Idaho Centennial Trail Map: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and rich history, then the Idaho Centennial Trail is the perfect destination. The trail stretches over 900 miles, taking you across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state, from the rugged mountains to the rolling plains.

Top Attractions

One of the must-visit attractions along the Idaho Centennial Trail is the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This area is home to some of the most stunning mountain scenery you’ll ever see, with jagged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and miles of hiking trails. If you’re a fan of fishing, don’t miss your chance to cast a line in the nearby Salmon River, which is renowned for its world-class fishing.

Another highlight of the trail is the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, a unique landscape of black lava fields, cinder cones, and other volcanic features. The park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, stargazing, and even caving.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, consider a visit to the City of Rocks National Reserve. This stunning landscape features towering rock formations that are popular among rock climbers, as well as hiking and camping opportunities for those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground.

Another hidden gem along the trail is the Priest Lake State Park. This park is located in the northern part of the state and features over 150 miles of shoreline, making it a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Food Scene

When it comes to the food scene along the Idaho Centennial Trail, you’ll find plenty of options to suit all tastes. If you’re a fan of farm-to-table cuisine, don’t miss a visit to the Snake River Farms, which specializes in high-quality beef and pork raised on local farms.

For a taste of the local craft beer scene, be sure to stop by the Boise Brewing Company, which offers a range of brews made with local ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money along the Idaho Centennial Trail. Consider camping in one of the many campgrounds along the trail, which offer affordable accommodations in some of the state’s most beautiful settings.

You can also save money on food by packing your own meals and snacks, or by visiting local farmers’ markets to pick up fresh produce and other goodies.

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to try something new, the Idaho Centennial Trail offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. From hiking and camping to fishing and kayaking, there’s something for everyone along the trail.

If you’re looking for a real challenge, consider tackling the entire trail on foot or by bike. The route is well-marked and offers plenty of stunning scenery along the way.

Historical Landmarks

The Idaho Centennial Trail is also rich in history, with plenty of landmarks and sites that offer a glimpse into the state’s past. One of the most notable is the Old Idaho State Penitentiary, which operated from 1872 to 1973 and is now a museum open to the public.

Another must-visit site is the Shoshone Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the West.” This stunning waterfall is located near Twin Falls and is a popular spot for sightseeing and picnicking.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities along the Idaho Centennial Trail. Consider a visit to the Idaho State Museum, which offers interactive exhibits on the state’s history and culture.

You can also take the kids on a tour of the Boise River Greenbelt, a paved trail that runs along the river and offers plenty of opportunities for biking, hiking, and wildlife spotting.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, consider a visit to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, located in the eastern part of the state. This 10,600-acre area is home to some of the largest sand dunes in North America, making it a popular spot for ATV riding and sandboarding.

Another off-the-beaten-path experience is a visit to the Burgdorf Hot Springs, a remote hot springs resort that offers a rustic getaway in the heart of the Idaho wilderness.

Natural Wonders

For nature lovers, the Idaho Centennial Trail is a dream destination. From the towering peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the rolling hills of the Palouse, the trail offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Don’t miss a visit to the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, which features the deepest river gorge in North America and offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Vibrant Nightlife

While the Idaho Centennial Trail is best known for its outdoor attractions, there are also plenty of options for nightlife and entertainment. Consider a visit to the Knitting Factory, a popular live music venue in Boise that hosts a range of local and national acts.

You can also check out the numerous bars and restaurants in downtown Boise, which offer a lively scene for night owls.

Local Markets

For a taste of the local culture, be sure to visit one of the many farmers’ markets along the Idaho Centennial Trail. These markets offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and other goodies from local farmers and producers.

One of the most popular markets is the Boise Farmers Market, which is open on Saturdays from April to October and offers a range of seasonal produce, baked goods, and other treats.

Beaches and Mountains

One of the unique aspects of the Idaho Centennial Trail is the way it takes you through a wide variety of landscapes, from the mountains to the plains to the beaches. Don’t miss a visit to the Bear Lake State Park, which features a stunning blue lake that’s perfect for swimming and boating.

You can also explore the trails and beaches of the Lake Pend Oreille, which is surrounded by towering mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in learning more about the local culture and history, there are plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion along the Idaho Centennial Trail. Consider a visit to the Basque Museum and Cultural Center in Boise, which offers exhibits and events on the history and culture of the Basque people in Idaho.

You can also explore the Nez Perce National Historical Park, which tells the story of the Nez Perce people and their interactions with the European settlers who came to the area.

Art and Music Scene

For art lovers, the Idaho Centennial Trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore local galleries and museums. Consider a visit to the Boise Art Museum, which features a range of contemporary and traditional artwork from local and national artists.

You can also check out the Treefort Music Fest, a popular music festival held in Boise each spring that features a range of local and national acts.

Walking Tours

If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to explore the Idaho Centennial Trail, consider a walking tour of one of the many historic downtown areas along the route. Downtown Boise, for example, offers a range of architectural and historical landmarks, as well as plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.

You can also take a walking tour of the historic mining town of Wallace, which offers a glimpse into Idaho’s mining history and culture.

Architectural Marvels

For architecture buffs, the Idaho Centennial Trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore historic buildings and landmarks. Consider a visit to the Idaho State Capitol Building, which is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and features a beautiful rotunda and dome.

You can also explore the historic buildings in downtown Boise, including the Egyptian Theatre, which was built in 1927 and is now a popular venue for movies and live performances.

Historical Sites

Finally, the Idaho Centennial Trail is rich in history, with plenty of sites and landmarks that tell the story of the state’s past. Consider a visit to the Fort Boise Historic Site, which was a key outpost during the early years of European settlement in the area.

You can also explore the Minidoka National Historic Site, which tells the story of the Japanese-American internment during World War II.

Biking Routes

If you’re a fan of biking, the Idaho Centennial Trail offers plenty of opportunities to explore the state on two wheels. Consider a ride along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a 72-mile paved trail that takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.

You can also explore the 15-mile Boise River Greenbelt, which offers a scenic route through Boise and its surrounding areas.