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Travel Guide

Island Park

The springs, falls, rivers and lakes that make Island Park home.

Pull-offs and photo stops

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A waterfall spilling over boulders into a river at sunrise

Some of the best moments in Island Park happen between destinations: the quiet pull-offs, wide meadows and unmarked views that are not on any map.

  • Meadow views. Where the forest opens into wide meadows: big skies, wildflowers in late spring and summer, frosty grass and golden tones in fall.
  • River and stream crossings. Peaceful water, reflections on calm days, and birds and wildlife along the banks. Park safely and stay off fragile banks.
  • Lava rock and pine. Dark volcanic rock against tall pines, a reminder of the area's fiery past, and a beautiful backdrop for photos.
  • Wildlife watch areas. Where the land opens and visibility improves: elk and deer, moose near water, and birds of prey overhead.

When you pull over, get fully off the road, use your signals, never stop in a traffic lane, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Your safety matters more than any photo.

Guides for your Island Park days

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A rainbow in the mist below Upper Mesa Falls

Scenic Drives

The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway and more.

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Fly Fishing

Fly Fishing

The Henry's Fork, Henry's Lake and the reservoir.

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IP Village

Winter in Island Park

Groomed trails and snowy quiet.

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Things to Do

Things to Do

Floating, riding, shows and day trips.

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Island Park History

Island Park History

The railroad, the ranch and Johnny Sack.

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A Land Born of Fire

A Land Born of Fire

How a supervolcano shaped the valley.

Island Park questions

What makes Island Park special as a travel destination?
Island Park sits at over 6,000 feet elevation and claims one of the longest main streets in the United States — a 33-mile stretch of Highway 20. It combines world-class fishing, snowmobiling, and outdoor recreation with the closest Yellowstone West Entrance access of any Idaho community.
What is Big Springs?
Big Springs is one of the largest natural springs in the United States, pumping approximately 120 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily. A short boardwalk lets you watch enormous wild trout in water so clear it looks like an aquarium. Free to visit.
What is Harriman State Park?
Harriman State Park is a stunning 16,000-acre wildlife refuge and recreational area along the Henry's Fork, originally the private retreat of the Harriman railroad family. It offers world-class fly fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
How are the stargazing conditions in Island Park?
Island Park offers exceptional dark skies with very little light pollution. On clear nights, the Milky Way is vivid to the naked eye. Summer evenings from July through September are ideal.

Stay in Island Park

Cabins near the springs, the river and the lake.

More guides

Guide

Yellowstone

The park's highlights most within reach from Island Park and the West Entrance.

Guide

Seasons & What to Pack

Layers, spring snow and summer storms: what to expect each season, and what to bring.

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