South Central – Visit Idaho https://visitidaho.org Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:43:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://visitidaho.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/favicon.png South Central – Visit Idaho https://visitidaho.org 32 32 Skip the Crowds and Try These Idaho Natural Attractions https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/skip-the-crowds-and-try-these-idaho-natural-attractions/ Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:43:05 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=85435 You don’t need to climb to the peak of Mount Everest or trek to the top of Victoria Falls to see impressive natural wonders of the world. Experience unbelievable bucket-list adventures that hold their own against big-name hot spots right here in Idaho.

Four people inside a lava tunnel looking up toward the sky through an opening at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, near Arco. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

The volcanic geology of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve made it a top pick for NASA’s Apollo 14 mission because it most accurately represented what astronauts would experience on the moon’s surface. The team trained for their lunar trip by maneuvering through through this unique Idaho landscape and collecting rock samples. The area is also recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, which means all the brilliant stars you’ll experience at night will make you feel like you’re worlds away.

a red tailed hawk in flight
World Center for Birds of Prey, near Boise. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.

Don’t let the long name throw you. The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) has a prestigious designation as its home to the greatest concentration of nesting birds of prey on the continent and more than 250 avian species. On the other side of the country, Florida’s Everglades National Park may have a more tropical climate — making it an ideal destination for the 300 bird species that visit the area — but both locations offer top-tier birdwatching. Drive through the NCA to spot hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons as they use the crags and crevices 700 feet above the Snake River to raise their young. The NCA is the considered “the best of the best” for bird viewing in Idaho.

A man in a blue shirt and baseball cap peers out of a gathering of towering cedar trees.
Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars, near Nordman. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Towering trees? We’ve got that! Walk through an old-growth cedar forest where the treetops reach heights of 150 feet. The Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars is a smaller concentration of gigantic trees than the expansive Redwood National Forest, but you’ll still find mighty cedars that are wider than a two-car garage. Visit this tucked-away spot in northern Idaho for a picnic, or a trek to a waterfall.

Aerial view of Pend Oreille Scenic Byway.
Pend Oreille Scenic Byway near Sandpoint. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Idaho is home to hundreds of amazing lakes, but Lake Pend Oreille holds the title of Idaho’s deepest lake. Despite being nearly 200 feet shy of Lake Superior’s whopping 1,300-foot depth, Lake Pend Oreille makes up for it with 111 miles of shoreline. Farragut State Park sits on the edge of this magnificent lake, where you can wander around the Museum at the Brig and learned about the former World War II naval training center stationed here. Even better, when the conditions are right, you might be able to spot the northern lights.

A group of people horseback riding through an open landscape with a forest and the Sawtooth Mountains in the distance.
Horseback Riding near Redfish Lake near Stanley. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

While this may seem an unlikely matchup, Idaho’s Frank Church-Wilderness of No Return Wilderness spans more than 2.3 million acres, which is a close second to Death Valley in size. “The Frank,” as it’s lovingly known, is the largest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48 states and offers more mountains, waterways and trees than its counterpart in California and Nevada. Featuring world-renowned whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, four national forests and the Salmon River Canyon (which is also deeper than the Grand Canyon), there is no shortage of wild places to explore in this extraordinary part of Idaho.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism
Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism

There’s a reason Shoshone Falls is nicknamed the “Niagara of the West.” At 212 feet high, this dazzling waterfall stands 24 feet taller than Niagara Falls. The falls are accessible from overlooks in the nearby park, but some of the best views can be enjoyed by paddling to the base of the falls and looking up from the Snake River below.

a group of people whitewater rafting on a river within a canyon
Hells Canyon. Photo credit: Idaho Tourism.

While the Grand Canyon has some serious name recognition, Idaho’s Hells Canyon still outranks its fellow natural marvel. In some areas, Hells Canyon is nearly 8,000 feet deep and 10 miles wide. That’s 2,000 feet — almost two Eiffel Towers — deeper than the Grand Canyon. Take a jet boat tour, a whitewater rafting trip or a drive along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to see how it stacks up.

A dark turquoise night sky filled with stars stretches out over the Sawtooth Mountains.
Hell Roaring Lake, Sawtooth National Recreation Area, near Stanley. Photo Credit: Visit Idaho.

The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve stretches 1,400 square miles (two times the size of Los Angeles) covering the majestic Sawtooth Mountains, rugged wilderness areas and several mountain towns. It also holds the coveted Gold-Tier status, which means Idaho’s night skies are some of the best found on Earth. Arches National Park in Utah also holds an International Dark Sky Park designation, so those night skies are nothing to overlook. But the size of Idaho’s Dark sky Reserve means you have ample, and often uncrowded, ways to experience the stars — no special equipment needed.

Which of these natural attractions will you visit first?

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Unique & Scenic Disc Golf Courses in Idaho State Parks https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/disc-golf-courses-in-idaho-state-parks/ Tue, 05 Mar 2024 21:19:15 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=83941 Disc golf combines elements of a traditional round of golf with the fun of tossing a flying disc. Eleven of Idaho’s state parks feature fairways to finesse—allowing visitors to explore the Gem State’s vast beauty and diverse terrain while playing on some of the most spectacular disc golf courses in Idaho.

This 545-acre park is home to a year-round disc golf course that is challenging in all the right ways. The handcart-friendly route provides intermediate-to-advanced players with a mix of open fairway and wooded shots across 19 holes. The course is lined by water and features slight elevation changes.

A disc golf basket with a lake in the background at Eagle Island State Park.
Eagle Island State Park, Eagle. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

This park’s five, yes five, year-round courses are known for their balanced mix of hole layouts and difficulty. Each course features 18 holes, with one geared toward beginners and children, three in the intermediate-to-advanced range and one highly technical, advanced course designed with professionals in mind.

This charming, intermediate nine-hole course sits along the Snake River and is available to play year-round, although summer access may depend on the park’s mowing schedule. Several holes prompt players to use strategy in avoiding light brush, tree groupings and water hazards.

With 21 holes open all year and various options for approaching play, the course at this state park is easily adjustable to suit a player’s skill level and is a fast favorite for first-time visitors.

A child playing disc golf at Lake Walcott State Park.
Lake Walcott State Park, Rupert. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Sandy Point, a hillside section of this scenic state park near Boise, offers a welcoming 18-hole course with changing basket layouts. The park is generally accessible from October through May.

A disc golf basket with mountains in the background at Lucky Peak State Park.
Sandy Point, Lucky Peak State Park, Boise. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

This challenging, elevated adventure features nine holes available year-round and is best for intermediate-to-advanced players. There are drops and rises, narrow fairways and even several baskets located over ravines at this park. Beginners can get their throws in on an additional junior course.

A woman playing disc golf at Massacre Rocks State Park.
Massacre Rocks State Park, American Falls. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Harvey’s Hemlock Hideaway, a disc golf course located in the lovely Priest Lake area, was designed with beginners and families in mind. The nine holes feature scenic views and a mix of open shots and tree coverage. This picturesque location is technically seasonal, but baskets are left out for those willing to brave the elements throughout the year.

Spend the entire day outside on a beautiful 18-hole course. This moderately challenging route along the Snake River incorporates water and can be tricky when it’s windy. The course at this park is accessible year-round despite occasional snow cover.

A woman playing disc golf at Three Island Crossing State Park.
Three Island Crossing State Park, Glenns Ferry. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Niagara Springs is one of six units at this renowned state park, where disc golf enthusiasts can find a well-designed course at a higher elevation with a mixture of shots. The play on this 18-hole disc golf course in Idaho leans toward intermediate or advanced, but beginners can also enjoy honing their throws here.

Two people playing disc golf with a lake in the background at the Niagara Springs unit of Thousand Springs State Park.
Niagara Springs, Thousand Springs State Park, Hagerman. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Aim for an ace against a backdrop of ancient granite formations at this remarkable state park known for its rock climbing. The small, grassy course here has only three holes, but visitors can also take advantage of nearby scenic picnic areas, as well as hiking and fishing access.

Recently upgraded to 18 holes, the FoxBurrow fairway is found near the Freeman Creek Campground within the 850-acre park. The course allows ample opportunities for intermediate-to-advanced players to show off their skills over shots of differing lengths, inclines and technicality.

Looking for insider tips on visiting Idaho’s state parks? Check out Ranger Talks! This series gives you firsthand tips from the people who know each park inside and out: the rangers.

Find additional resources and check out more activities and adventures you can experience in Idaho State Parks.

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Experience These Off the Beaten Path Spots in Idaho https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/experience-these-off-the-beaten-path-spots-in-idaho/ Tue, 27 Feb 2024 15:59:21 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=84677 Sara Sheehy worked in partnership with Visit Idaho to create this Travel Tip.

When I’m traveling outside of Idaho and share that I live in the Gem State, people will often throw out the names of destinations that they’ve either been to or heard of. Boise. Sun Valley. Some mention the stunning natural beauty of Redfish Lake or the adventures that await near McCall. While I love hearing what people know of this beautiful state, I’m always keen to share that Idaho is full of memorable places to visit that are just off the beaten path.

Take a chance on one of these destinations that flies just-under-the-radar for many, but are perfect spots for exploring this summer.

Island Park is Idaho’s gateway to Yellowstone National Park, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that it’s not a destination in its own right. Whether you fish, hike, paddle, ATV, or simply like to relax on the riverbank with your favorite drink in hand, Island Park is your kind of place.

Man walks towards lake in Island Park.
Incredible views are everywhere in Island Park. Photo Credit: Sara Sheehy.

Tucked along Idaho’s border with Montana and Wyoming, Island Park is best known for the Henrys Fork of the Snake River (known simply as the “Henrys Fork”). The Henrys Fork is a world-class fishing river whose primary source, Big Springs, gushes forth from the ground just minutes from downtown Island Park. Anglers love the river for its large trout, prolific hatches, and accessible riverbanks. Everyone else loves it for its wide, sometimes lazy flow that is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming.

Those looking for more terrestrial adventures will find them in spades in Island Park. Hiking and ATV trails criss-cross a landscape that was formed by the same volcanic forces that continue to shape Yellowstone National Park. Harriman State Park is a favorite hiking spot and features historic ranch buildings that are open for tours in the summer. A bit further south, stunning Mesa Falls careens for ten stories over an ancient caldera and is an ideal spot to relax with a picnic lunch.

If a family-friendly destination is what you’re after, look no further than a trip to Lava Hot Springs. Located in Idaho’s southeastern corner, this small resort town grew up around a series of natural pools that fill with crystal clear, odorless mineral water that emerges from the ground at perfect soaking temperature. The highlight of any trip to Lava Hot Springs is hours spent soaking, splashing, and playing in the pools themselves, but there is plenty more to explore beyond the hot springs.

Views of Lava Hot Springs from walking trail.
Soak to your hearts content and explore the magical town of Lava Hot Springs. Photo Credit: Sara Sheehy.

Spend a morning at historic Chesterfield, a Mormon pioneer town that remains lovingly preserved by the families of the settlers who once called this quiet patch of prairie home. Free tours are given from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or you can walk the grounds yourself and get a taste of what life was like for pioneers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Adventure seekers will want to book an afternoon with Lava Zipline for hours of fun “riding the lines” across a wide, green canyon just outside of town. The experience continues with a run through a high ropes course that towers two stories above the ground.

The Snake River that is! The Snake is one of the Northwest’s major rivers, cutting a broad smile across southern Idaho from the Wyoming to the Oregon borders. Halfway through its journey across the state, the Snake flows through Twin Falls, a city of 50,000 people nestled along the edge of the deep river canyon.

Water flows over Shoshone Falls.
Views of Shoshone Falls are easy to get with an easy to access viewing platform. Photo Credit: Sara Sheehy.

Though Twin Falls is known as the commercial hub of south-central Idaho, its trendy Main Street and desert beauty make this bustling city worth a trip. Start your explorations with a morning at Centennial Waterfront Park. Enjoy beautiful views of I.B. Perrine Bridge, whose distinctive truss arch rises almost 500 feet above the water. Kayak rentals are available right along the shore, and in summer, a zipline course whizzes overhead.

Those looking for an even bigger thrill might be inclined to book a tandem jump with a BASE instructor—the Perrine Bridge is one of the only structures in the United States that doesn’t require a permit to launch from the deck into the canyon below.

Make your way to Twin Fall’s newly revitalized Main Street for lunch at a local eatery before heading to the impressive beauty of Shoshone Falls. Known as the “Niagara of the West,” the river plunges 212 feet over a horseshoe-shaped cliff. The sight is most impressive during the spring snowmelt but worth checking out any time of year.

The Grand Canyon may get all the fame, but did you know that the deepest river gorge in North America is right here in Idaho? Hells Canyon, located on our southern border with Oregon, plunges 7,900 feet at its deepest point. Its entire length is wild, dramatic, and a little hard to get to…but getting there is at least half the fun.

Rafters float down river in Hells Canyon on the Snake River.
Cool off with a whitewater adventure on the Snake River, or grab a seat on a thrilling jetboat ride. Photo Credit: Sara Sheehy.

Start your journey by driving the 22-mile Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, which stretches north from the Oxbow Bridge to the Hells Canyon Dam. This narrow, winding road looks down into the canyon itself but peel your eyes away from the water to keep a lookout for mountain goats, deer, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles. The Hells Canyon area was home to Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce Tribe, and petroglyphs dot the cliffs.

The Hells Canyon Dam is the start of the designated “Wild and Scenic” section of the Snake River, and though the road stops here, you won’t want to miss what’s beyond. To explore, book a whitewater rafting trip from Hells Canyon Dam to Pittsburgh Landing. This 35-mile rafting adventure takes three days and will bring you through the wildest and deepest parts of Hells Canyon. If whitewater rafting isn’t your style, make your way north to the Riggins area, where you can book a jet boat adventure that motors for a half-day or a full-day up the Snake River and into the rugged canyon bottom.

From the arid high desert in the south to the jagged terrain of central Idaho’s mountain ranges, few are ready for the surprise of the north—a land that is densely wooded, hilly, and filled with beautiful lakes, streams, and rivers. Love those Pacific Northwest vibes? Northern Idaho is where you’ll find them.

A group of three people walk across a bridge in downtown Sandpoint.
Downtown Sandpoint. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Coeur d’Alene is a popular jumping-off point for northern Idaho adventures. This town of 50,000 sits on the edge of Lake Coeur d’Alene, a lake popular with boaters and sightseers. Don’t have your own boat? Book a scenic cruise that leaves right from the downtown marina, or rent a paddleboard to ply the waters yourself. 

An hour north of Coeur d’Alene lies the resort town of Sandpoint, nestled on the shore of Idaho’s biggest and deepest lake, Lake Pend Oreille. Sandpoint has a quiet, beautiful charm that lures vacationers back year after year. Spend your days relaxing on the lakeshore, grabbing a bite to eat and a local pint at one of the many restaurants and breweries, and exploring the nearby hiking and paddling trails. Don’t miss the chance to catch a sunset over Lake Pend Oreille—the sight is one you won’t soon forget.

No matter where you visit this summer, Idaho is sure to leave you with memories that’ll last a lifetime. We’ll see you soon!

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Ranger Talks: Castle Rocks State Park https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/castle-rocks-state-park/ Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=83860

Frequently Asked Questions about Castle Rocks State Park

What attractions are nearby Castle Rocks State Park?

Spend some time exploring the City of Rocks National Reserve, driving the City of Rocks Backcountry Byway or checking out the California National Historic Trail.

What unique overnight stays are available at Castle Rocks State Park?

In addition to 37 serviced sites and six equestrian sites, there are three unique overnight stays available at the park. The Willow Glamping Yurt, The Lodge and The Bunkhouse are all available when staying at the park. Information on reservations can be found online. Find more camping availability at the adjacent City of Rocks National Reserve which features 67 basic sites and three group sites.

Are dogs allowed in Castle Rocks State Park?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on-leash as long as the leash is 6-feet or less.

Is rock climbing equipment available to rent at Castle Rocks State Park?

No. Anyone interested in rock climbing in the park will need to bring their own equipment.

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Castle Rocks State Park | Ranger Talks nonadult
Ranger Talks: Three Island Crossing State Park https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/three-island-crossing-state-park/ Mon, 08 Jan 2024 18:07:35 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=83315

Frequently Asked Questions About Three Island Crossing State Park

Can I learn about the Oregon Trail at Three Island Crossing State Park?

Yes. Visit the free Oregon Trail History and Education Center year-round for a self-guided tour of exhibits about the park and historical locations.

Is disc golf available at Three Island Crossing State Park?

Yes. Check out the 18-hole course that sits along the Snake River. This course is accessible year-round.

Is camping available at Three Island Crossing State Park?

Yes. Three Island Crossing State Park features campsites as well as cabins for overnight stays. Guests staying in a cabin must bring their own bedding though the cabins feature power, heat and air conditioning. Pets are not allowed in the cabins. Reserve your spot online.

Are there other attractions to visit around Three Island Crossing State Park?

Yes. Enjoy the sites and sounds of the Main Oregon Trail Backcountry Byway on a day trip or sip a glass of wine at the neighboring Y Knot Winery which also features a 9-hole golf course.

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Three Island Crossing State Park | Ranger Talks nonadult
Make Summer Memories at Idaho’s Beaches and Lakes https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/make-summer-memories-at-idahos-beaches-and-lakes/ Mon, 18 Dec 2023 16:24:56 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=82282

Skip the Ocean:

Make Summer Memories at Idaho's Beaches and Lakes
A father and son walking along the beach at Bear Lake, carrying a stand up paddleboard.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Bear Lake State Park, St. Charles. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Groups of people kayaking on Priest Lake, with a forest and mountains in the distance.
9 Lakeside Beaches in Idaho Infographic
A man tossing his daughter in the water at Lake Coeur d'Alene, with buildings, a marina and a forest in the background.
Swimming, Lake Coeur d’Alene, Coeur d’Alene. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Redfish Lake, Stanley

If you’re craving a summer getaway, Redfish Lake is a great spot to cool off with your crew. Unwind on the beach or rent anything that floats, from paddleboards and canoes to kayaks and paddle boats. Take a lake cruise or a shuttle ride to the main trailhead for the Redfish Lake Drainage.

Bear Lake, St. Charles

Located in the state’s southeast corner, Bear Lake spans the Idaho–Utah border. Often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” due to its intense turquoise blue water, the lake is best known for its waterskiing, swimming, sailing, Jet Skiing and fishing. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and watercraft of all sorts can be rented at North Beach.

Priest Lake, Coolin

Situated in northern Idaho, Priest Lake is a must-visit for sand-seekers. Some of the lodging properties along the lake are beachfront, making both water recreation and relaxing a breeze. Blue Diamond Marina offers rentals, including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and a variety of powerboats. Head to Priest Lake State Park for day-use areas with large sandy beaches and designated swimming areas.

Groups of people kayaking on Priest Lake, with a forest and mountains in the distance.
Kayaking, Priest Lake State Park, Coolin. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.

Dierkes Lake, Twin Falls

Less than a mile from Shoshone Falls, Dierkes Lake is a popular destination for some fun in the sun. Gather around a picnic table for a barbecue, or cool off with some kayaking and canoeing. If you’re looking to get in touch with your adventurous side, don your scuba gear and venture beneath the water to discover sunken rowboats, a hidden treasure chest and more.

Sandy Point Beach, Boise

Poised at the foot of Lucky Peak Dam, 34-acre Sandy Point Beach boasts an expansive swimming area complete with water features and two beach volleyball courts. Round out your day with some disc golf, or treat yourself to a picnic beneath a shady tree.

A family carrying floaties running into the water at Sandy Point Beach.
Lucky Peak State Park, Sandy Point Beach, near Boise. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Make Summer Memories at Idaho's Beaches and Lakes
Sailboats with colorful sails docked on the beach at Lake Cascade.
Sailboats ready for the day at Lake Cascade. Photo credit: Idaho State Parks.

Lake Cascade, Cascade

Lake Cascade State Park is the place to be for those seeking lake-view camping. While you’re here, swim at the beach, take a boat tour or rent WaveRunners, boats and anything else you might need from surrounding rental shops.

Payette Lake, McCall

If you’re looking for a place to pitch your tent this summer, head to Ponderosa State Park for picture-perfect views of Payette Lake, along with boating and fishing. Wiggle your toes in the warm sand, enjoy a scenic cruise with McCall Lake Cruises or romp on Jet Skis, kayaks and paddleboards from Mile High Marina.

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Coeur d’Alene. Photo credit: Visit Idaho
Make Summer Memories at Idaho's Beaches and Lakes

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Coeur d’Alene

Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint

A woman and three children building sandcastles and playing in the water at Bear Lake.
Bear Lake State Park, St. Charles. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Make Summer Memories at Idaho's Beaches and Lakes
  • Plan ahead! Some popular inns in more remote locations—like Redfish Lake Lodge—are booked six months or more in advance. But don’t panic if it’s already summer and you haven’t made a reservation yet. Check for cancellations or expand your lodging choices to include guest ranches, bed and breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds.
  • Many lakeside communities host summer music festivals and concert series, so grab a lawn chair and let the kids dance the evening away under the stars. The Festival at Sandpoint is held on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille in late July/early August and Redfish Lake Lodge hosts music on the lawn on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
  • When camping by water sources, remember federal guidelines state you must be at least 200 feet away from the water source.
Make Summer Memories at Idaho's Beaches and Lakes
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An Illustrated Guide to Idaho’s Birds of Prey https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/a-guide-to-idahos-birds-of-prey/ Mon, 04 Dec 2023 22:02:43 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=82233 A scenic view of the landscape at the Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey.

A Guide to Idaho’s Birds of Prey


An Illustrated Guide to Idaho's Birds of Prey
An Illustrated Guide to Idaho's Birds of Prey
An Illustrated Guide to Idaho's Birds of Prey

This is the most famous species in North America saved from the brink of extinction. This incredible success was engineered by The Peregrine Fund, which is based in Boise. Peregrine falcons hold the record for the fastest animal on Earth, with diving speeds recorded at more than 200 miles per hour. They are most apt to be found around wetlands and coasts where cliffs provide nesting sites, but they have also adopted tall buildings as suitable nest sites. Adult peregrines have a dark vertical bar on the face and lack the underwing pattern of the prairie falcon.

An illustration of a peregrine falcon in flight.

Few species generate as much excitement as the golden eagle. While the bald eagle can often be found near humans, the golden eagle prefers remote mountains, canyons and arid shrubland. They can be identified by their large size and golden feathers on the nape of the neck. At a distance, they appear different from hawks due to their long wings and tendency to cruise in straight lines. The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area in southwest Idaho has one of the densest populations of nesting golden eagles of any region in North America.

An illustration of a golden eagle.

If you see a large, bulky, slow-flying hawk around Idaho’s lower elevations, it’s most likely a red-tailed hawk. Like Swainson’s hawks, they nest in urban areas and perch in busy places to watch for prey on the ground. In most plumages, you can see a band of streaks across the belly that contrasts with the plumage above and below.

An illustration of a red-tailed hawk in flight.

This little cousin of Cooper’s hawk also specializes in eating other birds. Sharp-shinned hawks can be hard to distinguish from their relatives, and the difference between the two species is a frequent subject of conversation among birders. “Sharpies” are much less common than “coops.”

An illustration of a sharp-shinned hawk.

This falcon is the smallest in North America. It can frequently be found perching on utility lines, even along busy roads, where it watches the ground for mice and large insects. The striking pattern on its face is often detectable even without binoculars. Male American kestrels have blue wings, while females have rich brown wings. This means that—unlike most species of birds of prey—the sexes can be distinguished with ease. Kestrels nest in cavities that occur naturally in the landscape, like sections of hollow trees, and readily take to nest boxes.

Two side-by-side illustrations of a male and female American kestrel.

The old name for this species was the marsh hawk, which nicely reflects its preference for hunting over marshes, wet meadows and pastures. Northern harriers fly low and slow over the land, using their hearing, as well as their sight, to locate various prey. In addition to their distinctive flight pattern, their white rump is an excellent field mark for birders. Females are brown, while males are a striking silver-gray.

An illustration of a northern harrier in flight.

This raptor is only found in Idaho during the breeding season (April through September), where they are happy to nest in small groves of trees around ranches and in towns. Swainson’s hawks fly to Argentina for the winter, thereby being among the longest-distance migrants in the Gem State. Their black-and-white underwing pattern is usually sufficient to separate them from red-tailed hawks.

An illustration of a Swainson's hawk in flight.

The gorgeous black-and-white rough-legged hawk breeds on the arctic tundra and only visits Idaho in the winter, when they can be found across the Snake River Plain. They perch with golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, common ravens and other species on power poles and fences. They don’t come into towns, so you’ll need to pack a lunch and hit the road to see them.

An illustration of a rough-legged hawk.
An Illustrated Guide to Idaho's Birds of Prey
An illustration of a bald eagle.

Adult bald eagles are among the most distinctive raptors on Earth. Their large size, combined with bright-white heads and tails, make them truly unmistakable. Bald eagles can take up to six years to reach full adult plumage. Younger birds are darker and lack the striking head and tail, so they are often confused with golden eagles. Bald eagles flock to large rivers and lakes where they seek their favorite food, fish. Bald eagles can be seen often on Lake Coeur d’Alene between November and February.

An illustration of a prairie falcon.

The densest population of prairie falcons anywhere in the world is in the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey NCA in southwest Idaho. They nest on small ledges along the steep cliffs of the Snake River and other canyons in the region. This falcon specializes in ground squirrels, which live in the sagebrush country adjacent to their preferred canyon nest sites. These falcons have long, pointed wings and are powerful fliers. They can be distinguished from peregrine falcons by dark areas underneath where the wings meet the body.

An illustration of a ferruginous hawk in flight.

This is the state’s largest buteo—soaring hawks with broad wings. Unlike red-tailed hawks, ferruginous hawks are not found in urban environments but rather prefer more remote grassland and sagebrush country. They can often be identified in flight by large “windows” (light-colored patches) near the tips of the wings. This species is sensitive to human presence even in their preferred wild habitats. Partly because of this, these hawks have often been on lists of species of concern at the state and national level.

An illustration of a merlin in flight.

This small falcon is widespread but a challenge to spot in the wild. Merlins breed in the forests of higher elevations but descend into the valleys in winter, where they pursue small birds as prey. Unlike their close relative, the American kestrel, merlins appear relatively dark and short-tailed. They fly rapidly in unswerving lines when changing perches or pursuing prey.

An illustration of a Cooper's hawk.

Specializing in catching other birds, Cooper’s hawks have long tails and short wings that help them maneuver through branches in pursuit of prey. Cooper’s hawks have been successful in urban environments where they routinely spy on bird feeders. They are equally adept in natural forested environments where you can spot them on a perch surveying their surroundings or jetting between patches of trees on a mission to grab their next meal.

An illustration of an osprey in flight with a fish in it's talons.

If one species could be given an award for its tolerance of human beings, it is the osprey. The species readily nests on all sorts of human structures—light poles, billboards and bridges—as well as nest platforms built just for them. They are fish specialists, and as such, they require a river, coastline or lake nearby. They use a number of sites found along very busy highways, seemingly unfazed by the nonstop noise and human activity. Ospreys can be identified by their black and white plumage, large size and strongly angled wings.

An illustration of a gryfalcon.

This is the largest falcon on Earth and has been a prize of falconers for millennia. Gyrfalcons are rare in Idaho and only appear in winter when their arctic breeding grounds become too inhospitable, even for these circumpolar specialists. They have pointed wings like those typical of falcons and a relatively long tail. In flight, if not diving after prey, they look like a giant swallow gracefully lilting over the land.

A scenic overlook of the Snake River Canyon from Dedication Point.
An illustration of a mountain blue bird.
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Ranger Talks: Thousand Springs State Park https://visitidaho.org/travel-tips/thousand-springs-state-park/ Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/?post_type=travel_tip&p=76811

Frequently Asked Questions About Thousand Springs State Park

Can I paddleboard or kayak in Thousand Springs State Park?

Yes. The Ritter Island and Niagara Springs park units are best for this activity.

Is there unique lodging at Thousand Springs State Park?

Yes. Spend the night at Rock House or the Yellow House on Ritter Island for an overnight adventure.

Does Thousand Springs State Park have a visitor center?

Yes. Thousand Springs State Park shares a visitor center with Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. The visitor center is located approximately one mile north of downtown Hagerman.

Are self-guided tours available at any of the park units?

Yes, visitors will find self-guided experiences at Malad Gorge and Ritter Island.

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Thousand Springs State Park | Idaho Ranger Talks #Shorts nonadult
Castle Rocks State Park https://visitidaho.org/things-to-do/state-parks/castle-rocks-state-park-2/ Sat, 06 May 2023 19:37:00 +0000 https://visitidaho.org/things-to-do/ With rock formations dating back 2.5 million years, Castle Rocks State Park attracts rock climbers from around the world. In addition to rock climbing, experience superb hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. In the winter, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing are available.

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Thousand Springs State Park https://visitidaho.org/things-to-do/state-parks/thousand-springs-state-park/ Tue, 02 May 2023 01:24:00 +0000 http://visitidaho.org/things-to-do/%adventure_category%/thousand-springs-state-park/ Thousand Springs State Park is an expansive park with six units to explore: Malad Gorge, Kelton Trail, Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, Billingsley Creek, Ritter Island and Niagara Springs. Enjoy the gorgeous views as thousands of gallons of water flow from below ground, cascading down the volcanic cliff faces. Each park offers a different perspective of the varied geology of south central Idaho.

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