The Most Instagrammable Spots in Idaho
Nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Stanley is a small mountain town about two and a half hours north of Boise that offers some of the most striking alpine scenery in Idaho. From Stanley, the hike to Sawtooth Lake is a must for photographers and nature lovers alike. This moderate 10-mile round trip trail winds through wildflower meadows and dense forest before revealing a pristine glacial lake framed by jagged peaks that soar over 9,000 feet. The crystal-clear waters reflect the rugged mountain silhouettes, creating postcard-perfect images any time of year, but the best light is often found in early fall when the larch trees turn golden. The remote setting and dramatic geology make this spot a standout compared to other Idaho lakes.
Just under three hours southeast of Boise lies Craters of the Moon National Monument, a vast and otherworldly landscape that resembles a lunar surface. This volcanic field offers miles of trails like the Devil’s Orchard Trail, a short loop through twisted lava formations and cinder cones that look almost alien. The dark basalt rocks strikingly contrast with the sparse sagebrush and the wide-open skies, making it a surreal backdrop for photos. Visitors who time their visit near sunrise or sunset capture dramatic shadows and glowing colors on the rocky terrain. This unique geology and eerie atmosphere provide a photo experience unlike anywhere else in the state.
On the northern end of Idaho, a vibrant cultural scene awaits in Coeur d’Alene, about 30 minutes west of Spokane, Washington. The waterfront park along Lake Coeur d’Alene offers stunning views of the water and distant mountains, especially at sunset when the calm water mirrors the colorful sky. Strolling along the boardwalk, visitors can snap shots of the iconic floating boardwalk and the historic old town district just a few blocks away. In winter, the nearby Tubbs Hill Trail offers a scenic half-mile loop through forest and granite cliffs overlooking the lake, making for serene winter landscapes framed by snow-dusted trees. The combination of urban charm and natural beauty sets this area apart.
Travelers venturing to Lewiston, located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater rivers and about an hour from Walla Walla, Washington, will find the Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center an insightful and visually rich stop. The exhibits showcase the history and culture of the Nez Perce tribe with artifacts, traditional beadwork, and stunning photography in natural light-filled galleries. Outside, the vantage points overlooking the winding Snake River provide sweeping panoramas perfect for capturing the meeting of water and rugged canyon terrain. Autumn’s crisp air enhances the clarity of river shots, and the cultural depth of the park offers more than just scenic views—a meaningful portrait of Idaho’s indigenous heritage.
Just over an hour north of Twin Falls, Shoshone Falls is often called the “Niagara of the West” and provides a thunderous display of one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. The falls drop 212 feet over basalt cliffs, creating a powerful mist that creates rainbows on sunny days. Multiple viewing platforms give visitors diverse photo angles, from close-up details of the cascading water to sweeping shots of the Snake River Canyon. Springtime, when snowmelt swells the falls to their fullest, is the best season for capturing their full force and vibrancy. The combination of dramatic waterpower and accessible vantage points makes Shoshone Falls a top destination for nature photography in southern Idaho.
In the desert landscape of southeastern Idaho, the City of Rocks National Reserve, about 35 minutes south of Twin Falls, beckons with its towering granite spires and vast open skies. The park’s scenic loop trail offers views of iconic rock formations like the Bath Rock and the Window, where climbers often gather. These massive stone monoliths create striking silhouettes against dawn and dusk skies, perfect for capturing dramatic light and shadow play. The reserve’s unique geology, combined with opportunities to spot wildlife such as mule deer and raptors, adds to the appeal. The cooler temperatures and vibrant wildflower blooms in spring create especially photogenic conditions.
Bordering Montana and just under three hours east of Coeur d’Alene, Priest Lake is a serene alpine lake surrounded by dense forests and mountain peaks. The Priest Lake State Park offers access to hiking trails such as the Calamity Point Trail, which climbs to a rocky promontory with sweeping lake views. Early morning fog over the calm waters can transform scenes into mystical dreamscapes, while late summer’s clear skies and warm light highlight the rich greens and blues of the scenery. This quieter, less-touristed spot invites visitors to capture tranquil reflections and vast wilderness panoramas far from the crowds.
In Boise itself, the historic district of Hyde Park in North End offers a charming urban photo setting steeped in local character about 5 miles from downtown. The tree-lined streets, vintage architecture, and colorful murals provide a contrast to Idaho’s natural landscapes, showing a vibrant side of the state’s capital. Visiting during the spring and summer brings blooming gardens and lively sidewalk cafes, infusing images with a warm, community vibe. The nearby Camel’s Back Park also offers city skyline views framed by foothills, blending urban and natural elements uniquely. This combination makes Hyde Park an excellent place to capture Idaho’s dynamic cultural pulse.
Heading southwest from Boise, the Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park is a striking geological wonder just over an hour away. Home to North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune, visitors can climb the 470-foot dune for sweeping views of the high desert and the surrounding wildlife refuge. The soft sands create a monochrome background that enhances portraits and action shots alike, while sunrise and sunset paint the sky in warm hues that contrast beautifully with the dunes’ pale tones. This is a rare Idaho landscape, offering a chance to capture the desert’s quiet grandeur and unique textures.
Eastern Idaho’s Mesa Falls Scenic Byway near Ashton, about two hours north of Idaho Falls, leads to Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, twin waterfalls that plunge over volcanic cliffs. The Upper Mesa Falls is a 114-foot cascade viewed from a wooden observation deck that brings visitors close enough to feel the spray. The vibrant turquoise water rushing through the canyon offers a striking visual against the rugged rock walls. Autumn is a prime time to visit, as golden aspens line the riverbanks, providing a vivid splash of color that enhances photos. This roadside attraction combines accessibility with breathtaking natural beauty, embodying Idaho’s varied landscape in one frame.