Festivals, Lodging and Restaurants for a Great Boise Basin Vacation in Idaho City

On August 2, 1862, prospectors in the Boise Basin discovered one of America’s largest reservoirs of gold. By the fall of 1863, Idaho City, Idaho was the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. After the Gold Rush, the town’s population dramatically declined but the remaining inhabitants have preserved the history of the Boise Basin. With its amazing natural scenery and kind-hearted people, Idaho City and its surrounding communities make this a great place for a family vacation.

Boise County is a mostly mountainous, frontier area about 45 minutes northeast of the city of Boise (located in Ada County). For both scenic and safety purposes, this trip is best made in a vehicle with four-wheel drive during the day (especially in winter). The area is a pristine and picturesque setting of pine trees and mountains sure to be adored.

No Boise Basin trip would be complete without a visit to the Boise Basin Museum (402 Montgomery, Idaho City, 208-392-4550). Here people of all ages can learn about gold rush life in the 1860’s, Chinese immigration to Idaho, and see many of the original buildings that are well-preserved while maintaining their age and character. You can also see much of the original mining equipment used.

June’s Arts and Crafts Festival and the Fourth of July Basin of Gold Festival are the annual events that draw the most tourists to Idaho City. The Basin of Gold Festival features a local parade, fireworks and in-depth programs discussing the Idaho Basin’s impressive history. The Arts and Crafts Festival brings in local area painters, stained glass artists, and doll-makers that sell their wares for reasonable prices.

In winter, Nordic ski trails make an excellent workout. If the physical activity does not leave you gasping, the scenery will surely take your breath away. Banner Ridge, Gold Fork and Whoop-Um-Up are all Idaho Park Ã?¯Ã?¿Ã?½N Ski trails – a reasonably priced pass ($25 annual or $7.50 for 3 days) is required on your vehicle at the trailhead. Gold Fork is a beginner’s best bet. Many area residents have a favorite hot spring just off the trail that makes for an excellent natural hot tub to soothe those aching muscles.

Idaho City also has a great selection of antique stores located mostly along Main and Montgomery Streets. Be sure to visit The Artful Artisan and The Main Street Candle Shoppe (219 Main Street, Idaho City, 208-392-4484) for some homemade reminders of your great visit.

Lodging and dining in the area are true to the sentiment of the Boise Basin. Idaho City has no major-chain hotels or restaurants, all of the restaurants and lodging are family-owned and their character shines through. Downtown Idaho City is fairly compact, so most locations are near area attractions. The Idaho City Hotel – Prospector Motel (215 Montgomery, Idaho City, 208-392-6064) features rates by the night and by the week, with private baths and cable TV. But beware of ghosts! Trudy’s Kitchen and Cabins (419 Hwy. 21, Idaho City, 208-392-4151) provide clean, comfortable accommodations with a stellar menu of delicious hearty meals. No trip would be complete without Idaho hash browns and huckleberry pie, both of which are outstanding at Trudy’s. Diamond Lil’s Steakhouse and Saloon (407 Main, Idaho City, 208-392-4400) features a comfortable atmosphere and friendly locals, however, like most saloons, youngsters should probably not be around after dinnertime.

RV Parking and camping are widely accessible in the summertime. Rock City Manor Trailer & RV Park (310 Hwy. 21, Idaho City, 208-392-2233) and the Idaho City Cowboy Campgrounds (Hwy. 21, Idaho City, 208-392-6064) are both excellent choices.