Southwest Idaho: Wild Adventure Meets City Pursuits

Begin your journey in Boise, Idaho’s capital city. Arts, food and urban charm are abundant here, as are rivers and foothills perfect for boating and hiking excursions. Get a dose of culture with a visit to the Boise Art Museum, then walk the reflective path at the Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial. When it’s time to grab a bite to eat, you’ll find over 100 restaurants and eateries within a 10-minute walk of Grove Plaza at the heart of downtown. During June and July, linger downtown a little longer to catch free open-air performances each Wednesday as part of the annual Alive After Five concert series. Summer weekends are perfect for browsing the Boise Farmers Market and enjoying fresh-air strolls through the historic Basque Block, where the cultural traditions of Basque immigrants are preserved through lively festivals and authentic architecture.

Once you hit the road, the landscape shifts quickly. Take a scenic drive north of Boise to McCall, a picturesque mountain town on the shores of Payette Lake. Take advantage of Idaho’s unmatched whitewater rapids with an easygoing float or a heart-pounding rafting excursion down the Salmon River. Back on land, spend some time savoring the beauty of Southwest Idaho on horseback. Area outfitters lead guided tours and group trail rides for riders of all ability levels. McCall is well known for its nearby ski areas, with Brundage Mountain, Little Ski Hill and Tamarack Resort offering powdery slopes in the winter months. Summer is just as exciting a time to visit: Hiking and biking trails, pristine lakes for padding and fishing, natural hot springs and beautiful vistas at every turn make relaxation second nature in this alpine escape.

You might be surprised to find high-quality wines in this part of the world, but what was once a well-kept secret is starting to get out: Idaho’s high altitude, volcanic soil and alpine climate produce some seriously enviable wine grapes. Just west of Boise lies the Sunnyslope Wine Region, an emerging wine destination nestled in the Snake River Valley American Viticultural Area. Savor a variety of red, whites and rosés at over 50 wineries and tasting rooms, enjoying a refreshing blend of sweeping views and vibrant vintages. Sign up for a wine tour and let local experts take you on a journey through the terroir of Southwest Idaho.

Fly into Boise Airport (BOI) and rent a car to start your Southwest Idaho exploration.