Blaine County Idaho Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Blaine County, Idaho, is a hidden gem in the northwestern part of the United States. It’s a beautiful area that offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. The county is known for its stunning scenery, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Blaine County Idaho Map.
Top Attractions
Sun Valley Resort
The Sun Valley Resort is one of the top attractions in Blaine County. It’s a world-class ski resort that offers a range of activities year-round. During the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, while in the summer, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. The resort also features several restaurants, shops, and spa services.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
The Craters of the Moon National Monument is another must-see attraction in Blaine County. It’s a unique landscape that was formed by volcanic activity. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by car, and there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery. The monument is also home to a range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and coyotes.
Hidden Gems
Galena Lodge
The Galena Lodge is a hidden gem in Blaine County. It’s a rustic lodge that’s located in the mountains and offers a range of outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking. The lodge also features a restaurant that serves delicious, locally sourced food.
The Sawtooth Botanical Garden
The Sawtooth Botanical Garden is another hidden gem in Blaine County. It’s a beautiful garden that’s located in the mountains and features a range of native plants and flowers. Visitors can take a guided tour of the garden or explore on their own.
Food Scene
The Kneadery
The Kneadery is a popular restaurant in Blaine County that’s known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings. The restaurant features a cozy, rustic atmosphere and serves a range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
The Pioneer Saloon
The Pioneer Saloon is another popular restaurant in Blaine County. It’s a historic saloon that dates back to the early 1900s and is known for its delicious steak and seafood dishes. The saloon also features a full bar and live music on weekends.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit the Free Attractions
Blaine County is home to several free attractions, including the Sawtooth Botanical Garden and the Ernest Hemingway Memorial. Visiting these attractions is a great way to save money while still experiencing the best of what the county has to offer.
Bring Your Own Food and Drinks
Many of the outdoor activities in Blaine County, such as hiking and camping, require that you bring your own food and drinks. This is a great way to save money on meals and snacks while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Blaine County is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Some of the most popular trails include the Pioneer Cabin Trail, the Fishhook Creek Trail, and the Bald Mountain Trail.
Biking
Blaine County is also a great destination for biking enthusiasts. The county features several biking trails, including the Wood River Trail, which runs for 20 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Historical Landmarks
Ernest Hemingway Memorial
The Ernest Hemingway Memorial is a must-see attraction in Blaine County. It’s a beautiful memorial that honors the famous author, who lived in the area for several years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the memorial or explore on their own.
Idaho’s First Capitol
Blaine County is home to Idaho’s first capitol building, which was built in 1865. The building is now a museum that features exhibits on the history of the area and the state of Idaho.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Blaine County Recreation District
The Blaine County Recreation District is a great destination for families. It’s a park that features several playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
The Sawtooth Fish Hatchery
The Sawtooth Fish Hatchery is another family-friendly attraction in Blaine County. It’s a hatchery that raises several species of fish, including trout and salmon. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hatchery and learn about the process of raising fish.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Stanley Hot Springs
The Stanley Hot Springs are a hidden gem in Blaine County. They’re a set of natural hot springs that are located in the mountains and offer a range of relaxing and therapeutic benefits. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the stunning scenery.
The Yankee Fork Gold Dredge
The Yankee Fork Gold Dredge is another off-the-beaten-path attraction in Blaine County. It’s a historic gold dredge that was used in the early 1900s to mine for gold. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dredge and learn about the history of mining in the area.
Natural Wonders
The Sawtooth Mountains
The Sawtooth Mountains are one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Blaine County. They’re a range of mountains that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike or bike in the mountains or simply enjoy the scenery.
The Shoshone Falls
The Shoshone Falls are another natural wonder in Blaine County. They’re a set of waterfalls that are located on the Snake River and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the falls or simply enjoy the view from a distance.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Whiskey Jacques
The Whiskey Jacques is a popular bar and music venue in Blaine County. It’s a historic building that dates back to the early 1900s and features live music and events throughout the week. The bar also features a full menu of delicious food and drinks.
The Casino Club
The Casino Club is another popular bar in Blaine County. It’s a historic building that’s been around since the early 1900s and features a range of events and live music throughout the week. The bar also features a full menu of food and drinks.
Local Markets
The Hailey Farmers Market
The Hailey Farmers Market is a popular market in Blaine County that’s open on Saturdays from May through October. The market features a range of locally grown and produced foods, including fruits, vegetables, and artisanal cheeses.
The Ketchum Farmers Market
The Ketchum Farmers Market is another popular market in Blaine County that’s open on Tuesdays from June through September. The market features a range of locally grown and produced foods, including fruits, vegetables, and artisanal breads.
Beaches and Mountains
The Redfish Lake
The Redfish Lake is a popular destination in Blaine County that offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
The Silver Creek Preserve
The Silver Creek Preserve is another popular destination in Blaine County. It’s a nature preserve that’s home to several species of wildlife, including birds and fish. Visitors can hike or bike in the preserve or simply enjoy the scenery.
Cultural Immersion
The Sun Valley Center for the Arts
The Sun Valley Center for the Arts is a popular destination in Blaine County that features a range of art exhibits and performances throughout the year. The center also offers classes and workshops in a range of artistic disciplines.
The Trailing of the Sheep Festival
The Trailing of the Sheep Festival is a popular cultural event in Blaine County that takes place in October. The festival celebrates the area’s sheep ranching heritage and features a range of events and activities, including sheepdog trials and wool spinning demonstrations.
Art and Music Scene
The Sun Valley Symphony
The Sun Valley Symphony is a popular music venue in Blaine County that offers a range of classical and contemporary music performances throughout the year. The symphony also hosts several outdoor concerts during the summer months.
The Sun Valley Gallery Walk
The Sun Valley Gallery