.jpeg_600.jpg)
The winter season is what many outside of Idaho fear. Snow and below-zero degree weather keep many at bay, but locals know winter is actually one of the best times of the year. So, don’t pack on another streaming package or prepare to hibernate. Idaho’s beauty is only now beginning to rear its head and though the weather outside is frightful, traveling is worth the hassle of going slow and taking extra safety precautions.
1. Labelle Lake Ice Palace
Prepare to walk through a literal winter wonderland. Discover carefully crafted ice sculptures decorated with lights, making the entire sculpture glow in the dark. You can also sled down a hill, grab a hot chocolate, take pictures with various characters or take a sleigh ride – and don’t forget to catch any performances!
208-204-0067 // www.labellelake.com
2. American Dog Derby in Ashton
103 years ago in 1917, the first American Dog Derby was held in Ashton. The race continues in 2020 on February 14-15. Events include the traditional sled races, as well as fun activities for the entire family, including snowshoe races and weight pulls that spectators can participate in with their own dogs.
208-360-0988 // www.americandogderby.com
3. Driggs Snowscapes
The 9th Annual Snowscapes and Snowball is scheduled for January 14-18. Professional and amateur teams come to town to sculpt snow, transforming the Driggs City Plaza. Vote for your favorite sculpture and sign up for a free snow sculpting class.
www.driggssnowscapes.org
4. National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides
You’ve probably been on a horse-drawn sleigh ride if you’re from Eastern Idaho, but have you ever been on a ride through the National Elk Refuge? The combination of sights and seeing the elk first-hand (and also the freezing weather) will take your breath away. Get all of your questions answered on this interactive tour.
307-733-0277 // www.nersleighrides.com
5. Snowcoach Tour in Yellowstone
You can still experience Yellowstone National Park in the winter. The only way around the park is by snowshoe, snowmobile or snowcoach, which all make for great fun in the snow. Stay warm in a snowcoach (a bus mounted on oversized pressure tires) and still have the opportunity to get out in the snow and take pictures.
800-426-7669 // www.yellowstonevacations.com
6. Cut Down Your Own Christmas Tree
In need of a Christmas tree? Skip the lines at the stores and hunt for your own. Visit the Bureau of Land Management website to learn more about where you can apply for your permit to cut your own Christmas tree in Southeast Idaho.
208-524-7500 // www.blm.gov/idaho
7. Aerial Tram Ride at Jackson Hole
Ride the tram during the winter months for a view of winter sports across the region (including the run at Corbet’s Couloir) and enjoy some famous waffles on Rendezvous Peak. Whether you wish to admire or join in on the action, there is plenty to see and do in Jackson Hole.
307-733-2292 // www.jacksonhole.com
8. Bird Watching at the Silver Creek Preserve
Bird watch for hours on this property cared for by the Nature Conservancy in the Wood River Valley. Visit the website below for information on guided tours and workshops.
208-788-7910 // tinyurl.com/y4apdj8y
9. Sledding in St. Anthony
The sand dunes are a popular spot for recreating in the summer times, but did you know the spot is just as enjoyable in the winter? Dunes coated in snow make the perfect spot for sledding with kids.
208-524-7500 // www.blm.gov/visit/st-anthony-sand-dunes
10. Hike Cress Creek Nature Trail
Cress Creek provides plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities if you’re patient enough for a careful climb. Frequent inhabitants include bald eagles, moose, deer, rabbits and more. Pack your snow boots and plenty of warm clothes to keep you cozy as you appreciate the creeks and overlooks.
208-524-7500 // www.blm.gov/visit/cress-creek-nature-trail