1. Lava Versus Lunar

The volcanic geology of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve made it a top pick for NASA’s Apollo 14 mission because it most accurately represented what astronauts would experience on the moon’s surface. The team trained for their lunar trip by maneuvering through through this unique Idaho landscape and collecting rock samples. The area is also recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, which means all the brilliant stars you’ll experience at night will make you feel like you’re worlds away.

2. Battle of the Birds

Don’t let the long name throw you. The Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) has a prestigious designation as its home to the greatest concentration of nesting birds of prey on the continent and more than 250 avian species. On the other side of the country, Florida’s Everglades National Park may have a more tropical climate — making it an ideal destination for the 300 bird species that visit the area — but both locations offer top-tier birdwatching. Drive through the NCA to spot hawks, owls, eagles, and falcons as they use the crags and crevices 700 feet above the Snake River to raise their young. The NCA is the considered “the best of the best” for bird viewing in Idaho.

3. Tall Tree Tussle

Towering trees? We’ve got that! Walk through an old-growth cedar forest where the treetops reach heights of 150 feet. The Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars is a smaller concentration of gigantic trees than the expansive Redwood National Forest, but you’ll still find mighty cedars that are wider than a two-car garage. Visit this tucked-away spot in northern Idaho for a picnic, or a trek to a waterfall.

4. Big Lake Brawl

Idaho is home to hundreds of amazing lakes, but Lake Pend Oreille holds the title of Idaho’s deepest lake. Despite being nearly 200 feet shy of Lake Superior’s whopping 1,300-foot depth, Lake Pend Oreille makes up for it with 111 miles of shoreline. Farragut State Park sits on the edge of this magnificent lake, where you can wander around the Museum at the Brig and learned about the former World War II naval training center stationed here. Even better, when the conditions are right, you might be able to spot the northern lights.

5. Super-Sized Showdown

While this may seem an unlikely matchup, Idaho’s Frank Church-Wilderness of No Return Wilderness spans more than 2.3 million acres, which is a close second to Death Valley in size. “The Frank,” as it’s lovingly known, is the largest contiguous wilderness in the lower 48 states and offers more mountains, waterways and trees than its counterpart in California and Nevada. Featuring world-renowned whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, four national forests and the Salmon River Canyon (which is also deeper than the Grand Canyon), there is no shortage of wild places to explore in this extraordinary part of Idaho.

6. Falls Face-Off

There’s a reason Shoshone Falls is nicknamed the “Niagara of the West.” At 212 feet high, this dazzling waterfall stands 24 feet taller than Niagara Falls. The falls are accessible from overlooks in the nearby park, but some of the best views can be enjoyed by paddling to the base of the falls and looking up from the Snake River below.

7. Clash of the Canyons

While the Grand Canyon has some serious name recognition, Idaho’s Hells Canyon still outranks its fellow natural marvel. In some areas, Hells Canyon is nearly 8,000 feet deep and 10 miles wide. That’s 2,000 feet — almost two Eiffel Towers — deeper than the Grand Canyon. Take a jet boat tour, a whitewater rafting trip or a drive along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to see how it stacks up.

8. Dark Sky Duel

The Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve stretches 1,400 square miles (two times the size of Los Angeles) covering the majestic Sawtooth Mountains, rugged wilderness areas and several mountain towns. It also holds the coveted Gold-Tier status, which means Idaho’s night skies are some of the best found on Earth. Arches National Park in Utah also holds an International Dark Sky Park designation, so those night skies are nothing to overlook. But the size of Idaho’s Dark sky Reserve means you have ample, and often uncrowded, ways to experience the stars — no special equipment needed.

Which of these natural attractions will you visit first?

Eagle Island State Park | Eagle

This 545-acre park is home to a year-round disc golf course that is challenging in all the right ways. The handcart-friendly route provides intermediate-to-advanced players with a mix of open fairway and wooded shots across 19 holes. The course is lined by water and features slight elevation changes.

Farragut State Park | Athol

This park’s five, yes five, year-round courses are known for their balanced mix of hole layouts and difficulty. Each course features 18 holes, with one geared toward beginners and children, three in the intermediate-to-advanced range and one highly technical, advanced course designed with professionals in mind.

Hells Gate State Park | Lewiston

This charming, intermediate nine-hole course sits along the Snake River and is available to play year-round, although summer access may depend on the park’s mowing schedule. Several holes prompt players to use strategy in avoiding light brush, tree groupings and water hazards.

Lake Walcott State Park | Rupert

With 21 holes open all year and various options for approaching play, the course at this state park is easily adjustable to suit a player’s skill level and is a fast favorite for first-time visitors.

Lucky Peak State Park | Boise

Sandy Point, a hillside section of this scenic state park near Boise, offers a welcoming 18-hole course with changing basket layouts. The park is generally accessible from October through May.

Massacre Rocks State Park | American Falls

This challenging, elevated adventure features nine holes available year-round and is best for intermediate-to-advanced players. There are drops and rises, narrow fairways and even several baskets located over ravines at this park. Beginners can get their throws in on an additional junior course.

Priest Lake State Park | Coolin

Harvey’s Hemlock Hideaway, a disc golf course located in the lovely Priest Lake area, was designed with beginners and families in mind. The nine holes feature scenic views and a mix of open shots and tree coverage. This picturesque location is technically seasonal, but baskets are left out for those willing to brave the elements throughout the year.

Three Island Crossing State Park | Glenns Ferry

Spend the entire day outside on a beautiful 18-hole course. This moderately challenging route along the Snake River incorporates water and can be tricky when it’s windy. The course at this park is accessible year-round despite occasional snow cover.

Thousand Springs State Park | Hagerman

Niagara Springs is one of six units at this renowned state park, where disc golf enthusiasts can find a well-designed course at a higher elevation with a mixture of shots. The play on this 18-hole disc golf course in Idaho leans toward intermediate or advanced, but beginners can also enjoy honing their throws here.

Castle Rocks State Park | Almo

Aim for an ace against a backdrop of ancient granite formations at this remarkable state park known for its rock climbing. The small, grassy course here has only three holes, but visitors can also take advantage of nearby scenic picnic areas, as well as hiking and fishing access.

Dworshak State Park | Lenore

Recently upgraded to 18 holes, the FoxBurrow fairway is found near the Freeman Creek Campground within the 850-acre park. The course allows ample opportunities for intermediate-to-advanced players to show off their skills over shots of differing lengths, inclines and technicality.

Looking for insider tips on visiting Idaho’s state parks? Check out Ranger Talks! This series gives you firsthand tips from the people who know each park inside and out: the rangers.

Find additional resources and check out more activities and adventures you can experience in Idaho State Parks.

Yes, the Gem State is well-known for its spectacular spuds; but beyond tasty taters, visitors can expect to encounter unique and unexpected options that not only delight but demand further awareness and recognition. Enter the James Beard Awards.

These prestigious awards are the “Oscars” of cuisine—and being nominated as a semifinalist for one of its several restaurant or chef categories is enough to put a nominee on the must-try map.

Recently, the James Beard Awards announced its 2024 semifinalists for the Best Chef category in the Mountain Region (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah and Wyoming)—and once again, four Idaho chefs received nominations. Idaho is no stranger to James Beard recognition, and last year a local restauranteur claimed Best Chef honors, for the first time.

Read on to learn what this nomination (a three-peat for some!) means to these individuals and how it spotlights and inspires their respective culinary journeys.

Salvador Alamilla, Amano | Caldwell

Chef Alamilla’s culinary journey is a testament to the transformative power of food and culture. Through his dedication to preserving culinary traditions and pushing boundaries, he continues to inspire and elevate Idaho’s culinary scene. At Amano, every dish tells a story—a story of passion, heritage and innovation.

This year’s nomination marks Chef Alamilla’s third consecutive as a semifinalist—an honor filled with gratitude, accomplishment and humility as well as excitement for his dedicated staff. “[The nominations] are a reminder of how far we’ve come … and [I’m] humbled by still getting recognized on this national level,” Alamilla says.

The James Beard impact goes beyond personal recognition, extending to the establishment’s ability to evolve its menu. “We definitely see an increase in awareness [at Amano], and it gives us the opportunity to be able to showcase dishes that use ancestral methods that may not have been as accepted when we first opened,” he acknowledges. The continued recognition also demonstrates the culinary diversity and talent present in small communities like Caldwell. “It shows you don’t have to be in a big city to do cool things,” he adds.

Alamilla’s culinary approach is drawn from the rich tapestry of Mexican flavors and techniques he experienced growing up. “I love digging into different regions of Mexico to get inspired for our menu or beverage program,” he reveals. “It gives me an opportunity to share my passion for my culture with everyone, so they see how beautiful Mexico is.”

Representing his cultural heritage through food holds profound meaning. “I feel proud that someone who looks like me, speaks like me, and was undocumented as a little boy, could grow up to have this opportunity,” he shares. “Twenty years ago, I didn’t see chefs like me. I am humbled and happy to help pave the way so that there is more representation, and in turn, opportunities for all.”

For those eager to explore Amano’s menu, Alamilla recommends the following:

• Beef Tartara Tostada—a reinterpretation of traditional carne apache, featuring Certified Angus Beef sirloin, vegetables, crema Mexicana, avocado and a housemade sesame-seed tostada prepared with nixtamalized corn.
• Baja Cali Fish Tacos—a longstanding menu item that has evolved to include Fairweather Fish Co. wild-caught Alaskan lingcod, salsa verde, mayo crema, housemade Tapatio salsa and hand-rolled flour tortillas.
• Mole Verde—a vegan dish showcasing a cauliflower steak, pistachio-poblano mole, local pea shoots and Cónico Azul heirloom corn from Oaxaca.
• Suavecito—a fun, smooth cocktail for those wanting to dip their toes into mezcal.

Dan Ansotegui, Ansots | Boise

In the cozy enclave of Ansots, Chef Dan Ansotegui, along with co-owner and daughter Ellie Ansotegui and their team, weave a culinary narrative steeped in Basque tradition and family heritage.

As a James Beard Best Chef semifinalist for three consecutive years, the honor brings astonishment and pride. “Every year is a surprise and a bit of disbelief,” Ansotegui divulges. “We joke that we think it must be a mistake because we do not consider ourselves chefs at all, let alone someone deserving of such an honor. But we know that so much of it has to do with the people we have here at the restaurant to make sure the food we are serving is everything we hope it to be.”

“The nominations show us that Basque food is worthy of being considered as some of the finest food in the world,” he conveys. “We pride ourselves on making sure that everything we do is done in a way and with an end result that my immigrant grandparents, and my own parents—Ellie’s grandparents—would sit down to a meal here and be very happy with what we are serving. Because, Lord knows, they would let us know if there was something wrong.”

Ansotegui notes the impact of the Best Chef nomination on his community’s burgeoning food scene and what that means for the people behind the apron. “I think it raises awareness that Boise is a foodie city,” he asserts. “It brings attention to those many chefs and local restaurateurs who are working their tails off each and every day to give people a restaurant experience that people talk about. Most of these chefs are never recognized, but should be, and I am happy to represent those who do not get mentioned but who are doing amazing work and putting out incredible food.”

This culinary approach appears to be working well for Ansots. “Our numbers have definitely increased; but more than that, we are getting people who may never have thought to try Ansots—or even a Basque chorizo— to come visit us and walk away with a pleasant surprise for the day,” he remarks.

Unfamiliar with Basque cuisine? Ansotegui recommends two must-try menu items: Presa and Lamb Txilindron. The Presa is a Denver pork steak—served with chimichurri, garlic crostini and arugula salad—offering a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. “[It’s] like something I’ve never tasted,” he exclaims. “It resembles a beef steak with its marbling and tenderness, and yet its caramelization reminds you of a fine chop.”

The Lamb Txilindron is a slow-cooked Basque stew centered around a leg of lamb. The three-hour simmer results in “an incredible tenderness and subtleness that is not usual with lamb,” Ansotegui affirms.

Heather Logan & Ben Barlow, Stanley Supper Club | Stanley

In the heart of central Idaho’s Sawtooth Valley, where jagged snow-capped peaks meet serene alpine lakes, lies the Stanley Supper Club—a cozy space where patrons indulge in exquisite flavors amid rustic ambiance. At its helm are chefs Heather Logan and Ben Barlow, whose culinary journey from a guest ranch kitchen to receiving their first James Beard Best Chef nomination is as inspiring as it is delicious.

The duo met in 2012 while working together in the kitchen at Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch near Stanley. Their shared passion for food and adventure ignited a partnership that led them to Seattle, where they honed their crafts while working for notable establishments—and James Beard-nominated chefs—in the Emerald City’s fine dining and bakery scenes. But Logan and Barlow found themselves drawn back to Stanley, a place they had always considered home. “Heather and I could never stay away from Stanley for long, visiting every year and always dreaming of settling down there,” Barlow admits on the Stanley Supper Club website.

Their vision materialized into reality with the inception of Stanley Supper Club in 2020. “Our dream was to create something that had the best of both worlds; a homey place where you can relax and where simple food is prepared with skill and great care,” Barlow clarifies.

During an interview with the Idaho Mountain Express, Logan shared that their culinary philosophy bridges the gap between sophistication and approachability “We’re not a fancy restaurant, we are a good restaurant. Everything is homemade and done with the heart,” she claims.

Stanley Supper Club offers a diverse array of dishes to cater to every palate. From belly-filling fried chicken dinners and inventive pasta dishes to decadent three-layer cakes, each creation at the supper club is infused with passion and creativity. “It’s fun to expand people’s palates,” Barlow states.

Speaking to the Idaho Mountain Express regarding their James Beard nomination, the duo conveys “both excitement and apprehension” along with the realization that maintaining their original goal of being “low-key and accessible” may prove challenging with the notoriety that comes with the heralded honor. “Moving to the mountains in the middle of Idaho, we did not think we’d be on anyone’s radar,” Logan confesses.

But the recognition is not just a validation of their culinary talent; it’s a celebration of their journey and a testament to the power of following one’s passion.

As they await an undisclosed visit from James Beard judges, followed by the announcement of finalists in April, Logan and Barlow remain grounded in their mission to deliver an exceptional yet approachable dining experience—one delectable dish at a time.

Featured image credited to Stanley Supper Club.

Staying in a snow-covered backcountry yurt is the perfect winter adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s all the excitement of a backpacking trip paired with the luxuries and comforts of home. Solo adventurers, friends, and families alike will all find the experience one to remember. Idaho is home to several spectacular backcountry yurts. Here are 5 favorites to add to your Idaho bucket list this season.

Banner Ridge

Trailhead location: 23.5 miles north of Idaho City on Highway 21, just past mile marker 61

Trail description: The trail climbs steadily for 2 miles and gains 750 ft along the way. It winds through the forest and finally tops out on Banner ridge. Impressive views of the Sawtooth mountains are the reward for the uphill push. The yurt is nestled in a stand of trees and has a spacious deck that overlooks the valley.

Best suited for: Families, snowshoers, Nordic skiers, backcountry ski/snowboarders

What makes this spot special: This is an excellent choice for beginners and families. The snow is usually powder and there is plenty of it. Over 20 miles of groomed trails, 50 miles of marked ski trails, and thousands of feet of untracked runs are available right from the front door. Kids will love sledding down the hills while adults watch from the deck – or join in the fun themselves!

Where to reserve: Idaho Parks & Recreation Website

Skyline

Trailhead location: 20 miles north of Idaho City on Highway 21, just past highway mile marker 59.

Trail description: The trail to reach Skyline yurt is 2.5 miles with 650 feet of elevation gain. It has a consistent upward grade along a scenic ridgeline with stunning views most of the way in. The trail eventually turns in towards the forest for the last half mile or so, and the yurt can be found on a high knob with breathtaking views.

Best suited for: Snowshoers, Nordic skiers, backcountry ski/snowboarders

What makes this spot special: The 200-degree view to the east, south and west. It’s one of the best in the Boise National Forest! The open, rolling terrain is perfect for those new to backcountry skiing/snowboarding. Kids will enjoy sledding on the hills behind the yurt as well. Everyone will appreciate the masterpiece in the sky as the sun sets behind the mountains.

Where to reserve: Idaho Parks & Recreation Website

Fishhook Hut

Trailhead location: Stanley, Idaho. The trail begins on the road to Redfish Lake Lodge, 4.3 miles south of Stanley on highway 75. There is a pull-out for parking close by, right off the highway.

Trail description: It is 4 gentle miles to the yurt, only gaining 305 ft of elevation. The first 2 miles are along the road to Redfish Lake Lodge, which is closed in the winter. This is frequently traveled by snowmobiles and is typically well tracked out. The last 2 miles are closed to all motor vehicles and follows a meandering creek through meadows to the yurt. This is where the solitude begins and the magic of winter in the mountains truly takes effect. Snow piled on trees and the frozen stream looks like a real-life Thomas Kincaid painting.

Best suited for: Large groups, families, snowshoers, Nordic skiers, both beginner and advanced backcountry ski/snowboarders.

What makes this spot special: The wood fired hot tub truly sets this spot apart. Be prepared for an all-day endeavor. The tub is filled bucket by bucket with stream water and then heated by a small wood burning stove. It is a team effort for sure. However, soaking in the hot tub in subzero temps while gazing up at the milky way is a memory I will never forget. Fishhook yurt can also accommodate up to 14 people. For beginners, there are many opportunities for scenic tours through the meadows and forests that are safe from avalanche hazards. For advanced skiers and boarders, there is incredible downhill and ski mountaineering potential on the big Sawtooth peaks above the valley.

Where to reserve: Sun Valley Mountain Huts Website

Star Gazer

Trailhead location: 25 miles north of Idaho City on Highway 21, just before mile marker 63

Trail description: The trail is a short but steep 1.4 miles with 550 ft of elevation gain. It is not groomed and will make for quite a challenging ascent in fresh snow. The yurt is perched atop an exposed ridge line. High winds and drifting snow are common, but the 360-degree view is well worth the effort to get there.

Best suited for: Snowshoers, backcountry ski/snowboarders.

What makes this spot special: The 360-degree view! Scott Mountain, Jackson Peak, Wolf Mountain, Steele Mountain, Pilots Peak and the Sawtooth Mountains are all visible right from the yurt. Star Gazer point is just a quarter of a mile snowshoe further up the trail and allows for, you guessed it, incredible star gazing. The skies are dark, and the Milky Way lights up the night. Grab your headlamp and a thermos of hot cocoa for a fun little night adventure to this high point. Photographers will love capturing the night skies.

Where to reserve: Idaho Parks & Recreation Website

Boulder

Trailhead location: 17 miles north of Sun Valley Idaho on highway 75. Parking at Billy’s Bridge.

Trail description: 1.5 easy miles with 350 ft of elevation gain. The trail to the yurt parallels the Harriman groomed trail for part of the way. Please note that snowshoes are not allowed on this trail and a pass is required to ski on it. The trail follows bamboo stakes and eventually turns into the forest. After a brief ascent, the yurt is found at the base of Butterfield Mountain and opposite the impressive Boulder Mountains. Fun fact: the outhouse has one of the best bathroom views I’ve encountered.

Best suited for: Everybody! Families, novice and intermediate skiers, track skiers, snowshoers, backcountry skiers and snowboarders

What makes this spot special: The wood fired sauna. This is a unique amenity and allows visitors to relax after a day of playing in the snow. It can also accommodate groups of 14 people. Cross country skiing is available on the groomed 30 Kilometer Harriman Trail. Touring through the meadows and along the ridges is another option as are downhill runs on ice-cream ridge above the Yurt. Kids can spend hours on the sledding slope right outside. For more experienced skiers, there are plenty of peaks, chutes and bowls to explore further above the yurt. The Boulder Yurts is truly a destination for all interests and abilities.

Where to reserve: Sun Valley Mountain Huts Website

No matter which yurt you venture into, the solitude and scenery will keep you coming back for more. Time spent unplugged in a real-life snow globe will become some of your most cherished winter memories. Remember to pack out all your trash and everything you brought in with you. Leave the yurts better than you found them and protect our Idaho forests by following the Travel with Care principles. Always check current weather conditions and travel within the abilities of all group members.

Feature image credited to Stephanie McNulty.

Stephanie McNulty is a travel writer, photographer, and content creator based in Boise, Idaho. She fell in love with mountains as a young mom and has been chasing them ever since. Stephanie can usually be found in the wild places of Idaho, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond… all with four feral children in tow. Follow her adventures on IG @thebackpackingmom. 

Riding bikes and playing in the leaves: two of the giddiest joys of childhood that, when combined, make fall the best season for mountain biking. (It’s just science.)

Throughout Idaho, the cooler weather, smaller crowds and perfect autumn dirt set the stage for a final victory lap before winter. But it’s the fall colors that seal the deal: the golden slopes of western larch and the yellow and orange corridors of aspen trees.

Below are fall mountain biking recommendations  for key riding regions throughout the state. Practice your leafy skids and get ready to feel like a kid again.

1. Sandpoint

The signature cedar forests of northern Idaho shade most of Sandpoint’s expansive—and growing—trail system. But in autumn, larch is the star as this deciduous conifer lays down a carpet of gold needles on the tread. Connecting the trail network of Schweitzer to the town, the Schweitzer Basin descends more than 4,000 vertical feet to valley bottom ecosystems. The trails—High Point to Sidewinder to the Lower Basin DH is a prime route pick—provide a highlight reel of hues, from the gold of larch and hardwoods to the rosy blush of huckleberry shrubs and the yellow of ferns. And they come with an added bonus — spectacular views of Lake Pend Oreille from the top of the trail.

2. Boise

The City of Trees lives up to its name late in the fall, when the shrubs and cottonwoods of the Boise Foothills complement the vibrant trees lining the streets of the historic neighborhoods. Of the approximately 200 miles of singletrack in the Foothills trail system, the nine miles that descend Freddy’s Stack Rock and Sweet Connie provide one of the best combos of high-speed fun and peak autumn color for top-notch Boise mountain biking. Beginning near the top of Bogus Basin Road, Freddy’s curls around shrubs and rock formations before dropping into the stacked, swooping curves of Sweet Connie. Canyon and creek bed foliage flash by, while nearly the whole way, views of Boise’s trees far below angle for attention.

3. Pocatello

Pocatello’s biking bona fides may be hiding in plain sight, but its fall colors are right out in the open. The folded foothills of the Bannock Range west of town, where most of the area’s trails lie, put on one of the best fall color shows in Idaho. The City Creek Trail System, on a low bench of land just west of downtown, encompasses some of the area’s best and most easily accessible fall mountain biking. The City Creek trail snakes alongside the namesake creek under a canopy of red and orange — meanwhile, aspens and maples mingle on the Grove–Bowling Ball Loop, where leaves pile in big drifts and invite extensive drifting turns through the curling path. Time your ride right, and the views will include the snow-capped peaks of the Portneuf Range to the east.

4. Teton Valley

September is when the Tetons have serious competition for scenic bragging rights, as the peaks on the edge of eastern Idaho’s border with Wyoming appear to sit on a throne of orange and yellow foliage. Even after Grand Targhee Bike Park’s chairlifts stop spinning for the season—capped with the early-September celebration of bikes that is the Wydaho Rendezvous, so named for the cross-border cultural connection of the region (the bike park sits in Wyoming but is only accessible through Idaho)—riders can still pedal the resort’s trails. The vast aspen groves of the Rick’s Basin trails, such as Perma-Grin and Quakie Ridge, provide new photo opportunities at every turn.

5. Sun Valley

Autumn in the Sun Valley area might mean a slower pace in town, but riders can still find a heart-quickening pace on the trails. Some 400 miles of singletrack wind across the Wood River Valley, and the five-mile Fox Creek Loop, ten minutes north of Ketchum, makes a fine entry to the area’s shoulder-season possibilities. From a trailhead immediately off State Highway 75, the popular trail crosses and climbs above the Big Wood River. Views from the top of the loop encompass aspens capped by the snowclad Sawtooth Range. A fast descent through fall colors follows, finished with a riverside return through the cottonwoods. Combine this loop with the popular four-mile Chocolate Gulch Loop for even more sensational Sun Valley mountain biking with fall colors and fast dirt.

6. McCall

Although it’s perhaps more commonly considered a lake town in the summer, the brisk autumn temperatures will remind riders that McCall is a mountain town, too. And so will the excellent McCall mountain biking. Just north of downtown, the Bear Basin trail network encompasses a handful of stacked loops that allow for quick-hit rides on flow trails framed by fall colors. The six-mile shuttle-accessed descent of the Payette Rim Trail ends nearby, and Brundage Mountain Resort will soon have single track connecting its trails to Bear Basin. The resort’s motto is “the best snow in Idaho,” but the trails give the area a claim for the best dirt, too. Bonus: no lines for post-ride ice cream or beer in downtown McCall.

Feature image credited to Aaron Theisen.

Aaron Theisen is an outdoors writer and photographer whose work has appeared in Freehub, Mountain Flyer, Powder, Backpacker and elsewhere. His passions are the big peaks and small towns of the Northern Rockies. When he’s not searching for obscure trails or sampling the region’s dive bars, Aaron can be found mountain biking and skiing around his hometown of Spokane, Washington.

Referred to as “mariners and mountaineers,” steelhead often climb more than 6,000 vertical feet and travel more than 900 miles during their life-long roundtrips from Idaho’s rivers to the ocean and back again.

Connecting with an Idaho steelhead, notoriously powerful, uniquely designed for the wildest terrain in the Lower 48 and unfortunately increasingly difficult to catch, is the experience of a lifetime for many anglers. 

What Is A Steelhead?

First things first: A steelhead is a native rainbow trout that migrates to the ocean as a juvenile and returns to fresh water as an adult to spawn. Unlike Pacific salmon, which always die after spawning, steelhead can rejuvenate so they may return to the oceans to start the anadromous cycle over. Otherwise, steelhead and rainbow trout are genetically identical. A rainbow trout is called a resident when they do not leave the stream to go to the ocean and spend their entire life in the stream. A steelhead is the name for a rainbow trout expressing anadromous or seafaring life history.

Stick with us: There are two subspecies of steelhead, the Redband steelhead trout (Oncorynchus mykiss gairdneri) which all are categorized as summer-run fish and enter the Columbia River from May through September. The other subspecies is called the Coastal steelhead rainbow trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss irideus) which can be summer, fall and winter run fish. If you remember one thing, remember that in the Columbia River basin, Coastal Steelhead trout are largely found west of the Cascade Range and all steelhead returning to Idaho are Redband steelhead trout (Oncorynchus mykiss gairdneri) and therefore are all considered summer-run fish

In Idaho, these steelhead are often classified into two groups, A-run and B-run, based on their size and ocean life history.

“Idaho’s A-run steelhead are usually found in the Snake and Salmon rivers,” Idaho Fish and Game explains “They (A-run fish) return from the ocean earlier in the year (usually June through August) and they most often return after spending one year in the ocean. Because of their early return and short stay in the ocean they usually weigh four to six pounds and are generally 23 to 26 inches in length.”

B-run steelhead, exclusively found in Idaho are revered by anglers around the world. Most often, B-run steelhead return to the Clearwater River and some tributaries of the Salmon River. These fish usually – but not always – spend two years in the ocean and start their migration to Idaho later in the summer or fall of the year (usually late August or September). After packing on the pounds an extra year and waiting an extra summer of growing in the ocean, B-run steelhead can return as significantly larger fish.

Steelhead can grow even larger when they spend a third year in the ocean before they return to Idaho to spawn. These steelhead are usually larger than 37 inches and often weigh more than 20 pounds.

When Are Steelhead in Idaho?

Steelhead can be found in the rivers of Idaho for the majority of the year and the sweet spot for fishing really depends on which river, time of year and method of fishing you prefer.

Fall Fishing: July-December

On the Snake River, fishing is best in September and October. The Clearwater River seasons open then, mostly for catch and release fishing, so be sure to check the regulations. As the run builds, fishing will get better and better all the way through to December when colder water is likely to slow down catch rates. The Salmon River, further upstream, doesn’t really get going until well into October in the lower and mid-reaches.

Spring Fishing: January to May

January and February can be great times to fish with a little more solitude. The days are shorter and colder and there are fewer anglers but the fish are out there. Things start to pick up again in late February and early March as ice dams begin to break up and allow the fish to continue their upstream migrations. The Salmon River, the Little Salmon River and the South Fork of the Clearwater generally provide the best fishing during the spring months before rivers are closed for steelhead fishing to allow the wild fish to spawn.

Fishing For Steelhead (Hint: You’ve Got Options)

Steelhead respond to a variety of angling techniques such as plunking, bobber and jig, fly fishing, side planer and spey casting with flies. Since steelhead are not feeding as they wait to spawn, it’s generally accepted that flies, lures and bait are agitating the fish enough to trigger a strike. While much is unknown about steelhead feeding habits, they are generally considered aggressive. As a general rule, the cooler the water temperatures the less active steelhead are therefore the less likely they are to move greater distances to take your fly/lure/bait.

Idaho fisheries are a mixed bag for anglers in the fall but are world renowned for fly fishing with spey (two-handed fly fishing rods generally over 13 feet in length used to cast artificial flies long distances.)

Alternatively, spring fisheries, with cooler water temperatures, generally lower water levels and clearer conditions are generally better suited for fishing a fly, lure or bait under a bobber.

As always, be sure to check Idaho Fish and Game regulations on tackle regulations specific to different rivers at different times of the year.

A Species in Decline

While Idaho’s fisheries largely depend on hatchery fish production to support a sportfishing season; the future of Idaho steelhead in no uncertain terms depends on recovering wild fish populations. Wild steelhead carry the biological adaptations and genetic diversity that allow these icons to return each year to their high mountain natal streams, survive surging spring run-offs, multiple fresh-to-salt water transformations and manage the 466-mile migration back to Idaho to spawn the next generation.

Historically, more than 40% of the salmon and 55% of the steelhead in the entire Columbia River system originated in the Snake River drainage. Before Idaho steelhead populations crashed in the late 1970s, records show more than 110,000 wild origin steelhead would return to the Snake River basin above what is now Lower Granite Dam. 

Identifying Wild vs. Hatchery Steelhead

Special fish deserve special treatment, and it is important before you head out fishing to be able to clearly identify and differentiate between a wild and a hatchery steelhead.

Hatchery steelhead or salmon may be kept – within regulation limits – if the adipose fin (fin on the back of the fish between the dorsal and the tail) has been clipped as evidenced by a healed scar. Anyone fishing for anadromous (ocean-run) salmon and/or steelhead, except those expressly exempt, must have a valid fishing license as well as a salmon and/or steelhead permit(s) on their person. For more details on being a licensed angler – resident or out-of-state and for much more information on seasons, bag limits and much, much more, please be sure to visit Idaho Fish and Game website.

Daniel Ritz is a recovering journalist turned outdoor writer. Currently, he is the Communications and Outreach Coordinator of the Idaho Wildlife Federation, the founder of Jacks Experience Trading Company and the Conservation Field Editor for Swing The Fly. He lives in Idaho with his partner Holly, a giant cat named Julio and a small bird-dog named Trout.