Chelsey Hauston worked in partnership with Wander Idaho to create this Travel Tip.
Traveling with a toddler is always an adventure. We do it as often as possible—packing every bag, double-checking every stuffy—because the experience is so rewarding. Our most recent trip took us on a direct flight from Phoenix to Boise to escape the desert heat and to embark on a four-day journey through southern Idaho.
Taking the Scenic Route
Heading down Interstate 84, the view begins with wide-open stretches of farmland and high desert. Then, just past Hammett, everything changes. The Snake River appears, and the landscape explodes into green as if someone flipped a switch. That dramatic shift marks the start of the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, where waterfalls seem to pour straight from the canyon walls. From the back seat, we heard a tiny, awed “Whoa.”
Thousand Springs State Park, near Hagerman
Our first stop was Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. Inside the visitor center, we explored exhibits on prehistoric Idaho, including fossils from the Pliocene era. A favorite was the ancient peccary—a distant cousin of modern pigs—which delighted our little horse enthusiast. The visitor center is the only spot to view fossils, as the site is closed to the public.
From there, we ventured to nearby Malad Gorge, a dramatic canyon that feels otherworldly, and on to Ritter Island, a serene spot nestled between two waterfalls. We stretched our legs here, enjoyed the shade and watched kayakers drift past. The Hagerman National Fish Hatchery and surrounding parkland make this a perfect family stop. Our daughter happily splashed in the shallows—a moment that felt like pure summer.
Stand-up paddleboarding on the Snake River, near Hagerman
First-Time Rodeo Fun + a B&B Stay on the River
That afternoon, we hopped back in the car for a 30-minute drive to the Gooding County Fair & Pro Rodeo, which was celebrating its 100th anniversary. The fairgrounds buzzed with energy—rides, food, a petting zoo (a toddler favorite) and rows of local arts and crafts. The rodeo was something else entirely: a true display of grit, skill and small-town pride. Our daughter cheered every horse, “Neigh, neigh,” as the crowd roared. For rodeo first-timers like us, it was unforgettable.
Gooding Pro Rodeo, Gooding
That night, we checked into the 1,000 Springs Riverhouse, a cozy bed-and-breakfast perched on the Snake River. Waterfalls framed every view, and kayaks, paddleboards and boats waited at the dock for guest use. Watching paddlers glide across the calm water, our daughter pointed and shouted, “Boa, boa!” She’s still working on that one.
1,000 Springs Riverhouse, Hagerman
Soaking in Banbury Hot Springs
When you think of hot springs, southern Idaho might not be the first place that comes to mind. But Banbury Hot Springs in nearby Buhl quickly changed ours. The oversized pool is fed by natural spring water, piping hot and silky smooth. Families floated on pool toys while a few students practiced scuba skills nearby—it all felt a bit like an ’80s movie in the best possible way. Our little one laughed and splashed nonstop.
Banbury Hot Springs, Buhl
Waterfall Wonders in Twin Falls
The next morning, we made the 40-minute drive to Twin Falls, home to some of Idaho’s most famous scenery. At the visitor center, we learned about the area’s history and discovered why this stretch of the Snake River Canyon draws BASE jumpers from around the world. Just outside, the Perrine Memorial Bridge spans 486 feet above the river. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where BASE jumping is legal. Watching parachutes open against the canyon backdrop was a breathtaking sight.
A short drive away, we followed a trail to Perrine Coulee Falls, a 200-foot waterfall you can actually walk behind. The trail is short and mostly flat, making it toddler-friendly. Standing there, surrounded by mist and sunlight, felt like walking behind a rainbow.
A toddler’s-eye view of the Snake River Canyon from Perrine Memorial Bridge, Twin Falls
We continued to Shoshone Falls, known as the “Niagara of the West.” Towering at 212 feet, it dwarfed every other waterfall we’d seen on the journey. Our daughter couldn’t stop pointing at the rushing water and the birds swooping overhead.
Reflections on the Road
One of the best parts of being a parent is rediscovering the world through your child’s eyes. We never expected Idaho to capture our hearts the way it did, but this trip reminded us of how wonderful family travel can be. Southern Idaho proves that adventure doesn’t have to be far from home—sometimes it’s just a flight and a few scenic hours away.