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Scenic Drives

take the scenic route
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Teton Scenic Byway

Starting in Swan Valley, ID, the Teton Scenic Byway offers some of the most dramatic contrast of topography in the state. Going through Pinecreek Pass into Victor, you have officially entered into Idaho’s Teton Valley. From here, countless miles of quiet farm fields and plains suddenly shift into rugged peaks resting at over 13,000 ft in elevation. Spring is one of the best times to embark on this drive due to the bright green farmland and the snow covered peaks. Be sure to stop at Grand Teton Brewing to try out some local craft beers, or Grand Teton Distillery for local spirits. 

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Mesa Falls Scenic Byway

If you’re in the Island Park area, don’t miss out on the small detour through the Mesa Falls scenic byway. This 28-mile mountain route winds through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in eastern Idaho, passing two of the most picturesque waterfalls in the state. The Upper Mesa Falls is a 114-foot waterfall that plunges into the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. There’s great infrastructure for viewing platforms and photo opportunities here, but if you’re itching to find more free-falling water, you can hike down to the Lower Falls. This short and easy hike is less traveled, and you have the opportunity to get more up close and personal with the cascade. The Mesa Falls scenic byway also offers some of the best spots to hike and fish, if you’ve got some extra time to kill.

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Craters of The Moon

Experience a desert destination that mimics the topography of Earth’s closest celestial body at Craters of The Moon National Monument. This preserve covers over 750,000 acres of lava fields, volcanic cones, and other unique geological features, offering an abundance of hiking trails. Miles of molten lava rock and magma fields litter this desert landscape, creating a sense of off-planet surreality. In the 60’s, NASA actually sent three astronauts from the Apollo Missions to research and study the topography and geology, and have since started studying geological formations for future expeditions on Mars. If you’re looking to spend a bit more time in the preserve, there are also plenty of places to park and camp overnight. 

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Hwy 26 Through Palisades Reservoir

One of the best autumn drives in the state is through the Palisades Reservoir area. Starting in Idaho Falls, drive through Swan Valley on Highway 26. If you’re looking to stretch your legs at the halfway point, be sure to check out Fall Creek Falls, which is located just a mile or two off the highway as you approach Swan Valley. Driving further southeast on 26, you will start to gain some elevation, and notice some twists and turns in the road. If you look to the south, you’ll find a deep blue, high mountain reservoir that’s surrounded by foliage. In late September and October, the leaves turn bright red and orange, as the fall sun coats the mountains in an amber glow. Just off the highway here is Big Elk Creek, where you can find Kokanee salmon running up river to spawn in late September. If you’re looking for more, just keeping heading towards the junction, where you can redirect towards iconic Jackson, WY. 

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Bear Lake Scenic Byway

This byway starts (or ends) in the small town of Fish Haven right next to Bear Lake. Bear Lake has been called the Caribbean of the Rockies due to its bright turquoise color that’s contrasted by desert foothills. The lake is a popular place to fish or boat, but you can also explore the limestone Minnetonka Cave system, or stop for some fresh raspberry shakes found throughout lakeside towns. The historic Tabernacle in Paris provides a deeper look into the history of this area developed by pioneers. Once you’ve had your fill of lakeside activities, continue along U.S. 30 through Soda Springs and Alexander. The byway ends at McCammon where it meets Interstate 15, but not before passing through Lava Hot Springs. Lava Hot Springs offers one of the highest rated developed hot springs infrastructure in the state, with areas for swimming or soaking in the summer or winter. It’s economy is primarily tourist driven, but the town itself offers great dining, activities, and lodging for those interested in a more remote mountain town experience.

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Sawtooth Scenic Byway

One of the most photographed mountain ranges in the United States is the Sawtooth Mountains. The byway cuts through the heart of the Boulder Mountains, providing adventurers access to the base of the Sawtooths, starting in Shoshone, ID and ending in Stanley. The amount of activities and outdoor recreation throughout this byway cannot be understated. The route passes through Sun Valley, which is renowned for its incredible nightlife, ski resort, mountain biking, hiking and fishing opportunities. A visit to the Sawtooth botanical garden in Ketchum offers education about some of the local flora and statuary. As you head out of Sun Valley, stop at the mountain pass summit and Galena Lodge to take in the expansive wilderness area with photo opportunities, cross country skiing, lodging, mountain biking and more. Then continue onward to make your way to Redfish Lake and the quaint mountain town of Stanley, Idaho. Incredible backpacking, fishing, biking and water sports are available in this area due to its 1,000 mile surroundings of nothing but untouched wilderness. This byway is truly one of the staples of Idaho’s reputation due to the incredible hospitality, recreation, and scenic destinations all within a 3 hour drive.

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