Summer is just around the corner and it's almost time to pack up your camping gear, bikes, and fishing equipment and venture into Idaho's great outdoors.

If you're thinking of loading up the car and heading on a road trip this spring or even later this summer, you will definitely enjoy these 7 roads with scenic views of our beautiful state:

  • Elk River Backcountry Byway - This 57-mile road has some of the best scenery in North Central Idaho. It spans from Orofino to Elk River, crossing Clearwater River and has great views of Elk Creek Falls. I grew up and lived in this area most my life and really took it for granted...now I really miss it sometimes
  • Pend Oreille Scenic Byway - This scenic road spans 33 miles from Sandpoint, Idaho and has stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille, the Clark Fork River, and Schweitzer Ski Area. If you only have a chance to visit one Idaho place you've never been to, then make sure it's Lake Pend Oreille. (Pond-duh-ray) One of the most amazing beautiful areas in the state.
  • International Selkirk Loop - This 280-mile loop takes you through Northern Idaho as well as parts of Washington and Canada. The majestic Selkirk Mountains will be the backdrop for your trip!
  • City of Rocks Backcountry Byway - This 50-mile road takes about an hour and a half to drive, but you'll definitely want to stop and explore the City of Rocks, one of Idaho's many geological sites.
  • Thousand Springs Scenic Highway - This route is something you have to do at least once while living in the Treasure Valley. The route, which starts in Hagerman, is only a short drive from Boise and has some of the best views of the Snake River Canyon including Shoshone Falls, Hagerman Fossil Beds, and Thousand Springs State Park. If you ever go to Jackpot, I suggest you take this scenic long cut to Nevada and make an afternoon of it. It's amazingly beautiful and it only adds about 15 minutes to your trip to Jackpot the tables will wait.
  • Payette River Scenic Byway - This one is also great for Treasure Valley residents. The byway winds through Horseshoe Bend, Cascade, and McCall. Be sure to bring a picnic because there are quite a few stops along the river! And the great part, if you don't want to spend the night in Cascade of McCall, you can do this trip all in one day, but I would suggest taking your time and spending a night in McCall, especially in the summer when the Lake is warm enough to play in.
  • Salmon River Scenic Byway - This road follows the path of Lewis and Clark and features everything from hot springs to ghost towns. It also winds through Idaho's impressive River of No Return Wilderness.

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