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A person snowboarding above Sun Valley with snow-covered mountains in the background.

Unlock Winter’s Wonder in Idaho

Embark on a new adventure this winter in Idaho. Picture yourself rumbling across snow-covered backcountry on a snowmobile tour with your friends or catching an incredible view of the stars under Idaho’s dark skies. Experience the nostalgic feeling of a snowball melting in your hand as you enjoy one of 30 beautiful state parks and recreational trails, or delight in hearing the crackle of a toasty fireplace as you step into a ski lodge. These are the magical moments that shape memories you’ll carry with you long after you’ve returned home.

Beyond Known Experiences

Shake things up this season with events, activities and destinations that offer something exceptional. From opportunities for thrill-seekers looking for an alpine descent to unique and unusual festive events, find fresh ways to experience winter in Idaho.

Try Something New
Two people riding across snowy backcountry at Smiley Creek on red snowmobiles with mountains behind them.
Full Speed Ahead
Children and adults walk together up a snowtubing slope at the McCall Activity Barn with tubes in hand during the winter.
For Kids at Heart
A lemon being squeezed over a hot bowl of noodles from one of Schweitzer's restaurants, with a person eating in the background.
Explore Like Locals
A cruise ship decorated with festive lights on Lake Couer d'Alene, with the city of Coeur d'Alene lit up with lights in the background.
Holiday Joy Unlocked
A horse equipped with a sleigh harness recieving pets from the hands of visitors before a ride.
Sleigh Bells Ring
Winter In Idaho

In Idaho’s Element

Explore recommended winter activities in the Gem State this season.

A person in outdoor gear skiing at Silver Mountain Resort surrounded by snowy peaks in the winter.
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Skiing & Snowboarding

Powder Playtime
A forest of trees with Sawtooth Mountains in the background near Stanley.
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Scenic Byways

 Cruise With Views
A man and woman in a pool at Miracle Hot Springs in Idaho.
Green illustrated hot springs icon.

Hot Springs

Sensational Soaks
People preparing for a night time sleigh ride in Sun Valley.
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Sleigh Rides

Jingle With Joy
Three bottles of liquor from Up North Distillery.
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Distilleries

Spirited Sips
Winter In Idaho
Winter In Idaho

 Be Winter-Wise

Winter can present distinctive challenges and risks from other seasons in Idaho. Ensure a safe trip by researching your destination before visiting. Check local conditions and look out for temporary closures of roads and facilities. Driving and parking may be more challenging in winter weather, and some roads may require tire chains. In some areas of Idaho, weather conditions can change quickly. Pack extra layers, waterproof boots and extra food and water for longer trips when traveling in the cold.

Travel With Care
Winter In Idaho
Winter In Idaho
Two people in snow and ski gear backcountry skiing near Sun Valley in the winter.
Backcountry skiing near Sun Valley. Photo credit: Sofia Jaramillo.
An aerial shot of two people skiing near Lookout Pass, with all the landscape covered in snow.
Skiing Lookout Pass, near Mullan. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
A parent and child in snow gear play in the snow on Payette Lake in the winter.
Family time on Payette Lake, near McCall. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
A family of three fat biking together in winter gear near McCall, Idaho, in the winter.
Fat biking at Activity Barn, near McCall. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Two couples look out over the landscape while snowmobiling on a mountain trail near Sandpoint.
Snowmobiling at Schweitzer Mountain, near Sandpoint. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
A couple taking a selfie while hiking along the Whoop Um Up Trail in the winter with mountains in the background.
Hiking the Whoop Um Up Trail, near Idaho City. Photo credit: Visit Idaho.
Winter In Idaho

Frequently Asked Questions

How cold is Idaho in winter?

Average daytime high temperatures range from 30° F to 40° F. Temperatures will vary across the state, and overnight lows can dip below zero in areas like Stanley.

Does it snow a lot in Idaho?

 Idaho’s northern, eastern and central regions typically receive heavy snowfall each winter, while the southern regions are typically mild. On average, Schweitzer (Idaho’s largest ski resort) receives 300 inches of annual snowfall, while the city of Boise averages around 20 inches per year.

Does Idaho have long winters?

The cold season in Idaho lasts, on average, from November to March. Many Idaho ski destinations stay open into March for spring skiing, dependent on snow levels.

Can you hike in Idaho in winter?

Yes, you can! Find snowshoe and cross-country ski access at Idaho Parks and Recreation’s 17 Park ’N Ski Areas throughout the state, in addition to the thousands of miles of trails sprinkled across the Gem State.

What’s the coldest month of the year in Idaho?

January is often referred to as Idaho’s coldest month. Temperatures will vary across the state and range from -2° F as a low to 41° F as a high.

Where in Idaho gets the most snow?

Island Park, located in eastern Idaho, gets the most snow in Idaho, with an annual average of 219 inches of snow.

Winter In Idaho
An aerial shot of a group touring Brundage Mountain on snowmobile during the winter.

Idaho’s Gift for You

Cozy up and let Visit Idaho help you start preparing for your next trip. Explore our Winter Passport for an exclusive guide with tips, information and inspiration for planning your winter getaway in the Gem State.

Download Now
Winter In Idaho
Winter In Idaho

Jump-start Your Next Journey

Whether you’re simply dreaming of sunny days or have a specific vacation in mind to plan, Idaho understands wanderlust doesn’t always know the temperature outside. Browse out-of-season travel tips below, or check out the seasonal hub for an overview of the full year in Idaho.

Plan Ahead