Jun 24, 2021

What are the Best Day Trips in Idaho? 

In this fast-paced world, everyone needs a break from their routine to relax and unwind. Short trips or one-day trips can do wonders to keep your weekly stress levels in check. They rejuvenate your everyday busy life and feed your wanderlusts.  

If you are staying in Pocatello, Idaho and want to escape life for a little while, consider these 4 best day trips from Pocatello, Idaho. It is surrounded by many scenic places that will leave nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts spellbound.

Tent camping in redwoods

List of the 4 Best Day Trips from Pocatello, Idaho

  • Caribou-Targhee National Forest
  • Lava Hot Springs
  • Craters of the Moon
  • Twin Falls

Caribou-Targhee National Forest 

Where to Find: 1405 Hollipark Dr, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 

Distance from Pocatello by Car: 53 minutes 
 
Point of Interest: Alaskan Basin-Buck Mountain Pass, Big Springs Boating Launch, Big Springs Warming Hut, Blackfoot Reservoir, Box Canyon Trailhead, Charcoal Kilns Interpretive Site and Targhee Creek Trailhead. 

Outdoor Activities and Experiences: Wildlife viewing, camping, hiking, fishing, bicycling, climbing, horse riding, nature viewing, picnicking, scenic driving and hunting. 

Lava Hot Springs 

Where to Find: 430 Main St, Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246 

Distance from Pocatello by Car: 35 minutes 
 
Point of Interest: Hot Spring Mineral Water Pool, Outdoor Swimming Pool, Indoor Aquatic Center, Portneuf Kiddie Cove, Water Slides, Diving Platforms, Disc Golf and Sunken Gardens. 

Outdoor Activities and Experiences: Fishing, frisbee golf, hiking, biking, trails, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, picnicking, ziplining and wagon riding. 

Craters of the Moon  

Where to Find: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Arco, ID 83213 

Distance from Pocatello by Car: 1 hour 34 minutes 
 
Point of Interest: 7-mile Loop Road, Inferno Cone, Spatter Cones, Big Craters, Broken Top Loop or Tree Molds Trails and Craters of the Moon Wilderness. 

Outdoor Activities and Experiences: Wildlife viewing, camping, hiking, climbing, nature viewing and picnicking. 

Twin Falls 


Where to Find: 136 Maxwell Ave., Twin Falls, ID 83301 

Distance from Pocatello by Car: 1 hour 43 minutes 
 
Point of Interest: Shoshone Falls, Dierkes Lake Park, Auger Falls Heritage Park, Canyon Rim Trail and First Federal Bank Park. 

Outdoor Activities and Experiences: Parks, urban wilderness space, trails, playgrounds, ball fields, swimming pool, splash pad, fishing and open green spaces. 

Exciting? Choose any of these natural marvels to discover the awe-inspiring wonders.