Idaho is one of the most underrated road trip destinations in the U.S. but those who know, know. From rugged mountain peaks and crystal-clear lakes to winding river canyons and wide-open high desert, Idaho’s landscapes are best experienced behind the wheel. Idaho’s scenic byways are a collection of routes recognized for their scenic beauty and cultural significance. Whether you’re a local planning a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the Gem State for the first time, these scenic drives in Idaho offer unforgettable views, charming small towns, and endless adventure. Each drive is worth exploring for its unique appeal and memorable journey.
Below are the 10 most breathtaking Idaho scenic drives, complete with distances, top attractions, dining stops, best seasons to visit, and vehicle recommendations. There are plenty of options for scenic drives, so you can choose the route that best fits your interests. Traveling these routes is an experience that immerses you in Idaho’s natural beauty and local culture. And when you’re ready to hit the road, Ribik gives you the freedom to choose the ideal rental car for your route. Whether you need an AWD SUV for mountain passes or a comfortable sedan for smooth, easy cruising.
1. Sawtooth Scenic Byway
Distance: 115 miles
Route: Shoshone → Ketchum → Stanley
Best Season: Late spring through early fall
Recommended Vehicle: AWD SUV
One of the most iconic scenic drives in Idaho, the Sawtooth Scenic Byway offers sweeping views of the world-famous Sawtooth Mountains. Starting in Shoshone, travelers pass through the artsy town of Ketchum and Sun Valley before heading toward the alpine wonderland of Stanley. Along the way, you’ll discover vibrant communities that showcase the unique charm and hospitality of rural Idaho.
Top Attractions:
- Redfish Lake
- Galena Summit Overlook
- Sun Valley Resort
- Sawtooth Wilderness trailheads
- Stanley Museum: a great stop to learn about the culture and history of the region
Where to Stop:
- Java on Fourth in Ketchum for breakfast
- Stanley Baking Co. for a cozy, hearty lunch
- Be sure to check out the historic Sunbeam Hot Springs along the route
With steep grades and high elevation, this drive is best paired with a capable AWD vehicle to ensure comfort and confident handling.
Don’t forget to add the Sawtooth Scenic Byway to your Idaho road trip plans for an unforgettable adventure.
2. Payette River Scenic Byway
Distance: 112 miles
Route: Eagle → Cascade → McCall
Best Season: Year-round
Recommended Vehicle: Midsize SUV or sedan
The Payette River Scenic Byway is easily accessible from Boise and the Boise area, making it a convenient starting point for your adventure. This route follows Highway 55 along the wild and winding Payette River, known for world-class whitewater. Be sure to stop at Horseshoe Bend, a notable destination along the way that offers scenic views and outdoor activities. As you travel, the South Fork of the Payette River provides a scenic highlight with its dynamic flow and abundant wildlife. As one of the most popular Idaho scenic drives, it’s perfect for families, outdoor lovers, and weekend adventurers. Continue north along the byway to explore more destinations and find unique attractions or stops that suit your interests.
Top Attractions:
- Banks Whitewater Park
- Lake Cascade
- Hot springs near McCall
- McCall’s historic downtown
Where to Stop:
- Idaho Pizza Co. in Cascade
- Ice Cream Alley in McCall during the summer
This drive is smooth and accessible for most passenger vehicles, making it a great road trip option year-round.
3. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Distance: 218 miles (loop), approximately 2 hours one way for some segments
Route: Near Oxbow → Cambridge → New Meadows
Best Season: Spring–Fall
Recommended Vehicle: AWD SUV or crossover
Hells Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon and offers dramatic cliffs and river views. The byway winds along the Snake River, serving as a vital transportation route that connects remote communities and provides access to some of Idaho’s most rugged landscapes. Select this scenic byway for your next adventure to experience the best of Idaho’s wild beauty.
Top Attractions:
- Hells Canyon Overlook
- Scenic viewpoints along the Snake River
- Wildlife viewing: bighorn sheep, eagles, elk (watch for wildlife in open meadows and near the river)
- Brownlee Reservoir
- Many things to see and do along the route, including hiking, fishing, and photography
Where to Stop:
- Shy Simons Pizza in Cambridge
- The Intersection BBQ & Grill in New Meadows
Expect winding mountain roads and limited cell service, an SUV is ideal for comfort and safety.
4. Salmon River Scenic Byway
Distance: 161 miles
Route: Challis → Stanley → North Fork → Salmon
Best Season: Summer–early fall
Recommended Vehicle: SUV or pickup
Following the “River of No Return,” this byway is a legendary scenic drive in Idaho. Rugged river cliffs, deeply forested hillsides, and historic mining towns make this a must-see route. The Salmon River and its byway are steeped in history, with stories of early pioneers, gold rush settlements, and Native American heritage along the way. Travelers will experience breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a sense of adventure as they explore this iconic drive.
Top Attractions:
- Goldbug Hot Springs
- Historic Yankee Fork Gold Dredge
- River rafting access points
- Scenic overlooks of the Salmon River
Where to Stop:
- Mountain Village Restaurant in Stanley
- Bertram’s Brewery in Salmon
This route includes some narrow stretches, drivers will appreciate extra space and power in a larger vehicle. Be sure to add the Salmon River Scenic Byway to your list of must-see drives in Idaho.
5. Elk River Backcountry Drive
Distance: 40 miles
Route: Orofino → Elk River
Best Season: Summer–fall
Recommended Vehicle: High-clearance SUV
A lesser-known gem, the Elk River Backcountry Drive is perfect for travelers craving peace, quiet, and lush forest scenery. It’s a slower, more relaxed route that showcases Idaho’s outdoor charm, with plenty of options for stops or detours along the way. As you explore, you’ll find secluded spots and hidden gems that make the journey truly memorable.
Top Attractions:
- Elk Creek Falls (three-tiered waterfall)
- Giant red cedars at Elk River
- Swimming holes and creekside pullouts, just a few of the things you can experience on this scenic drive
Where to Stop:
- Elk River Lodge & General Store for local snacks
Some roads here may be gravel or lightly maintained, Ribik’s AWD vehicles are perfect for the journey.
6. St. Joe River Scenic Byway
Distance: 100 miles
Route: St. Maries → St. Regis (Montana)
Best Season: Spring–Fall
Recommended Vehicle: Sedan or SUV
This peaceful and picturesque byway runs alongside the emerald-green St. Joe River, passing through charming communities like St. Maries and Avery, each offering its own unique character. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, with a history shaped by logging, railroads, and Native American traditions. It’s ideal for anglers, campers, and anyone looking for a tranquil escape.
Top Attractions:
- Hobo Cedar Grove
- St. Joe River fishing access
- Avery historic railroad site (check out the historic railroad artifacts and museum)
Where to Stop:
- Hilltop Grill & Bar in St. Maries
Smooth pavement and beautiful river views make this one of the most relaxing Idaho scenic drives.
7. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway
Distance: 30 miles
Route: Ashton → Warm River → Bear Gulch
Best Season: Summer–fall
Recommended Vehicle: Any passenger vehicle
Short, sweet, and spectacular, this byway leads to two of Idaho’s most impressive waterfalls: Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. The drive is easy, making it great for families or quick day trips. Experience the sights and sounds of rushing water and lush forests as you travel.
Top Attractions:
- Upper Mesa Falls viewing platform (watch for wildlife and the powerful falls)
- Lower Mesa Falls overlook
- Harriman State Park trails
Where to Stop:
- Frostop Drive-In in Ashton for burgers and shakes
This route is well-maintained and accessible for all types of Ribik rentals. Be sure to add the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway to your Idaho itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.
8. City of Rocks Backcountry Byway
Distance: 49 miles
Route: Albion → City of Rocks National Reserve → Oakley
Best Season: Late spring–fall
Recommended Vehicle: SUV
Travelers will feel like they’ve stepped into another world. Unique granite formations tower above sagebrush meadows, creating a landscape beloved by rock climbers and photographers alike. The City of Rocks area is rich in history, once serving as a landmark for pioneers on the California Trail. The region also holds cultural significance, recognized for its heritage and stories that have shaped the area.
Top Attractions:
- City of Rocks viewpoints
- Almo Historic District
- Scenic hiking trails
Where to Stop:
- Outpost Steakhouse in Almo
- Be sure to check Register Rock, a historic site where emigrants left their signatures.
Some unpaved stretches make an SUV the most comfortable choice.
9. Pend Oreille Scenic Byway
Distance: 33 miles
Route: Sandpoint → Clark Fork
Best Season: Summer–fall
Recommended Vehicle: Sedan or crossover
This lakeside drive runs along the northern edge of Lake Pend Oreille, offering panoramic water and mountain views. It’s calm, serene, and filled with scenic pullouts. Travelers can find hidden beaches or viewpoints along the way, making each trip unique.
Top Attractions:
- Lake Pend Oreille beaches
- Sandpoint City Beach Park
- Cabinet Mountains
- Birding and wildlife spots
There are plenty of things to see and do on this drive, from exploring local parks to spotting wildlife.
Where to Stop:
- MickDuff’s Brewing Co. in Sandpoint
You’ll have several options for stops or detours along the byway, so you can tailor the route to your interests.
Great pavement and gentle curves make this drive enjoyable for any size vehicle.
10. Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
Distance: 67 miles (one way)
Route: Bliss → Buhl → Hagerman → Twin Falls
Best Season: Year-round
Recommended Vehicle: Sedan or electric vehicle
Waterfalls, canyons, hot springs, craters, and volcanic landscapes make this one of the most diverse scenic drives in Idaho. It’s also extremely accessible, perfect for travelers who want big views without mountainous roads. The drive typically takes about 2 hours one way, making it a great day trip option.
Bear Lake is another scenic destination nearby, ideal for those looking to explore more of Idaho’s natural beauty.
Top Attractions:
- Hagerman Fossil Beds
- Thousand Springs State Park
- Box Canyon Springs Preserve
- Perrine Bridge
Where to Stop:
- Snake River Grill in Hagerman
- Elevation 486 in Twin Falls
Since this route is flat and paved, even compact cars are ideal.
Select the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway for your next adventure, and add it to your Idaho travel plans for an unforgettable experience.
Natural Attractions Along Idaho’s Scenic Drives
Idaho’s scenic byways are a gateway to some of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in the state. As you journey along these scenic drives, you’ll encounter a tapestry of landscapes, from towering mountain ranges and lush forests to sparkling lakes and dramatic river canyons. Each route offers its own unique glimpse into Idaho’s natural beauty, making every mile an adventure.
One standout destination is the Moon National Monument, a true marvel for travelers seeking something extraordinary. This otherworldly preserve is famous for its surreal rock formations, shaped by ancient volcanic activity. The stark, lunar-like landscape provides a striking contrast to Idaho’s green valleys and rugged peaks, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power and artistry of nature up close.
Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of a hidden lake, the grandeur of a mountain vista, or the mysterious beauty of the Moon National Monument, Idaho’s scenic drives promise unforgettable encounters with the state’s most remarkable natural wonders. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore the scenic routes that reveal the very best of Idaho’s wild and beautiful heart.
Tips for Choosing the Right Car for Your Scenic Idaho Drive
Not all scenic routes are created equal. Reliable transportation is essential for exploring Idaho’s scenic byways, ensuring you can comfortably and safely connect to the state’s top attractions. Before hitting the road, consider:
- Elevation & terrain (mountain vs. flat)
- Weather (snow, rain, or summer heat)
- Road surface (gravel vs. paved)
- Passenger needs (space, comfort, luggage)
Ribik makes it easy to choose the perfect vehicle, AWD SUVs for rugged mountain roads, spacious minivans for family trips, or efficient sedans for smooth pavement routes.
Start Your Idaho Scenic Adventure with Ribik
Whether you’re exploring rugged peaks, cruising along rivers, or discovering hidden waterfalls, Idaho’s scenic drives promise landscapes you won’t forget. Renting with Ribik gives you the freedom, comfort, and reliability you need to explore the Gem State your way. Don’t forget to add Idaho’s scenic drives to your travel itinerary for an unforgettable adventure.
Ready to hit the road? Select the perfect vehicle for your Idaho scenic drive today at Ribik.com.
