Fall in Idaho is a special time of year when the Treasure Valley, and the rest of the state, transforms into a playground of golden hues, crisp air, and seasonal delights. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cozy indoor activities, or special events, Idaho has something to offer. Let’s dive into some of the best ways to soak up the beauty and magic of fall in Idaho.
Fall Foliage Hikes
Idaho’s mountains and forests burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall, making hiking an absolute must. Take a stroll through the Boise Foothills or venture out to Bogus Basin for breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike, the Greenbelt offers paved paths along the Boise River, where you can enjoy the changing leaves without straying too far from the city.
For a more adventurous hike, consider Sawtooth National Forest or McCall, where the high elevation and dense forests create a blanket of fall colors. Don’t forget to pack a camera—Idaho’s fall foliage is Instagram-worthy at every turn!
Pumpkin Patches and Straw Mazes
No fall is complete without a trip to a pumpkin patch or straw maze! Shindig Farms and The Lowe Family Farmstead Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in the Treasure Valley offer fun for all ages. From picking the perfect pumpkin to navigating giant straw mazes, it’s a festive way to enjoy the season with family and friends. Many of these farms also offer hayrides, petting zoos, and delicious seasonal treats like apple cider and caramel apples.
Pumpkin Patches / Straw Mazes
- Lowe Family Farmstead
- Jordan’s Pumpkin Patch
- Shindig Farms
- Flamin Acres
- Lovely Hollows Farm
- Cherry Hill Farms
- Wissel Farms
- Kovick Kountry Farms
Harvest Festivals
Idaho loves to celebrate the season with local harvest festivals, where communities come together to enjoy good food, music, and crafts. The McCall Fall Festival and Emmett Harvest Festival are two great options that feature live music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. These festivals are perfect for enjoying the flavors of fall, like warm pumpkin soup, homemade apple pie, and local cider.
Touring a Local Winery: Snake River Wine Country
Fall is the perfect time to tour Idaho’s wine country, especially in Marsing, part of the Snake River Valley AVA. The cooler weather, beautiful vineyard views, and harvest season make this a special experience. A popular option is to take the Snake River Wine Tour, which brings you through several local wineries, including Sawtooth Winery and Huston Vineyards. Not only will you get to sip on award-winning wines, but you’ll also enjoy stunning views of the Snake River and surrounding landscapes, with autumn’s colors adding extra magic.
Many wineries offer special harvest events during the fall, where you can learn about the winemaking process, enjoy food pairings, and take home a bottle or two of your favorite vintage. It’s a great way to relax, support local businesses, and savor the unique flavors of Idaho’s growing wine scene.
Attending a Boise State Football Game
Fall in Idaho isn’t complete without experiencing the electric atmosphere of a Boise State University football game! Known for their famous blue turf at Albertsons Stadium, the Broncos are a source of pride for the Treasure Valley, and their games are a major fall event. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in it for the tailgating, attending a BSU game is a thrilling way to spend a crisp autumn afternoon or evening. Once the game kicks off, you’ll feel the excitement of Bronco Nation as they cheer on the team. Be sure to wear blue and orange to show your school spirit!
Hot Springs Escapes
When the temperatures drop, there’s no better way to warm up than by soaking in one of Idaho’s natural hot springs. Kirkham Hot Springs near Lowman or Gold Fork Hot Springs in Donnelly are popular spots for a relaxing retreat. Surrounded by fall foliage, a hot springs dip is the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.
Fall Foliage Scenic Drives
If hiking isn’t your style, you can still take in Idaho’s fall beauty from the comfort of your car. Some of the best scenic drives for leaf-peeping include the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, which winds through Boise National Forest, and the Payette River Scenic Byway, which takes you through the stunning landscapes of McCall and Cascade. These drives offer plenty of spots to pull over for photo ops or enjoy a picnic amid the vibrant fall backdrop.
Boise Farmers Market
Fall brings a bounty of fresh, local produce to the Boise Farmers Market, where you can find everything from crisp apples and squash to homemade jams and local honey. The market is a great spot to pick up seasonal ingredients to cook up a cozy fall meal or just enjoy a stroll while sipping on hot cider. Don’t forget to check out the local artisans for handmade crafts that celebrate Idaho’s unique spirit.
Farmers Markets
- Boise Farmers Market: Saturdays 9am-1pm
- Capital City Public Market: Saturdays 9:30am-1:30pm
- Meridian Main Street Market: Saturdays 9am-1pm
- Eagle Saturday Market: Saturdays 9am-2pm
- Nampa Farmers Market: Saturdays 9am-1pm
Biking and Trail Riding
Cooler temperatures make fall a great time for outdoor biking or trail riding. The Boise River Greenbelt is a local favorite, offering miles of trails along the river, through parks, and into downtown Boise. For mountain biking enthusiasts, Camel’s Back Park and Table Rock provide more challenging terrain with sweeping views of the valley. If you’re up for a road trip, head to Sun Valley, where the fall colors create an incredible backdrop for cyclists.
Cozy Cabin Getaways
Fall is the perfect season for a cozy cabin retreat. Consider renting a cabin in Stanley, McCall, or Cascade for a weekend of relaxation, surrounded by Idaho’s natural beauty. Bring along a good book, cozy blankets, and hot cider to fully enjoy the crisp fall air and peaceful ambiance.
Embrace Fall in Idaho
With so much to do, fall in Idaho is truly something special. Whether you’re exploring nature, enjoying local festivities, or cozying up with loved ones, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the season. So, grab your scarf, sip on some warm cider, and get ready to enjoy all the magic that fall in Idaho has to offer!
