Winter in Idaho: Get Outside (and Actually Enjoy It)

Take a sleigh ride or a quick drive up to Bogus Basin for Nordic skiing, or book a full-day snowmobiling adventure – better yet, try it all! Check out Visit Idaho for more information and links to many of the experiences we mention below. 

Classic Sleigh Rides

If you’ve ever wanted to tap into the romance of an old-fashioned winter with crisp air, jingling bells, warm blankets, and scenic valleys, Idaho’s horse-drawn sleigh rides should be on your bucket list. In destinations across the state, local outfitters offer experiences that range from family-friendly rides to romantic trips for two. You’ll bounce along snowy meadows and in some places, even watch Rocky Mountain elk come right up to the sleigh.

Some of the most beloved sleigh ride spots include:

1. Sun Valley Sleigh Rides — through the snow-laden hills around one of Idaho’s most iconic mountain towns.

2. Hap & Florence Points in Donnelly — glide along the scenic Gold Fork River.

3. Idaho Sleigh Rides in Garden Valley — known for its old-fashioned feel and wildlife sightings.

Most experiences require advanced reservations and often suggest dressing in layers and bringing warm blankets.

Snowmobiling in Idaho’s Backcountry

For a completely different kind of winter thrill, snowmobiling in Idaho delivers unmatched access to backcountry terrain. Whether you’re riding with a group of seasoned sledders or booking a guided tour, the Gem State offers countless snowmobile playgrounds. 

Top snowmobiling regions include:

1. McCall Area — a winter destination with miles of trail systems and backcountry access. Check out the trails that lead to Burgdorf hot springs for a truly magical Idaho experience.

2. Island Park Area — wide-open landscapes and scenic corridors framed by mountains.

3. Fairfield and Rexburg-Driggs Regions — diverse terrain for riders of all skill levels.

Hit the trails in national forests like Payette and Boise, where groomed routes sweep through snowy conifers. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or simply want to explore iconic Idaho terrain in a fresh way, snowmobiling is among the most exhilarating ways to embrace winter.

Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing

Some winter experiences are meant to be savored slowly, and nothing embodies that like Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in Idaho. These low-impact activities let you wander through quiet forests and open meadows, absorb panoramic mountain views, and truly feel the seasonal shift underfoot.

Snowshoeing is wonderfully approachable and easy to learn, making it a great option for kids, beginners, or anyone who just wants to explore snowy trails at their own pace. Nordic (cross-country) skiing, on the other hand, lets you cover more ground on groomed trails while you glide.

Where to try it:

1. Harriman State Park (Island Park) — a favorite snowshoe and Nordic spot with wide, scenic trails.

2. Ashton-Tetonia Trail — a long, gentle former railbed that’s perfect for cross-country touring, snowshoeing, or simply soaking in Teton views.

3. Ponderosa State Park & Bogus Basin Nordic Center — easily accessible options for locals and visitors alike. Bogus Basin offers rentals, guides, and tours for all skill levels!

Winter in Boise 

Winter in Boise and the surrounding communities offers plenty of seasonal fun without heading far from home. Downtown Boise features festive horse-drawn carriage rides, a charming way to enjoy the city’s winter lights and atmosphere.

Ice skating is a popular winter pastime, with outdoor rinks at The Village at Meridian and Indian Creek Plaza. Both locations offer a lively setting with nearby dining, shopping, and events, making it the perfect, easy winter outing.

For a more active option, Eagle Island State Park offers a fun-tastic snow tubing experience. It’s a simple, family-friendly way to enjoy winter outdoors without needing special equipment or skills.

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