Explore Idaho United States

Explore Idaho United States

What is the best time to travel to Idaho

The best time to travel to Idaho depends on what activities and experiences you’re interested in. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip to Idaho:

Weather: Idaho experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year. Summers can be hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from the teens to the low 30s Fahrenheit. If you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and rafting, the summer months of June through August are the best time to visit. For winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, the best time to visit is typically between December and March.

Peak tourist season: Idaho’s peak tourist season is during the summer months of June through August. During this time, popular attractions like Yellowstone National Park and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area can be crowded, and prices for accommodations may be higher. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save money, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or September.

Events and festivals: Idaho hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the McCall Winter Carnival in January, the Treefort Music Fest in March, and the Western Idaho Fair in August. If you’re interested in attending any of these events, plan your trip accordingly.

Overall, the best time to visit Idaho depends on your interests and preferences. Consider the weather, peak tourist season, and events and festivals when planning your trip.

How to get to Idaho

Idaho can be accessed by several modes of transportation. Here are some options for getting to Idaho:

Plane: The easiest way to get to Idaho is by air. The state has several airports, including the Boise Airport, which is the largest airport in the state and serves several major airlines, including Delta, American, Southwest, and United. Other airports in Idaho include the Idaho Falls Regional Airport, the Friedman Memorial Airport, and the Pocatello Regional Airport.

Car: Idaho can also be accessed by car via several interstate highways, including Interstate 84, which runs through the southwestern part of the state, and Interstate 90, which runs through the northern part of the state.

Bus: As mentioned earlier, there are several bus companies that operate in Idaho, including Greyhound, Salt Lake Express, and Jefferson Lines, which provide bus service to and from several cities in Idaho and neighboring states.

Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line passes through northern Idaho with stops in Sandpoint and Spokane, Washington.

Overall, Idaho can be accessed by several modes of transportation, making it easy to plan a trip to the state.

How to get around Idaho

Idaho can be easily explored by car, as it has a well-maintained network of highways and scenic byways. However, there are other options for getting around Idaho as well:

Bus: Several bus companies provide intercity and intrastate transportation services in Idaho, including Greyhound, Salt Lake Express, and Jefferson Lines. These companies provide affordable and convenient transportation options to several cities and towns in Idaho.

Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder line runs through northern Idaho, with stops in Sandpoint and Spokane, Washington. This train service provides a scenic and comfortable way to explore the northern part of the state.

Air: Several airports in Idaho provide access to different parts of the state. If you’re looking to cover long distances in a short time, consider flying between different cities in Idaho.

Bike: Idaho has several scenic byways that are ideal for cycling. If you’re interested in cycling, you can rent a bike or bring your own and explore some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.

Walking: Idaho’s cities and towns are often pedestrian-friendly, with several downtown areas offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. Walking is a great way to explore these areas and get a feel for the local culture.

Overall, Idaho offers several options for getting around, so you can choose the mode of transportation that works best for you.

National Airports

Idaho has several airports that serve domestic and international flights. The major airports in Idaho are:

Boise Airport (BOI) – Located in the capital city of Boise, the Boise Airport is the largest airport in Idaho and serves as a hub for several major airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – Located in the city of Idaho Falls, the Idaho Falls Regional Airport offers flights to several major cities in the western United States, including Denver, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City.

Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) – Located in the city of Hailey, near the resort town of Sun Valley, the Friedman Memorial Airport serves as a gateway to the popular ski resort.

Spokane International Airport (GEG) – While not located in Idaho, Spokane International Airport is a major airport serving the Inland Northwest region, including Northern Idaho.

Other airports in Idaho include the Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH), Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport (LWS), and the Magic Valley Regional Airport (TWF).

Overall, Idaho’s airports provide convenient access to the state’s cities, ski resorts, and outdoor recreation areas.

Trains in Idaho

Idaho does not have a passenger rail service of its own, but Amtrak’s Empire Builder line passes through the state with stops in Sandpoint and Spokane, Washington, just across the border. The Empire Builder runs between Chicago and Seattle/Portland, offering scenic views of the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest along the way.

In addition to the Empire Builder, there are also several scenic train rides in Idaho, such as the Thunder Mountain Line and the St. Maries River Railroad. These train rides offer a unique way to experience the state’s stunning natural beauty and historic sites.

Overall, while Idaho does not have an extensive passenger rail network, there are still opportunities to explore the state by train through Amtrak and scenic train rides.

Buses in Idaho

Idaho has several bus companies that provide intercity and intrastate transportation services. Some of the most popular bus companies operating in Idaho include:

Greyhound: Greyhound is a well-known bus company that operates throughout the United States, including in Idaho. Greyhound has several bus stops in Idaho, including in Boise, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello.

Salt Lake Express: Salt Lake Express provides daily bus service between Boise and Salt Lake City, as well as other cities in Idaho and neighboring states.

Jefferson Lines: Jefferson Lines operates bus routes throughout the Midwest and western United States, including in Idaho. Jefferson Lines has a stop in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Eastern Idaho Transit Authority (EITA): EITA operates local bus service in several eastern Idaho cities, including Idaho Falls, Rexburg, and St. Anthony.

Valley Regional Transit: Valley Regional Transit provides bus service in the Boise metropolitan area, including in Boise, Nampa, and Caldwell.

These bus companies offer a convenient and affordable way to travel within Idaho and to neighboring states.

Accommodations in Idaho

Idaho offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some options:

Hotels and Motels: Idaho has a range of hotels and motels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some popular hotel chains in Idaho include Best Western, Holiday Inn, and Hilton.

Bed and Breakfasts: Idaho has several charming bed and breakfasts, especially in its rural areas. These properties offer a more personalized experience and often include homemade breakfasts and other amenities.

Guest Ranches: Idaho has several guest ranches that offer a unique Western-style experience, with horseback riding, hiking, and other outdoor activities. These properties often include all-inclusive packages that cover accommodations, meals, and activities.

Camping and RV Parks: Idaho has several campsites and RV parks that offer affordable accommodations in scenic locations. Many of these properties offer amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and playgrounds.

Vacation Rentals: Idaho has several vacation rental options, including cabins, cottages, and apartments. These properties often offer more space and privacy than traditional hotels, and can be a great option for families or groups of friends.

Overall, Idaho offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Consider your travel style and budget when choosing your accommodations in Idaho.