Scenic Attractions

Southeast Idaho is a fabulous place to vacation if you want diversity of activities. The following map highlights some of the many things to do. More detailed information on some of the popular activities is listed below.

Attraction Map

Yellowstone National Park

The entrance to Yellowstone National Park is located just a short 50 minute drive from the cabin. Obviously the things to do in Yellowstone need no explanation.  Make it a day trip and enjoy all Yellowstone has to offer.  To get there from the cabin travel north on Highway 20 until you reach the town of West Yellowstone.  From there, follow the signs…..and the tourists!

Southwest Corner of Yellowstone – Cave Falls

Another great day trip is to visit Cave Falls in the southwest corner of Yellowstone National Park.  Head south on Highway 20 two miles into Ashton.  Turn left on Highway 47 and travel east-northeast for approximately 6 miles.  There is a paved road on the right (Green Timber Rd), which soon gives way to gravel that goes for 19 miles.  The road ends with a picnic area, and a beautiful view of Cave Falls and Fall River.  For the more adventurous, a gentle, fairly level trailhead leads from the parking area through Lodgepole Pine Forest one mile to Bechler Creek Falls on Bechler River.  This entire area is also great for fishing, but remember, you are in Yellowstone National Park and will need a park license.

Upper and Lower Mesa Falls


A short trip along the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway will take you to Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. These two amazing waterfalls on the Henry's Fork of the Snake River are breathtaking. Upper Mesa falls is approximately 115 feet while Lower Mesa drops 65 feet before cascading into Cardiac canyon. The stretch of water below the Lower Falls makes for a beautiful float trip (raft required) and is also popular for fishing. In the winter, cross-country skis or snowmobile are the means of entry into the canyon and the parking is at Bear Gulch. To get there from the cabin drive south into Ashton. Turn east on Highway 47 and follow the scenic byway. It’s about 15 miles to the Lower Mesa Falls overlook, and another half mile to the Upper Falls turn off. Both are equally spectacular and warrant stopping, though if you only have time for one, go to the Upper Mesa Falls overlook. Along the way, stop and feed the fish in Warm River (right after you cross Robinson Creek, and right before the bridge over Warm River), or park at Bear Gulch for a short hike through an old abandoned Railroad Tunnel bordering another fantastic canyon. The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is 38.8 miles, and it is only 15 minutes back to the cabin after you hit Highway 20.

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, also known as The Railroad Ranch is a 16,000 acre wildlife refuge located just south of Island Park.  It received its name as a tribute to the east coast entrepreneurs who brought the railroad to Idaho.  It was later donated to the State of Idaho by the Harriman family.  A working cattle ranch still exists today.  Within the state park you may enjoy horse back riding, hiking, mountain biking, wagon rides and cross country skiing in the winter.  Harriman State Park is located between Ashton and Island Park on Highway 20. The Park can be reached at 208-558-7368.

Big Springs and Johnny Sack Cabin

Big Springs is the source of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.  It’s constant 52 degree temperature and crystal clear water make it a favorite for viewing large fish that hang out in the pure environment.  Big  Springs is also near the beginning of a beautiful 5 mile canoe or boat trip along a stretch of a National Scenic Water Trail.  Johnny Sack Cabin is located at Big Springs and is open during summer months to visitors looking for a taste of early American history.  This is a great activity for kids.  Check the fishing regulations as fishing is not allowed at the springs but is open a little farther downstream. To get there travel north on Highway 20 to Macks Inn. Turn east at Macks Inn and follow the signs.

Yellowstone Bear World

Yellowstone Bear World is a park which provides a natural habitat for viewing wildlife native to North America and Yellowstone National Park from the comfort of your automobile.  They offer curator tours, bottle feeding, petting zoo, rides, and a gift shop.  They are open from mid May to mid October. For more information regarding rates please look them up on the web at yellowstonebearworld.com.  To get there from the cabin drive south on Highway 20. It is located between Rexburg and Rigby just off highway 20.  Travel just south of Rexburg and follow the signs.

St. Anthony Sand Dunes

ATV's, 41,000 acres of sand...

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