Favorite Things To Do in Island Park, Idaho
IT’S TIME TO PLAN YOUR VISIT TO ISLAND PARK
Island Park, Idaho, in the Greater Yellowstone, is a stunning hidden gem full of outdoor adventures for all ages, scenic wonders to visit, and even a little nightlife!
The magical sections of Island Park, including Mack’s Inn, has it all: beautiful mountain/forest surroundings, river floating, fishing, hiking, biking, trail riding, horseback...the list of things to do is endless. To help you plan your visit, here are some favorite insider things to do — a fun-filled day trip and additional outdoor adventures to do on your other days in town.
THE PERFECT DAY TRIP: ISLAND PARK TO MESA FALLS
Mesa Falls
Pack a lunch and hop on the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway to Upper Mesa Falls.
Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest in Idaho is Mesa Falls, one of the last two undisturbed waterfalls in the West, offering sensational views; and it’s only a 32-minute drive from Island Park. You will arrive at Upper Mesa Falls first, have a chance to stop at the Ranger Station if you’d like, and then take the walkway to view the falls. The best views are at the Upper Mesa waterfall from the Grandview Campground and Overlook, according to the Forest Service. The Mesa Falls Visitor Center has water, restrooms, and a gift shop. Watch the film here.
Continue on to Lower Mesa Falls.
Then, end up back on Hwy 20 at Frostop Old-Fashioned Drive-In in Ashton, Idaho for cheesy tots and rootbeer floats!
Stop By Johnny Sacks Cabin
While you’re out on your drive, Johnny Sacks Cabin is definitely worth the stop. More than just a historic cabin, it’s a destination with acres of crystal clear water, a water wheel , and plenty of wildlife. It will take you back to the peaceful serenity of a bygone era. Read more.
Sawtelle Peak
Next, you’ll find Sawtelle Peak that you can actually drive all the way up. Take the nine-mile road up from the valley sagebrush meadows to an alpine peak that overlooks the Island Park Caldera, Island Park Reservoir, and Henry’s Lake. The wildflowers are spectacular in July and August. Read more.
You can drive up to Sawtelle Peak and enjoy the spectacular views of the Island Park Caldera, Island Park Reservoir, and Henry’s Lake.
Cabin Time
Once you’re back to the cabin, get ready and head back out to catch a show in town at Yellowstone Playhouse Dinner Theater. Or, save the nightlife for another day and stay in for a cozy relaxing dinner and smores at your Visit Island Park Idaho cabin.
Wondering what to do on your other days? Along with Yellowstone National Park, these outdoor adventures are a must-do for families, couples, or friends of all ages.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN ISLAND PARK
Big Springs
Rent a kayak and enjoy the company of friends for a long, relaxing float down the peaceful waters of Big Springs surrounded by forest and wildlife. Book your kayak rental and float here or if you’d like to just rent a kayak and go down the river just with your own crew, you can do that too, just click this form for more details. Bring your waterproof items because the wildlife is stellar here.
Take a relaxing float down the Big Springs and find yourself surrounded by the friendly wildlife.
Snake River
If the kayaks above are not available for this or other dreamy floats on the Snake River at Henry’s Fork, you can also float by raft, canoe, or tube for free, bring your own or rent from Mack’s Inn Float Trip and Rentals. See moose, elk, deer, trout, swans, and more on your magical river adventure.
ATV, Sea-Doo in Summer and Snowmobiling in Winter at Island Park, Idaho
Are you a freedom-seeker and want to explore on your own? Get your wheels and go! Island Park Adventures will hook you up with a tank full of gas so you can ride straight from there into your forest haven.
MORE LOCAL FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN ISLAND PARK
Have more time? There are so many things to do during your stay in Island Park. Check out these local favorites:
Continental Divide
Largest Volcanic Caldera
And of course, Yellowstone National Park!
For more information and fun things to do, check out our article, “Wondering What to Do When Visiting Island Park?”
You can also find more good ideas here.
BOOK YOUR CABIN
Cabins fill up fast this time of year.