Experience the best of Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area at Island Park, Idaho. Be sure to bring your bike or hiking shoes in the summer to take advantage of the mountainous terrain and abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventures. In the winter, this area transforms into one of the most popular skiing destinations in the United States. Book a stay at an Island Park vacation rental today. Check out the most unforgettable spots in and around the Island Park area.
1. Island Park
Settle into a cozy cabin vacation rental in Island Park. Located in the middle of Idaho’s Fremont County, this town has a focus on outdoor, family-friendly recreation. Stay in the summer for great fishing and hiking through the wooded terrain of western Yellowstone. In winter, bring your skis or rent a snowmobile to explore an authentic winter wonderland. Accommodations in Island Park often take the form of lodges and cabins, putting you steps away from adventure.
2. Big Springs
Travel a few miles south of Island to hit Big Springs, a small town built around the eponymous spring, which releases over 120 million gallons of fresh water into Snake River each day. Vacation rentals in Big Springs offer a quiet, small-town atmosphere, slightly removed from the tourist bustle of Yellowstone, but still offering easy access to travelers and families. While in Big Springs, be sure to visit the historic Johnny Sack Cabin, a wooden dwelling dating back to 1929 that has been preserved over the years and is open to visitors during the summer months.
3. West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone lies just across the Montana border, northeast of Island Park. This outdoor adventure town is known as the busiest tourist town within Yellowstone National Park. Step back in the frontier days when you walk down the main street of West Yellowstone, which is designed with old-west style facades covering well-maintained boutiques, cafes, and outdoor gear shops. Bike down a mountain, ride a raft down a river or relax with a fishing rod in the summer. In winter, West Yellowstone is the perfect spot to break out your snowboard, skis or snowshoes.
4. Jackson
East of Island Park, Jackson, also known as Jackson Hole lies just across the Idaho border, in Wyoming. Book a vacation rental in Jackson to enjoy mountain views on all sides, as you gaze up from this 400 square mile valley. Take advantage of this spectacular terrain by bringing along your hiking boots or your binoculars for going on a wildlife-watching excursion. Head to the National Elk Refuge just north of the town to spot herds of the majestic creatures in their natural habitat, and, be sure to take a sleigh ride among the elk if you’re in Jackson in the winter.
5. Sun Valley
Book a vacation in Sun Valley in the winter to best take advantage of this town’s famous skiing, snowboarding, sledding and ice skating. Or, for a more laid-back getaway, stay within the town and visit the many fine dining establishments or spas. World-class shopping and entertainment opportunities make Sun Valley a perfect place for families with children or adults looking for a getaway.
6. Pocatello
Head to the southeast corner of Idaho to visit Pocatello, a city located at the base of the Rocky Mountains. In the summer, bring the kids and enjoy a walk through local history by visiting the Fort Hall Replica. A detailed, life-sized replica of a 19th-century fur trading outpost, this unique attraction is a fascinating experience for young and old. Embrace your artistic side by checking out the local galleries, or immersing yourself in one of the city’s many annual music and visual arts festivals.
7. Twin Falls
Located in Idaho’s aptly-named Magic Valley region, Twin Falls is one of the largest cities in the state. Find peace and quiet hiking through one of the local trails surrounding Snake River. Then, pay a visit to the spectacular Shoshone Falls, a 212-foot waterfall that is often referred to as the “Niagara of the West.” Twin Falls is also home to a golf club, public pool, and all the shopping and dining that you’d expect from a metropolitan area.
8. Stanley
Truly escape when you visit Stanley, a tiny town located at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains. Take in the picturesque views of the nearby salmon river, and the surrounding woods which offer a different brand of natural beauty for each season. In the summer, enjoy biking, hiking, and horseback riding in a true wilderness that’s accessible right from the door of your vacation rental.
9. Big Sky
Head across the border to the Montana end of Yellowstone Park to get to Big Sky. This resort town is known for its mountain sports, including some of the best skiing in the United States. Walk and hike through expansive open wilderness during the summer months, or break out your snowboard or sled while it’s snowy. Enjoy the old-west feeling of the town, including its vacation rentals, and dine or relax in style at one of the many upscale restaurants and spas.
10. Dubois
Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and history of Dubois when you book a vacation rental in this small town. Dating back to the late 1800’s, Dubois has maintained its heritage layout and design while adding modern amenities and places to stay. Dine at unique, quirky cafes and check out the local family-owned shops, or take a day trip to the nearby mountains for more outdoor adventure.