Idaho’s Natural Wonders
Discover the diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and fascinating history of Idaho on this journey across the Gem State. Explore the otherworldly lava fields of Craters of the Moon, marvel at the towering beauty of Shoshone Falls, jet boat through Hells Canyon, and cruise the waters of Lake Coeur d’Alene.
Along the way, you’ll gain insight into Idaho’s unique heritage through Basque cultural experiences, encounters with the Nez Perce people, visits to historic mining communities, and tours of pioneering scientific sites. Blending scenic adventure with cultural discovery, this tour offers a memorable introduction to Idaho’s remarkable character.
Highlights of Idaho’s Natural Wonders
- Spend two nights at the Coeur d’Alene Resort
- Experience a full-day jet boat tour in Hells Canyon
- Tour a silver mine with a former miner
- See some of Idaho’s most beautiful sites such as Craters of the Moon and Shoshone Falls
DAY 1: WELCOME TO IDAHO!
Meet your fellow travelers for a warm welcome dinner in Salt Lake City. D
DAY 2: EBR-1/CRATERS OF THE MOON
Begin your adventure with a visit to EBR-1, the world’s first nuclear power plant. Tour this National Historic Landmark and learn about the scientific work done at Idaho National Laboratory. Continue to Craters of the Moon National Monument where you will feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. This landscape of lava flows and ancient volcanoes is unlike anything else on Earth. B, L
DAY 3: SHOSHONE FALLS/BASQUE CULTURE/BIRDS OF PREY
This morning, marvel at Shoshone Falls, a breathtaking waterfall on the Snake River that stands 45 feet higher than Niagara Falls. Depart for Boise, the capital of Idaho, and home to one of the largest Basque communities in the world outside of Spain. Discover Basque history at the Basque Museum and enjoy time to explore Boise on your own. This afternoon, get up close with the majestic creatures at the World Center for Birds of Prey. B, D
DAY 4: SCENIC BYWAY/MCCALL
Witness some of Idaho’s most beautiful scenery during a drive along the Payette River Scenic Byway. Take in the whitewater and mountain vistas on this stunning route then arrive in McCall, nestled on the shores of the glacier-carved Payette Lake. This evening, check into your hotel and enjoy McCall’s natural beauty. B, L
Option—Hot Springs Experience Journey into the mountains to a peaceful hot spring oasis. Soak in pools heated by deep geothermal aquifers and revel in the surrounding mountain scenery. Price: $29 per person
DAY 5: HELLS CANYON
Experience North America’s deepest river gorge from a whole new perspective: aboard a jet boat tour! Sail through rugged wilderness scenery, witness dramatic canyon walls, and spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep, deer, eagles, and bears. Your skilled captain will share stories about the canyon’s history, geology, and early settlers. You will even get the opportunity to take a swim in the Snake River. This evening, travel to Lewiston, the oldest incorporated community in the state. B, L
DAY 6: NEZ PERCE/COEUR D’ALENE RESORT
Spend this morning connecting with members of the Nez Perce, who have lived in the Lewis and Clark Valley for over 11,500 years. Enjoy a guided tour through the Nimiipuu homeland, experience a traditional circle dance, and visit the Nez Perce National Historical Park Museum. This afternoon, travel to scenic Coeur d’Alene, known for its stunning alpine lake. Check into the renowned Coeur d’Alene Resort for the next two nights, situated right on the water’s edge. Enjoy free time to enjoy the hotel amenities, visit the spa, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy a round of golf on their world-famous course. B, L
DAY 7: SIERRA SILVER MINE/MOUNTAIN GONDOLA/SUNSET CRUISE
Travel to Wallace, known as the “Silver Capital of the World.” Tour an underground mine with a retired miner as your guide and even see the mining equipment in action. Enjoy free time to explore the quaint shops and restaurants downtown Wallace before enjoying a scenic ride on the Silver Mountain Gondola. As North America’s longest gondola, there is no better location for panoramic mountain views. This evening, return to Coeur d’Alene for a sunset dinner cruise on the lake. B, D
DAY 8: FAREWELL
Depart Spokane International Airport with new friends and fond memories of the Gem State. B
QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS
Night 1: Holiday Inn and Suites SLC Airport West, UT
Night 2: Holiday Inn, Twin Falls, ID
Night 3: Holiday Inn Express Boise-University Area, ID
Night 4: Best Western Plus, McCall, ID
Night 5: Holiday Inn Clarkston-Lewiston, ID
Nights 6-7: Coeur d’Alene Resort, ID
Dates:
Jun 15-22, 2027
Sep 14-21, 2027
Price Per Person:
Double: $3,247
Single: $4,275
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Pre-Hotel: $268
Post-Hotel: Call for pricing
Depart/Return:
Depart: Salt Lake City, UT
Return: Spokane, WA
Inclusions:
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Complimentary airport shuttle
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Holiday Inn and Suites SLC Airport West, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Spokane International Airport any time after noon on Day 8.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to the Salt Lake City Airport.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
June – high of 80° F, low of 50° F
September – high of 85° F, low of 55° F
Time Zone
Mountain/Pacific
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
The Coeur d’Alene Resort is home to a renowned golf course with the world’s only floating, movable green. For more information about booking a round of golf, please contact the CTD office.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, view Travel Protection Information.
