There is something soothing about hitting the road with the intention of enjoying the journey. Driving from Boise to Sun Valley seems like a straight shot, but you can make it an adventure by taking an extra hour on the road, stringing together scenic byways, and enjoying mountainous Idaho.

Details

Boise to Ketchum through Idaho City, Lowman, and Stanley takes 4 hours, just about 2o minutes more than taking the freeway out of the capital city. By taking “the long way,” you drive on Highway 21, the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, and Highway 75, Sawtooth Scenic Byway. While you could just enjoy the views, we encourage you to stop where you can and get to know these wonderful communities!

Idaho City

Just an hour into your drive, passing Lucky Peak Reservoir and heading into the Boise National Forest, you will come to Idaho City. This community is rich in gold mining history, was founded in 1862, and home to the Boise Basin Museum. While you are there, be sure to grab some huckleberry cheese cake!

Lowman

As you make your way through the national forest on the winding Pondorosa senic byway, you will come to the towwn of Lowman, where you will also meet the Payette river, which you will follow for the next leg of your journey. Lowman is a small community, with summer homes and access to great vamping and fishing along the river. If you are really taking your time, stop for the evening at the South Fork Lodge and enjoy a lovely reprieve from the road and make hte most of your time along the Payette. Just past Lowman is Kirkham Hot Springs,  great place to soak in the wonder that is hot springs, something Idaho is secretly know for.

Stanley

Following Highway 21, you will make your way over Cape Horn to the Stanley Basin