Waterfalls, natural springs, wild birds, fossil beds, and Caribbean-blue water. There’s so much to love in small-town Idaho. Here’s what to add to your road trip bucket list.
When I first visited Hagerman, Idaho, I was relatively new to the digital nomad lifestyle. Living with my sister in Salt Lake City, Utah, I’d exhausted the southern National Parks over the summer and dreamed of escaping the Wasatch Mountains for somewhere green and lush.
Salt Lake City is only two hours from the Idaho border, and I was intrigued by the idea of checking another state off my list. But besides Yellowstone National Park, what is there really to do in Idaho?
Plenty of things, it turns out. I’d go so far as to say Idaho is one of our country’s best-kept secrets.
My best friend’s uncle (an Idaho native) came in clutch with a list of recommendations. Blue Heart Springs captured my attention immediately, with promises of Caribbean-blue water right in the middle of the Snake River. Booked. Little did I know the small town of Hagerman, Idaho, was about to become one of my favorite places.
Chapters
- 10 Things to Do in Hagerman, Idaho
- Visit Blue Heart Springs
- Drive the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
- Soak in a Therapeutic Mineral Hot Spring
- Go Birdwatching on the Snake River
- Take a Mini Road Trip to Shoshone Falls
- Stop to Walk Along the Oregon Trail
- Hike Along Box Canyon in Thousand Springs State Park
- Road Trip Along the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
- See Fossils at the Hagerman Fossil Bed Visitor Center
- Road Trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument
10 Things to Do in Hagerman, Idaho
The best part about visiting Hagerman is the quiet. It’s secluded, packed to bursting with local wildlife, and an easy place to adventure without the crowds. I’ve been to Hagerman multiple times, and I always discover something new and exciting to do there. These are my top recommendations for things to do in Hagerman, Idaho.
Visit Blue Heart Springs
In my opinion, this is the jewel of the Hagerman Valley, but it’s commonly missed in Idaho travel guides. Right in the middle of the Snake River is a shimmering blue pool that’s only accessible by water. The springs are secluded, situated behind trees and lava rock in a hidden oasis, and so crystal clear you can see all the way to the bottom. Trust me, the springs are the color your Instagram influencer friends wish would show up on their photos. No editing necessary here, though.
To get to the springs, you’ll need to rent a kayak or pontoon boat from a local spot, either Banbury Hot Springs or Blue Heart Kayaking. I’ve done both, and I recommend Banbury Hot Springs. They’re super friendly, and you can warm up in the hot springs after your adventure.
If you visit during April or May, you might enter your birdwatching era, enjoying the pelicans and magnificent water birds that fish alongside your kayak. The trip takes about 30–45 minutes one way, depending on how fast you can paddle. Pack up your cell phone and keys in a waterproof bag, and bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the springs. Make sure your kayak rental time gives you plenty of buffer to explore the springs once you arrive. Keep in mind, the way back is upstream, so it takes a bit longer.
Drive the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway
When I first visited Thousand Springs, I’d never seen freshwater springs funneling out of cliffsides before. I genuinely thought they were waterfalls. As you drive the scenic byway, the springs become clear, though. Literally thousands of springs cascade down the rocks and cliffs of the Hagerman Valley, and they are magnificent. You can experience these springs simply by driving down the scenic byway, kayaking along the Snake River, or visiting Thousand Springs State Park to see them up close.
Soak in a Therapeutic Mineral Hot Springs
The West is dotted with mineral hot springs, or naturally heated pools that are said to come with therapeutic and skin-soothing benefits. Although Hagerman can reach staggering temperatures in the summer, the Snake River remains cold all year round.
So, a soak in the local hot springs is the perfect way to end a day out on the water. Enjoy one of the local spots, like Miracle Hot Springs or Banbury Hot Springs, both hidden gems that aren’t overly crowded. Depending on which spring you choose, there are additional options like tent camping, luxury rooms, massages, and private pools for rent.
Go Birdwatching on the Snake River
I never thought I’d be so captivated by birds, but Hagerman Valley truly has some of the most spectacular and accessible waterfowl. The Snake River is a prime spot for migrating birds year-round, and you’ll likely see impressive birds without even trying. If you want to be intentional, though, some of the best places for birding are Thousand Springs State Park and anywhere along the Snake River.
Take a Mini Road trip to Shoshone Falls (45 minutes)
Just forty-five minutes away from Hagerman is Twin Falls, the home of Shoshone Falls. A cascading waterfall, it’s known as the “Niagara of the West.” I’ll be honest, I’ve been to Niagara Falls, and this waterfall isn’t the same. But it’s certainly impressive, and it’s a must-stop when you’re driving through Southern Idaho.
Take your family, bring a picnic, and pack bathing suits in the summer because there are a few designated swimming holes. There are also a few trails if you want to walk around the park. The best time of year to visit Shoshone Falls is during the spring, when snowmelt drives higher water levels.
Stop to Walk Along the Oregon Trail
There are quite a few spots in Hagerman, Idaho to experience history firsthand. One of them is the Oregon Trail. My favorite spot to see it is at the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument at the Oregon Trail Overlook. You’ll see signs dotted along the highway with information about the trail, and you’ll experience stunning prairie views. You’ll even see wagon ruts along the trail from the thousands of pioneers who traveled West.
Hike Along Box Canyon in Thousand Springs State Park
The nature in Hagerman, Idaho is truly stunning, and one of the best places to experience all its glory is in Thousand Springs State Park. Hike along Box Canyon for overlooks of the Snake River and aerial views of multiple blue springs. You’ll see rushing water, plenty of fresh water springs, and a gushing waterfall.
Uniquely, Thousand Springs State Park isn’t all in one place. You’ll need a pass to visit each of the locations, within about an hour drive. Some of the famous spots include Ritter Island (a tropical paradise), Niagara Springs (rushing water and blue pools), and Malad Gorge (a deep canyon with a 60-foot waterfall).
Road Trip Along the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument
Along with the Oregon Trail Overlook, the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is famous for the Hagerman Horse. It’s an ancestor of the modern horse that’s found across the American West, particularly in Hagerman, where the largest number of specimens have been found in one location.
These fossil beds are considered a protected area and an active scientific research site. Over 200 different species have been found, and although you can’t see any of the fossils from the road, the views are unmatched. Hop out at each overlook to read about the Oregon Trail and the ancient species found under your feet.
See Fossils at the Hagerman Fossil Bed Visitor Center
It might seem a little disappointing to drive through the Hagerman Fossil Beds and not see any real fossils. But don’t worry, you can see plenty on display in the Visitor Center. You’ll find it slightly outside of town, right off of Highway 30. Though small, the Visitor Center is packed with interactive activities, impressive fossils (including the Hagerman Horse), and scientific research about prehistoric Hagerman.
Road Trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument (2 hours)
There’s so much ancient volcanic activity in Idaho. You’ll notice it in Hagerman, the stark contrast between dark volcanic rock and lush greenery that’s powered by volcanic soil. But if you really want a deep dive into volcanoes and lava activity, take the time to visit Craters of the Moon National Monument.
With otherworldly scenery featuring dark volcanic rock, lava tubes, caves, dormant volcanoes, and lava formations, this national monument is a beautiful place to hike and explore. If you have time to visit, it’s slightly under 2 hours from Hagerman, and it makes an awesome day trip or road trip stop.
Reminder: Your Highlight Reel Isn’t on Your Camera
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of visiting rural areas and hidden gems across the U.S. And I’ll be honest, they’re my favorite. Experiencing nature the way it was meant to be, in quiet solace or with good company, will always be better than getting the viral Instagram shot.
In fact, I like to imagine the goal of a trip is to have such a beautiful time, you forget to document it on camera altogether. Your highlight reel isn’t on your camera, after all. It’s in your mind. It’s the moment when you’re laughing too hard to snap a photo, living too much to pick up the phone, and too invested in experiencing life to post it on the internet. If that’s the kind of trip you enjoy, Hagerman is a beautiful place to be.
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