Unforgettable Experiences Await: Top Things to Do in Island Park, Idaho
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination full of outdoor adventure and natural beauty, look no further than Island Park, Idaho.
This charming town is tucked away in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is the perfect place for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
As a nature lover, I was drawn to Island Park for its rugged beauty and endless outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is surrounded by vast forests, stunning mountains, and crystal-clear lakes and rivers, making it a haven for hikers, bikers, anglers, and more.
And with its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Island Park is the perfect base camp for anyone exploring one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders.
One of my favorite things to do in Island Park is hiking. The area is home to miles and miles of scenic trails that wind through towering trees, over babbling brooks, and up into the mountains.
For an unforgettable adventure, check out the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, which offers stunning views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls and plenty of hiking opportunities.
You’ll be in paradise in Island Park if you’re an angler. The area is home to some of the best fly fishing in the country, with world-class trout streams like the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River just waiting to be explored.
And if you’re not an experienced fisherman, don’t worry – plenty of local guides and outfitters can show you the ropes and help you reel in your first catch.
No matter your interests, there’s no shortage of things to do in Island Park. From kayaking and canoeing to horseback riding and wildlife watching, this hidden gem is the perfect place to connect with nature and experience the great outdoors.
So why not plan your next adventure in Island Park? You won’t be disappointed!
| Island Park, Idaho | |
|---|---|
| Location | Southeast Idaho, United States |
| County | Fremont County |
| Established year | 1947 |
| Population | 193 (as of 2020 Census) |
| City Area | 6.19 square miles (16.03 km²) |
| Zip code(s) | 83429, 83433 |
| Area code(s) | 208 |
| Mayor | Michael Bogden |
| Nickname | ? |
| Famous | Harriman State Park, Mesa Falls, Big Springs |
| City hall website | https://islandparkid.govoffice2.com/ |
| Google map link | https://www.google.com/maps/place/Island+Park,+ID |
Harriman State Park
Harriman State Park is a beautiful 11,000-acre park in Island Park, Idaho. It is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering various activities for all ages and interests. The park is on the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River and is known for its exceptional fishing opportunities.
It is home to numerous fish species, including rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout. Fly fishing is prevalent in the park; visitors can hire guides to help them navigate the waters.
Apart from fishing, there are many other activities that visitors can engage in while at Harriman State Park. Hiking is widespread, with trails available for all skill levels. The park is also home to abundant wildlife, including moose, elk, and bison, which can be seen while exploring the park’s trails.
Visitors can also enjoy a range of winter sports, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, during the colder months.
Harriman State Park offers numerous camping options for those who want to stay longer, including tent and RV camping. In addition, the park has several campgrounds open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature while sleeping under the stars.
Harriman State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Idaho’s natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Upper Mesa Falls
Upper Mesa Falls is a stunning waterfall on the Henrys Fork of the Snake River in Island Park, Idaho. It is approximately 114 feet high and 200 feet wide and is considered one of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Upper Mesa Falls is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves the outdoors.
The waterfall is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest, making it an excellent spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk in nature.
Visitors can take a short hike on the nearby trail to get a closer look at the falls and take in the spectacular view from the observation deck. In addition, many other hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Aside from its natural beauty, Upper Mesa Falls is also historically significant. In the early 20th century, the falls played a role in the development of hydroelectric power in the region, and visitors can learn more about this history at the interpretive center nearby.
Overall, Upper Mesa Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Island Park or the surrounding area and is a perfect spot for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.
Yellowstone Horses at Eagle Ridge Ranch
Yellowstone Horses at Eagle Ridge Ranch is a popular horseback riding service in Island Park, Idaho. The ranch offers an unforgettable experience for those exploring the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
The ranch offers a variety of guided tours and horseback rides that cater to different experience levels. Visitors can choose from a one-hour scenic ride to a full-day adventure with lunch and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
The guides are knowledgeable and experienced, providing all riders a safe and enjoyable experience.
Yellowstone Horses at Eagle Ridge Ranch is also home to a herd of well-trained horses carefully selected for their temperament and ability to work with riders of all levels.
The horses are well-cared for and loved by the staff, providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The ranch also provides helmets and other necessary riding gear to ensure the safety of all riders.
Yellowstone Horses at Eagle Ridge Ranch is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Island Park, Idaho, on horseback. With various rides and tours, visitors can choose the perfect adventure that suits their experience level and preferences.
The well-trained horses, experienced guides, and stunning scenery makes it an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Johnny Sack’s Cabin
Johnny Sack’s Cabin is a historic landmark at Big Springs in Island Park, Idaho. In 1929, Johnny Sack leased a small tract of land from the United States Forest Service. He began building his log cabin at Big Springs, one of the world’s 40 most significant natural springs, producing over 120 million gallons of water daily.
Due to its unique location and picturesque setting, Johnny’s cabin and the nearby water-wheel have long been one of the most photographed sites in Island Park.
Johnny’s cabin and interior are open to the public from mid-June through mid-September, allowing visitors to see firsthand the unique craftsmanship of one of Island Park’s early settlers. Johnny’s work is characterized by the split bark decoration in the cabin’s furniture and interior.
He took great pride in detail work, and many of the individually crafted wood furniture Johnny created for his home remain in their original location.
The cabin took approximately three years, as Johnny worked primarily with hand tools. Finally, he built a small structure and water wheel at the springs’ edge to harness the springs’ power and create electricity.
Today, the cabin remains open to visitors through the efforts of the USFS, Fremont County Parks and Recreation, the Island Park Historical Society, and numerous volunteers.
Yellowstone Playhouse at Island Park
The Yellowstone Playhouse is a dinner theater in Island Park, Idaho, just outside the West entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The theater is situated in a beautiful mountain setting, and guests can enjoy a full dinner and show experience in a rustic, intimate atmosphere.
The playhouse has entertained visitors and locals for over two decades and has become a beloved institution in the area.
The theater’s productions range from classic Broadway musicals to comedies and dramas featuring talented actors and performers nationwide. Shows are typically performed during the summer season, from June through August, and tickets are available for purchase in advance online or at the box office.
The dinner menu includes a variety of delicious entrees and sides, and vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
In addition to its regular performances, the Yellowstone Playhouse hosts special events and private parties, making it a popular destination for groups and organizations. So whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a special night out in the scenic Idaho wilderness, the Yellowstone Playhouse is a must-visit destination in Island Park.
Its talented performers, delicious food, and beautiful surroundings offer an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
