Fall is a wondrous time to be out and about exploring Southeast Idaho’s amazing colors and crisp, fresh air. Fall foliage tours and scenic drives are becoming a popular tourist attraction in Idaho. With 27 state byways, each unique to its region, guests can take in the natural beauty. There’s no shortage of fall foliage around here! Luckily, Rocky Mountain Elk Ranch is tucked away in the mountains of Southeast Idaho so that you can see beautiful ever-changing colors right from our wrap-around deck. Check out our top four locations below that you absolutely cannot miss during your vacation.
Mink Creek Road
Mink Creek Road has an abundance of fall foliage for visitors to enjoy. The road runs through a lush, forested valley, and there are plenty of hiking, biking, and photography opportunities along the way. The vast array of cottonwood trees turn citron yellow every year! Any trail off Mink Creek Road is a safe bet. The trails often seem like tunnels, because the overgrown trees are so heavy that they’re bent over and touching the parallel trees.
Mesa Falls
The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway starts in Ashton and travels north toward Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. The area features maples and aspens that turn every color under the sun, ranging from topaz yellow to fire-truck red. The southernmost portion of the route starts at Idaho 47 in Ashton. If you head northwest on Forest Service Route 294, you’ll find yourself back at Mesa Falls with spectacular views.
City Creek
City Creek is a prime fall foliage spot for guests looking to hike or bike. The aspens along the West Bench morph into a variety of radiant colors. If you’re up for a challenge, journey to the top of Kinport Peak for a better view. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
U.S. 30
U.S. 30 is a long road that travels from New Jersey to Oregon. Past visitors claim that the section between McCammon and Bear Lake in Southeast Idaho is the most scenic. There are many side roads off of U.S. 30 that offer gorgeous fall foliage views. For example, the Pebble Basin on the left side of Blaser Road but north of Lava Hot Springs. But once you pass Soda Springs, the fall foliage is second to none.
Rocky Mountain Elk Ranch
Once you’ve seen all the fall foliage that Southeast Idaho has to offer, head back to the elk ranch and review your pictures on our wrap-around deck. You’ll love hearing the irrefutable sound of elk bugling in the crisp autumn air. At Rocky Mountain Elk Ranch, you’ll catch nothing but good vibes…and probably an elk or two. Book your Southeast Idaho vacation today by visiting our website, or call 208-351-7301.