Idaho’s Unique Outdoor Destination: A Must-Visit Adventure for Hikers and Climbers

When it comes to unspoiled nature in the US, it’s hard to beat Idaho. This western state is known for its wealth of outdoor gems — such as this breathtaking destination known as the “Niagara of the West” — and draws visitors from around the country and beyond looking to experience its rugged splendor. From the grandeur of the Sawtooth Range to the western edge of Yellowstone National Park — which boasts its own Grand Canyon — Idaho is a haven for nature lovers, and one of its great, under-the-radar sites is City of Rocks National Reserve.

Situated in the far south near the border with Utah, the City of Rocks is a 14,000-acre reserve that — as the name suggests — is famous for its rock formations. While plenty of hikers come to trek through the gorgeous, stoney landscape, City of Rocks especially draws climbers, who flock there to scale its granite pinnacles, fins, and domes. The reserve is also home to a host of wildlife — including 188 bird species — making it the perfect destination for avian enthusiasts. Whatever your passion, the City of Rocks is sure to offer something to scratch your outdoor itch.

City of Rocks is a one-a-kind site that sits at the southern base of Idaho’s Albion Mountains. Captivated by the alluring, otherworldly landscape, early settlers described it as “the Silent City.” This collection of granite spires and stones resembles buildings that thrust up from the earth, creating a beautiful and mystifying spectacle that’s a magnet for scramblers and rock climbers. The reserve offers something for climbers of all levels, with routes ranging from ratings of 5.0 (easy) to 5.13 (very difficult). Hikers can soak in the views on the Hydra Trail — an easy, 2.7-mile scenic jaunt — or the Table Mountain Trail — a more difficult walk that takes you to the top of the peak it’s named for, and mountain bikers can cruise along one of the trails encircling the park.

While the spires and stone slabs are the star at City of Rocks, the reserve is also a fantastic place to spot wildlife, including mule deer, jack rabbits, marmots, elk, moose and mountain lions. City of Rocks is also a prime bird habitat, with ospreys, bald eagles, turkey vultures and more, and at night the heavens come alive with a sparkling canopy of stars. Designated as an official Dark Sky Park, City of Rocks is a perfect spot for stargazing due to its remote location and lack of light pollution.

In the winter, the region is transformed into a frozen white wonderland, making City of Rocks the perfect spot for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing adventures. You can also pitch your tent at one of the 69 standard campsites (and three group sites) at the park, though reservations are required, and the area also looks like the picture-perfect backdrop for a Western — making it prime country for horseback riding.