The Best Fall Drives in Idaho

Looking to take a little drive to enjoy some falls foliage? Right now is the perfect time to go! I did a little research to find Idaho's best fall drives and here is what I found per VIA Magazine:

Bear Lake/Pioneer Country In peaceful southeastern Idaho, the cottonwoods and aspens turn a vivid array of yellows and golds, in blazing contrast to Bear Lake—the so-called "Caribbean of the Rockies"—which is bright turquoise. The enormous 1889 Romanesque Revival tabernacle in the little town of Paris is not to be missed.

Directions: From Preston, take Idaho 36 to U.S. 89 and head south.

Orchard & Wine Country The fertile valley west of Boise isn't Idaho's most spellbinding landscape. But the cottonwoods—and grapevines and apple and peach trees—put on one of its best fall shows. Expect the full spectrum, from yellows to shocking reds. This is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the Northwest, so plan to visit a few of the local wineries; they make everything from gewürztraminer to cabernet. (side note: they had me at "wine"... I'm on my way!)

Directions: From Boise, take I-84 to Nampa, then Idaho 55 to Marsing. Follow U.S. 95 north to Payette then Idaho 52 to Emmett. Take Idaho 16 and Idaho 44 back to Boise.

Eastern Idaho Border The aspens and maples along the gorgeous back roads from the Palisades Reservoir to the Montana border west of Yellowstone turn every hue from pale yellow to crimson. The colors are even more spectacular for being set against plush green stands of pine and fir. Dramatic Upper Mesa Falls is an essential stop.

Directions: From Palisades, take U.S. 26 to Swan Valley then head north on Idaho 31. Turn north on Idaho 33, then north on Idaho 32. At Ashton, take Idaho 47 until it joins U.S. 20 and proceed north.