Idaho is a dream playground for outdoor lovers—but let’s be real, not everyone wants to scale cliffs or bike 50 miles before breakfast. The good news? You don’t have to. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned adventurer, there’s an Idaho activity waiting with your name on it.
At Scenic Stay, we believe the outdoors should be for everyone. So we’ve rounded up our favorite biking, boating, and other outdoor adventures—each one broken down by skill level, so you can find your pace, soak in the scenery, and still make it back in time for s’mores.
🚴 Biking: From Scenic Rides to Serious Trails
Beginner: The Wood River Trail – Sun Valley
This paved, mostly flat trail winds through meadows and past mountain views—without any scary drops. It’s family-friendly, well-maintained, and offers plenty of places to stop for snacks or photos.
Intermediate: Hiawatha Trail – Northern Idaho
This bucket-list ride takes you through 10 train tunnels and across 7 sky-high trestle bridges. It’s a long, downhill cruise with shuttle service available at the bottom—so you get all the views with none of the uphill pain.
Advanced: Galena Pass Trails – Sawtooth National Forest
If you’re craving a challenge, Galena delivers with alpine climbs, switchbacks, and singletrack options that reward you with jaw-dropping panoramas. Not for the faint of leg.
🛶 Boating: Paddle, Float, or Cruise
Beginner: Payette Lake – McCall
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide across this sparkling mountain lake. You’ll find calm coves, sandy beaches, and even a few floating docks to lounge on between paddles.
Intermediate: Snake River Float – Hagerman Area
A mellow float down the Snake River gives you a front-row seat to waterfalls, fish hatcheries, and hot springs. It’s the perfect half-day adventure—just be ready to steer a little.
Advanced: Salmon River Whitewater – Riggins
If you’ve got a taste for adrenaline, guided rafting trips on the “River of No Return” bring the thrills. Think big rapids, canyon walls, and heart-pumping fun. But don’t worry—outfitters keep it safe.
🌲 Beyond: Hiking, Soaking, and More
Beginner: Blue Lake Trail – Cascade
A short hike with a big payoff. Just 1.5 miles in, you’ll reach a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by wildflowers and pines. Great for beginners or lazy afternoon strolls.
Intermediate: Goldbug Hot Springs – Near Salmon
This 3.5-mile round trip hike has a little bit of climb, but it ends in terraced hot springs overlooking a mountain valley. You’ve earned that soak.
Advanced: Alice-Toxaway Loop – Sawtooths
One of the most stunning backpacking loops in the state (and arguably the Northwest). Expect alpine lakes, steep climbs, and views that will ruin you for all other hikes.
🌟 Pro Tips for Every Adventurer
- Start early to avoid summer heat and afternoon thunderstorms.
- Layer up—even in summer, mountain mornings can be chilly.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water, even on short outings.
- Know your limits. There’s no shame in choosing chill over thrill.
Plan Less. Adventure More.
At Scenic Stay, we make it easy to turn your outdoor plans into reality—no matter your skill level. From quiet cabins near beginner trails to remote spots close to the action, our curated Listings help you land the perfect basecamp.
Need help figuring out where to go and what to do? Try our Itinerary Planning Service and get a personalized adventure plan built just for you.
Idaho’s great outdoors is calling—loud or quiet, your choice.
Let’s plan an adventure that fits you.
