Idaho 🇺🇸 is one of the most underrated RV road trip states in the western U.S. with dramatic mountains, wild rivers, alpine lakes, volcanic landscapes, and remote wilderness areas. From the Sawtooth Mountains to deep river canyons, Idaho offers several spectacular scenic drives perfect for RV travel.
Below are several great RV road trip ideas across Idaho.
1. Sawtooth Scenic Byway Adventure
4
Route:
Boise → Sawtooth Scenic Byway → Stanley → Redfish Lake
Distance: ~115 miles (185 km)
Ideal length: 2–3 days
Highlights
- Dramatic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains
- Scenic alpine lakes
- Hiking, fishing, and kayaking
- Wildlife viewing
RV Stops
- Redfish Lake Campground
- Stanley Lake Campground
2. Salmon River & River of No Return Route
4
Route:
Salmon → Salmon River → Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness → Salmon
Distance: ~150 miles
Ideal length: 2–3 days
Highlights
- Deep wilderness canyons
- Whitewater rafting
- Scenic mountain roads
- Historic mining towns
RV Stops
- Salmon River Campground
- Morgan Bar Campground
3. Northern Idaho Lakes Route
4
Route:
Coeur d’Alene → Sandpoint → Lake Pend Oreille → Coeur d’Alene
Distance: ~120 miles
Ideal length: 2–3 days
Highlights
- Clear alpine lakes
- Boating and kayaking
- Charming mountain towns
- Hiking and fishing
RV Stops
- Farragut State Park Campground
- Sam Owen Campground
4. Craters of the Moon Volcanic Route
4
Route:
Twin Falls → Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve → Arco
Distance: ~100 miles
Ideal length: 1–2 days
Highlights
- Vast lava fields and volcanic cones
- Lava tube caves
- Scenic desert landscapes
- Stargazing in dark skies
RV Stops
- Lava Flow Campground
- Mountain View RV Park
5. Hells Canyon Scenic Route
4
Route:
Lewiston → Hells Canyon National Recreation Area → Riggins
Distance: ~150 miles
Ideal length: 2–3 days
Highlights
- Deepest river canyon in North America
- Scenic Snake River views
- Jet boat tours
- Fishing and rafting
RV Stops
- Hells Gate State Park Campground
- Hammer Creek Campground
6. Ultimate Idaho Scenic Byways Loop
4
Route:
Boise → Sawtooth Mountains → Salmon River → Coeur d’Alene → Hells Canyon → Boise
Distance: ~900 miles
Ideal length: 7–10 days
Highlights
- Alpine mountain lakes
- Deep wilderness canyons
- Northern Idaho lake country
- Unique volcanic landscapes
✅ Quick Comparison
| Trip | Best For | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Sawtooth Scenic Byway | Alpine mountains & lakes | 2–3 days |
| Salmon River Route | Wilderness & rafting | 2–3 days |
| Northern Idaho Lakes | Scenic lakes & towns | 2–3 days |
| Craters of the Moon | Volcanic landscapes | 1–2 days |
| Hells Canyon | Canyon scenery | 2–3 days |
| Ultimate Idaho Loop | Full state highlights | 7–10 days |