Top 10 Attractions in Island Park, Idaho You Can't Miss

Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, is just a short drive from Island Park and only 30 miles from Blue Buffalo Resort via the West Entrance. A visit to Yellowstone is a must for any trip to the area, offering a chance to witness some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. The park is home to the legendary Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts with remarkable regularity, captivating visitors with its powerful display. Another highlight is the Grand Prismatic Spring, renowned for its vibrant, rainbow-colored waters that create a surreal and unforgettable sight. Beyond these famous landmarks, Yellowstone boasts a diverse array of geothermal features, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an essential part of your Island Park adventure. Experience the best of Yellowstone National Park while staying at Blue Buffalo Resort, your perfect home base for exploring the area's top attractions

Island Park Reservoir is a haven for water activities, offering a serene and picturesque setting just minutes from Blue Buffalo Resort. This expansive body of water is perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking, making it an ideal spot for a day of family fun or peaceful relaxation. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely cruises or thrilling water sports on the reservoir, while the surrounding areas provide plenty of scenic spots for a delightful picnic. Whether you're paddling in a kayak, casting a fishing line, or simply soaking up the sun on the shore, Island Park Reservoir offers a tranquil retreat with a variety of activities to enjoy.

The reservoir is also a great spot for wildlife observation, with numerous bird species and other wildlife frequenting the area. For anglers, the reservoir's waters are teeming with fish, providing ample opportunities for a successful catch.

Getting to Island Park Reservoir is straightforward. From Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 N for about 5 miles, then turn left onto N Big Springs Loop Rd and follow the signs to the reservoir. The journey takes around 15 minutes, offering beautiful views along the way. Once there, you'll find ample parking and easy access to the water, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages.

Mesa Falls offers breathtaking views and is a great spot for photography and nature walks. Upper Mesa Falls, a waterfall on the Henry's Fork in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, is roughly 16 miles from Ashton, Idaho. This magnificent waterfall stands approximately 114 feet high and 200 feet wide. Upstream from Lower Mesa Falls, it provides stunning vistas of cascading water surrounded by lush forest.

The visitor center at Mesa Falls offers insights into the area's geology and history, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and curious minds alike. The center features exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the region, as well as information on local wildlife and plant life. Additionally, there are well-maintained trails and viewing platforms that provide different perspectives of the falls, making it an excellent destination for both casual visitors and avid photographers.

Getting to Mesa Falls is straightforward. From Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 S for about 20 miles until you reach Ashton. From there, follow the signs to the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The byway itself is a beautiful drive, winding through dense forests and offering glimpses of wildlife along the way. Once you arrive, you'll find ample parking and easy access to the falls via well-marked trails.

Island Park is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering numerous prime fishing spots that cater to all skill levels. Just a short drive from Blue Buffalo Resort, you'll find some of the best fishing in the region. The renowned Henry's Fork of the Snake River is famous for its world-class trout fishing, attracting anglers from around the globe. Here, you can cast your line into the pristine waters and experience the thrill of catching a variety of fish species.

Another fantastic fishing location is Henry's Lake, known for its large cutthroat, brook, and hybrid trout. The lake's clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it a favorite among both local and visiting anglers. Additionally, the Island Park Reservoir itself provides excellent fishing opportunities, with its abundant fish population and peaceful setting.

Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Island Park offers a diverse range of fishing experiences that are sure to satisfy your passion for the sport. Stay at Blue Buffalo Resort and enjoy easy access to these top fishing destinations.

Johnny Sack's Cabin, located at Big Springs, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the area's history and natural beauty. Built in the 1930s by German immigrant Johnny Sack, this charming cabin showcases exceptional woodworking and craftsmanship, reflecting the rustic lifestyle of the era. As you explore the cabin, you'll learn about Johnny Sack's life and the historical significance of his work.

Big Springs is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic views. The spring produces over 120 million gallons of water daily, making it one of the largest natural springs in the country. The area around Big Springs is perfect for a leisurely stroll, providing picturesque spots for photography and wildlife observation.

Just a short drive from Blue Buffalo Resort, a visit to Johnny Sack's Cabin and Big Springs offers a serene and educational experience, combining history with the beauty of Island Park's natural landscapes.

Targhee National Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and nature exploration. The forest is known for its dense woodlands, picturesque meadows, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're looking to hike through pristine trails, set up camp under the stars, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, Targhee National Forest provides a perfect escape into the wilderness.

The forest features numerous trails suitable for all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. Some popular trails include the Teton Crest Trail, which offers stunning views of the Teton Range, and the Table Mountain Trail, known for its breathtaking panoramic vistas. Campers will find plenty of well-maintained campsites that offer a serene and rustic experience.

Targhee National Forest is also a prime location for wildlife spotting. Visitors often encounter deer, elk, moose, and a variety of bird species. The forest's diverse ecosystems make it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

To get to Targhee National Forest from Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 N for about 30 miles until you reach the entrance to the forest. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and provides scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. Once you arrive, you'll find information boards and trail maps to help you plan your adventure. Additionally, the forest is accessible year-round, offering different activities depending on the season, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

Quake Lake, formed by a 1959 earthquake, is a fascinating geological site that offers a unique glimpse into the power of natural forces. Located just outside Island Park, Quake Lake is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, history, and dramatic landscapes. The lake was created when a massive earthquake caused a landslide that blocked the Madison River, forming the lake almost overnight.

Visitors can learn about the history of the earthquake and the formation of the lake at the Quake Lake Visitor Center. The center features informative displays, interactive exhibits, and educational videos that provide insights into the seismic event and its impact on the region. The dramatic landscape around the lake, with its submerged trees and rugged terrain, makes it a great spot for photography and exploration.

To get to Quake Lake from Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 N for about 10 miles to the junction with MT-287. Turn right onto MT-287 and continue for another 15 miles until you reach the Quake Lake Visitor Center. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Along the way, you'll find several pullouts and viewpoints where you can stop to take in the scenery and learn more about the area's geological history.

Harriman State Park, located within the greater Island Park area, is a hidden gem offering a variety of outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery. Just a short drive from Blue Buffalo Resort, this park provides an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

The park features over 16,000 acres of pristine landscapes, including lush forests, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes, all offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Harriman State Park is also home to an array of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife photography.

For those interested in water activities, the park's lakes and streams are perfect for fishing and canoeing. In the winter, Harriman State Park transforms into a winter wonderland, offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.

The historic Railroad Ranch, located within the park, adds a cultural and educational aspect to your visit. You can explore the ranch's buildings and learn about its history through interpretive displays and guided tours.

To get to Harriman State Park from Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 N for about 15 miles. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes and offers scenic views of the area's natural beauty. Once you arrive, you'll find ample parking and easy access to the park's amenities and trails.

Grand Teton National Park has a lot to offer, whatever your interests. The park's breathtaking mountain scenery includes rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, and skies are home to abundant forests, wildflowers, and wildlife. In addition to its natural beauty, the park has a rich cultural history with old homesteads and cattle ranches to explore and photograph.

Visitors can walk on trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps or ones that American Indians or fur trappers might have used in the 1820s. There are also opportunities to ride a bike, paddle a canoe, or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes. With something for everyone, Grand Teton National Park offers a diverse range of activities that are sure to enhance your Island Park adventure.

For the adventurous, there are numerous hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous, providing access to some of the park's most iconic features, such as Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, and Inspiration Point. Rock climbing is also popular, with challenging routes up the Grand Teton and other peaks in the range.

Water enthusiasts can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing in the park's pristine lakes and rivers. Jackson Lake, the largest in the park, offers boat rentals and scenic cruises. The Snake River, winding through the park, provides opportunities for rafting and fly fishing, with stunning views of the Teton Range as a backdrop.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Grand Teton National Park to be a haven for animal sightings. The park is home to moose, elk, bison, black bears, grizzly bears, and a variety of bird species. The best times for wildlife viewing are early morning and late evening, when animals are most active.

In winter, the park transforms into a snowy paradise, offering cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even winter wildlife tours. The serene, snow-covered landscapes provide a stark contrast to the vibrant colors of summer and fall, making it a year-round destination.

To get to Grand Teton National Park from Blue Buffalo Resort, take US-20 S and then merge onto US-191 S/US-287 S toward Jackson. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with numerous pullouts and viewpoints along the way.