Things you gotta see …within 100 miles of Boise!

Southwest Idaho Wine Country
The wine industry in Idaho is growing at an exciting pace. New wineries, new vineyards and unique changes… it keeps getting better. Within an hour’s drive from Boise you may taste the wines of your choice – red, white, blush, sweet, dry, still, or sparkling. Several wineries have regular tasting room hours; others are available by appointment, but DON'T TASTE and RIDE! We have put together a Wine Country Tour for Thursday with buses to and from Rally Central. Follow this link to sign up for the Wine Country Tour and click on "Rally Special Events".
For more information about Idaho Wineries visit idahowine.org

Warhawk Air Museum
Located 20 miles west of Boise in Nampa, the museum focuses on patriotism and the bravery of those who fought on fronts around the world. During your visit learn interesting facts and view artifacts, memorabilia and restored aircraft on display. For more information visit warhawkairmuseum.org or call (208)465-6446.

Scenic Byways

Payette River Scenic Byway. Meander north along the wet and wild Payette River for 111 miles, traveling through Smith’s Ferry and past Cascade Lake to arrive in McCall, a scenic mountain and Alpine lake community.

The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway starts in Boise and follows Idaho 21 north to the historic mining town of Idaho City, where you can still pan for gold in a nearby stream. Beautiful views and great fishing spots dot the route along the South Fork of the Payette River as you follow the Byway’s northeasterly route between Idaho City and Lowman. For more information and to request a Scenic Byways Guidebook visit itd.idaho.gov/Byways or call (208)334-8214.

Banks, Idaho -- Whitewater Rafting Headquarters
The little town of Banks, Idaho is located on Highway 55 along the Payette River, about 45 miles northwest of Boise. The town is a central area to watch kayakers and rafters battle whitewater and is also a starting point to begin a journey down the river. Several commercial rafting companies are located in the area and can help you plan your own great trip down the rapids. For more information visit the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Association River Running section at ioga.org.

4D Longhorn Guest Ranch
This rustic ranch is located one hour north of Boise in picturesque High Valley. 4D Ranch offers horse back riding, trail rides, cattle herding, delicious home cooked meals, cozy cabins and lots of fun! For more information visit 4Dranches.com or call (208)466-9527.

Horseshoe Bend, Idaho
Just 35 minutes north of Boise along Highway 55, Horseshoe Bend, Idaho is the home of the Thunder Mountain Line excursion train. The Thunder Mountain Line takes you back to a time when folks moved at a slower pace and enjoyed the simpler things in life. The ride offers amazing scenery as it winds along the beautiful Payette River. Have a free afternoon? Try the combination train ride and whitewater rafting trip.
For more information visit thundermountainline.com or call 1-877-432-7245.

Three Island Crossing State Park
This state park is located on the Snake River southeast of Boise along I-84 at Glenns Ferry. It is home to The Oregon Trail History and Education Center where visitors can learn about pioneer emigrants and Native American history. Oregon Trail pioneers knew this spot well, as it was one of the most famous river crossings on the historic trail. Pioneer travelers used the three-island crossing method until 1869, when Gus Glenn constructed a ferry about two miles upstream. For more information visit idahoparks.org or call (208)334-4199.

Bruneau Sand Dunes State Park
The tallest single-structured sand dune in North America rises 470 feet above small lakes in the high desert south of Mountain Home. The state park includes desert, dune, prairie, lake and marsh habitat with opportunities to observe nocturnal species. Activities include fishing, bird watching, camping, hiking, swimming and viewing the stars at Idaho's only public observatory. Feel free to climb the dunes, but no vehicles are allowed on the dunes. A visitor center offers information on the flora and fauna populating the dunes and has gift items for purchase. There are two cabins available for rent, an 82-space RV park and 16 tent camping sites. For more information visit idahoparks.org or call (208)334-4199.

Idaho City, Idaho - Queen of the Gold Camps
Get a first-hand look at the turbulent and exciting times of Idaho’s gold bonanza days in Idaho City. The largest city in the Pacific Northwest in the 1860’s, today Idaho City is a historical ghost town of sorts with a historical museum, shops, great saloons and restaurants. Located 30 minutes northeast of Boise off of Highway 21. For more information visit idahocitychamber.org or call (208) 392-4159.

Silver City Historical Area
In 1863 huge gold and silver deposits were discovered in the Owyhee Mountains and hundreds of mining claims were made. Thousands flocked to the area seeking fortune. Silver City, established in 1864, once had hundreds of buildings including 8 saloons, 6 general stores and a hospital. Today about 75 structures remain. The area is an excellent example of an historic mining town. Don't miss the antique-filled Idaho Hotel (1866) and the Post Office-Drugstore. For more information visit swita.org or call Visitor Center Info: Idaho Hotel, 495-2520.
Note: The route to Silver City includes a rough and difficult, single lane, mountain gravel road. Please travel with caution. No fuel or services; minimal food/beverage may be available.