10 Best Idaho National Parks to Visit in 2023

Idaho has four national parks and one national monument that attract visitors from all over the world. Each of these Idaho National Parks offers a unique experience, from geothermal features to volcanic landscapes to historic sites.

In this article, I carefully explore each of the national parks and the national monument, providing information on their locations, operating times, and contact details. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or you’re just looking for a place to have a nice fun outdoor adventure, you can have it all at Idaho National Parks.

About Idaho

Idaho is a state in the northwestern region of the United States and is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the country. The state has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, canyons, and rivers, which makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities and adventure.

List of 10 Best Idaho National Parks

1. Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is situated in southern Idaho. This Idaho National park covers an area of 750,000 acres, and it is known for its volcanic landscapes, including lava tubes and cinder cones. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and ranger-led programs in the park.

• Address: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Arco, ID 83213, United States
• Operating Times: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Phone: +1 208-527-1335
• Website: nps.gov/crmo/index.htm

2. Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is another one of the breathtaking Idaho National Parks that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Located in northwestern Wyoming, the park extends into the eastern part of Idaho. Grand Teton National Park is known for its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The park covers an area of 310,000 acres and is home to the Teton Range, a mountain range that is part of the Rocky Mountains. The Teton Range is made up of several peaks, including the Grand Teton, which rises to an elevation of 13,775 feet. Visitors can hike the numerous trails in the park to get a closer look at the mountains and the surrounding landscapes.

In conclusion, Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Idaho National Parks. With its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, the park offers visitors a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure.

• Address: Grand Teton National Park, WY 83012, United States
• Operating Times: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Phone: +1 307-739-3300
• Website: nps.gov/grte/index.htm

3. Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is situated in south-central Idaho. This Idaho National park covers an area of 4,351 acres, and it is known for its fossil beds, which contain the remains of ancient horses, camels, and other animals. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and ranger-led programs in the park.

• Address: Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Hagerman, ID 83332, United States
• Operating Times: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Phone: +1 208-837-4793
• Website: nps.gov/hafo/index.htm

4. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a true gem of Idaho national parks. Although the park extends into Wyoming and Montana, it has a significant portion located in Idaho. With its stunning geothermal features, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States.

Yellowstone National Park covers an area of 2.2 million acres, and it is home to some of the most iconic natural features in the world. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring geysers, hot springs, and mud pots that are scattered throughout the park.

The most famous geyser in the park is Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes and shoots hot water up to 180 feet in the air. The park also has other geysers that are just as impressive, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring amongst Idaho National Parks and as well as in the United States.

Aside from the geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts of spectacular wildlife. Visitors can see grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, and many other animals in their natural habitat. The park is also home to the Yellowstone River, which offers world-class fishing and rafting opportunities.

• Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, United States
• Operating Times: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Phone: +1 307-344-7381
• Website: www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm

5. Nez Perce National Historical Park

Nez Perce National Historical Park is located in north-central Idaho. This Idaho National park covers an area of 4,000 acres, and it is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Nez Perce tribe. Visitors can explore the park’s many historic sites, including battlefields, traditional dwellings, and archaeological sites.

• Address: Nez Perce National Historical Park, Spalding, ID 83540, United States
• Operating Times: Open year-round, 24 hours a day
• Phone: +1 208-843-7001
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/nepe/

6. Minidoka National Historic Site

Minidoka National Historic Site is located in south-central Idaho. This National park is open year-round, although some facilities may be closed during the winter.

• Contact: Minidoka National Historic Site, 1428 Hunt Road, Suite 103, Twin Falls, ID 83301, (208) 933-4100.

7. Sawtooth National Recreation Area

Sawtooth National Recreation Area is located in central Idaho. This Idaho National park is open year-round, although some facilities may be closed during the winter.

• Contact: Sawtooth National Recreation Area, 5 North Fork Canyon Road, Ketchum, ID 83340, (208) 727-5000.

8. City of Rocks National Reserve

City of Rocks National Reserve is located in southern Idaho. This National park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during the winter.

• Address: City of Rocks National Reserve, P.O. Box 169, Almo, ID 83312
• Phone: (208) 824-5901.

9. Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness

The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is located in north-central Idaho, and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The wilderness area is open year-round, but access may be limited during the winter.

• Contact:S Forest Service – Northern Region, 200 E. Broadway, P.O. Box 7669, Missoula, MT 59807, (406) 329-3315.

10. Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness

The Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness is located in central Idaho, and is this Idaho National Park is the largest contiguous wilderness area in the lower 48 states, covering over 2.3 million acres.

The wilderness area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing.

• Address: Salmon-Challis National Forest, 1206 S. Challis Street, Salmon, ID 83467
• Phone: (208) 756-5100.

So, as you’ve seen, Idaho National Parks offer some of the most spectacular natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities in the United States. You should plan a visit to any of these parks any time soon to explore the beauty and richness of these awesome parks in Idaho.