The sun is hanging lower in the sky. It seems as if the golden days of summer are finally drawing to a close.
It’s not over yet, she says. We still have plenty of time together — more exploring, more discovery, more fun. Idaho will keep you safe and sane in her wide open spaces – full of hidden gems rather than people.
Why not answer Southern Idaho’s call? It’s time to extend your summer! These incredible experiences will keep you feeling the freedom of the season well into fall. The Magic Valley and surrounding area is a great place to visit this summer because of its wide open spaces. The solitude of Idaho’s nature is perfect to practice social distancing and breath in all the fresh air.
Paddles Up!
The weather may be turning, but the water is just fine. Southern Idaho’s mighty Snake River and placid lakes offer plenty of opportunities for SUP lovers, kayakers, and canoers of all abilities. Many locations, like Lake Walcott, have camping space and RV hookups so you can plan a weekend-long adventure. Lake Walcott is commonly found pretty empty. There is so much room to spread out plus not very many people have discovered this secluded lake.
Hit the Trail
Late summer is the perfect time to hike in Southern Idaho — the weather is a bit cooler, and the snow isn’t yet falling on high mountain trails. Take it easy on the paved Canyon Rim Trail, get a workout on the Indian Springs Trails, or stay and play in City of Rocks or Castle Rocks. Castle Rocks has a clean and remote place for you to stay! The Glamping Yurt is immaculately cleaned after each use. The back yard view is full of mountains and rock views.
Go For a Soak
If the back-to-school crush has your body crying out for a break, it’s time to head to one of Southern Idaho’s famed hot springs. Here, you’ll find everything from secret one-person soaking tubs to family-friendly resorts complete with waterslides. Health is of the essence these days, and the benefits to soaking in a geothermal are too good to pass up. Enjoy a better night of sleep and kiss those muscle aches goodbye! Even just an hour of soaking can assist with health issues. Each private pool is drained after each use and washed down so you will always have fresh water to soak in.
Climb Every Mountain
City of Rocks offers more than 700 world-class routes, ranging from beginner to technical, that will leave your forearms aching and your brain buzzing with accomplishment. For a quick climb, head to Dierkes Lake — just minutes from downtown Twin Falls — and discover where locals perfect their skills. Educating the children at home and waiting to go back to school? Take them on a hike for activity at Dierke’s Lake. Let them explore the funky shapes of the rocks as well as see geological features to discuss geology! Show them the layers of basalt and teach them about the Bonneville Flood.
Take the Road Less Traveled
With thousands of acres of public land beckoning, it’s nearly impossible to resist the thrill of off-roading! Trails near the Snake River Canyon and the South Hills offer both shorter rides that are perfect for kids to longer jaunts and overnight adventures. Make a weekend of it in Camas County, which has miles of loop trails that will take you to rivers and mountain ridges.
Start Sipping
Southern Idaho has a hopping brewery scene that’s just begging for a brew crawl. Try handcrafted, Idaho-inspired beers at Magic Valley Brewing in Buhl, Milner’s Gate and Koto Brewing in Twin Falls. (Don’t forget to bring your designated driver!) These restaurant and breweries have spaced their tables out to allow for social distancing. They are taking extra precautions to keep the place clean, plus they all offer take-out if you want to skip the restaurant! Take that food to one of the many nearby parks and enjoy a peaceful night.
Shop Small
Cute, quaint Rupert Square is the perfect place to while away a weekend. You’ll find a jewel box of a shopping district featuring local retail shops (including a world-famous quilting store), dining options, a historic theatre, and a beautifully renovated downtown area. A great hotel to stay at is located right on the Rupert Square, the Drift Inn! The Drift Inn is taking extra cleaning measures to make sure you stay healthy. There is also a restaurant in the hotel called Henry’s – we recommend the fried zucchini.
Gaze in Wonder
Whether you’re interested in the epic Shoshone Falls — famous for its 212-foot plunge into the Snake River below — or the more lush and tranquil Minnie Miller Springs, you’ll find just the right waterfall to soothe those back-to-school nerves. Our waterfalls are tucked throughout the entire region, so don’t forget to download your map before you go! Chasing waterfalls around Southern Idaho is the best way to social distance in nature and enjoy uncrowded views.
Who Says Summer Is Over?
There’s still plenty of time to enjoy summer favorites like hiking, hot springs soaking, craft beer sipping, kayaking, and more. You’ll discover plenty of ideas in our Ultimate Guide to Extending Your Summer — and it’s free!
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