Last Updated on February 24, 2025 by Kristin
While surrounded by mountains and nature activities like hiking and rafting, Idaho’s laid-back capital of Boise is also filled with urban amenities like parks, boutiques, restaurants and galleries. This part of the country is all about wide open spaces and the Great Outdoors, so don’t miss taking a road trip to experience some stunning wildlife and landscapes. Here are the best road trips from Boise.
Fabulous Road Trips from Boise
Sun Valley
155 miles / 2 hr. 43 mins.
Set in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains, Sun Valley has been called America’s first ski resort area because it has been attracting savvy travelers—including movie stars and authors—since the 1930s. Today, it’s a classic ski resort but also a fine warm-weather destination, too, with hiking, golfing or fishing in the non-snowy months. When staying in the Sun Valley area, choose from hotels right by the ski resort or in the small town of Ketchum, which is a short shuttle ride away. >> Recommended hotels in Sun Valley
Craters of the Moon National Monument
170 miles / 2 hr. 54 mins.
For a truly unique outdoor adventure, head east to the Craters of the Moon National Monument to check out some truly otherworldly landscapes shaped by ancient lava flows. The main attraction here are lava tube caves, which visitors can access by way of a short trail. Drivers can also stretch their legs and admire impressive lookout points from a 7-mile loop road.
Park City, Utah
372 miles / 5 hr. 31 mins.
The Utah hub of Park City offers year-round recreational delights in the Wasatch Mountains. You get a charming downtown, great culture, and world-class skiing at the 2002 Winter Olympics town. The home of the Sundance Film Festival offers small-town charm along Main Street and Olympic-style fun at the sports park. In the winter, there’s also world-class skiing at resorts such as Deer Valley, The Canyons, and Brighton. >> Recommended hotels in Park City
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
369 miles / 5 hr. 43 mins.
Mountains, wide open spaces, and a Western aesthetic all make Jackson Hole an idyllic all-season getaway. In the winter, you can ski at three resorts—Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King, or Grand Targhee. In warmer months. hike and explore Grand Teton National Park, the National Elk Refuge and, about 50 miles away, Yellowstone National Park. You’re never far from Mother Nature. >> Recommended hotels in Jackson Hole
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
388 miles / 5 hr. 46 mins.
One-of-a-kind Yellowstone is well worth a visit for it’s unique blend of geothermal features and wildlife viewing. This nearly 3,500 square-mile park — the oldest in the U.S. — features an unparalleled variety of activities and landscapes. See the Old Faithful geyser erupt, tour the Mammoth Hot Springs complex and enjoy more than 900 miles of hiking trails throughout the expansive, historic park.
