a top place for whitewater rafting, hosts an incredible music festival every year, and has more soakable hot springs than any other place in the country. You can go mountain biking and check out the site of Evel Knievel’s failed canyon jump.

If you love snowboarding, then you’ll want to try your hand at sandboarding on the tallest sand dune. Regardless of your destination in the state, there are some incredible scenic roads you may want to check out along the way.

Enter your zip code above to find car insurance rates that work with your budget!

The Top 10 Scenic Drives in Idaho

Home to three different mountain ranges, Idaho has some of the most rugged terrain in the nation. You’ll see granite peaks, soothing meadows, and even alpine lakes when you visit this region. This is why scenic drives through this state are so popular.

Whether you’re just passing through or are taking a weekend away in Ashton, you’ll want to see some of the countryside. Here are ten amazing scenic drives that are sure to take your breath away.

#1 – Wild Horse Trail

Length of Route: 48.2 miles
Highlights: Fishing grounds and mountain views

Travel north on the eastern edge of the Selkirk Mountains to see some incredible fishing grounds and glorious mountain views.

The fall colors here rival those found in New England, and you’ll find that there’s plenty to do along the way. In addition to looking at the landscape, you can stop to enjoy all that nature has to offer with a fishing trip, some hiking, or even Nordic skiing.

#2 – Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgTMCWw6j3M

Length of Route: 35.8 miles
Highlights: Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

This scenic drive will take you right past some of the top resort destinations in the nation. This is because the region has spectacular views as well as some very active wildlife. You can watch for eagles or spot moose and elk out in the woods.

There aren’t too many places along the byway to stop for refreshments, so make sure that you have food, gas, and drinks before you embark on this 36-mile journey.

#3 – Hells Canyon Scenic Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ozbUYQcdCg

Length of Route: 213 miles
Highlights: View rivers, mountaintops, and valleys by snowmobile in the winter

If you want something more adventurous, then get off the paved roads at Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. This roadway is a combination of forest highways and paved roads that run 213 miles round trip.

The northern ends can be closed due to snow in the winter, so check weather conditions before you hit the road.

The great allure of this drive is that you can get a little closer to nature. You may pass a cattle drive along the way, and you’re sure to love the incredible views and smells. Stop along the way to stand by the Snake River and see the glorious scenery that this region is known for.

#4 – Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4AWBxL5c-o

Length of Route: 33 miles
Highlights: World-class rafting and kayaking

Step back in time to travel the route the miner’s once followed for supplies.

The Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway travels from Banks to Lowman, and the 33-mile journey still has incredible views. This is also on the migratory and nesting route for Canadian Geese, so you should keep an eye out for flocks.

#5 – Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xddbrbi5_lQ

Length of Route: 70 miles
Highlights: Walter’s Ferry, seasonal vineyards

Running from south to north, this byway starts at Walters Ferry and ends at the intersection of U.S. 20/26. It runs approximately 70 miles and will take about two hours to travel.

Full services are available along the way, so you can easily stop for a picnic lunch or to just enjoy the incredible scenery. You’ll also find vineyards and wineries that are open seasonally.

#6 – Owyhee Uplands Back Country Byway

Length of Route: 101 miles
Highlights: North Fork gorge and Jordan Creek

This loop starts 80 miles southwest of Boise and is mostly narrow graveled roads. The paths can be slick in the rain or snow, so you may want to reserve this drive for a nice, sunny day.

It’s 101 miles, and you can easily make it a full day trip that the family will fondly remember. The scenery is what the West is all about, and it’s something you’ll want to see on your travels through Idaho.

#7 – City of Rocks Back Country Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jhy-7pN5xUs

Length of Route: 49 miles
Highlights: Castle Rocks State Park and the City of Rocks National Reserve

Skirt the Pomerelle Ski Area and the Lake Cleveland Recreation Area on the City of Rocks Back Country Byway. This outstanding route ends in historic Oakley where you can see the state’s incredible collection of old stone and wood buildings.

#8 – Lost Gold Trails Loop

Length of Route: 47.8 miles
Highlights: Snowmobile trails are open in the winter

Travel from Dubois to Spencer just east of Interstate 15 on this important byway.

It’s an early-day trail that gold miners used when they traveled from Beaver Creek to the mines. In addition to the history of gold mining, you can also learn more about the opal mines found just outside of Spencer.

#9 – Teton Scenic Byway

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cb7ZFr-MWE

Length of Route: 70 miles
Highlights: Annual balloon festival in Driggs

Bike your way across this byway or ride in comfort in your car. It’s a 68.9-mile roadway that’s often covered with snow in the winter.

One portion runs along the Upper Snake River Valley and is covered with fields for various crops, and you’ll also take a drive through part of the Targhee National Forest.

#10 – Lewis and Clark Back Country Byway

Length of Route: 40 miles
Highlights: Continental divide

This 40-mile loop takes you right to Lehhi Pass, the spot where the Lewis and Clark Expedition first went over the Continental Divide.

Snow typically shuts the roadway down from November until June, but summer and fall visits will provide you with amazing vistas that you’ll want to capture on film.

Roadtrip checklist

Before venturing out on your journey, you want to make sure that your car is up to the drive and running in top condition. You’ll want to invest in:

– Vehicle inspection

Have your mechanic look over the car ahead of time to be sure that it’s safe and roadworthy. They can check the brakes and operating system so that you won’t have to worry about breaking down on the road.

– Essentials to have in your car

There are certain things you always want to have with you on a road trip, including:

• Passport and identification
• Clothing for the trips and an emergency set that you can easily access
• Extra food and drinks
• Blankets and hand warmers

– Emergency kit

Your emergency kit should include first aid supplies and a basic tool kit. You’ll also want to have emergency contact numbers for family members, local authorities, and even your insurance agent.

If traveling in cold weather, remember some additional shoes and cold weather gear. It’s also smart to have an emergency charging pack for your cell phone in case you wind up stranded.

– Have the Right Coverage

Review your policy every six months to be sure that it’s still what you need. You can save money by using an online comparison tool to look at three to four different policies.

While price is important, you should also look at the customer service reviews of the company, their financial stability, and overall ratings.

What kind of car insurance do you need in Idaho?

Drivers in Idaho are expected to meet certain requirements before they get behind the wheel. Whether you’re visiting the state or moving to the area, you’ll need to have:

• $25,000 coverage for injuries to one person in a single accident
• $50,000 coverage for personal injuries to multiple people in a single accident
• $15,000 liability protection

– Additional coverage options in Idaho

You don’t have to settle for the minimum coverages listed above. Ideally, your insurance should be high enough to cover your assets in the event that you cause an accident.

Additional coverage options include:

• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage so that you’ll be covered even when another driver is not
• Collision protection so you can have your car fixed if you cause an accident
• Comprehensive plans will take care of damage to your car caused by storms or vandals

Idaho is a tort state meaning that someone must be found at fault in an accident, and the responsible person is expected to pay for the damages.

– Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

If you drive without insurance in Idaho, you can be subject to penalties and fines. The first offense will result in a $75 fine, and subsequent offense within a five-year period can result in up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail.

Enter your zip code below to compare car insurance rates from top companies in your area today!