5 Things to Do and See Near Island Park
Island Park, Idaho is truly a hub for all of the amazing outdoor activities in the area. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, rafting, skiing, horseback riding, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Island Park is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Here is a list of nearby attractions and things to do that our guests have enjoyed the most.
Harriman State Park
If crystal clear lakes, tall pines, wildlife sightings, and amazing hiking trails are your idea of the ideal getaway, breathtaking Harriman State Park should be on your must-see list. If you’re visiting during the winter, be assured that the trails are well-groomed for snowshoes and cross-country skiers. Summer visitors will enjoy the varied wildlife habitats and quiet beauty. Many guests comment on the scenic trails, historic ranch buildings, helpful park rangers, horseback riding, and fun fly fishing experiences. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot that’s much quieter than the bustle of Yellowstone, this is it. The best part is that it’s only $5 per vehicle per day.
Yellowstone National Park
Almost always the main attraction for Island Park visitors, Yellowstone was established in 1872 and was officially America’s first national park! This gorgeous park is home to a large variety of wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, moose, and elk. It also has some of the world’s most extraordinary geysers an hot springs. A nature lover’s dream, Yellowstone offers sights that can’t be found anywhere else on earth and most guests agree that it would take weeks (and maybe even months) to discover all that Yellowstone has to offer. Fortunately for our guests, even a day or two of exploration can provide an experience of a lifetime. When your legs are tired from exploring nature’s wonders, check out Yellowstone IMAX Theater located near the west entrance. Through the IMAX film “Yellowstone” as well as displays in the lobby, visitors can see the true Yellowstone as it is today and as it was a hundred and 100,000 years ago.
Mesa Falls
Beginning in gently rolling farmlands, dipping into a tumultuous river confluence, and traveling over the rim of the nation’s largest volcanic caldera, Mesa Falls Scenic Byway takes you through some of southeastern Idaho’s most compelling scenery. In addition to enjoying breathtaking vistas along the route, devotees of intermountain recreation find countless activities to indulge their passions on the route’s 27 miles. Originally a popular path to Yellowstone National Park, the byway offers plenty of reasons to justify a trip in itself. Your journey begins in the rural town of Ashton. Guests can stand by the falls and enjoy the cool mist rising from Upper Mesa Falls, the last undisturbed waterfall in the Columbia River System and take a couple of the side trips to other falls in the region. Don’t have the gear or expertise to handle the rapids or want an insider’s knowledge of the good fishing spots? Check out the listings for local outfitters and guides and create some memories.
Located just 15 miles west of Yellowstone National Park, this high mountain lake is the kind of place fishermen dream about. Excellent stream fishing can also be found in the nearby Henry’s Fork, Madison and Gallatin rivers. With gorgeous scenery and crystal blue water, many guests love spending a relaxing day relaxing shore-side. The large lake features 6,000 acres of lovely shoreline. Many guests mention the great walking trails, clean restrooms, amazing fishing spots, wildlife sightings, and perfect picnic spots. Nearby lodges and outfitters in Island Park rent canoes, paddleboats, rowboats, rubber rafts, pontoon boats, jet skis, and motorboats if you’d like to spend a day out on the water.
Mack’s Inn Float Trip and Rentals
Mack’s Inn Resort provides float trips for a memorable adventure down the North Fork of the Snake River, Henry’s Fork. The company is privileged to have a contract with the United States Forest Service to launch at the Big Springs boat launch to provide float trips on this unique section of the Snake River. Guests can take a family-friendly float down the river while enjoying gorgeous scenery and wildlife in their natural habitat. Some guests are even surprised by an up close and personal visit from a thirsty moose. The ride has been described as relaxing, enjoyable, and a slow-paced way to soak up the scenery. The trip can take three to four hours on average, so make sure that you’ve budgeted that much time in. Some have mentioned that during the busy season the rafts can get a little backed up, so it’s best to go early in the day or during the week.
For a list of more great area activities, check out a list of free and cheap things to do in Island Park by TripBuzz here. If you’ve got kids, check out the best activities to do with children in Island Park on Tripping.com. Also, if you’re visiting other areas of Idaho, be sure to check out VisitIdaho.org.