Less than an hour from downtown Boise, Idaho City offers visitors endless outdoor adventures, hot springs and a charming old Western vibe.

Founded in 1862 during a gold rush, Idaho City was once the biggest city in Idaho. You might find that hard to believe today! This once bustling town is now home to around 500 residents. 

Despite its small population, it manages to attract a crowd for hiking, camping and biking in the summer and winter sports such as backcountry skiing, snow shoeing, Nordic and snowmobiling. Plus you can relax at a hot springs resort after your adventurous day!

About 45 minutes drive from downtown Boise, Idaho City feels like a completely different world. Pine trees, fresh mountain air and a town that looks like the set of a John Wayne movie. This easy day trip or quick overnight is the perfect road trip to test out your new van!

Here’s our Idaho City highlights:

1. Stop for breakfast (and pie!) at Trudy’s kitchen. Be prepared for some down home Idaho cooking here, gigantic portions and hobnobbing with the locals. 
2. Walk around “downtown” Idaho City to see the old western buildings and a bit of the history of this area.
3. After you’ve had your fill of wild west storefronts, grab your swimsuit and head on over to The Springs.You don’t need much besides your swimsuit (required here!), a towel and a mindset to relax. Soak and enjoy the view. Drinks can be enjoyed poolside as well as light snacks.(Note: make reservations at least a few weeks, possibly months, in advance.)
4. If you visit in the winter months, bring along snowshoes or XC skis (which can easily be rented back in Boise at Idaho Mountain Touring), and explore the Idaho Ski Park areas about 20 minutes north of town. Whoop-Em-Up ski park is a great spot for beginner snowshoers, families or those with dogs. Be sure to purchase a ski park pass before leaving town. We highly recommend AWD/4WD or carrying chains.