The Best Road Trip: Boise to Portland

If you're ever in the mood for a scenic road trip from Boise, Idaho to Portland, Oregon, you're in for a treat. The drive takes you through the alpine scenery of the Pacific Northwest, which is filled with lush forests, sparkling lakes, and beautiful mountains. Whether it's a solo adventure or a family trip, this road trip would make for unforgettable memories. Here are some of the best places to see when driving from Boise, Idaho, to Portland, Oregon:

Discover the Treasure Valley

The first stop you shouldn't miss is the Treasure Valley. This area comprises Boise and the surrounding towns. You'll love the views as you drive through the valley with its lush and rolling hills, clear skies, and stunning landscapes. This part of your journey offers plenty of opportunities to explore the region's best attractions, including:

Julia Davis Park: Located in the heart of Boise, this park offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind. With its gardens, museums, and Boise Zoo, this park has something for everyone.
World Center for Birds of Prey: This is a must-visit if you're a bird lover. Located on a hilltop outside Boise, visitors can see more than 50 species of birds flying in a natural setting. If you're lucky, you might see a falcon or a bald eagle soaring through the skies.
Idaho Botanical Garden: This is the perfect place to enjoy nature, fresh air, and stunning scenery. This garden has thousands of different plant and flower species, including cacti and succulents, native Idaho plants, and colorful roses.

Explore the Blue Mountains

As you leave the Treasure Valley, you'll drive through the Blue Mountains. This mountain range is nothing short of breathtaking, thanks to its alpine lakes, granite peaks, and endless forests. Here are some stops worth seeing in the Blue Mountains:

Stoddard Creek Campground: This campground is a great stop for anyone looking to enjoy rugged scenery and a night under the stars. It is located in the heart of the Blue Mountains and offers ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Emigrant Springs State Park: This park sits at the base of the Blue Mountains and offers both camping and day-use opportunities. You can take a short hike through the forests, or explore the historical sites that are scattered throughout the park.
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area: This wildlife refuge was set aside in the 1920s and covers almost 6,000 acres. The area boasts of various habitats and landscapes, including wetlands, meadows, and forests. Wildlife in the area includes a wide variety of species, such as moose, elk, mule deer, and waterfowl.

Drive through Columbia River Gorge

Just before you reach Portland, you'll get to experience the Columbia River Gorge. This iconic canyon boasts of impressive waterfalls, stunning views, and interesting national scenic areas. Here are some of the highlights of this route:

Multnomah Falls: This is the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. The falls drop in two stages and are surrounded by impressive cliffs and rocks. Visitors can take a short hike to the Benson Bridge and enjoy the best view of Multnomah Falls.
Hood River: Hood River is a trendy town that sits along the Columbia River. The town is a mecca for windsurfers and kitesurfers, but it also features excellent wineries, breweries, and distilleries. You'll love the local fresh food served in the town's cafes, restaurants, and bistros.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: This is an ideal place for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. The area covers over 292,000 acres and has plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning vistas to explore. You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping in this area.

Conclusion

Driving from Boise, Idaho to Portland, Oregon is a fantastic journey that offers a chance to enjoy scenic routes, alpine forests, and abundant wildlife. Each stop along the way presents a unique opportunity to discover something new, whether it's exploring local attractions, taking a hike, or simply enjoying the driving experience. So next time you're in the Pacific Northwest, take some time to appreciate the region's beauty and explore the best attractions along the Boise to Portland route.