This article was created in partnership with Eastern Idaho’s Yellowstone Teton Territory. All photos provided by Eastern Idaho’s Yellowstone Teton Territory.
Lodging in the area
There is a range of accommodation options in the towns scattered throughout Eastern Idaho’s Yellowstone Teton Territory. In the summer, you can still enjoy the luxuries of the adorable bed and breakfasts and warmth of the cozy lodges and cabins. Camping throughout the region abounds, and there are too many options to count! Towing an RV? There are multiple RV parks in the area with hookups and extra amenities as well. For a unique stay, consider checking out Teton Valley Resort where you can camp, glamp, stay in a cabin, or even book a tipi!
Dining
There are oodles of restaurants throughout Eastern Idaho, but certainly a few notable locations that you can’t miss this summer. In Victor, delight in outdoor seating and finger-licking specialties from Big Hole BBQ. Also in Victor, sip craft beers on the patio at Grand Teton Brewing or devour a famous huckleberry shake from the Victor Emporium downtown. When you swing through Swan Valley, get a scoop of square ice cream from the Rainey Creek Store (yes it’s square, and yes it’s really good!).
Activities – First Day
Boat, float and fish at Palisades Reservoir
Palisades Reservoir claims 70 miles of shoreline. It is picturesquely set in a valley under towering trees and mountains. Summer is an ideal time to recreate on the lake with boating and paddling opportunities. Anglers will love the fishing on this reservoir with bounds of large cutthroat and brown trout, kokanee and mackinaw. Rent boats and other equipment near the lake, and of course take advantage of the numerous camping opportunities around the lake as well.
Activities – Second Day
Flying fishing and bison viewing in Yellowstone Teton
Swan Valley is simply stunning. Flowing through the valley is the south fork of the Snake River, where anglers catch trophy-sized trout. A stay at Hansen Guest Ranch is a great way to explore the valley, providing a wonderful mix of relaxation and adventure. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s a bison herd that roams near Hansen Guest Ranch, offering visitors a safe and uncrowded environment to view wildlife.
Stay at a campground that has it all
The Mike Harris Campground lies only 5 miles from Victor. Tucked in the trees and along the Trail Creek, the campsites are perfect for families. Multiple trails are accessible from the campground, granting hikers and mountain bikers hours of fun! Definitely keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as moose and elk in the area, and don’t forget to stop and smell the summer wildflowers.
Activities – Third Day
Paddle, float and fish the Teton River
The Teton River between Tetonia and Driggs offers a little something for everyone. Kayakers will love the whitewater in the “narrows” section of the river. On the other hand, there is sufficient flat water for those with a paddleboard or an inner tube. There are plenty of river access points, so you can float for an hour or go well beyond.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Idaho without a river… with excellent fishing! Throw some casts on your own, or consider hiring a guide to take you out for the day.
Summer in Driggs
Driggs offers heaps of summer activities for the outdoorsy-minded travelers, and also hosts events throughout summer. Every Friday in the summertime, catch the Teton Valley Rodeo downtown with inexpensive tickets priced at $10 adults/$5 children. Rodeo is a classic example of western culture, and Driggs is definitely a great place to enjoy it!
Photographers and families will relish the Teton Valley Balloon Rally that takes place during the first weekend of July. Rising early each morning and witnessing lift-off of balloon groups is a colorful and breathtaking sight to behold. Tethered balloon rides are also available and participants can even walk inside inflated balloons. The balloon rally will surely inspire visitors for years to come!
